The 7 Best Nail Trends to Try This Summer (2024)

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The 7 Best Nail Trends to Try This Summer (1)

Summer's best nail trends are effortlessly wearable.

By Katie Berohn

If you’ve been painting your nails some variation of jewel-tones or muted colors to match cooler temperatures, it’s time to switch it up. Summer is right around the corner, and with it means new nail trends to complement the season. Last summer, we saw chrome nails, glazed donut nails, aka Hailey Beiber’s manicure, and pastel tips take center stage. While there will still be plenty of chrome, this year, we’re leaning into summer’s easy whimsy—think jelly nails, a more playful take on sheers, and red-hot shades that bring all attention to your fingertips.

To find the best nail trends, we tapped celebrity manicurists Jin Soon Choi and Julie Kandalec, who shared their favorite burgeoning nail trends of summer 2024. The best part about this summer’s nail trends is that they’re endlessly wearable, whether you’re attending a seaside wedding or just going to happy hour. These looks take inspiration from the Fall/Winter 2024 runways, the recent celebrity nails at the 2024 Met Gala, and more. Keep reading for our favorite nail trends of the season.

Pastels

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Consider this the summer of pastel nails. “This summer, dreamy pastels are reinventing sheers,” says Choi. “Soft, feminine, and evocative of delicate flowers, pastels bring a romantic and whimsical vibe perfect for the season.”

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Essie Nail Art Studio Jelly Gloss Nail Polish in Buttercup Yellow

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Gucci Vernis A Ongles Nail Polish in Lucy Baby Blue

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Dior Vernis in Pastel Mint

Cherry Jelly

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Red nails are always a summer staple, but this summer, Choi says that the most updated trend is to opt for an orange-toned red with a translucent finish. “It’s vibrant and captures the essence of summer like nothing else. This finish adds a playful yet elegant touch, different from the usual opaque cream-finish reds.”

Silver Chrome

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Don’t worry, chrome lovers—the metallic finish isn’t going anywhere this summer.
“Chrome-like silver, although unexpected for summer, exudes chicness and glamor, making it a surprising choice,” says Choi. “This trend offers a sleek and modern look that adds a touch of sophistication to any summer ensemble.”

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Sally Hansen Color Foil Nail Polish in Steel A Kiss

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ZOYA Nail Polish in Trixie

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Olive and June Nail Polish in OJPAS

Metallic Nude

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If you love both nude and chrome nails, combining the two will be one of summer’s biggest trends. Kandalec recommends opting for a neutral French manicure with chrome. “A nude base and a sheer chrome over the whole nail is beyond chic and elegant for summer,” she says.

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Essie Nail Art Studio Special Effects Nail Polish in Gilded Galaxy

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Dermelect Cosmeceuticals Camo-Nude Concealer + Treatment

Translucent Crystals

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At this year’s Met Gala, many stars sported clear crystals on their nails, and Kandalec says this trend will continue well into the summer. “Maximalism is back and we are going to see it in 3D elements [with] crystals like these,” she says.

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ULTA Beauty Collection Nail Gems in You're A Gem

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Get Stonned Multicolor Rhinestone Pack

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Kiss Nail Drip in Big Drip

Glass Nails

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“Glass nails are a standout trend for summer 2024, echoing the stunning ‘glass’ makeup by Pat McGrath at the Margiela show,” says Choi. “This gel-like jelly polish offers an extraordinary, glossy finish, perfect for the season’s fresh and modern aesthetic.” To try glass nails yourself, Choi recommends buffing out your nails to make them shiny, then going for a sheer, neutral-toned glossy polish.

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JinSoon Whisper

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Tenoverten The Buff Plus

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Chanel Le Vernis in Ballerina

Summer Florals

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If you love nail designs, Kandalec says you should opt for daisies this summer. “They are just cute and really simple with the single blossom in the center,” she says. If you want to take a maximalist approach to this trend, lean into 3D floral nails.

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Olive & June Mod Floral Stickers

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Sally Hansen Nail Salon Pro Tool Kit

Now 11% Off

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KISS Salon X-tend Press-On Nails

Meet the Experts

Jin Soon Choi is a celebrity and editorial manicurist based in New York City.

Julie Kandalec is a celebrity and editorial manicurist based in New York City.

Why Trust ELLE Beauty

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE beauty editor Katie Berohn interviewed the best celebrity and editorial manicurists to discover the latest trends and the best nail polishes to help you achieve the look.

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The 7 Best Nail Trends to Try This Summer (2024)

FAQs

What is the nail trend in summer 2024? ›

Glassy Sheer

According to editorial nail artist Jin Soon Choi, we'll be seeing equally glassy textures on our nails this summer. These aren't pearlescent glazed donut nails, but rather reflective, mirror-like finishes. “The glossy, glazed effect is perfect for the season, excluding a fresh, modern vibe,” she says.

What is the trend in nail color for summer? ›

We're talking bright and vibrant shades like bubble gum pink, bright reds, neon orange, or baby blues. For minimalists and creatures of habit, you'll find rich creamy neutrals and classic colors that will still make your nails pop.

What nail color makes you look hot? ›

The bold and vibrant nature of red nails instantly grabs attention and adds a touch of glamour to any look. Whether it's a romantic date night or a formal event, red nails are a go-to choice for many. The allure of red nail polish lies in its ability to make a bold statement and convey a sense of power.

What nails do guys find hot? ›

However, there are some general trends and classic favorites that tend to catch the attention of many.
  • Red – A Timeless Elegance. ...
  • Natural and Nude – Understated Beauty. ...
  • Soft Pastels – A Touch of Sweetness. ...
  • Dark and Mysterious – Allure and Intrigue. ...
  • Experimenting with Fun Colors.
Oct 14, 2023

Are French manicures out of style in 2024? ›

There was a hot minute there where French Tips were deemed very uncool, but that moment was but a flash in the pan. The French Tip revival we've seen over the last few years has a stronghold on the nail community, and it's going nowhere in 2024. “French tips are always classic manicure style,” Romah says.

What is the nail trend for summer 23? ›

Barely-There French

“French manicures will be barely there and very thin and natural for 2023,” says Westmoreland of the updated classic. Think hardly noticeable, fine white tips that make hands and nails look chic and expensive. You'll also see these fine lines applied in a reverse French—just as simple and impactful.

What nail shape is best for summer? ›

The best nail shapes to have this summer would have to be round, almond, and coffin. Round nails are perfect for a simple, natural, and timeless look. Almond nails are perfect for those looking to make a statement with their nails.

What is a popular nail color right now? ›

Pastel Hues: Soft and delicate pastel nail polish colors are also trending this year. These light shades bring a touch of elegance and femininity to your nails, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and sophisticated look. Metallic Finishes: Metallic nail polish shades are gaining popularity in 2024.

What color toenails for summer? ›

Beige and Neon

"Beiges and neons are the biggest trends for summer, and they were all over the runways," said celebrity manicurist Ashlie Johnson. "I've been loving an opaque shade on the hands paired with an amazing fluorescent tone on the toes."

What nail colors should I avoid for older hands? ›

Avoid Dark Colors: Dark colors, such as deep reds, purples, or blacks, can draw attention to imperfections and make hands appear older. It's best to steer clear of these shades if you want to achieve a more youthful look.

What nail color makes hands look younger? ›

To help your hands look younger, orange or peach-based hues work best," says Colette Keenan, butter LONDON national field manager.

What two nail colors look good together? ›

Nail Colors that Go Together
  • Red, White and Blue. Pick a sparkly blue for the majority of your nails. ...
  • Mauve and Pink. This combo is not too surprising, but go with a sparkling or glittery mauve. ...
  • Berry Gold. A deep berry color is always classy and interesting. ...
  • Minty Orange. ...
  • Neon and Nude. ...
  • The Blues.
Jan 31, 2017

What nail color is trending right now? ›

Pastel Hues: Soft and delicate pastel nail polish colors are also trending this year. These light shades bring a touch of elegance and femininity to your nails, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and sophisticated look. Metallic Finishes: Metallic nail polish shades are gaining popularity in 2024.

What nail shape is popular now? ›

According to our trio of manicurist sources, the almond-shaped manicure is the must-have nail look to covet this year. For those new to the nail shape, it features narrow sides and a rounded tip with a subtle point. It's a favorite among fans of lengthening enhancements such as acrylics or gel extensions.

What are the current trends in the nail industry? ›

Sustainable nail practices are becoming a significant trend in today's eco-conscious era. As a nail technician, you can focus on recyclable materials, X-free polishes, and environmentally friendly techniques. prioritize environmental sustainability and health-conscious ingredients.

What is the rich girl nail trend? ›

The classic 'rich girl' nail is long and filed in a tapered square shape, which he says helps elongate your fingers. Next is the colour choice: Stick with a full-coverage neutral shade that is either one shade darker or lighter than your own skin tone.

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