Come rain or shine, there's little doubt that finding the best summer nail colours for your manicure can make an impactful difference to your mood. But just when you think it's time to let go of winter's moody wine tones, A-list manicurists are re-assuring us that a deep fig will always look elegant no matter the season...
If you are looking for a lighter switch-up, butter yellow nails are here to stay, as is green nails—this time in a calming shade of milky matcha that feels grown-up and elevated. Spring's baby blue manicures still feel fresh, but as manicurist Michelle Humphrey shares below, do consider cool blueberry tones for a summery twist.
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Ahead, the best nail colours to try this summer...
Butter Yellow
There's a satisfying, delicious smoothness to pastel butter yellow that is catnip for the fashion crowd, and beauty is following suit. 'It’s giving sunshine in a bottle!' says manicurist Michelle Humphrey. 'Soft, creamy, and way more flattering than people think, try Essie Rev It Up for a bolder take and Atelier At The Bay which is more muted,' she recommends.
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Matcha Green
Green nails are always on the summer mood board for their fresh, crisp appeal but Humphrey is a fan of the more elegant matcha green, which she describes as 'earthy, calming, and chic.'
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Cool Blueberry
Instead of oceanic blues, try a cool-toned blue, suggests Humphrey. 'Think periwinkle, indigo, and soft purples. I’m reaching for Essie Orchid Jelly and Dress Call!' she tells ELLE UK.
Fiery Fuchsia
'Bright pinks and corals are a go-to for me—they’re bold, energetic, and just scream summer fun,' says nail artist Tinu Bello, who's done manicures for major stars such as Letitia Wright and Michaela Coel. 'Think vibrant fuchsia or punchy watermelon tones that instantly lift your mood and add a pop of colour to any look.' Bello namechecks Mylee Bubblegum Gel Nail Wraps and Mylee Be Yourself Gel Nail Wraps as her current favourites.
Fuzzy Apricots
According to Humphrey, clients often shy away from a salmony tone like apricot, but it's worth considering if you're looking for a lighter, more understated alternative the aforementioned hot pink or bright yellow. 'It's not the easiest shade to wear, and I hardly ever get requests for it, but apricot nails are truly stunning,' she says. A warm undertone can truly bring out your natural tan or you can ease into the trend with peachy french tips.
Midnight Fig
Don't save your deeper tones just for winter. 'I’d love to see more people embrace moody brights and inky shades during summer, like rich teal or fig,' says Bello. 'There’s a misconception that dark or muted colours are just for autumn, but when you choose versions with a luminous or juicy finish, they actually pop beautifully in summer light.'
Silver Sirens
Similarly, you don't have to stash away the sparkle until Christmas time. Metallic silvers are popular on the SS25 runways. They shine brilliantly in the sunshine and are perfect for summer festivals.
This article was first seen on ELLE UK.