Of the many things filling up your pre-vacation to-do list—buy a bikini, stock up on sunscreen, check your passport expiration date—arguably the most fun is booking in for that all-important pre-travel manicure. It's usually one of the last things I do the day before I fly in order to get optimal wear out of my new nails, so for me, that routine manicure is the moment I finally relax and switch my brain into vacation mode.
When it comes to choosing my vacation nail colors, I like to wear something that suits the occasion, that will last for the duration of my trip, and that will give me a mini serotonin boost every time I glance down at my nails. Sometimes, that means bright tropical colors like lime green and fiery coral, but often, my go-to is a fresh white, which looks oh so good with a tan, or a suitably beachy beige.
With vacation season fast approaching, even those of you who don't have any trips booked may still be in the mood for a summery switch-up at your next nail appointment. Scroll down for the vacation nail colors perfect for summer 2024.
The best vacation nail colors:
1. Bright Coral
Nothing says "out of office and ready for the beach" quite like a fiery coral mani. Perfect for tropical destinations, sunset-inspired coral looks chic and fun on both short and long nails.
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This bright hue is giving me all the sunset vibes.
Can you imagine wearing this bright coral hue on a romantic night out on the town?
Check In to Check Out is a staple shade in my summer nail polish lineup.
2. Cobalt Blue
Cobalt blue is arguably the color of summer 2024, as we've already spotted our fair share of bikinis, handbags, and sandals in the hue. Tie your look together (or sport a contrasting pop of color if you typically dress in neutrals) with this eye-catching blue.
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This rich blue looks far more expensive than its affordable high-street price tag.
If you want to make a statement, this electric cobalt blue is extremely eye-catching.
This electric blue polish has me dreaming of warm days ahead spend on sandy beaches.
3. Fresh White
It might sound boring, but really, a crisp cool-toned white is the ultimate chic nail color. As it's versatile enough to work with all manner of outfit combinations and skin tones, you really can't go wrong.
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Not only is this the perfect fresh white, but it's also a builder gel formula, so it will remain intact no matter how long your trip is.
Essie's Blanc is another summer staple for me—it makes my tan pop every time.
If a creamy, off-white is more your vibe; Chanel's Le Vernis Nail Color in Glaciale might be the perfect polish match.
4. Sandy Beige
If neutrals really are more your bag than bright pops of color, why not try a beach-inspired sandy beige?
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Subtle, sheer, and perfect for all skin tones.
Hermès' nail polish in Rose Porcelaine has the perfect rosy undertone for all skin tones.
Whether you wear it alone or as the base for a nail art design, this classic color is on-trend every summer.
5. Baby Pink
Delicate hues of pink have been trending since the start of the year, so by summer, expect to see them everywhere. If you like a mani that appears fresh and clean and won't look obvious when it grows out, this is definitely a safe option.
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OPI has multiple options when it comes to pink-toned nail polishes, but this one positively screams summer.
If you're worried about your nail polish looking grown out as the trip progresses, wear this—you won't even notice.
This dusty pink shade is always one of my favorites to break out when the warm weather hits.
6. Lime Green
Another vacation classic, a bright and zesty lime green works well for both manicures and pedicures for major summer vibes.
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The perfect vacation nail color does exist, and it's just $10.
Picture this vibrant lime green paired with a tan and your new sandals.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
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