Summer Is Nearly Upon Us—According to Pros, These 8 Nail Colours Are Set to Dominate

Whilst the weather hasn’t exactly screamed summer recently, despite us somehow nearly hitting June, one thing’s for certain: when the sun finally does make an appearance, you’ll want your summer nails moodboard locked and loaded before booking that next nail appointment. Because if there’s one beauty ritual that instantly signals the start of the season, it’s a fresh set.

And this summer’s nail colour trends are shaping up to be anything but predictable. While glossy nudes and skin-tint nails will have their place, 2026 is ushering in a moodier, more experimental colour palette, all vying for attention. Think sweetpea greens, oceanic blues that feel tailor-made for beach escapes and rich chromes that prove dark shades aren’t just reserved for winter.

So, to get ahead of the curve, I spoke to nail tech and The Gel Bottle founder Daisy Kalnina, who revealed her predictions for the shades set to dominate over the coming months. For all the inspiration, just keep scrolling…

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1. Low-Key Green

If Barbie pink had its moment, consider sweetpea green this summer’s cooler, more understated successor. “Green is one of the defining colour stories of 2026, but in softer, more muted tones. Sage and pistachio tones feel fresh, modern and unexpected; they’re a subtle way to wear colour while still feeling elevated," reveals Kalnina. For a similar colour in salon, ask for The GelBottle Wasabi.

2. Muted Chrome

“High-shine finishes are evolving for 2026, blending soft luminosity with more futuristic, statement looks," says Kalnina. Think chrome pigments in iced metallic finishes, such as this rich and moody grey chrome. Worried they're dark for summer? Don't be, they work beautifully with the season’s light play, catching the sun with every movement while still feeling polished.

3. Ocean Greens

This colour trend is universally flattering and full of energy. "It gives those clean-girl vibes without being neutral; it's that instant reminder of summer and the ocean. A real mood-lifter on the nails,' says Kalnina.

4. Milky Coconut

“Sheer, milky tones are still one of the biggest movements in nails, but for summer they take on a sun-kissed quality," explains Kalnina. "A milky ‘coconut’ gives that clean, glossy finish whilst enhancing a tan; it’s effortless and always looks expensive," she adds.

5. Red Cherry

Red-nail girls rejoice, your favourite shade isn't going anywhere. Rather, Kalnina says it's simply evolving for 2026: "It’s becoming juicier, brighter and more playful." Heading to the salon? Try The GelBottle Cherry Glass. "It feels nostalgic but fresh, and ties into the wider ‘fruit motif’ nail art trend we’re seeing right now. It’s bold, but still incredibly wearable," says Kalnina.

6. Aqua Blue

This lightning bolt of blue is my personal favourite. “This bright blue creates depth and movement on the nail, almost like water, which makes it perfect for summer. It’s a playful take on colour with a high-gloss finish," says Kalnina.

7. Tangerine

“Peachy-tangerine tones are taking over for high summer as a more modern way to wear brights. It gives that juicy wash of colour that feels fresh, vibrant and sun-ready," says Kalnina. We couldn't agree more.

8. Lilac

The latest neutral that's set to be big for summer? Lilac blue. Not only does it look beautiful on all skin tones, but it's also especially perfect for those who can't seem to shake the natural nail look.