5 Nail Colors to Try Before Summer Ends | Celebrity Nail Artists' Picks (2026)

As summer wanes, it's time to embrace the final burst of color before we succumb to the neutral hues of autumn. The nail art world is abuzz with trends, and celebrity nail artists offer their insights on the hottest shades to try before the season shifts. From jelly finishes to bold reds, here's a breakdown of the must-try nail colors for late August and early September.

Jelly Everything

John Avery, a renowned celebrity nail artist, raves about the versatility of jelly finishes. "Jelly colors are my current obsession for end-of-summer nails," he enthuses. "They provide a bold pop of color without the childlike appearance that some bright shades can evoke."

Eunice Park, brand director at Aprés Nail, agrees, "Jelly finishes have a juicy, wet look that everyone loves. We've been embracing jellies to add a playful twist to our manicures."

The semi-opaque, translucent nature of jelly nails offers a sophisticated take on vibrant shades, making them a perfect choice for those who want a bold statement without the full opacity of traditional nail polish.

Glossy Turquoise

Turquoise has been a standout color this summer, and it's not surprising that it's sticking around. "The Tiffany blue teal shade has been a summer staple," notes Park. "It's a versatile color that works well into late August and beyond."

The uplifting and playful nature of turquoise makes it a popular choice, and it's no wonder it has garnered attention. A glossy turquoise manicure can instantly brighten your mood and is sure to draw compliments.

Coca-Cola Red

Red is a classic color that never goes out of style, and the Coca-Cola shade is a perfect transitional pick. "This red is like the little black dress of nail color," explains Avery. "It's glossy, timeless, and chic."

As we move from summer to fall, a bold red can be a refreshing change, offering a vibrant contrast to the neutral tones that often dominate our wardrobes during the cooler months.

Coconut Milk

Anne Hathaway's recent appearance with coconut jelly nails sparked a trend. Tom Bachik, her nail artist, described the semi-opaque finish as "fresh, clean, and interesting for summer."

The Essie Arctic Jelly shade used on Hathaway showcases a unique blend of opacity and transparency, providing a modern twist on a classic coconut theme. This shade is perfect for those who want a subtle yet intriguing nail look.

Warm Amber

As summer transitions to fall, warm tones like amber and caramel become increasingly appealing. "Richer colors are trending this summer," observes Park. "I'm encouraging clients to explore warm, sheer jelly finishes like warm amber and caramel."

Sheer, jelly-like finishes add a touch of sophistication to neutral shades, making them ideal for those who prefer a subtle yet stylish manicure.

In conclusion, these end-of-summer nail colors offer a vibrant and playful escape before the season's end. From jelly finishes to bold reds, each shade provides a unique twist to your manicure, ensuring you make the most of the remaining warm days. So, embrace these trends and enjoy the last of summer's beauty before the leaves start to change.

5 Nail Colors to Try Before Summer Ends | Celebrity Nail Artists' Picks (2026)
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