5 Cool 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 their husbands — 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 color trends are super bold, bright, and happy," Rita Remark, nail artist and Essie global lead educator, tells POPSUGAR. "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 2023 — 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, there's 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 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.
— Additional reporting by Jessica Harrington and Renee Rodriguez
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Summer Nail-Polish Colors: 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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Summer Nail-Polish Colors: 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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Summer Nail-Polish Colors: Pink
OPI Racing For Pinks ($12)
Our experts agree: Barbiecore colors will be everywhere this season. "Everyone loves a classic pink manicure, and with the release of the new Barbie movie, pink has taken over many nail looks," says Deborah Lippmann, manicurist and founder of Deborah Lippmann. And Park agrees: "As Barbiecore continues to buzz, pinks are definitely a huge part of summer nail trends, and with the Barbie movie out in July, now is the time to wear it."
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Summer Nail-Polish Colors: Chrome
Emilie Heathe Nail Polish in Liquid Assets ($30)
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. Chrome is kind of a cross behind a nail-polish color and a nail-art trend.
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Summer Nail-Polish Colors: White
Gucci Vernis À Ongles Nail Polish in Winterset Sno ($33)
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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