The 16 Best Summer Nail Colors for 2020

I challenge you not to fall in love with this vibrant bright fuchsia, which dries down to a glassy sheen showcasing the shade of your favorite fruity hard candy. Its blue undertones keep it looking chic and clean, rather than ‘80s-level gaudy. Prepare to be flooded with compliments!

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 looking like lots of time at the office, consider this light blue color to remind you that weekends do exist. Good news: you won't need to apply a basecoat or topcoat for this 2-in-1 formula. Now that sounds almost better than a strawberry daiquiri poolside.

Those pastel shades you love aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Instead of sticking to the same coral you've been wearing since the seventh grade, switch things up with this chic shimmery hue. It's a sherbet shade with hints of orange and pink that leaves behind a mildly metallic finish. So you can bet it will shine against all skin tones.

The quickest way to play up a summer bronze (that I’m going to assume is the result of a spray tan or gradual tanner)? Wear white. And the same goes for your nails—this pure-white polish requires just two coats to get a bright, 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. Plus if you consider yourself a trendsetter then you'll want your hands on the first couture gel-effect nail polish. 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.

Let your nails be a fine piece of art with this vibrant salmon with yellow sparkles that looks shockingly pretty on all skin tones. And don’t worry—the flecks of glimmer in this polish are so finely milled, you won’t have to worry about your fingers turning into a kindergarten craft project.

A dusty blue may not seem like an obvious choice for summer, but then again, who wants to be obvious? This opaque shade is understated and cool (both temperature-wise and collar-poppin’-wise) and is spiked with enough shine that it’s still reflective, yet not too loud.

You're looking at one of Chantecaille's first-ever nail polishes. The cool thing about this buildable lacquer is although it's marketed as a "top coat," its pearlescent green specks can be worn as a standalone shade. Or, you could also jazz up a simple shade with this decadent top coat. The choice is yours, and you really can't go wrong either way.

Brighten up your summer blues with this creamy turquoise. Blues are underrated shades, but they really do deserve some shine. This underdog has a super-vivid formula that packs a punch of pigment. It won’t take much to coat your nails in an opaque wash of color.

This shimmery tangerine shade will bring so much warmth to your nails. Are you a “let’s just stay and watch the sunset” type of person? If so, 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.

How do you not want a neutral nail polish inspired by Ashley Graham’s lingerie line? Um, if this shade, which was curated by the supermodel herself, will give me a dose of Graham’s sultriness, I’ll take 10, please. This stunning neutral shade will work on an array of skin tones. And its formula is made with a built-in base coat so you can skip that step when you’re pressed for time.

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.

Things I don’t have the patience for this summer: Boob sweat, humidity, and ragged nail polish. Enter Sally Hansen’s at-home gel polish that uses sunlight, rather than a UV light, to harden into a super-strong finish that lasts up to two weeks. Yes, seriously. This minty, sea-foam green shade manages to flatter all skin tones (especially porcelain-level pale) without looking sickly.

I know what you’re thinking: a mustard-yellow nail polish? But trust me: This rich, creamy hue looks insanely gorgeous against dark and deep skin tones, thanks to its warm, flattering undertones.

•••

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

SUBSCRIBE HERE