They're Here: The All-Time Chicest Pedicure Trends for Summer 2026
The experts have spoken.
As we officially step into sandal season, there's no better time to switch up your go-to pedicure (or focus on foot care, for that matter!). While classic neutrals like milky white, sheer pink, and rich brown transcend seasons, beauty enthusiasts—including yours truly—tend to experiment with playful shades and designs once warmer weather rolls around. The same goes for manicures, but it's especially true for the toes; there's just something about summer that inspires people to forgo the safe route. Perhaps we can thank the thrill of an upcoming getaway?
While you should feel free to select any statement-making color or design you please, experts have seen some specific pedicure patterns among the fashion set. The main takeaway: a healthy dose of bold minimalism. "This year‘s trends push the envelope just enough for your friends to notice the change," shares L.A.-based celebrity nail artist Bana Jarjour. Editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choi, founder of JinSoon, agrees, noting that "people want color that expresses personality without looking overdone." Each of the six trends below fall into that camp, so scroll ahead for the chic, summer 2026 breakdown.
French Tips
According to Jarjour, we're going to see a ton of French pedicures this summer. Be it a micro stripe or chrome finish (looking at you, Kylie!), a French tip is such a chic way to switch up a clean, neutral pedicure. That said, "[it's not] too bold for someone who doesn’t like changing their color," Jarjour notes. Minimalists, this is a pedicure trend you can firmly stand behind.
Baby Blues
"I think softer pastel blues are underrated for summer pedicures," shares Choi. Vibrant shades like cobalt and cerulean typically skyrocket in popularity during warmer months, but airy blues look just as cool paired with summer sandals. In fact, Choi says they appear even more modern and fresh for 2026. "I also think toned-down cool blues like JinSoon Sea Clay feel unexpected for summer but very chic," she adds.
For a more fashion-forward finish, don't be afraid to add a hint of icy shimmer with Essie's Bikini so Teeny—Jarjour's favorite baby blue. "It goes great with a dip in the water!" she shares.
Chrome Toes
Chrome is basically a neutral at this point, but there's something about chrome pedicures that feels fresh and edgy for summer 2026. "I think chrome toes are so underrated," declares Janjouir. "You get a beautiful shine without glitter, which can be intimidating for a pedicure color." Plus, there are myriad ways to play: You could opt for chrome French tips (like Kylie's aforementioned beach pedi), commit to opaque silver toes, or simply layer a pearly chrome topper over your favorite polish color.
Polka Dots
It's no secret that polka-dot manicures dominated summer 2025. Now? It's polka-dot pedicures' time to shine. "I think polka dots are going to be the toe nail art trend of the summer," confirms Jarjour. "It’s a really fun way to get creative and mix and match colors." Choi agrees, though she specifically recommends a colorful confetti effect over a sheer, nude base. "[It] feels playful yet still clean and wearable," she notes.
Jelly Orange
Like blues, orange shades typically heat up (pun intended) during summer, as Choi says they capture the mood of summer (sunlight, warmth) without completely overpowering an outfit. Vivid oranges "feel energetic and sunlit," she adds, but she's especially partial to jelly orange hues, which "feel juicy and lightweight for summer." If you're itching to switch up your go-to red polish, seek out a fresh, juicy orange—same eye-catching statement with a slightly juicier vibe.
Glass Pedicures
Think clean, "invisible" nails are going anywhere? Think again! According to Choi, shiny, naturally-buffed nails still reign supreme. "People want pedicures that feel easy and well-groomed but still make a statement in sandals," she notes. Eschewing the polish altogether definitely leaves a lasting impression! "Clean, high-shine nails feel more modern right now than overly detailed designs," she states. If you can't fathom the thought of forgoing color (I feel you), Choi recommends looking for "tinted transparent finishes" with just a hint of pigment to give your natural nails more oomph.
Why Trust Who What Wear
At Who What Wear, trend reporting is our bread and butter. Our editors have a knack for spotting the latest in-demand beauty looks—often before they hit the mainstream—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned manicurists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders for their personal takes. Together, this ensures every trend report is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
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