With sun-soaked days, breezy linen dresses, and refreshing Aperol Spritzes during happy hour, summer brings an irresistible sense of joy and freedom. To complement your cheerful summer spirit and enhance your warm-weather outfits, a lively manicure is essential. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the multitude of shades at your favorite nail salon, look no further than the top nail polish colors for summer 2024.
Whether you’re channeling your inner main character all season long or opting for a laid-back, leisurely summer, this year’s color trends cater to every occasion, outfit, and personal style. For those who embrace boldness, vibrant shades like neon purple or electric blue will make a striking statement. Meanwhile, if you prefer a more understated approach, you can opt for brighter colors like red or orange in a slightly sheer jelly finish.
This summer also allows you to incorporate the season’s fashion trends into your manicures. While tomato red stole the spotlight last year, butter yellow is taking center stage this time around. This cheerful hue strikes the perfect balance between bright and neutral, making it universally flattering and versatile enough to complement any aesthetic.
Top Nail Color
1. Tropical Green
There’s a growing trend in the nail world, and it’s no surprise that green manicures are dominating the feeds of top nail artists and adorning the fingers of style icons like Hailey Bieber and Dua Lipa. This color’s versatility makes it a perfect fit for any season, especially during the summer of 2024. According to Hannah Lee, a talented nail artist and partner with Sally Hansen, tropical-inspired greens are set to shine this season. “Tones of green can complement any season, so for summer, I’m envisioning rich, vibrant shades that evoke major tropical vibes,” she explains.
Solid, glossy green nails will make a striking contrast against your breezy summer whites, adding a fun pop of color to your look. For those looking to elevate their manicure, a shimmery polish can effortlessly transform a standard nail design into something extraordinary, capturing the essence of summer’s vibrant spirit.
Moreover, the appeal of tropical green goes beyond just aesthetics. This hue is deeply connected to feelings of freshness and vitality, reminiscent of lush tropical landscapes. Imagine sipping a refreshing drink on a sun-kissed beach surrounded by palm trees and vibrant flora—this color encapsulates that energy perfectly.
For a trendy take on this shade, consider experimenting with different nail designs that incorporate tropical green. Ombre effects that transition from a deep forest green to a lighter minty hue can create a stunning gradient that mimics the varying shades of nature. You can also try nail art that features delicate leaf patterns or abstract shapes in complementary colors like soft pinks or warm yellows, enhancing the tropical feel.
In addition, green pairs beautifully with a range of summer outfits. Whether you’re sporting a flowy white linen dress, a colorful swimsuit, or casual shorts and a tank top, tropical green nails will tie your look together seamlessly. The trend of matching your nails with your outfits is still going strong, and this shade provides endless possibilities for coordination.
2. Cool Chrome
In recent years, beauty trends have been as fleeting as the latest viral dance on TikTok, yet some manicure styles have proven to be timeless. One of these enduring looks is chrome nails. This cool, eye-catching polish finish was once an exclusive salon treatment, achievable only with specialty powders. Thankfully, many of your favorite nail brands have stepped up, now offering one-and-done polishes that deliver that striking chrome effect in just a few effortless swipes.
While it may seem unexpected to see chrome in the summer color palette, the allure of silver chrome metallics is undeniable. As nail artist Choi explains, “Despite being an unexpected choice for summer, silver chrome metallics exude a hip and cool vibe, adding an edgy twist to the season’s offerings.” This means you can confidently rock these reflective shades at the beach or during a summer soirée, making a bold statement with your manicure.
One key reason for the sustained popularity of chrome nails is their newfound convenience. No longer requiring trips to the salon, these polishes allow for quick at-home applications, perfect for the on-the-go lifestyle many of us lead during the busy summer months. “Whether it’s mirrored or iridescent, you can never go wrong with an eye-catching chrome summer look,” confirms nail artist Hannah Lee.
But chrome nails offer more than just visual appeal. The metallic sheen captures the essence of summer, reflecting sunlight in a way that enhances your overall glow. Pairing chrome nails with vibrant summer outfits or beachwear adds an element of surprise and sophistication to your look.
For those looking to experiment, there are numerous ways to style chrome nails this summer. Consider mixing and matching chrome with other colors for a fun twist. A gradient effect, blending a chrome finish with pastel shades, creates an artistic flair that’s perfect for summer festivals. Alternatively, you can accent your chrome manicure with nail art, such as geometric patterns or delicate line designs, to elevate the edgy vibe further.
As you embrace the season’s fashion trends, don’t shy away from using chrome polish to make a statement. Whether heading to a rooftop party, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a casual day out, cool chrome nails are the perfect finishing touch to complete your summer look. This trend is here to stay, adding a dash of modern flair to your nail game while keeping you effortlessly chic.
3. Sheer Pastel
While pastels are typically linked to the gentle blooms of spring, these soft, sheer colors can also make a delightful statement in the summertime. Imagine these polishes as the manicure equivalent of a lightweight skin tint—perfect for achieving a fresh, effortless look. “Sheer pastels offer a delightful twist on the classic look, adding a playful element while remaining practical for everyday wear,” explains Jin Soon Choi, an editorial manicurist and founder of JINsoon.
For summer 2024, Choi recommends shades like pale pink, ecru, light blue, and lavender. These colors not only evoke a sense of warmth and relaxation but also provide a subtle yet stylish option that complements a wide variety of outfits and occasions. Whether you’re donning a flowing sundress or a casual shorts-and-tank ensemble, sheer pastels seamlessly blend into any look.
One of the key advantages of sheer pastel polishes is their versatility. Their transparent finish allows for a more forgiving application, making them ideal for quick touch-ups or at-home manicures. Plus, they give your nails a fresh, clean look without the commitment of a bold or dark color. If you’re in a rush or looking for a low-maintenance manicure, these shades are perfect for everyday wear.
The soft tones also allow for creativity. Consider layering different pastel shades for a gradient effect or adding a touch of glitter on top for an extra dose of summer sparkle. The options are endless! Moreover, sheer pastels can serve as an excellent base for nail art, allowing intricate designs to shine through without overwhelming the overall look.
Incorporating sheer pastels into your summer manicure elevates your style and embodies the lighthearted, carefree essence of the season. As you soak up the sun and enjoy warm summer nights, these delicate hues will keep your nails looking fresh and fashionable, allowing you to express your personal style effortlessly.
4. Electric Neon
When it comes to summer, nothing screams fun quite like electric neon nail polish. Whether you opt for a bold single color on every nail or embrace a mix-and-match approach with various eye-popping hues, neon shades are the perfect way to showcase your vibrant, sunny disposition.
Imagine stepping out into the summer sun with nails that reflect the season’s energy and excitement. From dazzling pinks and yellows to striking greens and oranges, neon polishes not only brighten up your look but also add a playful touch to any outfit. They’re ideal for summer festivals, beach parties, or casual outings—any occasion you want to make a statement.
What makes neon shades particularly appealing is their versatility. You can easily pair them with neutral or monochrome outfits to let your nails take center stage or go all out and coordinate them with equally vibrant summer ensembles. The boldness of neon can energize even the simplest of looks, ensuring you stand out wherever you go.
For those who love nail art, electric neon colors provide a fantastic canvas for creativity. You can experiment with designs like ombré effects, intricate patterns, or even abstract shapes. The brightness of the colors ensures that your nail art will be eye-catching and fun, allowing you to express your individuality in a unique way.
One of the best things about neon nail polish is that it embodies the carefree spirit of summer. It invites a sense of adventure and spontaneity, making it a perfect choice for those hot, sunny days when you want to feel bold and free. So, why not wear your seasonal sunny disposition on your fingertips?
5. Juicy Jelly
If you’re a ’90s kid, it’s likely your summer wardrobe featured a pair of shiny rubber jelly sandals. Now, those nostalgic vibes are making a comeback in the form of a fresh manicure trend: juicy jelly nails. This playful style takes inspiration from the beloved footwear of yesteryear, bringing a fun retro twist to modern nail aesthetics.
Jelly polishes are characterized by their slightly transparent, glossy finish, which gives nails a delectable, almost squishy appearance. This unique quality allows for a playful layering effect, making it easy to experiment with various shades. Whether you choose to go bold with bright, vibrant hues or opt for softer pastels, the jelly finish adds an element of fun and whimsy to any color.
What’s particularly appealing about jelly nails is their versatility. You can wear them alone for a simple, chic look or layer them over a solid base color to create a stunning gradient effect. Imagine a juicy orange jelly over a peach base or a soft pink jelly layered atop a pale lavender—each combination offers endless possibilities for creativity.
The appeal of juicy jelly nails also lies in their connection to carefree summer days. Just like slipping on a pair of jelly sandals, sporting jelly nails evoke feelings of nostalgia and joy, making them perfect for outdoor gatherings, beach days, or laid-back summer soirées.
Plus, these polishes are incredibly easy to apply, allowing for a quick touch-up before you head out the door. With just a couple of coats, you can achieve a glossy finish that captures the light beautifully, making your nails look fresh and vibrant.
6. Butter Yellow
Seen gracing the runways, trending on TikTok, and lighting up city streets, butter yellow is poised to become the must-have color of the season. This creamy hue embodies the essence of summer—warm, cheerful, and refreshing—making it a perfect choice for your manicure.
What sets butter yellow apart is its ability to serve as a delightful alternative to traditional neutral polishes like cream, beige, and white. While those classic shades have their place, butter yellow adds a pop of color without being overwhelming. It offers a soft yet vibrant touch that complements a wide array of summer outfits, from flowy sundresses to casual denim shorts.
One of Butter Yellow’s standout features is its versatility. It works beautifully with various skin tones, enhancing your natural glow while adding a touch of sophistication to your look. Whether you opt for a glossy finish, a matte look, or even a playful nail art design, Butter Yellow provides a cheerful canvas that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for any occasion—from beach outings to brunch dates.
To elevate your butter yellow manicure, consider pairing it with contrasting colors or bold patterns. For example, accent nails in bright coral or deep navy can create an eye-catching effect that draws attention to your cheerful yellow base. Alternatively, you can embrace the monochromatic trend by adding a glossy topcoat for a sleek, polished finish.
As you step into the sunny season, let Butter Yellow be the star of your summer manicure. Embrace the warmth and positivity it brings, and enjoy how this delightful shade captures the spirit of carefree summer days. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or exploring new adventures, a Butter Yellow manicure is sure to make a statement and spread joy wherever you go!