Best Nail Polish Colors for Your Toes This Summer

Summary

• Discover the trendiest toe nail polish colors to wear this summer, from bold brights to soft neutrals.
• Learn how to prep your toes for a flawless, long-lasting pedicure at home.
• Find expert tips on finishes, nail care, and product picks that elevate your summer nail game.

 

There’s nothing like a fresh pedicure to make you feel put together for summer. Whether you’re hitting the beach, brunching with friends, or just relaxing outside, your toes deserve to look their best. But with so many colors out there, how do you pick the right one? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered.

This summer is all about bold pops of color, earthy tones, and shades that instantly lift your mood. From classic reds to unexpected blues, here are the best nail polish colors for your toes in summer 2025 plus tips on choosing the perfect one for your skin tone and vibe.

 

1. Classic Summer Shades That Never Fail

Some colors just feel like summer, no matter the year. These timeless picks work with any outfit, sandal style, or occasion.

Here are the tried-and-true classics:

• Cherry Red: Confident, playful, and eye-catching. This shade looks amazing on every skin tone and never goes out of style.
• Coral: A sunny mix of pink and orange, coral is perfect for glowing, sun-kissed skin. It’s bright but not overpowering.
• Hot Pink: Fun and flirty, hot pink pairs perfectly with summer whites and denim.

These shades have been summer staples for years because they always work. They hold up against pool days, beach trips, and endless sunshine. If you’re not sure where to start, you can’t go wrong with one of these.

 

2. Trending Colors for Summer 2025

Every summer brings new trends, and this year is no exception. In 2025, we’re seeing a mix of earthy neutrals and vibrant, mood-boosting hues.

Top color trends right now:

1. Butter Yellow: Soft, warm, and cheerful this shade is everywhere. It’s subtle enough for everyday wear but still makes a statement.
2. Sky Blue: Light and airy, this pale blue is like a perfect summer day bottled up. It looks especially pretty on cooler skin tones.
3. Mint Green: Fresh and calming, mint green is this year’s unexpected favorite. It pops against medium to deep skin tones and pairs well with gold jewelry.
4. Lilac: A cooler take on lavender, this soft purple is romantic and versatile. Great if you love pastels but want something different.
5. Terracotta: A warm, reddish-brown that’s earthy and chic. It complements tanned or deeper skin beautifully.
6. Electric Orange: Bold, energetic, and impossible to ignore. This shade is perfect for festivals, vacations, or just turning heads.

These colors aren’t just pretty, they're also linked to boosting mood and energy. Research shows bright, warm tones can make us feel happier.

If you’re doing your pedicure at home, the complete manicure kit rose from Botanist Nails has everything you need for salon-worthy results.

 

Boost your nail health this summer with the Nail Growth Serum — perfect for stronger, longer-lasting pedicures.

 

3. Best Shades for Different Skin Tones

The right toenail polish can enhance your natural glow. Here’s how to pick a shade that complements your skin tone.

Fair Skin

• Try pastels like soft pink, mint green, or sky blue
• Avoid super dark shades that might look too harsh
• Coral and light lavender add a pretty contrast

Medium Skin

• Go for brights like hot pink, electric orange, or turquoise
• Warm tones like terracotta or rose gold bring out golden undertones
• Deep berries look rich and sophisticated

Dark Skin

• Bold shades like yellow, fuchsia, and cobalt blue stand out beautifully
• Don’t skip white it creates a striking contrast
• Metallics like bronze or copper add a luxe touch

Your skin tone isn’t a limit, it's a guide to finding your most flattering shades. If you need help picking the perfect nude, check out this guide to choosing the right nude polish for your skin tone.

 

4. The Rise of Metallic and Chrome Toenails

Metallics aren’t just for fingers anymore. This summer, chrome finishes (think silver, rose gold, and iridescent shades) are taking over pedicures too.

Why they’re worth trying:

• They catch the light and shimmer with every step
• They instantly elevate your look, even with simple outfits
• They’re statement-making without being loud

Metallic toes are perfect for vacations, nights out, or just adding some glam to your everyday style. If your nails need some TLC before polishing, the nail rescue kit nude can help restore strength and hydration.

 

5. Choosing Between Matte vs. Glossy Finishes

The finish can change your whole pedicure vibe. Matte polish has been trending, but glossy is always classic. Which one’s right for you?

Pros of Matte Toenail Polish:

• Looks modern and edgy
• Doesn’t reflect light great for a muted, understated look
• Pairs well with neutral outfits

Pros of Glossy Toenail Polish:

• Timeless and fresh
• Makes colors pop even more
• Matches effortlessly with summer sandals

For something fun, try mixing finishes like a matte base with glossy nail art. Want your polish to last? Check out how to make nail polish last longer: 10 easy tips.

 

Lock in your color and shine with the Shiny Top Coat a must-have for a flawless, long-lasting finish.

 

6. Pro Tips to Make Your Pedicure Last All Summer

A chipped pedicure is a summer buzzkill. Sun, sand, and chlorine can be tough on polish, but these tricks will help keep your toes looking fresh.

Nail Prep Matters

• Exfoliate first — Smooth skin means smoother polish application
• Use a base coat — Helps polish stick and prevents staining
• Push back cuticles — Creates a cleaner, longer-lasting look

For more on prepping your nails, read the ultimate cuticle care guide.

During Application

• Apply thin coats (thick layers take forever to dry and chip faster)
• Let each layer dry completely before adding the next
• Seal the tips to prevent early chipping

Aftercare

• Moisturize daily to keep skin and nails healthy
• Reapply top coat every few days for extra shine and protection
• Avoid tight shoes that rub against your polish

Sunlight can fade polish, so a UV-protective top coat is a smart move. For more nail care tips, check out Nail Care 101: The Complete Guide to Strong and Healthy Nails.

 

FAQ

1. How often should I change my toenail polish in the summer?
A good pedicure can last 2–3 weeks with proper care. If you’re swimming or walking barefoot often, you might need a touch-up after a week.

2. What colors make toes look cleaner or more elegant?
Soft neutrals like pale pink, beige, or white always look polished. Glossy finishes add an extra touch of elegance.

3. Can I wear dark nail polish in summer?
Definitely! Deep shades like burgundy, navy, or even black look chic with summer outfits especially paired with open-toe heels or strappy sandals.

4. Are metallic toenails hard to maintain?
They can show chips more easily, but a good base and top coat help. The reflective finish also hides minor imperfections well.

5. What’s the healthiest way to remove nail polish?
Use an acetone-free remover and follow up with moisturizer. Never peel or scrape off polish; it weakens your nails. Giving your nails a break between colors helps too.

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with fun pedicure colors. Whether you’re into soft pastels, bold neons, or earthy neutrals, there’s a shade that’ll make you smile every time you see your toes.

So pick your favorite, slide into your cutest sandals, and step into summer with confidence.