I love having a signature nail polish shade as much as the next person. It’s easy—one-and-done. But now that summer is in full swing, it’s time to switch up the status quo with one of the best summer nail colors. Try something new! Go wild! Mix and match! “Wear the colors that appeal to you. Do the colors bring and give joy? That is the trend for summer 2022. We’re in the moment of, ‘I like it, so I am wearing it,’” says LaJuana Smith Huebner (opens in new tab), Sparitual’s nail and body brand educator.
And, while we’re in full support of picking whichever nail polish trend speaks to you, we’re also well aware that staring at a wall of 500-plus bottles in a salon can be one of the most overwhelming experiences known to man. Nail pro Julie Kandalec, who works with everyone from Sophie Turner to Camila Cabello, says you can't go wrong with lilacs, bright pastels, yellows, mint greens, chromes, or aqua tones. And don’t underestimate the popularity of nail art either. “Colorful French tips, ‘90s and 2000s nostalgic art like designer logos, drippy smiley faces, pastel clouds, and checkerboards are some of the hottest looks this season,” she explains.
For a full breakdown of all the summer nail polish inspo, keep reading. Because whether you’re searching for a gel polish that’s going to keep things interesting for two weeks time or are digging through the depths of your under-the-sink nail polish storage bin, you’re bound to find one of the best summer nail colors, ahead.
If you like to rock black polish all winter, here's the lightened-up answer for the summer months. A neutral grey tone inspired by your favorite fungi will make your outfit polished, but not too stoic.
Since it's the Roaring Twenties all over again, our vibe is Party Nails Only, and this looks like confetti. Go forth and rage on.
“It’s the best summer pink ever,” says Kandalec—and she’s not wrong. Not only is this tone extremely on par with the Barbie-core trend, but it’s also the perfect pop. Plus, the polish lasts a solid 10 days.
The world is truly your oyster with this chrome polish. It’s going to pick up different tones depending on your outfit or sun exposure. Sometimes it’ll look copper, other times you’ll see a tint of teal. You can also layer this over top any other color for an oil slick finish.
One of Huebner’s personal favorites, this iridescent purple shimmer screams summer. Its silver-flecked formula will catch the light just right. And if you’re feeling a little wild, try a DIY swirl design by mixing in the brand’s Beguiling Blue Lagoon (opens in new tab) hue.
Inspired by the Mediterranean sea, this aqua polish oozes vacation vibes. The color is also super pigmented, so you’re good to go with just one coat.
If you’re determined to have a little fun with your look, allow us to direct your attention to this reflective rose pink that’s perfectly in line with the chrome trend. “This will sparkle like crazy, especially in a dark room with flash,” adds Kandalec.
If an acai bowl is your summertime breakfast, keep it rolling right onto your nails. A punchy pink is never the wrong move.
You can't wear white to that summer wedding, but this elegant shade is perfect to rock at any formal affair.
There's nothing more eye catchy than a punchy green. We're calling them Marg Nails, let it be known.
This nail polish is a classic case of "don't judge a book by its cover." On the outside, it resembles a sweet peach tint, but when applied in as little as two coats, it turns into a glossy pastel yellow.
This dusty purple from Jinsoon's collab with Suzie Kondi was inspired by Jacaranda tree blooms. Which means you, by extension, are a flower yourself.
I mean, I’m obviously going to include a rose-gold option, because, hello, have you seen this hue? This rosy-beige polish has an icy, metallic finish that’s sleek enough to side-step that dreaded washed-out effect you risk with most shimmery-rose shades.
If you find your summer plans include spending a lot of time at the office, consider this light blue color a reminder that weekends do exist. Good news: you won't need to apply a basecoat or topcoat for this 2-in-1 formula.
The quickest way to play up a summer bronze? Wear white. And the same goes for your nails—this pure-white polish requires just two coats to get an opaque finish that makes even the palest of skin tones glow.
There’s nothing a fire red shade can’t do to boost your confidence. This high-shine hue is literally hot (sorry, had to), and will instantly dress up your nails. Just two coats of this bad boy and you'll be set for a chip-free manicure for 10 days.
Summer calls for metallic. Because, why not? This soft metallic will give you glowing nails ready for a good time. It’s rooftop season, which means it’s completely fine to be basic and hold up your glass of rosé in the sky to show off your nails. If you have sensitive nail beds, try this gentle formula that has the same cushion and gloss effect of a gel without weakening your real nails.
This shimmery tangerine shade will bring so much warmth to your nails. You won’t need to chase sunsets anymore because this vacay-ready hue brings it straight to your hands. Everyone will spot this shine from a mile away, so get ready for the compliments.
A rusty orange brings the heat. This is not your typical orange, though—it's a cool orange made unique with brown and burgundy undertones. The creator of these polishes, Emilie Heathe, pays extra attention to the ingredients in each formula to ensure healthy nails. Plus, you don't even need a top coat—it's long-lasting on its own.
I know what you’re thinking: a mustard-yellow nail polish? But trust me: This rich, creamy hue looks insanely gorgeous, thanks to its warm, flattering undertones.
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