Trending Nail Colors 24 Ideas: Discover the Hottest Shades for Every Season and Occasion

When it comes to trending nail colors, the beauty industry is constantly evolving, with each season bringing a fresh palette of hues. Whether you’re gearing up for summer, prepping for spring, or staying chic in winter, there’s always a new color trend to try. In this article, I’ll walk you through the must-have nail colors for each season, providing detailed insights and DIY tips from a professional manicurist’s perspective.

Pastel Rainbow Delight

The pastel rainbow nails are a perfect blend of playful and elegant, making them ideal for spring. Each nail features a different pastel shade, creating a harmonious gradient effect. The soft hues of lavender, pink, blue, and green are not only eye-catching but also exude a subtle sophistication.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Pastel nail polishes: Essie’s Lilacism, Fiji, Mint Candy Apple, Bikini So Teeny
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail art brush for precision

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply the pastel polishes in a gradient pattern across your nails.
   3. Use a nail art brush to clean up any edges.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal in the colors and add shine.

Metallic Wave Magic

For a futuristic twist, the metallic wave design is perfect for fall and winter. The combination of sleek silver lines against a soft pink base creates a striking contrast. This look is both modern and versatile, making it suitable for various occasions.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Orly Bonder
  • Pink nail polish: Sally Hansen’s Pink Pong
  • Silver nail polish: Zoya’s Trixie
  • Nail art brush for detailing

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to prepare your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the pink base color.
   3. Use a fine nail art brush to create metallic waves with the silver polish.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for longevity.

Neon Swirl Fun

Neon swirls are making a comeback this summer. The vibrant shades of pink and orange intertwined create a fun and energetic look, perfect for beach days and summer parties.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
  • Neon pink polish: China Glaze’s Flip Flop Fantasy
  • Neon orange polish: Orly’s Melt Your Popsicle
  • Thin nail art brush

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a clear or nude base color.
   3. Use the nail art brush to create swirling patterns with the neon polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to protect your design.

Ombre French Tips

Ombre French tips are a sophisticated take on the classic French manicure, making them perfect for spring and summer. The gradual transition from natural nail color to vibrant tips in shades of purple, orange, and yellow adds a fresh twist.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock
  • Ombre colors: OPI’s Do You Lilac It?, Butter London’s Jaffa, Essie’s Sunshine State of Mind
  • Sponge for blending

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Use the sponge to blend the ombre colors onto the tips of your nails.
   3. Repeat the sponging process until you achieve the desired gradient.
   4. Seal with a top coat for a smooth finish.

Vibrant Sunset Nails

The vibrant sunset nails are a bold choice for summer, showcasing a striking blend of hot pink and orange. This design is perfect for making a statement and bringing some heat to your look.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Zoya Anchor
  • Hot pink polish: Essie’s Watermelon
  • Orange polish: Revlon’s Siren
  • Thin nail art brush for detailing

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude base color.
   3. Use the nail art brush to create the pink and orange designs.
   4. Apply a top coat to secure your artwork.

Neon Yellow Elegance

The neon yellow nails are a bold and vibrant choice, perfect for making a statement in summer and spring. The bright neon color is paired with a subtle gradient effect, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look. This design is perfect for those who want to stand out and embrace the current trend.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
  • Neon yellow polish: China Glaze’s Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
  • Gradient sponge
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply the neon yellow polish to the sponge and dab it onto your nails to create the gradient effect.
   3. Repeat until you achieve the desired gradient.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for a smooth finish and long-lasting wear.

Neon Orange and Yellow Mix

This vibrant mix of neon orange and yellow is perfect for those looking to add a pop of color to their summer look. The striking combination of these two bright hues creates a dynamic and energetic manicure that is sure to turn heads.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Neon orange polish: Orly’s Melt Your Popsicle
  • Neon yellow polish: China Glaze’s Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
  • Thin nail art brush

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the neon polishes, alternating colors for each nail.
   3. Use a nail art brush to create geometric patterns with the contrasting color.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Royal Purple Glam

The royal purple nails are a sophisticated choice for fall and winter. The deep, rich color exudes elegance and is perfect for those who prefer a more understated yet stylish look. This shade is versatile and can be paired with various outfits for a chic appearance.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock
  • Purple polish: Meline’s Purple Rain
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply two coats of the purple polish for a rich, even color.
   3. Seal with a top coat to enhance the shine and durability of the manicure.

Yellow with Floral and Butterfly Accents

This intricate design features a bright yellow base with delicate floral and butterfly accents, perfect for spring. The combination of vibrant yellow with detailed 3D elements adds a playful yet elegant touch to your nails, making them ideal for any springtime event.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Orly Bonder
  • Yellow polish: Sally Hansen’s Mellow Yellow
  • 3D floral and butterfly decals
  • Nail glue
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the yellow polish.
   3. Apply the 3D decals using nail glue.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for added durability and shine.

Matte Blue and Purple Ombre

The matte blue and purple ombre nails are a chic and modern choice, perfect for winter and fall. The matte finish gives a soft, velvety texture, while the ombre effect adds depth and interest to the design. This look is perfect for those who prefer a more muted but stylish manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy Matte
  • Blue and purple polishes: Essie’s Butler Please and Play Date
  • Sponge for blending
  • Matte top coat: OPI Matte Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Use the sponge to apply the blue and purple polishes, creating an ombre effect.
   3. Repeat the sponging process until you achieve the desired gradient.
   4. Finish with a matte top coat for a soft, velvety finish.

Neon Green with Abstract Art

This striking neon green manicure with abstract black and white art is a bold and artistic choice for summer. The vibrant green is complemented by the unique abstract design on the accent nails, creating a dynamic and modern look.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Orly Bonder
  • Neon green polish: China Glaze’s Celtic Sun
  • Black and white polishes: OPI’s Black Onyx and Alpine Snow
  • Nail art brush

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply the neon green polish on most nails.
   3. Use the black and white polishes to create the abstract art on the accent nails with a nail art brush.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for durability and shine.

Neon French Tips

These neon French tips are a modern twist on the classic French manicure. Featuring bright neon outlines in different colors, this design is playful and perfect for spring and summer. The neon tips add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral nail.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Essie First Base
  • Nude polish: Essie’s Ballet Slippers
  • Neon polishes: Orly’s Melt Your Popsicle, Glowstick, and Beach Cruiser
  • Thin nail art brush

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude base color.
   3. Use a thin nail art brush to outline the tips of your nails with the neon polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Animal Print and 3D Accents

This intricate design features a combination of animal print, 3D floral accents, and gradient colors, making it perfect for a statement look in winter. The detailed elements create a unique and eye-catching manicure that showcases creativity and skill.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
  • Nude polish: OPI’s Bubble Bath
  • Black polish: Essie’s Licorice
  • 3D floral decals and gold beads
  • Nail glue
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude base color.
   3. Use the black polish and a nail art brush to create the animal print design.
   4. Apply the 3D floral decals and gold beads using nail glue.
   5. Seal the design with a top coat.

Blue Glitter French Tips

These blue glitter French tips are a glamorous choice for March and April. The sparkly blue tips are accented with heart shapes, adding a touch of romance to the design. This look is perfect for those who love a bit of sparkle and shine.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock
  • Nude polish: Essie’s Mademoiselle
  • Blue glitter polish: Sally Hansen’s Big Glitter Top Coat
  • Nail art brush

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply the nude base color.
   3. Use a nail art brush to apply the blue glitter polish to the tips of your nails.
   4. Create heart shapes with the glitter polish on accent nails.
   5. Seal the design with a top coat.

Gold Foil Accents

This elegant design features a soft white base with delicate gold foil accents, making it perfect for January and February. The gold foil adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the manicure, making it ideal for special occasions.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • White polish: Essie’s Marshmallow
  • Gold foil
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the white polish.
   3. Apply the gold foil pieces to your nails while the polish is still tacky.
   4. Finish with a top coat to secure the foil and add shine.

Pastel Perfection

This design is a delicate and elegant choice, combining soft pastel shades of blue, yellow, and white with intricate floral accents. Ideal for spring, this look brings a touch of nature to your nails with its beautiful hand-painted flowers.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Pastel blue polish: Essie’s Bikini So Teeny
  • Pastel yellow polish: OPI’s Banana Bandanna
  • White polish: OPI’s Alpine Snow
  • Floral nail stickers or hand-painting kit
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint each nail with the pastel colors, alternating shades.
   3. Apply the floral stickers or use a fine brush to hand-paint the floral design.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal and protect the design.

Mint Green Ombre

This mint green ombre design is fresh and stylish, perfect for summer. The gradient effect from white to mint green is enhanced with a touch of glitter, adding a sparkle that is sure to catch the eye.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
  • White polish: Essie’s Marshmallow
  • Mint green polish: Essie’s Mint Candy Apple
  • Glitter polish: China Glaze’s Fairy Dust
  • Sponge for blending

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Use a sponge to apply the white and mint green polishes, creating an ombre effect.
   3. Add a layer of glitter polish for extra sparkle.
   4. Seal with a top coat for a smooth finish.

Daisy Delight

The daisy nails are a cheerful and playful choice, perfect for spring and summer. The vibrant green background is adorned with simple yet charming white daisies, creating a fresh and lively manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Orly Bonder
  • Green polish: Essie’s Mojito Madness
  • White polish: OPI’s Alpine Snow
  • Yellow polish: China Glaze’s Happy Go Lucky
  • Dotting tool for daisies
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the green polish.
   3. Use a dotting tool to create the white daisies and add yellow centers.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Neon Gradient

This neon gradient design is vibrant and energetic, making it perfect for summer. The smooth transition from neon orange to neon yellow creates a striking effect that is sure to stand out.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock
  • Neon orange polish: Orly’s Melt Your Popsicle
  • Neon yellow polish: China Glaze’s Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
  • Sponge for blending
  • Rhinestones for accents
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Use a sponge to blend the neon orange and yellow polishes, creating a gradient effect.
   3. Apply rhinestones for extra sparkle.
   4. Seal with a top coat to enhance the shine and durability.

Lemonade Nails

The lemonade nails feature a fresh and fruity design, perfect for spring and summer. The soft pink base is adorned with tiny hand-painted lemons, giving your nails a refreshing and playful look.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Pink polish: Essie’s Mademoiselle
  • Yellow polish: China Glaze’s Lemon Fizz
  • Green polish: OPI’s Jade is the New Black
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the pink polish.
   3. Use a fine brush to paint small lemons and leaves on each nail.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Sunshine Yellow Nails

These bright yellow nails with delicate dragonfly accents are perfect for summer and spring. The bright yellow base color is complemented by simple yet elegant white floral patterns, creating a fresh and cheerful manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Yellow polish: Essie’s Sunny Business
  • White polish: OPI’s Alpine Snow
  • Fine nail art brush or dotting tool
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply the yellow polish for a vibrant base.
   3. Use a fine brush or dotting tool to create the white floral patterns.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal and protect the design.

Neon Abstract Art

This abstract neon design is bold and modern, perfect for making a statement in summer. The combination of neon pink, orange, and black creates a striking look that is both trendy and artistic.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: Essie First Base
  • Neon pink polish: China Glaze’s Neon & On & On
  • Neon orange polish: Orly’s Glowstick
  • Black polish: OPI’s Black Onyx
  • Nail art brush for detailing
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a clear or nude base color.
   3. Use a nail art brush to apply the neon polishes in abstract patterns.
   4. Add black accents for contrast.
   5. Seal with a top coat for shine and protection.

Green Leopard Print

This green leopard print design is a fun and playful choice for spring and summer. The gradient effect from light to dark green adds depth to the leopard spots, creating a unique and eye-catching manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
  • Light green polish: Essie’s Mint Candy Apple
  • Dark green polish: OPI’s Jade is the New Black
  • Black polish: Essie’s Licorice
  • Dotting tool for leopard spots
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Use the light green polish as a base color.
   3. Apply the dark green polish in a gradient effect using a sponge.
   4. Create leopard spots with the black polish using a dotting tool.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Neutral Elegance

This neutral design is elegant and sophisticated, perfect for any season. The soft nude base color is accented with delicate white lines, creating a simple yet chic look that is versatile and timeless.

Consumables:

• • Base coat: OPI Nail Envy
  • Nude polish: Essie’s Ballet Slippers
  • White polish: OPI’s Alpine Snow
  • Thin nail art brush for detailing
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish for a soft base.
   3. Use a thin brush to add delicate white lines for a minimalistic design.
   4. Seal with a top coat to enhance shine and durability.