Whether you’re hitting the beach, attending a summer wedding, or just looking to add a pop of color to your everyday look, the right nail color can make all the difference. And summer is the perfect time to experiment with vibrant, fun, and fresh nail colors. Let’s dive into the hottest 2024 summer nail color trends that will keep your nails looking on point. 

What We’re Seeing for Nail Color Trends in Summer 2024 

This summer, the trends are all about bold statements, creative designs, and colors that reflect the bright and carefree spirit of the season. Let’s take a look! 

1. Tropical vibes 

Nothing says summer quite like tropical colors: think bright oranges, yellows, greens, and blues that remind you of a tropical paradise. These colors are perfect for creating playful and eye-catching nail designs. You can opt for a solid color or mix and match to create a tropical fruit-inspired look.  

Pineapple yellow, papaya orange, and palm tree green are some of the shades that are making a splash this summer. 

How to wear tropical colors: 

  • Single color: Choose a vibrant tropical shade for all your nails. 
  • Mix and match: Alternate colors on each nail for a fun and lively look. 
  • Tropical designs: Create nail art with palm leaves, pineapples, or hibiscus flowers for a true tropical feel. 

2. Pastel perfection 

Pastels are a timeless summer favorite that never goes out of style. This year, pastel nails are taking on new and exciting forms with innovative designs and unexpected color combinations. 

Soft pinks, baby blues, lilacs, and mint greens are perfect for those who prefer a more subdued yet stylish look. 

How to wear pastels: 

  • Ombre: Create a soft ombre effect with different pastel shades blending into each other. 
  • Geometric patterns: Use pastel colors to create chic geometric designs. 
  • French tips: Give the classic French manicure a pastel twist by using pastel colors for the tips. 

3. Neon brights 

Neon colors are back and brighter than ever! These bold and electrifying shades are perfect for making a statement and adding some serious fun to your look.  

Neon pinks, greens, yellows, and oranges are especially popular and look fantastic against sun-kissed skin. 

How to wear neon nail colors: 

  • Solid neon: Go all out with a full set of neon nails. 
  • Accent nails: If you’re not ready for a full neon look, try neon accents on a couple of nails. 
  • Neon tips: Update your French manicure with neon tips for a modern twist. 

4. Earthy tones 

For those who prefer a more natural look, earthy tones are a great choice. Earthy tones are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. 

These shades are inspired by nature and include colors like terracotta, burnt sienna, olive green, and sandy beige.

How to wear earth tones: 

  • Matte finish: Give your earthy tones a matte finish for a chic and sophisticated look.
  • Marble designs: Combine earthy tones with white to create elegant marble nail art. 
  • Gradient: Create a gradient effect using different shades of earthy colors for a unique look. 

5. Metallic magic 

Metallic nails are perfect for adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your summer look. These colors can be worn alone or combined with other shades for a dazzling effect. 

Silver, gold, rose gold, and chrome finishes are particularly popular this year.

How to wear metallic nail colors: 

  • Full metallic: Go for a full set of metallic nails for a bold and glamorous look. 
  • Accent nails: Use metallic polish on one or two nails to create a striking contrast. 
  • Metallic tips: Add metallic tips to your nails for a trendy and elegant look. 

6. Color blocking 

Color blocking is a fun and creative way to wear multiple colors at once. This trend involves using contrasting colors to create bold and eye-catching designs. The possibilities are endless, and you can mix and match your favorite shades to create a unique look. 

How to wear color blocking: 

  • Geometric shapes: Use tape to create clean lines and geometric shapes with different colors. 
  • Random blocks: Paint random sections of your nails with contrasting colors for a playful look. 
  • Mix and match: Combine color blocking with other trends like neon or pastels for a fun twist. 

7. Classic reds and pinks 

Classic red and pink nails never go out of style. These timeless shades are perfect for any season and any occasion. This summer, try experimenting with different shades and finishes to keep the look fresh and modern. 

How to wear the classics: 

  • Glossy finish: Opt for a high-gloss finish for a classic and polished look. 
  • Matte finish: Try a matte finish for a modern twist on these classic colors. 
  • Mix shades: Combine different shades of red and pink on each nail for a unique look. 

8. Glitter and shimmer 

Add some sparkle to your summer with glitter and shimmer nail polishes. These finishes are perfect for catching the sunlight and adding a touch of glamour to your look.

From fine shimmer to chunky glitter, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

How to wear glitter: 

  • Full glitter: Go all out with a full set of glitter nails for a dazzling effect. 
  • Glitter gradient: Create a gradient effect with glitter starting at the tips of your nails and fading towards the base. 
  • Shimmer overlay: Apply a shimmer top coat over your favorite nail color for a subtle sparkle. 

9. Bold blues 

Blue is a versatile color that works well for any season, but it’s particularly stunning for summer. Blue nails can evoke the feeling of the ocean and sky, making them perfect for summer. 

From deep navy to bright turquoise, there’s a shade of blue for everyone. 

How to wear blues: 

  • Solid blue: Choose a bold blue shade for a striking and elegant look. 
  • Blue ombre: Create an ombre effect with different shades of blue. 
  • Blue accents: Use blue as an accent color in your nail designs for a pop of color. 

10. Fruit-inspired nails 

Fruit-inspired nails are a fun and playful trend that’s perfect for summer. They’re a great way to add a touch of fun to your summer look. 

From watermelon and strawberries to lemons and cherries, these designs are colorful and whimsical. 

How to incorporate fruits into your summer nails: 

  • Single fruit design: Choose your favorite fruit and create a design on one or two nails. 
  • Mixed fruit: Combine different fruit designs on each nail for a playful and colorful look. 
  • Fruit tips: Add fruit designs to the tips of your nails for a fun twist on the French manicure. 

Editor’s Picks for Nail Salons and Stylists in Boise

Embrace Bold, Beautiful Nail Colors Trends This Summer 2024

This summer’s nail color trends are all about bold colors, playful designs, and creative combinations. Whether you prefer the bright and vibrant look of tropical colors and neons, the soft and chic appeal of pastels and earthy tones, or the glamorous sparkle of metallic and glitter finishes, there’s a trend to suit every style and personality.

So go ahead, have fun with your nails this summer, and don’t be afraid to experiment with these exciting trends. Your nails are the perfect canvas to showcase your creativity and embrace the spirit of the season!