The Best Gel Polish Colors to Bookmark for Summer

Summer is quickly approaching, which means your seasonal manicure mood board is also starting to fill up. There are lots of designs, and nail art looks to get into, but the top of the list should be finding your new summer shade. Fortunately, our favorite gel polish colors have lots to offer for the season ahead — and contrary to what you may think, there is a lot of range. Neon shades and punchy colors are a common combination come summer, but this season, variations of primary hues are taking center stage. Instead of being electric-looking, they have a softer approach, making them more approachable and versatile. From milky finishes to trendy bold blues, there’s something for everyone to love. Below, see the best gel polish colors to bookmark for summer.

Featured experts

• Queenie Nguyen is a celebrity manicurist
• Priscilla Nguyen is a nail artist and Aprés nail educator

6 gel polish colors to try this summer

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Butter Yellow

This warm, golden hue continues to dominate beauty trends for one reason: balance. “Not too bold or subtle, it offers a cheerful alternative to traditional neutrals,” says nail artist and Aprés nail educator Priscilla Nguyen.

Two to try: Beetles Butter Yellow Gel Nail Polish ($9) and Manucurist Gel Polish Mimosa ($19)

• BUY BEETLES – $9
• BUY MANUCURIST – $19

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Mango

While it’s true that orange is a staple summer shade, this hue is more citrus than neon this season. The sunny shade also acts like bronzer, adding a glowing touch to your skin thanks to its warm undertones.

Two to try: Gelcare Jelly Mango ($20) and Madam Glam Lucky Charm ($12)

• BUY GELCARE – $20
• BUY MADAM GLAM – $12

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Minty Green

Fashion often influences beauty trends, which is the case with this cool green shade. According to Priscilla, mint green was showcased in both Miu Miu and Versace’s collections and has a versatility that’s unmatched. Not only does it complement neutral and vibrant hues, but she mentions it also has a playful edge.

Two to try: Apres Tea Leaf ($15) and Londontown Gel Mint No Chip ($17)

• BUY APRES – $15
• BUY LONDONTOWN – $17

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Lavender

The lavender soap nail trend is ideal for transitioning between spring and summer. As celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen explains, the softness of the shade is desirable for minimalists while still offering a nice pop for the warmer weather ahead.

Two to try: Orly Provence at Dusk ($10) and OPI GelColor You’re Such A BudaPest ($21)

• BUY ORLY -$10
• BUY OPI – $21

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Milky White

Crisp white polishes are always a hit in the summer. However, if you’re looking for a softer alternative, consider trying a milkier finish. The sheer, creamy shade works well for solid manicures and, as Queenie notes, gives traditional French manicures a chic twist.

Two to try: DND Milky White ($10) and Gelish Heaven Sent($16)

• BUY DND – $10
• BUY GELISH – $16

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Bold Blue

Blueberry milk nails will be phasing out as we move into summer. According to Priscilla, the trend is becoming overshadowed by deeper, moodier shades. From marine to light navy tones, she notes that these colors feel more polished and elegant for the next season.

Two to try: Le Mini Macaron Blue Raspberry ($13) and Olive & June Your Mani Looks So Good in Those Jeans ($10)

• BUY LE MINI MACARON – $13
• BUY OLIVE & JUNE – $10