8 Summer Nail Colors Perfect For Deep Skin Tones

With new nail trends arriving daily, settling on a color for a solid manicure should be easy. In theory, you want a color that makes you smile and flatters your complexion. The latter is especially true for those of us with deeper skin tones. Finding a nail color that works with the undertones of your skin isn’t just complementary—it can also add warmth and enhance the nuances of your skin. “Color theory can help us understand which shades work best at amplifying melanated skin,” says Amy Ling Lin, founder and CEO of Sundays Nail Studio. Instead of blindly choosing a bottle at your next appointment, why not enlist help from the people who know nails best? Below, three nail experts share the best summer nail colors for deeper complexions.

Featured experts

• Amy Ling Lin is the founder and CEO of Sundays Nail Studio
• Priscilla Nguyen is the nail educator for Aprés
• Mazz Hanna is the CEO of Nailing Hollywood

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Milky White

Soft and semi-sheer white polishes create a clean, minimalist contrast that looks elevated and sophisticated. Priscilla Nguyen, nail educator for Aprés, notes that a milky shade is ideal this time of year to give your skin a subtle summer glow. Plus, it makes a great canvas for simple nail art.

Two to try: Orly Barely There ($11), Cote Crisp Linen ($15)

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Coral Reds

“Warm coral-red really pops on deeper skin, and has just the right balance of red and orange tones,” says Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood. It’s also a go-to shade when you want a matching manicure and pedicure that’s effortless and classic.

Two to try: OPI Cajun Shrimp ($12), Olive & June Larchmont ($9)

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Lavender

“Light purples create a gentle contrast without being too sweet. A lavender hue is a soft and slightly unexpected pick that still feels seasonal and fresh,” says Hanna.

Two to try: Gelcare Desaturated Purple ($20), Manucurist Wisteria  ($14)

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Turquoise

“Bold jewel tones are rich in pigment and contrast beautifully against deeper skin,” says Lin. Cool in tone, turquoise is visually striking and has a harmonious effect.

Two to try: Essie n The Cab-ana ($10), ILNP Turquoise Water ($14)

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Hot Pink

Summer is the season for bold colors, so why not go all out with a hot pink mani? ” These shades radiate vibrancy and look rich and saturated on deeper skin,” says Nguyen. It’s playful and flirty, aka perfect for summer nights when you need that extra pop of color.

Two to try: Apres Pink About It ($10), Mooncat Sakura’s Serenade ($18)

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Mint Green

Green is having a moment right now. According to Lin, minty shades are best for minimalists who prefer softer colors to highlight their skin. “These colors are effortless, modern and always chic,” she adds. However, if want to spice things up this season, Nguyen suggests trying a lime polish. “It may be underrated but it makes a bold statement,” she says.

Two to try: Sundays No.44 ($18), Static Nails Trippin ($16)

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Terracotta

If you’re looking for an alternative to espresso this season, try reaching for a warm terracotta polish. “This deep, earthy neutrals complements a darker skin tone without washing it out,” says Lin.

Two to try: Chanel Longwear Nail Colour Fabuliste ($33), Lights Lacquer Nail Polish in The Butler ($13)

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Denim Blue

This shade has range and works in bright or muted tones. “Softened, washed blues add just enough color without feeling too bright, while deep blues enhance cool-tones and still feel wearable,” says Hanna.

Two to try: Dazzle Dry Varsity Blues  ($22), Londontown Iconic ($1)