From Strawberry Smoothie to Aquamarine, These Are the Nail Designs to Know About for July
July is shaping up to be the best month yet for exciting nail trends. See my top picks here.
I'll be honest, it's been a while since I've been this excited about upcoming nail trends. Even though I write about trending manicures daily, I think we can all agree that it's been the same nail colours and nail art designs knocking around for some time now. However, this new month seems to have brought a whole new energy, and there are so many incredible nail ideas to choose from. Of course, I've taken it upon myself to check out all of my favourite nail artists' go-to designs and whittle them down to six July nail ideas that I truly believe will be on the most stylish of hands over the next few weeks.
From reinterpretations of old classics (yes, I'm talking about milky nails), to bold, bright colours and eye-catching stripe nail art, there is something for everyone, no matter what your preferences. Whether you've got an upcoming salon appointment or simply need a bit of inspo for your at-home manicure, you're definitely going to want to screenshot these July nail ideas. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling for a beauty editor's top selects...
The 6 Most Stylish July Nail Ideas 2026
1. Strawberry Smoothie Manicure
First up, the "strawberry smoothie" manicure as seen on Harriet Westmoreland's Instagram account. This smooth, creamy, milky pink shade is currently living rent-free in my head for the summer months. I have a feeling it would make a chic pedicure option, too. I love that it still feels soft and subtle, whilst adding a slight pop of colour to your look.
Get the Look:
I'm adding this milky, baby pink hue to my basket straight away.
A super chic, affordable option from Rimmel.
2. Sun-Soaked French Tips
French tips will never go out of style, but for July, I'm bookmarking this sunshine yellow French tip design. If my weather app is anything to go by, it will be rather fitting for the month ahead.
Get the Look:
It's giving summer.
If you like to do gel nails at home, this is the exact shade that Mateja Novakovic used on the manicure above.
3. Aquamarine Nails
If there's one nail colour dominating my Instagram feed at the moment, it's this aqua blue hue. Sorry, but how stunning does this manicure look? I'm not usually one for bold colours, but even I can't deny that this would look incredible in summer. Especially paired with an all-white outfit.
Get the Look:
You can always rely on Essie for the most stylish shades.
If you want something a little lighter, Riviera would be my top choice.
4. Mermaid Manicure
Chrome nails are a classic choice, but this July, things are stepping up a notch. This mermaid-inspired chrome manicure features blue and pink undertones, creating a summery, pearlescent finish. Prepare for plenty of compliments if you give this trend a go.
Get the Look:
I mean, this polish is basically mermaid nails in a bottle, right?
If you prefer a pink hue, I've got you covered.
5. Cashew Milk Hues
More of a neutral nail lover? Then you'll love this cashew milk hue. Unlike your typical milky nail design, this features a more beige undertone, creating a slightly richer, creamier finish. I suspect lots of minimalists will be wearing this manicure in July.
Get the Look:
A neutral lover's dream.
A timeless choice from Nailberry.
6. French Riviera Stripes
Last but not least, if you want to try a little bit of nail art, these French Riviera stripes are sure to steal the show. The blue-and-white colour combination is so timeless, and the alternating French-tip design keeps everything feeling chic and modern. I'm screenshotting this one for my upcoming holiday.
Get the Look:
It goes without saying that a white nail polish is an essential.
As is a navy blue. So chic!
