7 Expensive-Looking Nail Colours Everyone Will Be Asking for This Summer
Is it just me or is time is flying by at the moment? I don't know about you but I'm definitely feeling a little bit behind when it comes to what to wear now. Luckily for me, we've already got a head start on 2024's summer fashion trends, from blazers to handbags and more. However, as a manicure-obsessed beauty editor, I'm desperate to know what nail colours we can expect to see everywhere this season. Last summer, lots of surprising shades took centre stage, from lavender nails (thank you, Sofia Richie Grainge) to olive green manicures, so you can imagine how intrigued I am to see what colours we'll be obsessing over this year.
To try and get ahead of this year's nail colour trends, I thought it was only right that I reached out to an expert, so I caught up with Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse (one of my favourite nail salons). Of course, I also did some of my own research into trending colours that I suspect will be huge this season. So, whether you've got an upcoming nail appointment or are trying to decide which polishes to invest in for the new season, keep on scrolling for all the inspiration, including my top product recommendations and tips and tricks on how to re-create these trendy manicures at home. You are welcome.
The Biggest Nail Colour Trends of 2024:
1. Soft Pink
First up, 2024 will be all about soft pink shades. "The balletcore trend is set to make waves in the coming year in the beauty and fashion spaces," says Huber-Millet. "This look seamlessly blends sophistication, elegance and grace. [To re-create] this must-have look, go for shades of soft pink reminiscent of ballet slippers and milky whites."
This is such a beautiful colour for the warmer months, and looks chic on all nail shapes.
Shop the Colour:
As soon as I saw this Nails. Inc shade I immediately thought of my ballet slippers from when I was young.
This is a lovely, slightly sheerer alternative to the above polish.
2. Chrome
Yep, that's right. Chrome nails are here to stay. "Chrome nails been leading the way for two consecutive years and this trend is set to continue in 2024," says Huber-Millet. "This chic look is so versatile and suits all nail lengths and shapes."
I thought I might be bored of this trend by now, but there's something so stylish about the chrome finish that I'm not sure I'll ever be sick of it.
Shop the Colour:
Want to get the chrome look without all the fuss? This powder pen will be your new best friend.
Price shown is members' price.
If you're in a hurry, this polish will give you a gorgeous subtle sheen.
3. Milky White
As mentioned above, if you want to lean into the balletcore aesthetic, you can also opt for milky white shades. This colour is ideal for those who prefer a more neutral look, and the best bit is that it won't clash with anything in your wardrobe.
This shade complements both gold and silver jewellery and will make your manicure look so elevated.
Shop the Colour:
Max Factor has created a stunning milky white shade.
Nailberry has a more nude-toned version, if that's more your thing.
4. Sky Blue
From Prada to Fendi, sky blue was seen all over the S/S 24 runways, so I don't doubt that this shade will be big in the beauty world too. If you want your nails to pop this summer, then this is the trend to go for.
The pastel shade is such a fun alternative to white nails if you like a bit of colour, but not too much.
Shop the Colour:
The perfect pale blue shade does exist, and it's under £10.
I might have to treat myself to this Gucci nail polish for the warmer months.
The only thing prettier than this bottle is the colour it houses.
5. Subtle Peach
At the end of last year, Pantone announced that Peach Fuzz is its Colour of the Year for 2024, and truth be told, I'm a big fan. This subtle, warm hue is giving me all of the summer vibes, and there are so many fun ways to wear this trend on your nails. I mean, just look at this cute reverse-French manicure!
If you want to keep things really subtle, opt for a sheer peach shade to give your natural nails a boost.
Shop the Colour:
If you want to make a statement, opt for this warm peach shade from OPI.
For something slightly subtler, try this sheer peach polish.
Just looking at this colour makes me think of holidays.
6. Bright Red
If you read our guide to summer nail trends for this year, then you'll know that bright red shades are big news. However, this is such a classic colour that I have no doubt it will be in style every season.
This colour is perfect for those of you who like to make a statement with your manicure.
Shop the Colour:
Dior knows what they are doing when it comes to red nail polishes.
7. Bright Green
Whether it's the evolution of 'Bottega green' or the influence of Charli XCX's iconic Brat album cover, we're spotted bright green nails everywhere this summer.
This shade looks good as a block colour, but would also make a great accent colour for nail art or a French tip.
Shop the Colour:
If you prefer a slightly softer and more muted green, opt for this one.
This affordable polish is a great place to start experimenting with a bright green nail polish look.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.
As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.
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