I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer.

I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer.

      I don’t know about you, but summer is one of my favorite seasons to try out different manicure styles. There’s something about the vibrant summer atmosphere that inspires me to opt for looks that are more playful, bold, and attention-grabbing. Honestly, I usually stick to neutral shades for most of the year, so when the weather starts warming up, I seize the opportunity to embrace the seasonal change and unleash my creativity. This year, however, it's become quite evident that specific nail trends are going to dominate in the coming months. Just the other day, while scrolling through TikTok, I noticed several videos discussing the rise of bare nails and square French manicures (more details on that below). With everyday nail styles going viral and celebrity manicures making a splash during festival season, there's truly a diverse array of options that can suit anyone's taste. Don’t believe me? I spoke with three celebrity nail artists to get insights directly from the professionals. Below, you’ll discover seven nail trends that are set to take over this summer.

      ### Top Nail Trends for Summer 2026

      **Naked Nails**

      By now, you’ve likely seen the no-nail polish trend gaining popularity everywhere. While some prefer to completely forgo polish, others enjoy the look of bare nails while still using a neutral polish. This is where naked nails come into play. "As a nail enthusiast with over 500 bottles of nail polish, it pains me to admit this, but bare nails are one of the hottest trends this summer," says celebrity nail expert and Sally Beauty brand ambassador Juli Russell. "Picture healthy, well-groomed nails with a strengthening treatment and perhaps a glossy top coat." She mentions that this gives a polished appearance that’s easy to maintain between salon visits.

      **Textured Nails**

      Enhancing your bold manicure is effortless when you introduce some texture. "Textured nail designs are trending this summer, featuring raised elements, crystals, pearls, and sculpted accents," says Jacqueline Pham, a celebrity manicurist for Color Street. "These designs turn nails into wearable art and allow for limitless customization, making them especially appealing to my trend-conscious clients."

      **Short Square French Nails**

      I recently saw a few videos of fans of almond and oval nail shapes trying and enjoying square French manicures, so it’s no surprise that Russell anticipates them as a trend this summer. "Short square nails are quickly emerging as the go-to style of the season," she explains. "They are practical, low maintenance, and offer a clean, luxurious look without much effort."

      **Bangle Nails**

      This trend has been consistent throughout the year, and it's my current favorite due to its maximalist vibe. "Bangle nails are one of summer’s most stylish trends, drawing inspiration from stacked jewelry and metallic accessories," Pham says. "Featuring chrome finishes and strategically placed rhinestones, this style makes for a striking manicure that feels bold, modern, and perfect for summer nights or festivals."

      **Whimsical Nails**

      Think 2012 nostalgia for this trend. "People are embracing playful, characterful nail art that ignites conversations and evokes nostalgia," states Russell. "This year, we’re seeing designs like goose nails, ladybugs, and other adorable characters popping up." If you look closely, you might even find tiny goldfish in this summer pond-inspired manicure.

      **Floral Nails**

      Florals began trending in the spring and are here to stay for summer. "Any design featuring classic simple flowers, whether embellished or hand-drawn, is in style," says celebrity nail artist Katie Masters. "This trend certainly relates to the resurgence of Y2K aesthetics, as it’s reminiscent of the classic nail salon 'dot' flower, but with a fresh twist!"

      **Holographic Nails**

      Holographic nails have been a trend before, and they are making a strong return. "Glitters, chromes, and cat eyes are very much in vogue right now, partly due to the Y2K revival," Masters notes. "Additionally, holographic manicures are highly reflective, and since everyone is outdoors in the summer, it makes perfect sense to sport bright, reflective nails."

I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer. I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer.

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I'm an expert at identifying emerging nail trends—here are 7 that we'll see throughout the summer.

As summer arrives, fresh nail trends emerge. Check out the seven styles predicted to be popular in the upcoming months, as noted by celebrity nail artists.