Choosing the perfect colors for nails and toes can be an exciting journey, whether you’re prepping for the summer beach season, embracing the rich hues of fall, or looking to keep things classy and popular for a 2024 summer event. With so many options out there, how do you decide which shades will look best on your skin tone or match the latest trends? In this article, I’ll guide you through the top choices, from bright and bold to subtle and sophisticated, ensuring your nails and toes are always on point.
Soft Pink Elegance
This soft pink manicure is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication. The gentle blush tone is perfect for spring and summer, offering a subtle yet polished look that suits both pale skin and tan skin tones. The natural elegance of this color makes it versatile for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. This pink shade is also a great option for those who prefer a minimalist approach while still embracing the beauty of classic and fashion-forward nail design.
Consumables:
- Essie Ballet Slippers: A soft, pale pink that’s iconic for its understated elegance.
- OPI Top Coat: To seal in the color and add a glossy finish.
- Cuticle oil: Keeps the cuticles hydrated, ensuring the manicure looks fresh.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by applying a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of the soft pink polish, allowing each layer to dry completely.
- Seal with a top coat for added shine and durability.
- Finish with cuticle oil to maintain hydration and prevent dryness around the nails.
Neon Orange Vibes
If you’re looking to make a bold statement, this neon orange is the way to go. Perfect for summer 2024, this vibrant hue is ideal for tan skin summer looks, especially if you’re planning a beach getaway. The bright and eye-catching color not only highlights a fresh pedicure but also pairs well with trendy summer outfits, making it a popular choice for those wanting to stand out.
Consumables:
- China Glaze Pool Party: A bright neon orange that screams summer fun.
- Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat: Ensures your polish dries quickly and lasts longer.
- Orange stick: Helps in cleaning up any excess polish around the cuticles for a neat finish.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply a white base coat to make the neon color pop.
- Paint your nails with two to three coats of the neon orange polish, depending on your desired intensity.
- Finish with a fast-drying top coat to lock in the color and add extra shine.
- Use an orange stick to clean up the edges for a crisp, clean look.
Cool Blue Sophistication
This cool blue shade is a perfect blend of classy and trendy, ideal for both spring and summer seasons. The soft yet striking color is universally flattering, making it a great choice for all skin tones, including dark skin tones. Blue nails are not only pretty but also versatile, easily matching with various outfits from casual to formal. This shade is a must-try for anyone looking to add a splash of color to their 2024 summer manicure.
Consumables:
- OPI GelColor in “It’s a Boy!”: A pastel blue that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Gel top coat: Provides durability and a high-gloss finish to the gel polish.
- Nail lamp: Essential for curing the gel polish and ensuring it lasts.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by applying a base coat to your nails and cure it under a UV lamp.
- Apply two coats of the pastel blue gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
- Seal with a gel top coat and cure again to ensure a long-lasting, chip-resistant finish.
- Use cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated and looking fresh.
Vibrant Fuchsia Pop
For those who love bold colors, this vibrant fuchsia is a stunning choice. Perfect for making a statement, this color works beautifully on dark skin and tan skin tones. The richness of the fuchsia makes it a standout option for both summer and fall, giving your nails a trending look that’s both fun and fashionable. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or just want to add some color to your everyday style, this shade is a winner.
Consumables:
- Zoya in “Charisma”: A vibrant fuchsia that’s rich in pigment and perfect for a pop of color.
- Nail buffer: Preps your nails for a smooth application.
- Fast-drying top coat: Ensures your vibrant color stays put without chipping.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Buff your nails to create a smooth surface for the polish.
- Apply two coats of the fuchsia polish, allowing each to dry fully before applying the next.
- Seal with a top coat to add shine and prevent chips.
- Maintain your manicure with regular applications of cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and hydrated.
Chic Black and Nude
This chic black and nude combination is the epitome of elegance. The design is perfect for those who prefer a classy and sophisticated look. This trending design is particularly stunning on dark skin tones, offering a beautiful contrast that’s both modern and timeless. It’s a versatile choice for all seasons, making it a go-to look for fall and spring alike. The mix of black and nude also works well with any outfit, ensuring your nails always look on point.
Consumables:
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in “Black to Black”: A rich, glossy black that’s quick to apply and long-lasting.
- OPI Nail Lacquer in “Bubble Bath”: A soft nude that complements the black beautifully.
- Nail striping tape: Helps create clean, sharp lines for a professional finish.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start with a nude base coat and allow it to dry completely.
- Use striping tape to section off the areas where you want to apply the black polish.
- Carefully paint the black sections and remove the tape before the polish dries.
- Seal with a top coat to ensure the design stays intact and shiny.
Blush Pink Perfection
This blush pink manicure is all about simplicity and elegance. The soft, muted pink shade is perfect for any season, but it shines especially well during the spring and summer months. This color beautifully complements pale skin, giving it a soft, delicate appearance while also looking fantastic on tan skin, where the contrast brings out the warmth of the complexion. This shade is a great choice for those who prefer a classy and understated look that remains popular year-round.
Consumables:
- Essie “Mademoiselle”: A sheer, soft pink that enhances the natural color of your nails.
- Butter London Top Coat: Adds a protective layer with a high-gloss finish.
- Nail file: For shaping nails to perfection before applying polish.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by shaping your nails with a nail file to your desired length.
- Apply a base coat to protect the nails and ensure the polish adheres better.
- Apply two to three coats of the blush pink polish, allowing each to dry thoroughly.
- Finish with a top coat for added shine and longevity.
Pure White Sophistication
A stark white manicure exudes modern chicness, offering a clean and crisp look that’s perfect for summer. White nails are a striking choice, especially for beach vacations or summer 2024 events. This color works well on all skin tones, from pale to dark skin, making it a versatile option. The minimalist nature of white nails gives them a classic appeal while remaining trending in the fashion world.
Consumables:
- OPI “Alpine Snow”: A pure white polish with a smooth, opaque finish.
- Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Top Coat: Ensures your manicure stays chip-free and glossy.
- Nail buffer: For smoothing the nail surface before applying the polish.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Buff your nails to create a smooth, even surface.
- Apply a base coat to prevent staining and enhance polish adhesion.
- Apply two coats of white polish, ensuring full coverage with each layer.
- Seal with a top coat to protect the polish and add shine.
Nude and Natural
This nude manicure is the epitome of natural beauty, making it a perfect choice for those who love classic and understated nails. The soft beige tones are incredibly flattering on tan skin and pale skin, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Nude nails are a staple for spring and summer, giving your hands a clean, polished look without being overly bold.
Consumables:
- OPI “Dulce de Leche”: A warm, beige nude polish that complements all skin tones.
- Nailtiques Formula 2 Plus: Strengthens nails and ensures a smooth application.
- Cuticle trimmer: For neat and tidy cuticles before applying polish.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Trim and shape your nails, then push back your cuticles.
- Apply a strengthening base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of the nude polish, ensuring even coverage.
- Finish with a top coat to seal the color and add a glossy finish.
Neon Yellow Fun
This neon yellow manicure is perfect for those who want to stand out. Bright and bold, it’s the ultimate summer 2024 shade, especially for trending summer looks. Neon colors are particularly eye-catching on tan skin and dark skin, making them a popular choice for those who love vibrant, attention-grabbing nails. This color is ideal for the beach or any summer party, where you want your nails to be the center of attention.
Consumables:
- China Glaze “Yellow Polka Dot Bikini”: A bright neon yellow that glows in the sunlight.
- Gelous Advanced Nail Gel Coat: Helps the neon polish adhere better and last longer.
- Nail drying drops: To speed up drying time and prevent smudges.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start with a white base coat to make the neon color pop.
- Apply two coats of the neon yellow polish, allowing each to dry completely.
- Finish with a gel top coat for a long-lasting, glossy finish.
- Use nail drying drops to ensure the polish sets quickly and smudge-free.
Bold Neon Orange
This neon orange manicure is a bold statement that’s perfect for summer festivals and beach outings. The vibrant hue is ideal for tan skin summer looks, and it pairs well with casual, laid-back styles. Neon orange is not just a trending summer shade; it’s a color that demands attention and radiates energy. This shade is particularly striking on dark skin, where it creates a stunning contrast.
Consumables:
- Essie “Tangerine Tease”: A vivid neon orange that’s perfect for a bold summer look.
- CND Vinylux Top Coat: Provides a durable finish with a mirror-like shine.
- Nail art brush: For precise application and cleaning up the edges.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere better.
- Apply two coats of the neon orange polish, ensuring each coat is even and opaque.
- Use a nail art brush to clean up the edges for a professional finish.
- Seal with a top coat to enhance the color and add durability to the manicure.
Neon Yellow French Tips
This neon yellow French tip manicure brings a fun twist to the classic French design. The vibrant yellow adds a pop of color that’s perfect for spring and summer, making your nails stand out in the most cheerful way. The combination of neon tips with a nude base is particularly striking on tan skin, creating a bright, summery look that’s ideal for the beach or any sunny day outing. This design is both trending and playful, offering a fresh take on a timeless style.
Consumables:
- OPI “Lemonade Stand By Your Man”: A bright, neon yellow that makes the tips pop.
- Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Birthday Suit”: A soft nude base that complements the neon tips.
- French tip guides: Helps create a sharp, clean line for the tips.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by applying the nude polish as a base and allow it to dry completely.
- Use French tip guides to section off the tips of your nails.
- Apply the neon yellow polish to the tips, removing the guides carefully while the polish is still wet.
- Seal the design with a top coat to add shine and durability.
Cool Blue Nails
This cool blue manicure is perfect for those who love a serene, calming color. The soft blue shade is not only trendy but also classy, making it a great choice for both spring and summer. This color looks stunning on dark skin tones, creating a beautiful contrast that highlights the richness of the skin. Whether you’re attending a summer event or simply enjoying the warm weather, this shade of blue is a must-have for 2024.
Consumables:
- Essie “Bikini So Teeny”: A periwinkle blue that’s perfect for summer days.
- OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat: To lock in the color and add a high-gloss finish.
- Nail file and buffer: For prepping the nails and ensuring a smooth application.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Shape your nails with a nail file, then buff them for a smooth surface.
- Apply a base coat to help the polish adhere and prevent staining.
- Apply two coats of the cool blue polish, allowing each layer to dry fully.
- Finish with a top coat to ensure a long-lasting, chip-resistant finish.
Pastel Perfection
This pastel purple manicure is the definition of soft and subtle elegance. The light lavender shade is perfect for spring and adds a gentle touch to any look. This color is universally flattering, especially on tan skin, where it provides a lovely contrast. Pastel shades are trending for 2024 and are a great way to keep your nails looking fresh and modern without being too bold.
Consumables:
- Zoya “Abby”: A soft lavender that’s perfect for a pastel manicure.
- Nailtiques Formula 2: Strengthens the nails and provides a smooth base for the polish.
- Nail buffer: To prepare the nails and ensure an even application.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Buff and file your nails to your desired shape and length.
- Apply a strengthening base coat to protect the nails and ensure smooth polish application.
- Apply two coats of pastel lavender polish, allowing each layer to dry completely.
- Seal the look with a top coat to add shine and longevity.
Bold Red and Nude Contrast
This bold red and nude manicure is a stunning example of a classy yet modern nail design. The deep red polish on the toes contrasts beautifully with the nude and red French design on the nails. This look is perfect for fall, offering a rich, warm color that’s ideal for the season. The combination of red and nude works well on tan skin, making it a trending choice for those who love a sophisticated, high-contrast look.
Consumables:
- OPI “Big Apple Red”: A classic, bold red that’s timeless and elegant.
- Essie “Bare With Me”: A soft nude polish that complements the red perfectly.
- Nail art brush: For creating the precise lines of the French design.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply the nude polish as a base on your fingernails, allowing it to dry completely.
- Use a nail art brush to carefully apply the red tips for a clean, sharp French look.
- Apply the bold red polish to your toenails, making sure each layer is even and opaque.
- Finish with a top coat to ensure a glossy, long-lasting finish.
Electric Blue Vibes
This electric blue manicure is not for the faint of heart. The vibrant, bold blue is perfect for making a statement, especially during the summer months. This shade is incredibly striking on dark skin tones, providing a stunning contrast that makes the color pop. Electric blue is a trending color for 2024 summer, offering a fresh and modern alternative to more traditional shades. Whether you’re at the beach or enjoying a night out, this color is sure to turn heads.
Consumables:
- Sally Hansen “Pacific Blue”: A bright, electric blue that’s sure to stand out.
- OPI Natural Nail Base Coat: To protect the nails and enhance the polish’s durability.
- Cuticle oil: Keeps the cuticles hydrated and healthy, ensuring your manicure looks fresh.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by applying a base coat to protect your nails and prevent staining.
- Apply two coats of the electric blue polish, making sure each layer is smooth and even.
- Finish with a top coat to lock in the color and add a glossy finish.
- Apply cuticle oil regularly to maintain healthy, hydrated nails.
Glittering Lavender Sparkle
This glittering lavender manicure is all about glamour and shine. The rich lavender base combined with the intense glitter creates a dazzling look that’s perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to add some sparkle to your day. This color is particularly stunning on dark skin tones, where the shimmer of the glitter stands out beautifully. It’s a bold and trending choice that makes a statement without being too overwhelming, perfect for summer nights or festive events.
Consumables:
- China Glaze “Fairy Dust”: A fine, glittery polish that adds sparkle to any base color.
- Essie “Play Date”: A vibrant lavender polish that’s the perfect base for the glitter.
- Gelous Advanced Nail Gel Coat: To help the glitter adhere and stay put longer.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Start by applying a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of the lavender polish, allowing each coat to dry fully.
- Add a layer of glitter polish for that sparkling finish.
- Seal with a gel top coat to ensure the glitter stays intact and your nails have a high-gloss finish.
Neon Color Pop
This neon color combination is all about fun and boldness. With bright neon yellow on the nails and hot pink on the toes, this look is perfect for the summer season, especially for those who love to experiment with trending and bright colors. This playful pairing is great for both tan skin and pale skin, offering a vibrant contrast that’s sure to turn heads. Whether you’re hitting the beach or just enjoying a sunny day out, these colors bring energy and excitement to your look.
Consumables:
- China Glaze “Flip Flop Fantasy”: A hot pink polish that’s perfect for your toes.
- OPI “Neon Yellow”: A bold neon yellow that makes the nails pop.
- Nail art brush: For precise application and cleaning up around the edges.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply a white base coat to make the neon colors pop even more.
- Apply two coats of the neon yellow on your fingernails and the hot pink on your toenails.
- Finish with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and protect the polish.
- Use a nail art brush to clean up any excess polish for a neat finish.
Pastel Mix
This pastel mix manicure features a beautiful combination of mint green and soft pink, creating a fresh and playful look. The alternating colors add variety and interest, making it a perfect choice for spring or summer. This design is particularly flattering on pale skin, offering a soft and delicate appearance, but it also looks lovely on tan skin. The pastel tones are trending for 2024, providing a subtle yet stylish way to wear color.
Consumables:
- OPI “Mod About You”: A soft pink polish that’s delicate and elegant.
- Essie “Mint Candy Apple”: A fresh mint green polish that complements the pink perfectly.
- Nail striping tape: To create sharp, clean lines for a more detailed design.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails and help the polish adhere.
- Alternate between the pink and mint green polish on each nail, applying two coats of each color.
- Use striping tape for any additional design elements, then carefully remove it before the polish dries.
- Seal with a top coat to add shine and longevity to your manicure.
Gradient Yellow Ombre
This gradient yellow ombre manicure is a striking blend of natural nude and vibrant yellow. The gradual transition from nude to yellow creates a modern, trending look that’s perfect for spring and summer. This design is particularly eye-catching on dark skin tones, where the yellow really stands out and creates a beautiful contrast. It’s a great look for those who want to embrace the bright and vibrant colors of the season while keeping things elegant and stylish.
Consumables:
- Sally Hansen “Sun Kissed”: A vibrant yellow polish that transitions beautifully in an ombre design.
- Essie “Topless & Barefoot”: A soft nude polish that serves as the perfect base for the ombre.
- Makeup sponge: For creating the smooth gradient effect.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply the nude polish as a base and allow it to dry completely.
- Dab a small amount of nude and yellow polish onto a makeup sponge and gently press it onto your nails, blending the colors to create a gradient effect.
- Repeat the process until the desired intensity is achieved.
- Finish with a top coat to smooth out the design and add a glossy finish.
Mint Green French Tips
This mint green French tip manicure offers a fresh and modern twist on the classic French design. The soft mint color is perfect for spring and summer, bringing a cool, refreshing vibe to your nails. The subtle rhinestone accents add a touch of glamor, making this look perfect for both casual and more formal occasions. This design looks particularly striking on tan skin and dark skin tones, where the mint green offers a bright, contrasting finish.
Consumables:
- OPI “This Cost Me a Mint”: A soft mint green polish that’s perfect for French tips.
- Rhinestones: For adding a touch of sparkle and elegance to the design.
- French tip guides: To help create sharp, clean lines for the tips.
How to Create This Look at Home:
- Apply a clear or nude base coat and let it dry completely.
- Use French tip guides to section off the tips and apply the mint green polish.
- Carefully place the rhinestones on the accent nails while the polish is still wet.
- Seal the design with a top coat to ensure the tips and rhinestones stay in place.
Save Pin
