For most of the year, choosing the shade of your manicure is the most essential decision you have to make at the nail salon. But when the heated weather finally arrives, you also need to include your pedicure. Although variety is what makes life electrifying – yes, it’s just your nails, but it’s the little things, am I right? — coming up with complementary mani/pedi color combinations can seem like an unwanted math equation. So if you’re looking for electrifying yet versatile options for your toes, the summer 2024 pedicure color trends will pair well with a plethora of manicure shades and sandal styles.
If you’re a typical maximalist, you’ll love looking at a bold neon coral pedicure all season long. For those who appreciate minimalism, up the ante with pure gold shimmer for a touch of gorgeous shine. And if you find yourself somewhere in between, look to the beach for inspiration. Both navy and teal will have a moment this summer.
Ahead TZR commissioned nail experts to predict the biggest color trends in summer pedicure. Read on to discover their picks and, of course, plan the shades you’ll try this season.
Naval Navy
Next to juicy oxblood, deep navy blue is a shade associated with autumn manicure and pedicure color palettes. However, the frigid color is a staple of summer nautical fashion motifs, so why not paint it on your toes for a fresh alternative to typical neutral shades like taupe and powder pink? “Navy blue is the perfect shade for summer and perfectly highlights seaside chic” – Olivia Van Iderstine, Olive and Juneconfirms trend expert Mani and vice president of content and creativity. “Navy blue is so classic that it matches any summer shoe and goes beautifully with any manicure you choose.”
Elated Coral
For manicure maximalists, combine the energy of the main character of the varnish on the fingers with an equally bold shade on the fingers. “Elevate your summer style with neon coral nail polish, a bold and vivid hue that’s perfect for adding a pop of energy to any outfit,” says Rianna Basurto, director of marketing and brand development at Bellacuri. “I believe this vigorous color will continue to grow in popularity due to its ability to capture the vivid spirit of the season, making it perfect for both beach trips and evening events.”
Shiny gold
Treat yourself to an exceptionally luxurious pedicure this summer as a little treat. The shiny gold sheen will not only make you feel fancy, but it will look downright gorgeous when the sun is shining. “This luxurious color will be on-trend as it captures the essence of summer’s golden hour, providing a radiant and stylish finish to any event,” says Basurto. And if you’re someone who usually sticks to neutral pedicures, summer is your time to shine – literally. Van Iderstine suggests joining this trend with a fine sheen, reminiscent of a glossy top on bare nails.
Pure jelly
Moving away from pasty shades, the slightly clear, glossy finish in vivid jelly shades is perfect for scorching, shining summer days. “These captivating shades inspire limitless creativity, encouraging experimentation through layering and decorating, evoking the spirit of summer love,” says Jan Arnold, CND co-founder. She’s a fan of the brand’s shade Magenta Sky, a immaculate, vivid red-purple color. Aside from being a demure way to wear bold, dazzling colors, these super shiny ’90s polishes will appeal to kids because they’re reminiscent of the shoes they wore on summer vacations when they were growing up.
Serene turquoise
Fully immerse yourself in the long, inactive and relaxing summer days with a frigid turquoise pedicure. The beauty of this color trend is its versatility. You can choose a lighter shade or go for a deep one. Better yet, why not give the sea a shimmering sheen? “Embrace the serene beauty of turquoise varnish, a refined shade that evokes the tranquility of the sea,” says Basurto. “This calming color is on-trend as it perfectly complements both casual and formal summer occasions, providing a refreshing and elegant accent to any style.”
Zingy red
There is no doubt that red is a timeless shade of manicure and pedicure. However, if you want to adapt your favorite nail polish to the current season, the pink and red lobster will suit summer. “[It’s] a perfect combination of red, pink and coral that illuminates and adds instant self-confidence,” says Van Iderstine about the fashionable pedicure color. To keep your bold pedicure in tip-top shape, remember to protect it with a sparkly top.
