The 4 Best Nail Colours of 2022, According to Experts

When it comes to the world of beauty, 2022 will go down as the year that nails ruled supreme. From colourful tips to cow-print, it would seem that nothing was off the table when it came to nail art and our lust for experimental manicures. With half of 2022 under our belts it's clear that our nail obsession shows no sign of slowing down.

There's plenty of summer nail trends to choose from. Subtle shimmer is back to add a little sparkle to freshly manicured fingertips, while a colourful french remains a salon staple and, of course, graphic designs are still a focal point for many nail enthusiasts. 

But if like me you’re a little more pared-back when it comes to what you put on your nails, then you might be pleased to learn that we’ve also seen a return to classic, one-colour manicures in plenty of covetable new shades. More than this, vegan formulas and quick-dry polishes add to the variety. So whether you’re after something nicely natural or more adventurous, there’s a nail polish colour with your name for summer 2022.

Keep scrolling for all of the nail colour inspiration you need for the season ahead and beyond.

1. True Blues

"The Bottega green has been big this year, but I predict blues will be the colour of 2022," says OPI Brand Ambassador, Georgia Rae. "They look cool as a detail on a nude nail or worn as a block colour" "I’m thinking electric, cobalt blues in the summer and rich, deep blues in the winter."

"I’m thinking electric, cobalt blues in the summer and rich, deep blues in the winter," predicts Rae.

2. Solar Shades

"Gold, bronze, amber and marigold were abundant in many designers’ collections this year, and I think solar shades will be huge," predicts Dani Bailey, OPI Nail Boss Artist.

"According to Pantone, 2022 will be about colours that bring us joy," continues Bailey. "And what can bring more joy then the sun, especially after the lack of holidays recently?"

3. Sheer Neutrals

In complete contrast to the maximalist nail art designs that have ruled the roost in 2021, the new year will see us opting for sheer, glossy neturals and minimalist manicures. "Fresh neutrals are timeless," explains Bailey.

"Clean cuticles, nourished skin and a thin layer of a sheer nude to compliment your skin tone will remain a trend in 2022," Bailey continues. "I even think short, neat nails worn bare are so chic—you could just buff up the nail plate to give them a natural glow."

4. Grown-Up Glitter

Not just for the festive season – sparkly shades are set to be one of the biggest nail colour trends of 2022. "Sparkle, glitter and metallic accents can be worn all year round in so many ways depending on how subtle or daring you’d like to be," says Rae.

"I personally like to wear them as a minimal detail such as a tip, a dot, or a reverse French manicure," says Rae.