Top Summer Nail Colors You’ll See Everywhere
My beauty routine is simple, even as a beauty editor. I rarely get my nails done at a spa bi-weekly or monthly costs just don’t make sense. I prefer natural nails (no gel or acrylics), which makes it easy to do my own manicure at home.
Since high school, I’ve been painting my nails weekly (sometimes twice), and I’ve mastered the tools for a flawless finish. Now that warmer weather is here, I’m pulling out my favorite summer nail colors. From classy baby pinks and neutrals to sizzling reds and tropical shades, these colors are perfect for a fresh, stylish summer manicure that never goes out of style.
Base and Top Coat
A base coat that strengthens nails and a top coat that shines and dries quickly are essential for every manicure. I think the Nailtiques Formula 2 Protein is what makes my nails strong. It goes on easily and helps a lot to keep hair from flaking and breaking. The last step in my process is the Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, which I can’t do without. It only takes a few minutes to dry completely, gives your polish a crazy shine, and keeps your tiles from chipping.
Pinks and Bare Skin
All year long, light pinks and neutrals look great, but I love wearing them in the summer when my skin isn’t as fair. These colors go with everything, so I never have to worry that my nails will look bad with what I’m wearing.
Essie Mademoiselle
Essie Nail Polish Pink Collection
Mademoiselle is the nail polish I use nearly every day. I love how delicate it looks and how semi-sheer it is. The slightly cool undertone really stands out against my fair skin.
Miss Essie Marshmallow
Essie Nail Polish Marshmallow
Marshmallow is a sheer, cloudy white with a slight beige undertone, which I use when I don’t want to wear a color but still want my nails to look clean and shiny.
OPI Bubble Bath
Everyone loves bubble baths, and I can see why. There is a warm undertone to this light pink that makes it look sweet and soft.
Olive and June Pink Goldfish
Olive & June Nail Polish
Most of the time, I don’t like nail paint with shimmer, but this sheer, iridescent color is perfect for summer. It has a sheer pink base with a soft blue duochrome that looks beautiful when it catches the light. This makes for a simple manicure with a unique twist.
Reds
Also, red lips are always a good idea, but in the summer, I switch out my deep berry and oxblood reds for brighter, fiery colors.
Essie Forever Yummy
Essie Nail Polish Marshmallow
Marshmallow is a sheer, cloudy white with a slight beige undertone, which I use when I don’t want to wear a color but still want my nails to look clean and shiny.
OPI Cajun Shrimp
This popular OPI nail paint really makes you think of summer. The bright red coral color is happy and sunny, and it looks great on skin that is just browned.
Blues, Purples, and Greens
When I want to switch up my red or baby pink nails, I choose a cool color that stands out against my medium-to-warm skin tone. For summer, these blue, purple, and green finishes are my favorites.
Essie Butler Please
When I’m feeling brave, I love painting my nails this royal blue color. It’s beautiful and bright without being neon, and I love how it makes my summer makeup look like water.
Essie Wink of Sleep
Essie Blues & Greens Nail Polish
Lilacism may be Essie’s most popular purple color, but Wink Of Sleep is my pick. It’s a medium purple with cool undertones that looks beautiful against my face. It’s girly and fun without being a dull pink.
Essie Off Tropic
Essie Nail Polish Glossy Shine Finish Off Tropic
When it comes to beauty, there are no rules. For example, dark nail polish is more common in the winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear one in the summer. This dark green has been in my closet for years; it’s very dark without looking black. It’s also a good name for it, because it does feel warm.
Faqs
Final Verdict
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with bold, radiant, and playful nail colors. From classic pinks and neutrals to fiery reds, tropical corals, and cool blues, there’s a shade for every mood and outfit. By sticking to natural nails and using a strong base and shiny top coat, you can achieve salon-quality results at home. Whether you prefer understated elegance or eye-catching pops of color, these summer nail colors are timeless, stylish, and guaranteed to elevate your nail game. Embrace the season, mix shades, and let your nails do the talking this summer
