Nail colors for summer vacation

When you’re on a beach vacation, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and do something crazy with your nails. But if you want to make sure your manicure can stand the test of sand, sun, and water, we’ve got some tips for you!

First things first: pick a color that’s close to your natural skin tone. This will help prevent staining (especially important if you’re planning on going in the ocean). If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to try out a bold color, make sure it’s one that has as little pigment as possible.

And finally, apply a top coat whenever possible—it’ll help protect your nails from chipping and fading.

Nail colors for summer vacation

Blue

Take a break from the winter-ready navy and step into lighter and brighter shades of blue for your next adventure. Whether it’s a nail bed covered in an opaque sapphire or royal blue or a negative space design using a more playful azure or robin’s egg, you really can’t go wrong.

Nude

Match the sand with nude nail polish. Because no, you don’t have to choose a bright neon hue for your beach polish. In fact, the shade will pair well with any bathing suit you decide to wear for your day in the sun.

Pink

Pink is a huge trend in fashion this season, so why not coordinate your nails with your chic ensembles? Specifically, consider a bright shade for an eye-catching look. For this, you have plenty of polishes to choose from — for instance, People Of Color’s Low & Slow or Zoya’s Nail Lacquer in Dacey. And if you want a hue that skews more on the orangey-pink side, look to Smith & Cult’s Plastic Beach.

White

A summer go-to for years, the white nail polish trend shows no signs of slowing down. And why should it? It goes with everything, is appropriate for any occasion, and can instantly enhance your (faux) tan. Despite hot white’s everlasting popularity, a pale nail is always slightly unexpected; even if you choose a shimmer or off-white instead of the classic opaque hue.

Coral

Is there a more beach-ready color than coral? Not a chance. The shade breathes summer vibes, even if your vacation is in the middle of winter. When going with coral, you have options, too: Do you want a bright shade or something paler, lively orange or delicate pink? However you choose, coral is sure to work out in your favor.

Red

This year-round color is another classic that fits into any and every vacation aesthetic. During the warmer months, reach for a hue that skews more orange for a fun and fiery jolt of color.

Neutral

Sure, you could go with a pretty beige manicure, but why not lean into the fashion set’s current favorites like brown and clay-toned green? They’re the chicest and least boring hues that are also super versatile and muted at the same time.

Green

Speaking of green, vacation is the perfect time to go all out with hues across the spectrum. Forest green, seafoam, and variations of jade and mint are all great options.