It’s hard to believe, but May is nearly here, which means summer isn’t far behind. For beauty lovers, that signals a shift toward transitional nail polish shades that carry us from spring into the warmer months. What does that look like? Pastels, vivid tones and more—expected, but still welcome this time of year.
Trending this month, in particular, are milky manicures, defined by a slightly sheer, blurred finish that softens the overall look with a subtle wash of color. Wondering how to wear May’s nail shades this year? Expect to see a surge in updated French manicures, moving beyond classic white tips in favor of fresh, seasonal hues. Ahead, the best May nail colors, according to nail artists.
Featured Experts
- Elle Gerstein is a celebrity nail artist in New York City
- Valeriia Telemaniuk is a nail artist, educator, beauty industry judge and founder of Altera Nails in San Diego
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Sheer milky pinks are everywhere right now, all the way down to the fingertips. For a juicy bubblegum pink, reach for this Essie shade that’s buildable and easy to wear. “It feels really fresh and light on the nail and builds depending on how many coats you apply,” says New York celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein. “Use one coat for just a soft wash of pink, and by the time you get to three or four coats, it turns into more of that milky guava pink vibe.”
For those who love a glossy manicure, this one delivers. “The finish is super glossy, almost like a lip gloss for your nails, and it layers beautifully without looking heavy,” she adds.
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Between farmers’ market season and tomato season hitting its stride in May, it’s only fitting to have nails to match. “Tomato red is everywhere because it feels warm, vibrant and optimistic,” says Gerstein. “Think juicy red-orange tones that pop on every skin tone.” She likes this shade from Dazzle Dry for its subtle orange undertones.
When using Dazzle Dry, keep in mind it’s part of a long-lasting four-step system, so you’ll need the remaining three steps to complete your manicure.
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Soft pistachio greens continue to reign supreme this May. They “feel fresh, modern and slightly unexpected while still wearable,” says Gerstein. “It’s the vibe of an earthy spring renewal.”
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Prepare to fall in love with grape jelly–esque nails this May. Gerstein likes this shimmery purple from Morgan Taylor because it “is juicy and glowy,” she says. It’s also beginner-friendly, thanks to its buildable formula and layered shine.
Gerstein recommends using Pleasing’s Bottoms Up Base Coat ($18) to “add dimension and shine, making a classic spring shade feel more elevated and fashion-forward.”
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It’s a mauve-y May! “For more mature hands, sheer pinks, soft rose, classic mauve and muted pink are the most flattering,” says Gerstein. “Always go for glossy finishes to keep the look smooth and hydrated. This reads as a neutral on this skin because it quietly corrects and softens rather than contrasts.”
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Butter yellow is the new neutral. This muted shade pairs with everything and feels especially right for spring. It “gained major popularity last spring and continues to be one of the top shades this season,” says San Diego nail artist, educator and founder of Altera Nails, Valeriia Telemaniuk. “It captures the feeling of soft sunshine. After a long winter, when everything is just starting to wake up, buttery yellow feels like those first warm rays of light.”
