5 Nail-Color Trends That Are Basically Like Summer in a Bottle
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It's like what Elle Woods said: summer gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't kill the vibe — they just don't. (Or something like that.)
The same thing applies to the color of your nails. When you look down at your hands, the shade you're wearing can have a profound, physiological effect on your mood — just like sunlight, sex, or exercise. That makes painting on a fun chrome finish or bright-pink polish the perfect way to get ready for the season. It's science. (But, like, please don't put us on trial.) Summer Nail Polish Colors to Wear All Season Long
"Summer nail polish colors are super bold, bright, and happy," Rita Remark, nail artist and Essie global lead educator, tells PS. "It's all about choosing colors that give a dopamine rush, so it's trendy but also personal and expressive."
If you're curious to know the mood-boosting nail-polish hues that everyone will be wearing for summer 2024 — or are looking for a reason to finally whip out your sandals in the coming weeks — we've asked a few nail experts to dish on their predictions for the season. From bold oranges to metallics, the best summer nail colors have a little something for everyone and every beauty style.
And, of course, when in doubt, you can bet your money that classic, crisp, white nails won't be going anywhere anytime soon (unless you're still boycotting due to the Scandoval drama, that is), so feel free to bust out that bottle along with the white pants you put away after Labor Day last year.
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Green
J.Hannah Nail Polish in Artichoke ($22)
As we've said, Remark says summer nail-polish colors should be "super bold, bright, and happy." One bold shade that's getting a lot of attention right now is green. Not only will the nature-inspired hue make you feel one with your surroundings as you spend more time outside this season, but it's also super trendy right now.
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Metallic Blue
Essie You Do Blue ($10)
"Vacay-ready beach nails are out, but the coastal metallics are in for summer," says Hemi Park, Lechat Nails brand educator. If you're inspired by the latest "water" nail trend, you're onto something. "Nothing reminds me of summer better than deep oceanic blue shades, and what would be more perfect than deep blue-toned metallics?" she adds. "I recommend this color on any shape of nails, but especially on short nails and toenails to shine those clean-cut shorties without messy chrome application."
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Pink
OPI Racing For Pinks ($12)
Our experts agree: Barbiecore colors aren't going anywhere. "Everyone loves a classic pink manicure," says Deborah Lippmann, manicurist and founder of Deborah Lippmann. And Park agrees: "Pinks are definitely a huge part of summer nail trends, and now is the time to wear it."
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Chrome
Olive and June Sundance Shimmer ($9)
If you've been paying attention to the red carpet, you know that chrome nails are having a moment, and celebrity manicurist Leanne Woodley sees the shade as one of summer's hottest trends.
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White
Gucci Vernis À Ongles Nail Polish in Winterset Sno ($35)
Stumped on what shade to get at the nail salon next? When in doubt, go with a classic: white nail polish. This crisp shade really makes your fingers pop and is a staple in every nail kit.
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— Additional reporting by Kelsey Castañon
Renee Rodriguez is a staff writer and social producer for POPSUGAR. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for POPSUGAR's TikTok and Instagram accounts.
Kelsey Castañon is a Brooklyn-based writer, editor, and content strategist with more than 13 years of experience in publishing. She is currently the senior content director at POPSUGAR, where you can find her stockpiling (and reporting on) everything from skin care to wine.