July seems to urge people to add a bit more color to their looks. If it’s summer vacation, a holiday get-together or if you just find long nights glow, your nails reflect your style. And honestly? A good polish shade can shift your whole vibe. For the month of July, I’ve been checking out this year’s best nail colors, wanting to find options that look trendy but easy to wear all summer long. Focus on coral colors, soft pastels, vibrant reds and the types of neutrals that are flattering after a day in the sun. I’m going to share with you the best July nail polish colors to try this year. Whether you’re doing your own mani at home or heading to the salon, these shades will match every plan on your calendar — and every summer mood.
Fresh Blue Florals for Summer Fun
Just because blue is cool in temperature doesn’t mean it isn’t sunny, stylish or fitting for the start of July. Royal blue color, some sparkles and sweet daisy art combine to lift anyone’s spirits with this design. On each hand, you add a middle finger accent in white and blue, with a pop of red in the center and leave the nails on each side blue. It matches the cheerfulness of summer and gives traditional July colors a creative twist.
If you’re building this manicure, grab a royal blue gel polish like Gelish “Arctic Freeze” for the base and a glitter top coat like DND’s “Blue Glitz.” You need a fine nail art brush, some white nail polish such as OPI Alpine Snow and a dotting tool for the red center flower. A glossy top coat locks it in.
When making this design, I usually cure one nail at a time under a lamp, so I don’t smear the polish. If you’re pressed for time, press-ons are an easy solution. As presented by Allure’s summer 2025 trends, flowing floral prints and blue garments have become this season’s top trend for fun yet chic holiday wear among youth.
Want to switch it up a little? If you have short square nails, you’ll get a much neater finish and your nails will definitely look standout in your photos.
Red Glitter Ombre That Glows
Whenever red ombre includes glitter, it’s an automatic winner because it never disappoints. The delicate look of white changes to a dramatic deep ruby glitter and is finished off with a coating of holographic sparkle. Best for anyone enjoying drinks on the patio or fireworks, this shade sparkles in the sun and looks perfect for July, especially on the 4th of July.
To create this look, you’ll need a milky base like Essie’s “Ballet Slippers,” red chunky glitter (I used Kiara Sky “Cherry Dust”), and a fine makeup sponge for the gradient fade. Just blend the mixtures, put down a thin layer, cure it with a lamp and repeat this process until the top is complete.
If you’re starting to use july nail polish colors or aren’t super precise with your nails, this polish fade issue isn’t a big deal. Based on a tip I found on TikTok: give a light dab, instead of sweeping, to secure the glitter and layer repeatedly till it sparkles like a piece of tinsel.
I would love to use the red at the bottom and build up to a clear color as I go. A bit unexpected, but very “you saw it here first.”
Neon Abstract for Y2K Sunshine
When the weather turns up, your nails should too. With this bright and colorful nail design, you’ll get a big dose of excitement—pink, cobalt blue, lemon yellow and lavender blend together like wave graphics from the 2000s. The fun shapes look almost like they’re candy and this nail style represents summer color confidence perfectly.
When creating this style, keep in mind that Cirque Colors or Lights Lacquer have the brightest polishes available. Apply striping brushes or nail vinyls to get the color boundaries in your nails to look perfect. I find that using a white base coat makes neons more vibrant and lasts longer.
Blocking the main colors at the start makes every step after simple, as all you need to do is draw the shapes carefully. I finish off with a matte top coat to complete the art-style effect.
Want to dial this down? Pick out two nails you want to decorate and have the rest of your fingers matched with one plain color. It’s not as strong as it used to be, but it’s still potent.
Sparkle Core in Red, White & Blue
If you’re into glitter, this combo’s a keeper. By alternating between blue, red and nude glitter polishes on the nails, you get an intense sparkle-core look that’s easy to pull off. Its medium length and oval shape allow this design to work for ordinary days or the 4th of July.
You’ll need three key polishes: Zoya’s “Dream” for the blue, OPI “Big Apple Red” in glitter finish, and a sheer champagne sparkle for contrast (I used Butter London’s “Fairy Lights”). Because round nails strengthen glitter polishes, you don’t have to worry about chipping your nails outdoors.
Two were used for color and the third coat gave my nails protection. Don’t skip putting on a high-glossy top coat to get that polished, glassy finish.
I keep returning to this look each summer because it always compliments my nails. Fourth grade is uncomplicated enough to be enjoyable, thanks to glitter.
Minimalist Red with Firework Accent
Sometimes one detail says it all. A bright red base on each nail is highlighted by one nail featuring a burst of fireworks in blue, red and white. Thanks to its neat lines, bright shine and nice blend of energy and elegance, it should be listed among the top picks for nail colors this month.
It’s easy to copy this look with an Orly red called “Star Spangled” as your base and freehanding the fireworks using nail art pens or sharp brushes. Use blue from My Favorite Gal Pal and white from Sally Hansen Insta-Dri for even-looking lines.
I applied the base, then the art and the top coat, so it didn’t take much time. It’s perfect for dressing up if you want to look mature rather than too theme-centered. Minimal with a wink of festivity.
My rule is: when you’re unsure, try red and have only one design element really stand out. Especially in summer, less can totally be more.
Shimmering Stars on Patriotic Base
I instantly see why glitter and patriotic feelings are such a great pair for the best July nail colors. Because each nail color comes from the American flag’s red, white and blue stripes, adding silver stars turns this common technique into a starry design. This glossy high-shine finish is sure to stand out when you’re having a BBQ or watching fireworks at any rooftop event. The mixture of soft pink and bold blue keeps the shade happily casual instead of too showy.
For this manicure, I used OPI’s Big Apple Red, Alpine Snow, and My Car Has Navy-gation as the base colors. You will need to use holographic nail foil to cover the stars and a dotting tool to apply and seal them with Seche Vite Top Coat.
I started with two coats of base color and laid the foil stars on while the polish was still tacky. I recommend using tweezers for precision. I picked Zoya PixieDust in Chyna for the red glitter and it will stay put without chipping during july too.
If you want July nail colors that twinkle without feeling too fake, you’ll like these. It’s both patriotic and contemporary and makes a great choice for anyone who loves quick fourth glam.
Black Fire Sparks with a Hint of Red
By using black tips and red glitter, this set does an about-face from normal july nail polish colors. You can see the ombre glitter finishing on a nude base, although it’s light, coloring your eyelids like a fading firework display. The long and narrow style is both attractive and a little dramatic for evenings out, enjoying bonfires or fancy gatherings.
Essie’s Sheer Fantasy was what I put on first, then built the black tips with OPI’s Black Onyx. I pressed a touch of loose, red glitter from the Young Nails “Fire Cracker” jar onto the top coat before softening the glitter with a sealant brush.
Even though they look tough, they’re not that hard to do by yourself. I used the sponge to apply the glitter, slowly blending the edges towards the lower lash line. This is a great option for Summer nails if you don’t want classic red-white-blue.
Personally, I love this design for after-dark July events. It’s simple yet unexpected—something that makes people look twice. For those who are sort of over red, white and blue, look no further than this idea.
Stars and Stripes Makeover
This design is an absolute classic reimagined. Alternating between blue stars and diagonal red-and-white stripes, the set is heavy on American 4th of July spirit with a light refreshing twist. Each design piece is consistent in feel but unique in detail which is ideal for people wanting fine art with no confusing chaos. It’s summery, not due to pressure and suits both trendy and classic outfits.
My favorite polishes for this look were Olive & June’s OMG in red, Nails Inc White Out and Sally Hansen’s Pacific Blue. The stars were stamped by hand with a Konad plate and I used both striping tape and a thin nail brush for the stripes.
Alternate color coats and then stick the stars or the stamping onto the nails. After the base was dry, I created the diagonal lines and then sealed my piece with a clear top coat.
All the trending july nail polish colors this year, but these are the ones I keep choosing. They make it seem like I’m a small player, yet still part of an important event.
Crimson & Sparkle Fusion
Deep crimson is my confidence color in summer and this top adds a little extra to the look. Besides the normal red, the patterned nail is painted with white stars layered over fancy blue rhinestones. Wearing just a little jewelry or a white sundress with it feels both joyful and fun. That doesn’t mean they have to be plain or boring.
I painted Essie Forever Yummy in two layers, then added tiny star decals to finish. I figured out an extra step of using a wax pencil to dot blue rhinestones and fixed them in place with nail glue. A matte top coat is an option if you hope to bring down the shimmer.
Even though it takes less than an hour, this look will look professional. I think it’s best to place the rhinestones with tweezers, one at a time on each nail.
June nail polish colors often require a bright red like this. Nothing looks more glamorous at the pool than this paired with white sandals.
Striped Stars and Summer Sass
This two together represent the strongest July nail colors when you’re looking for something bold and energetic. You can see lots of red, blue and some with stripes and stars on the outer nails. There’s something about it that reminds me of the 4th of July—the displays, music, ice cream and marches, squeezed together into the same shot. They won’t just tell you it’s time for Holidays, they will shout it loud and clear.
If you’d like to try these colors, consider Zoya’s Sookie for red, China Glaze’s First Mate for blue and Sinful Colors Snow Me White. I applied the stripes using nail art pens because they provide better precision over brushes.
I love that this design combines the strong colors of patriotism with the shine and style of polish art. Because it is short and round, this manicure is both flexible and cozy.
Any time someone looks for suggestions for bold nails in July, I recommend this book. It’s festive, fresh, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. That’s what summer should feel like, right?
Classic Blue With a Patriotic Accent
There’s something so effortlessly chic about muted blue nails, especially when paired with a single standout accent. The nail colors here fit right into summertime—with every finger wearing a gentle navy, except the ring finger which stands out in a rich red and covering in carefully placed white stars. It works with the latest variations on simple fourth styles and these rarely become dated.
My tips are to use “Anchors Away” from OPI for the blue and “Forever Red” by Essie with a white star stamp over it. Make it so that the red polish is very dark; this helps the stars stand out.
Taking time and using a fine brush will allow you to put your stars in the position you choose. Make sure every coat of paint is completely dry before you apply a stamp-friendly fast-dry glossy finish. That’ll prevent any smearing, especially with decals.
This color from the best nail colors for July is my top pick for everyday wear; it’s collected, preppy, but still has some spirit for the holiday.
Electric Blue Meets Glitter Glam
If you could bottle up the night sky in July, this manicure would stand for it. July’s bold nail colors are featured here—a bright cobalt blue, silver foil and a chunky blue glitter give your nails a disco-inspired look. It’s daring without overcomplicating the ideas.
For those shimmery finishes, I’d look to ILNP’s “Mega” for the silver holo and China Glaze’s “Dorothy Who?” for the rich sapphire glitter. The cream blue could be done with Sally Hansen’s “Pacific Blue”—it’s an icon.
For a quick effect, I put glitter over just one base coat so I don’t get all the extra thickness. A latex peel barrier helps avoid the mess. You only need a bit of patience to manage this attraction at home.
It’s a delight on your fingertips—great for gathering with friends on the roof, enjoying the pool in July or whenever you simply want something extra in your day.
Minimalist Red, White, and Blue
Sometimes, simplicity steals the show. The simple fourth vibe comes across most elegantly with the use of crisp red, white and deep blue. No graphics, no glitter—just color blocking at its best. On our list of July nail trends, you could use this color for hands and feet with no hassle.
Most of the time, I choose Zoya’s “Sailor,” Essie’s “Blanc,” and Olive & June’s “CV” for my crisp-colored nails. Better to choose a strong, opaque formula since bold looks are best for these types of colors.
Once you’ve applied, finish your nails with a sealant that dries quickly for a smooth look like you would get at a salon. If you dip a thin brush into acetone and brush at the cuticle line, it helps you get the look you want.
If you’re someone who loves a simple fourth manicure but hates nail art, this is the perfect way to stay festive and minimalist all at once.
Edgy Zebra Stripes With Summer Vibes
You can always avoid the stereotypical red-white-blue and sport a graphic design that’s still fun for summer. Orange and black stripes across white nails combine safari and streetwear looks. It’s bold, artsy, and totally unexpected.
I use Orly’s “White Tips” for the base at home and then draw the lines with either nail art pens or with thin brushes dipped in acrylic. If you’re going for editorial makeup, finish it off with a matte top coat.
You don’t hear about this idea all the time, but it’s easy to remember. Tying in a geometric look is perfect if you’re looking for an edgier way to refresh your July photoshoot.
Nautical Stripes by the Sea
What says summer more than nautical blue and white stripes? The set ensures you feel like you’re at the yacht club, having one nail shiny navy and the other crisp and white-striped. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway or just want your nails to feel vacation-ready, this is one of the cleanest July nail polish colors combinations around.
I put on striping tape over white polish and paint a dark navy color over top for a stripy design. Peel the tape off the paper once it has dried to make perfect crisp lines.
Just wearing something like this brings back memories of being at the coast, enjoying a cold drink on the beach. This is a great nail color for July, as it can be worn at both brunch and on days in the sun.
Glossy Patriotic Stars and Modern Brush Stripes
This manicure is all about contrast, movement, and sparkle. The nail designs move from cobalt blue with silver stars, through red with the same stars, followed by white with red and blue brushstroke stripes and finishing with a white nail with a textured effect. Every single detail goes back to the strong Fourth of July feeling while keeping the look simple. It’s a design that brings together fun and fashion—just what I want in good nail colors for July.
I suggest going for OPI’s “Big Apple Red,” Essie’s “Butler Please” in the blue and a white base called “Blanc” from Essie. Embellishing the seams is easy with chrome or holographic decals which really take this version of the Simple fourth to the next level.
Start by painting each nail with its base tone. Apply the detail brush to the accent nail, then very gently stick the star decals into the almost dry polish and seal it with a topcoat. This july nail polish color choice looks great and works well if you like nail art, but don’t want the hassle of getting designs professionally done.
This design is given lots of depth by the way playful strokes contrast with the more regular shapes of the stars. I wore this same style to a barbecue by the pool and got my share of compliments as I enjoyed my watermelon. It’s vibrant, it’s versatile, and—honestly—it’s a personal July go-to.
Streamlined Waves with Sparkling Accents
Choosing soft white nails allows flattering red and blue waves to shine. The wavy stripes go over the nails almost as if they are tied with ribbons and small star decals are set in attractive locations on top to reflect light. It’s fashionable, evenly layered and embraces Summer trends in a tasteful way. No matter if you’re watching a brunch or watching your fireworks, this design is perfect for either event.
You’ll need white Apres Gel-X in “Milky” as your base and thin brushes or nail stripers filled with rich red and blue colors. If you’d like, use nail glue to apply stickers or foil stars to your nails. The main thing is to make the wave lines smooth and effortless; don’t overthink it.
When I’m making wavy nails, I usually outline the pattern on a nail mat ahead of time to get the feel for the pattern. Following a few attempts, you will be able to translate it directly to your nails. It’s all about clean edges in this style, but trying too much to perfect everything will only spoil the ease that makes this style stand out.
What I love most is how the waves make the whole design feel like it’s in motion. You can give a new twist to July’s traditional colors, without going for the usual flag. Simple? Yes. Impressive? Absolutely.
Minimalist French Twist in Red, White, and Blue
Patriotic colors are used in an almond shape to give the classic French tip a modern revamp. Both the bold red and the bold blue Tanner tips have white curve highlights and random star accents. If you keep your natural nail bed in top condition, your curved nails will be highlighted. Undeniably on point, this is a basic yet impressive staple everyone should have.
You should use striping tape or a curved guide to get the crescent shape just right. I usually start with a neutral nude gel base and highlight my nails with either Gelish Red Roses or DND’s Royal Blue. Stars can be placed on your project using stamping tools or by applying decals.
Start by tracing an almond-shaped outline—that’s the key to achieving a clean appearance in your design. After your base is ready, add your guides, paint in the tips with your go-to colors and finish with a top coat to keep the shine on your nails.
This makes me picture swimwear from the vintage summers of America. It still looks old yet modern at the same time. If you’re new to French tip art, this could be a fun one to try without diving in too deep.
Classic Glitter Star French with Firework Flair
This design plays with both sparkle and structure. On alternating nails, there’s rich, glittery red or blue French tips and the other two nails are filled with white stars on a red background with glitter. This mix looks strong but is still neat because the lines are clean and simple. Even though it’s festive, it manages to be classy as well—great for a looking glass toast or nail polish shades for July.
A nail shaped like a square is the perfect choice for a punch nail shot. Get the best result with “Cherry Luxe” and “Carpe Denim” fine glitters and a slightly see-through pink base. You can either use a striping brush or nail tape guides to paint the white line detailing.
It’s important to build the decor in layers so you can achieve this precise look. I use two layers of the glitter polish, making certain that each coat dries well. For those with fully starred nails, just add a star-shaped adornment anytime your nail polish is still damp and that’s it.
This design is the most enjoyable and beautiful of the ones I’ve tried. At every BBQ I always have someone who asks, “Who did your nails?” It never fails to spark a conversation.
Confetti Burst and Bold Primaries
This look embraces July’s playful side. Some nails are completely red, some are blue and the others are styled with two glitter bombs. It happens on the spot, brings happiness and gives you the manicure equivalent of fireworks. If you want some great but simple july nail colors, here’s the one to model.
Pick your base color from DND “Primary Red” or Essie “Butler Please,” and add a smart layer of KBShimmer’s chunky rainbow glitter topcoat. The layer of glitter is best when mixed with a thick top coat.
This looks great for when you don’t want to do detailed nail art. Paint your solids on two nails and your glitter polish on the other two nails with two layers. It dries fast and looks celebratory even if you’re short on prep time.
I put on a similar ring on my trip and I had a blast with it. They’re happy and cheery, but not like something out of an American flag.
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