Coral nails are set to be everywhere for summer - here's how to wear them elegantly

Bright nails are nothing new, but this timeless coral shade is set to be popular for the holiday season

Nails with coral nail polish
(Image credit: @matejanova/Mateja Novakovic)

Looking to inject a pop of colour into your nail designs? The latest coral trend is the answer we’ve been looking for to make a minimalist statement this summer…

As far as 2024 nail trends go, statement pastel nails have been making their rounds this year - from butter yellow French tips to milky blueberry shades, we’ve seen them all. But, the latest iteration on the block is coral - an age old classic for the sunny months.

Inspired by marine elements, this summery shade is trending once again, offering a glossy flush of colour to your mani. While the orangey-hue may feel like a fairly bold shade compared to the glazed and glass nails of recent years, it’s versatile and wearable enough to suit all nail lengths and shapes.

Why coral nails are the go-to summer manicure

From minimalist white and trusted pastels to vibrant electrics, picking a nail colour for the summer months can be hard. With an abundance of options, there’s one fail-proof colour that we always return to.

The clue is in the name, coral shades have been dominating summer manicures for as long as we can remember. Whether you’re jetting off on holiday or you have an array of occasions lined up, it’s the perfect way to add a burst of colour to your fingertips.

A post shared by Mateja Novakovic

A photo posted by matejanova on

From warm terracotta-esque corals to those with dusty pink undertones, the shade can be tailored to suit you. Minimalists may opt for a softer, subtle look, whilst others wanting a more maximalist design may prefer a brighter polish with warmer reddish hues.

However you choose to wear the trend, from french tips to ombre designs, there are many sophisticated ways to add the colour to your talons this summer…

Our coral nail staples

If the coral look has caught your eye, we’ve put together the three essentials you need to recreate the mani at home…

The 4 coral nail looks we're loving for summer

If you’re looking for a reference picture to take to your manicurist or inspiration on how to achieve the trend at home, here are four looks we think you should consider.

1. Glossy Coral Nails

A post shared by taylor | nail artist

A photo posted by nailsbytaylorjustine on

A block colour is the way to go when making a statement. Whether you opt for almond or square, top with a high-shine, glossy top coat and a swipe of cuticle oil to nail effective simplicity.

2. Coral French Tips

A post shared by Fliss Alton

A photo posted by gelsbyfliss on

A French tip is a delicate way to add a hint of colour to your nails, without delving completely into the trend.

3. Ombre Coral Nails

A post shared by Fliss Alton

A photo posted by gelsbyfliss on

If you're looking for a tad more design, we'd recommend these glossy ombre nails. It's the perfect way to achieve the a balance between subtle and bold.

4. Reverse Coral French Tips

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A photo posted by corrinnabianca on

Switch up your typical French tips with this reversed design - a minimalist-yet-playful take on the colourful trend.

Sennen Prickett
Digital Beauty Writer

Sennen is Digital Beauty Writer at woman&home, where she shares the latest beauty buys and trending products from makeup and hair to skincare and nails. Previously, Sennen worked as a Junior Digital Editor at FROW Magazine, where she wrote about the latest fashion and beauty news, trends and viral must-have products to shop, and reviewing a lineup of beauty products. She has since worked with numerous brands including Who What Wear UK, HuffPost UK and Harvey Nichols. When she’s not writing about all things beauty, Sennen spends her spare time watching the latest Netflix series, doing lots of online shopping and walking her dog.