Starting to dream about your next summer manicure? This July, nine colors stand out. According to professional nail artists, we can expect to see classic shades like red, white, and blue, along with more unexpected hues like sorbet and butter yellow. The beauty of all of these shades is that they look lovely on their own, as well as paired with other popular summer nail colors.
Meet the expert
Keep reading to learn more about the best July nail colors, and to find a few product picks for each trendy hue.
Classic Cherry Red
Cherry red nails are another quintessential summer nail color. “Red nails are a must for July,” says Nailing Hollywood artist Hang Nguyen. “It’s bold, vibrant, timeless, and adds a bit of excitement to any look.” This year, she says to opt for brighter, bolder reds, saving the darker reds for fall and winter.
A Watermelon French
If you want a hint of rosy color on your nails but don’t want to go full red, nail artist Charlotte Knight, founder of Ciaté and Lottie London, says to opt for sorbet nails. “Flushed pinks are the new nude this summer,” she says, noting that jelly finishes reign supreme. “This slight addition of color warms up your nails which often can appear cool-toned and is reminiscent of a summer’s raspberry sorbet.” Bright green tips round out the look and evoke summer’s best fruit.
Aperol Orange
For a bit more saturation, Nuñez says you can’t go wrong with opaque bright orange polishes. “I think bright oranges will be worn a lot in July,” she reveals. “With Pantone’s Peach Fuzz leading the way in the beginning of the year, orange shades are now associated with radiancy and are seen as very fashion forward. My current go-to orange shade is essie’s Frilly Lilies.”
Lemon Yellow
Yellow nails have been trending since early spring with butter yellow starting a nail art craze that still has our attention this summer. But it’s not the only edible yellow that’s suitable for July. Why not try a lemon iteration? “Yellow nails just scream summer,” Nguyen says. “They’re bright, cheerful, and add a fun pop of color to any look. Yellow is great for those sunny beach days or outdoor gatherings. It’s such a happy color and can really lift your spirits.” Lemon designs pop on top of a neutral accent nail.
Grass Green
For a fun, unexpected summer nail look, opt for bright kelly green polish. “Kelly Green is such a fresh and lively color for July,” Nguyen says. “It reminds me of all the lush, green foliage in the summer. It’s a color that makes your nails stand out beautifully and is perfect for garden parties or just enjoying a day outside.”
Blue Tips
Blue is an obvious choice for July, with its ties to the ocean, pools, and the Fourth of July. “A baby blue tone is a shade that’s nostalgic to Y2K—think ice blue eyeshadow—and is a dopamine-boosting shade that isn’t too loud for daily wear,” Knight says. “It looks great on all skin tones too so perfect for the start or the end of the summer.” Of course, brighter, more cobalty blues are in style, too. “An electric blue looks gorgeous on the nail and is a perfect holiday nail color for anyone heading to a party location,” Knight adds. “If this feels too much, experiment with adding this color on your tips before committing to the full nail.” Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something a bit preppier, Nguyen says to go with navy. “It’s a classic color that looks beautiful on everyone,” she says. “It’s sophisticated but still casual enough to work with everyday fashion.”
Bubblegum Pink
Barbie might have premiered last July but bubblegum pink remains a popular pick for summer 2024. “Bubblegum pink nails bring a fun and playful feel to your look,” Nguyen says. “It’s a great pop of color for all of the festive activities that come along with summer.”
Asymmetrical Metallic Tips
If you’re looking for extra glam, a metallic mani is the way to go. “The glaze finish has morphed into these metallic shades, adding a touch of luxury and modern elegance to any look,” Knight says, calling out silver and gold, in particular. “Salons can achieve the shiniest finishes with chrome powder, which creates a mirror-like effect that’s both striking and sophisticated. Whether it’s a full set of chrome nails or just a hint of metallic accents, this trend is perfect for those wanting to make a bold statement with their manicure.”
