From Hailey Bieber to Charli XCX, It Girls everywhere are swapping pastels for Summerween manicures.
It’s that time of year again. Flights have been booked, the group chat is buzzing, and summer nail appointments are scheduled. However, according to trendy figures like Hailey Bieber, Charli XCX, and Suki Waterhouse, the nail colors you should choose from that extensive binder shouldn’t be soft pastels, shimmering sea glass, or milky pinks. Instead, fashion-forward individuals are bypassing summer shades altogether in favor of winter colors and dark variations. This trend makes sense as we approach "summerween"—the midpoint of summer when autumn enthusiasts start embracing the dark tones and gothic-chic styles associated with moody October while basking in the summer heat.
Bieber set the trend early during Coachella's first weekend, showcasing jet-black nails designed by celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt, accentuated with bioluminescent blue-and-green floral patterns that glimmered under the strobe lights. It sparked mixed reactions—her typical choices are often more like glazed donut shades, with friends such as Kylie Jenner favoring spring-themed bedazzled styles—but the anti-spring selection felt artistic, deliberate, and effortlessly stylish. It wasn’t long before other fashion icons followed her lead, donning similar dark, gothic-chic colors as summer temperatures climbed. While deep shades and black nail polish are usually linked to fall and winter, celebrities like Charli XCX and Waterhouse have recently shared images featuring black polish even amidst sunny settings—illustrating why choosing colors contrary to seasonal expectations can be the most fashionable decision.
One might argue that dark nails are a bold statement, especially as the Brat architect channels rock-star vibes in her new Music, Fashion, Film era. However, the trend continued to gain traction after Waterhouse, also working on a new music video, posted a photo flaunting a dark manicure despite it being summertime.
But that’s not all—stylish manicurists worldwide are dressing their clients in sleek, out-of-season colors. For example, editorial manicurist Oksana Zavora in Milan recently created a beautiful set of sheer lace nails inspired by hosiery, while celebrity manicurist Iram Shelton just painted Julianne Moore’s toes in a luxurious black cherry shade for the actress's trip to the French Riviera.
The best part of this trend? It’s incredibly easy to achieve at home. Check out some of the summer’s most stylish vampy shades below to embrace the spooky essence of summerween—from deep blacks to navy blues and rich burgundies.
**Shop Nail Products Inspired by Summerween**
**Chanel**
Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Le Diable en Chanel
A classic Chanel shade with a glossy finish.
**Nails Inc**
It's Topless Gel-Like Nail Polish in Billie
This nearly black burgundy offers a cool alternative to summer’s bright chili reds.
**OPI**
Nail Lacquer in Lincoln Park After Dark
**Hermès**
Les Mains Hermès Nail Enamel in Brun Bistre
Rich brown tones are particularly stylish during the summer months.
**Essie**
Nail Art Studio Jelly Gloss Polish in Ink Jelly
This sheer jelly hue is ideal for achieving the lace nails look.
**Essie**
Gel Couture Long-Lasting Nail Polish in Liquid Diamonds
A shimmering shade perfect for summer in the city.
**Londontown**
Perfecting Nail Veil Polish
If you prefer jelly polishes for the season but still want to celebrate summerween, try this "nail veil" from Londontown.
**Sally Hansen**
Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Back to Black
The most budget-friendly option on this list, and one of the longest-lasting.
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