Sprucing up your nails is one of the easiest, most lively ways to play with your beauty look. With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to jump on fun trends while we transition from our spring looks. We looked at stats and spoke to nail experts, and they’ve given us insight into the colors, shapes, and finishes that will champion this season — and the best tips on how to get the looks at home!
This summer, it’s all about bold nail colors, fun nail art, and almond-shaped nails. This year’s best daring colors are different from the vibrant corals and neon oranges of the past: muted peaches and cornflower blues are having their time in the sun. You can also try shaking up your look with nail art. Eye-catching graphic lines and rainbow manicures will reign. Scroll down for the hottest summer 2019 nail color and nail art trends, and the products that will help you achieve them.
“For summer, it’s the best time to go a bit bolder with your color choices–without going too far outside of your comfort zone,” says Eleanor Langston, the Chief Creative Officer of Paintbox, a nail salon in New York City. “Lemon yellow is surprisingly flattering on all skin tones.” This happy color will help to brighten your day!
Bring out a soothing blue that looks good year-round. Cornflower blue shades like this one are effortlessly chic, and might just give your classic red manicure a run for its money.
Square, oval, and coffin nails are all great but this year’s hottest nail shape is the almond: a more narrow version of the oval. The nut-inspired nail shape is widest as its base, has slightly rounded edges, and is slightly more narrow at the very tip. Pinterest saw a 97% increase in searches for it since last year.
A classic nude shade is the go-to for anyone looking for a neutral. Dare to try muted pastels for an updated look that will make you feel summery while still safe in your neutral-toned comfort zone.
“We love a neutral mani any time of year, and especially in summer,” says Gibson of her company’s polish collection. “When we started treating lighter shades of blue, lavender and pink as neutrals in the salon, a whole world of mani possibilities opened up!”