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“This summer is all about being bold,” says Parisian nail artist Andréa Barbet (better known to her quarter of a million Instagram followers as @m.o.n.a.j), has a few predictions for manicure trends for the months ahead. Here, she details the eight nail colour and nail art trends heading for our hands this sunny season.
“Pastels are being put in the closet,” she tells Vogue, “and that includes butter yellow, the shade of the summer for the past few years. Now, it’s about vibrancy and daring.” To that end, here are her nail trend predictions for summer 2026.
Turquoise
“Undoubtedly, the star of the season,” Barbet declares. Already seen gaining traction with ocean blue and sky blue trends, an azure or turquoise manicure is the perfect partner for your summer wardrobe.
Lilac
A trickle-down from this season’s catwalks, lilac is being touted as the new nude: all the softness and wearability of a neutral, with the fun and playfulness of a brighter colour. Sold.
Jelly
“Each summer, texture becomes a focal point,” Barbet explains. “This year, a sheer, juicy jelly texture will be the most popular.”
High gloss
Our obsession with texture shows no signs of slowing down, either. Anything that has an ultra-shiny effect – like coloured chromes, glazed shimmers or reflective cat eyes – will be on-trend this summer, Barbet says.
Coral
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Chic and timeless, coral pops up each year in the warmer months. Try a coral-inspired design like Barbet to modernise the classic summer manicure.
Prints
“We’re having fun with prints and textures this summer,” the nail artist says. “Since the start of the year, we’ve seen horizontal stripes boom in popularity, as well as large polka dots, 3D rhinestones, chunky (and skinny) French manicures, animal print and aura nails.” Pick one that feels the most like you, and then experiment with colour, placement and scale.
Cloud white
While her other predictions are bright, bold and out there, the Pantone colour of the year will be a popular choice this summer, too. “A pearly, milky white pairs wonderfully with summer skin,” she says.
Pink overload
This season’s pinks range from fuchsia to powdery to baby, and back up to magenta. A high gloss finish adds a plumping look to the colour, as well.
