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The Best Nail Shades for July

Fun and fresh.

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Butter yellow nails
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The first full month of summer, Independence Day, Cancer season—whatever July means to you, the hot and sunny month is quickly approaching. There is no better time than the summer to experiment with your beauty looks, whether it's with a bold, glittery eye look, a slicked-back hair style or a funky, fresh manicure.

If you're struggling to find inspiration for your next manicure and are experiencing that dog-days-of-summer slump, we've got you covered. Ahead, we've compiled a list of the best nail shades for July, according to experts, A-listers, social media and more.

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  • Mazz Hanna is the CEO of Nailing Hollywood
  • Hannah Lee is a Sally Hansen nail partner

July Manicure Inspiration

1 / 9

Lavender

Over the past several months, light, milky purple shades have been making a name for themselves in the nail world, and the soothing, floral color is perfect for bringing a little zen to your summer manicure. Two to try: OPI You're Such a BudaPest ($13.50) and Manucurist Paris Wisteria ($14)

BUY OPI - $13.50

BUY MANUCURIST - $14

Lavender
2 / 9

Kelly Green

"Kelly Green still holds up as one of my top July picks," says Hanna. "It’s fresh, lush, and brings that energetic vibe that works so well in the middle of summer. It looks great with whites, florals, or even mixed with other brights." Two to try: Manucurist Paris Brazil ($14) and Olive & June Touchdown! ($9)

BUY MANUCURIST - $14

BUY OLIVE & JUNE - $9

Kelly Green
3 / 9

Tangerine

"Tangerine is one of those colors that just feels like summer," says Hanna. "It’s bold and juicy, and always stands out in the best way. Perfect for vacation or any day you want your nails to do the talking." Two to try: Essie Be Them All ($11) and Olive & June Bounce Back ($9)

BUY ESSIE - $11

BUY OLIVE & JUNE - $9

Tangerine
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4 / 9

"Navy blue is a classic July nail color that stands out while keeping things elevated," says Nailing Hollywood CEO Mazz Hanna. "It's perfect for a polished and elegant Fourth of July look, yet versatile enough to complement any occasion throughout the month." Two to try: Dazzle Dry Gambit ($22) O.P.I. Nail Lacquer in Yoga-ta Get This Blue! ($12)

BUY DAZZLE DRY - $22

BUY OPI - $12

Navy Blues
5 / 9

Vibrant Pinks

"Vibrant pinks have been a popular choice this year and I can see that continuing for July," says Sally Hansen nail partner Hannah Lee. "I've also had a lot of requests for subtle shimmers. Some of my current favorites are from the Sally Hansen Ring Pop Insta Dri Collection in StrawVery Fun ($8) and Bling Pop ($8).

BUY NOW - $8

Vibrant Pinks
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6 / 9

Pastel Yellow

Butter yellow has quickly become one of the colors of the summer when it comes to fashion, and celebrities like Kelsea Ballerini have even been seen wearing the shade on their nails, too. "I love that pastel yellow is a soft and subtle shade that brings a pop of color without being too overbearing," says Hanna. "It’s a perfect sunny July shade for those who tend to lean more towards neutrals but want a touch of color for the summer." Two to try: Dazzle Dry Frozen Lemonade ($22) and Chanel Le Vernis in OVNI ($32)

BUY DAZZLE DRY - $22

BUY CHANEL - $32

Pastel Yellow
7 / 9

Classic Reds

"Red is a classic, bold color that grabs attention," says Hanna. "It’s perfect for making a statement and making your nails the center of attention. Red embodies the warmth and vibrancy of July's summer weather and is a great option for the Fourth of July." Two to try: Orly Love My Nails ($11) and essie Nail Polish in Really Red ($10)

BUY ORLY - $11

BUY ESSIE - $10

Classic Reds
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8 / 9

Baby Blues

"Baby blue always trends in July because it matches the natural palette of flowers blooming, the ocean breeze and the beautiful blue skies we see in July," says Hanna. "Since it’s a less saturated shade, it’s really versatile and will work with any look or for any occasion." Two to try: Dazzle Dry Lotion, Please! ($22) and Olive & June Honest & True ($9)

BUY DAZZLE DRY - $22

BUY OLIVE & JUNE - $9

Baby Blues
9 / 9

Robin's Egg Blue

A celebrity-headed trend for July, Hailee Steinfeld's "robin's egg" nails are another perfect option for your July manicure. Deemed "robin's egg blue" by nail artist to the stars, Tom Bachik, the shade's mix of green and blue shades evoke that summery, outdoorsy vibe, but is still subtle and sophisticated enough to accompany you to a summer wedding or garden party. Two to try: Sally Hansen Gain Mo-Mint-Um ($8) and O.P.I Nail Lacquer in Gelato on My Mind ($12)

BUY SALLY HANSEN - $8

BUY OPI - $12

Robin's Egg Blue
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