I’ve Done the Research—These Are the 7 Chicest Nail Trends for Summer

I’m not sure whether it’s the beauty journalist in me or the sun-deprived Brit, but it takes just the merest hint of sunshine to get me excited about switching things up for summer. And this year I’m starting with my nails. Set foot inside a nail salon during the summer months, and you’ll immediately notice a slightly different energy. Nails get a little bit brighter, a little more fun, and slightly more experimental as all of our calendars start filling up with holidays, festivals and more time to play.

This year in particular, though, there’s a more noticeable mix of styles that look set to dominate—perfect if you’re more of a minimalist at heart. Sure, the bright block colours, high-shine finishes, and maximalist nail art will play a part in the hottest summer nail trends, but there’s a place for softer looks too. Think pared-back pastels and translucent, slightly watery tints for just a hint of colour.

So whether you want a manicure that stands out or nails that feel wearable yet fresh, we’ve rounded up nail trends set to define summer 2026. All you need to do is take your pick…

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Summer Nail Trends 2026

1. Washed Denim

While blue might seem like a slightly out-there nail colour, this summer’s specific hue is lighter, brighter and surprisingly versatile—much like a trusty pair of jeans. “Cornflower and washed denim blue shades feel really wearable and offer a refreshing alternative to traditional pastels,” says session manicurist Ami Streets. “These blues evoke clear skies and coastal calm, which makes them especially appealing as we move into the summer.”

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2. Fruit Juice

Jelly and glass finishes always emerge as a summer trend, but this year’s take is a little more watery. “A continuation of the nail glow trend, this summer we’ll be seeing more translucent washes of colour that make the nails look instantly fresher,” explains celebrity manicurist, Michelle Humphrey. “These watery brights are all about sheer tints of colour, rather than anything full opacity, in shades that look glossy, expensive and easy to wear in the heat.”

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3. Milky Pastels

Pastel shades typically tend to dominate in spring, then give way to brighter block colours in summer, but this season they’re sticking around in gelato-inspired hues. “We’re seeing a real moment for pastel colour with a slightly elevated twist,” says Townhouse founder and creative director, Juanita Huber-Millet. “Think shades like butter, creamy yellows, pistachio milk, a soft green and grape smoothie.”

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4. Micro Motifs

Call it the Kylie Jenner effect, but ever since she stepped out with that bejewelled floral manicure at Coachella this month, our collective obsession with micro nail art has been ignited. “Micro motifs are evolving into a major trend this summer with delicate cherries, fruits and playful seasonal elements incorporated in a more refined way,” says Streets. “Minimal bejewelled designs such as tiny constellations, scattered gems or simple floral-shaped designs layered over sheer bases catch the light beautifully while still feeling clean, fresh and lightweight for summertime.”

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5. Tomato Red

A red manicure always makes for a timeless choice, transcending trends and seasons to always look chic, but for summer 2026, it’s had a bit of an upgrade. “Glossy, vibrant and slightly orange-leaning, my absolute favourite colour for summer is a tomato red,” says Humphrey.

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6. Maximalist Prints

As festival season approaches, we’ll certainly see full, all-over nail prints taking centre stage—perfect if you like a manicure that makes an impact. “Polka dots are here to stay, and animal print is making a comeback, as seen on Dua Lipa recently,” says Humphrey. The key to making it feel fresh for summer is by teaming your print with a neutral or clear base.

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7. Sunset Tones

Finally, summer will see a shift away from the earthier palette of chocolate browns and coffee hues that have been hugely popular over the last year, and in their place, more sunset hues. “This summer, we’re seeing a move towards soft, sun-warmed colours that feel fresh and easy to wear,” says Huber-Millet. “Warmer tones like peach and apricot bring a subtle glow to the nails and feel particularly flattering as we move into summer.”

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