From Popsicle Nails to Sun-Kissed Sheers, Summer 2026's Nail Trends Are Oh So Juicy

Ethereal Textures

Rita Remark, Essie’s Global Lead Educator and Nail Artist, predicts we'll be leaning on "ethereal" textures this summer. Think jelly, glass, and iridescence: "nail colors that feel like art."

"I love sheer, juicy lip gloss pinks for a fresh summer finish. This is achieved with strawberry sheers like Slushy Sun or Cin Cin—but a bright cherry gloss like Full Blown feels super fresh," she says. "For an angelic finish, apply one coat of Cosmic Chrome or Astral Aura over a coat of your favorite complexion-flattering sheer. The result is a cheeky blink of color that feels special and minimal at the same time."

Vertical Line Work

Celebrity nail artist Erica de los Santos is expecting to see a shift toward "designs that feel clean, intentional, and easy to wear" this summer, with vertical line work leading the way.

"That type of detail gives the nail a more elongated, refined look without feeling overdone, especially when it’s paired with soft pastel tones and small fruit accents for a subtle pop," she explains. "Overall, everything is leaning lighter—clients still want something designed, but not heavy or busy."

Sun-kissed Sheen

Ready for some fun in the sun? So is your manicure.

"This trend is all about that warm, just-back-from-vacation glow for your nails," says Van Iderstine. "These glimmering, golden, sunlit tones instantly make your nails look radiant, even if you’re nowhere near a beach. This effect is effortless, and as an added bonus, it’s super forgiving on chips and grow-out. Try it alone for a barely-there sun-kissed look or layer it over any of your favorite colors for a golden glow."

To get a sun-kissed look, Van Iderstine recommends something like Olive & June's Nevarro Glaze polish. Sandy Scallop, Atlas, and Golden Effect Top Coat will also be beneficial.

Muted Pastels

Don't worry, minimalists. Not everything will be vivid.

"Muted pastels like foggy blue, white cream and sheer lavender will be seen along with more punchy brights like juicy mandarin are coral," adds Remark. Try Essie's slate blue Air Dry, dusty gray beige Shitake Happens, or cool purple Orchid Jelly.

Orange-y Reds

Nail Thoughts' Katie Masters knows that bright poppy reds are always on trend for summer, and this year will be no different.

"The orange-toned red is almost a middle ground between a classic red and a neon red," explains the artist. "It makes pale skin look more sun kissed, and really pops on darker skin tones. This specific color is an amazing color for your summer vacations, but can also still pass as an everyday color (for when you get back from your vacation)."

To get the look with ease, try the Poppy Red Press Ons by Nail Thoughts.

Floral Frenchies

Or... if you want a little more flair... floral Frenchies perhaps?

"I think floral French nails are going to be trending because of how popular they were during festival season this year!" adds Masters. "The cutesy flowers really made a statement this season, and I think they are here to stay throughout summer with all sorts of different combinations."

Vibrant, But Wearable

De los Santos is loving shades that feel "vibrant but still wearable" for the season. This is where we get our Millennial mints (pictured here: The GelBottle's Cenote)—and some very good, classic reds.

"A true red like DND’s Ferrari Red is always a standout for summer—it’s bold, classic, and instantly elevates any look," says the artist. "I also have to mention The GelBottle’s new Vibe collection, which is giving everything you want for the season. The mix of reds, pinks, and yellows feels fresh, fun, and perfectly in line with that summer energy while still being easy to incorporate into everyday sets."

Pink Princess

Imagine a summer when we weren't thinking pink. Terrifying.

"Let’s be honest, pink is forever a classic, but summer is when the shade really gets to have fun. From barely-there sheer blush to nearly neon hot pinks, this color is looks good on everyone," says Van Iderstine. "Pink is truly one of the most versatile colors! When bright and sweet it captures the fun of summer, but it can also be the perfect neutral. Depending on the finish (sheer vs. opaque) and the tone, you can go from understated to statement."

Wearable Lengths

"When it comes to shape, almond and oval are definitely leading, as they give a soft, refined look that complements the overall shift toward more natural nails," adds de los Santos. "As for length, clients are leaning much shorter this season. There’s a clear move toward practical, wearable lengths that still feel polished and elevated without the upkeep of longer extensions. It all ties back to that same direction—clean, effortless, and intentional."

Nail art is going to be wearable, too.

"I also see polka dots making a return, but in a much more understated way, like being worked into a French or placed delicately on a sheer base," she adds. "Florals will always have their moment in the summer, but this time around they’ll feel a bit more elevated, using gems to create soft, dimensional accents rather than traditional painted flowers. It’s really about finding that balance—natural, but still styled."

Popsicle Nails

And now for dessert. Van Iderstine calls popsicle nails "bright, juicy, and nostalgic," explaining that the shades pull from the fruity flavors we grew up on.

"This trend brings an instant hit of fun to any look. When the nails are bold, they become the ideal accessory to tie your look together," she explains. "Have fun with full opacity versions or try a more low-key jelly sheer version." Olive & June's Grape Soda will get you there, or try their new yellow Razor Crest Refresh or sheer blue jelly Holo Glitter.