
With one heatwave behind us and another on the way, it’s safe to say our trainers and closed-toe shoes have officially been retired for the season. Sandals, sliders and barely-there heels are back on rotation, which means our feet are suddenly on full display.
Lord knows I’ve been reaching for every pedicure product I own to keep mine in tip-top condition—a special mention goes to the Bare Feet By Margaret Dabbs Electronic Callus Remover, which has kept my soles smooth and sandal-ready—but when it comes to choosing a polish colour, I’m far less decisive. While a classic red never fails, every summer seems to bring a fresh crop of trending pedicure shades, from sheer milky pinks to rich espresso tones, making it hard to know which colours are actually worth booking in for.
That’s why I turned to Georgia Dunford from Luna & Wilde, one of my go-to destinations for BIAB, gel and classic polish appointments, to find out which pedicure colours she predicts will dominate this season. From timeless neutrals to trend-led hues, these are the shades she says will look effortlessly chic all summer long.
7 July 2026 Pedicure Colour Trends to Note:
1. Pearl Chrome
Pearl chrome over a powder pin a soft powder pink base is one of my favourite looks because it gives the nails a healthy, luminous glow rather than an overly metallic finish. ‘It’s subtle, elegant and grows out beautifully, making it a great choice for clients who want a low-maintenance pedicure for the summer,’ reveals Dunford.
Get the Look:
Essie
Special Effects Nail Polish Topcoat Astral Aura
This looks bold but the finish is subtle and chic.
This earns plaudits for its chip resistant formula.
2. Butter Yellow
‘Yellows – and butter yellow in particular – have been a staple for the last couple of months but I’ve had a few clients now opting for something a bit bolder, such Limoncello from The GelBottle, which is proving a popular choice. It’s adds a much needed element of fun for a pedi – particularly for clients who usually stick to neutral tones on their hands,’ reveals Dunford.
Me personally? I find bright yellow works particularly well on sun-kissed skin – so I say use it whilst you can.
Get the Look:
This cool-toned yellow is soft yet sunny.
Gucci
Gucci Vernis À Ongles Nail Polish, 025* Goldie Red
This creamy yellow wins every time.
3. French Tip
A timeless classic, the white-tip French pedicure is having a quiet resurgence this summer. Clean and elegant, it complements everything from minimalist leather sandals to colourful holiday wardrobes.
Get the Look:
Sephora Collection
Nail Polish 6.5ml
This perfect shade of white never looks OTT.
Manucurist
Nail Art Brush
Nail your french tips with this slim brush.
4. Hot Pink
‘Similarly to a bright yellow, our clients that love a pink are stepping out of their comfort zone with brighter, more playful options that instantly make a pedicure stand out,’ Dunford tells me.
Get the Look:
Essie
Nail Polish 24 in Stitches
I love how this polish doesn’t compromise on coverage.
For more of a neon effect, look no further.
5. Cherry Black
Despite being synonymous with autumn and winter, black cherry makes an unexpectedly chic choice for summer pedicures. The rich, glossy shade just works against sun-kissed skin and seems to magically go with everything from neutral linen to bright holiday colours, making it feel a little more fashion-forward than classic red
Get the Look:
Opi
Nail Lacquer Dark Red Nail Polish Dulce De Leche
A one coat wonder if ever there was one.
Nailberry
Nailberry L’oxygéné Oxygenated Nail Lacquer, Cherry Cherie
I love how the thin brush makes light work of painting small toe nails.
6. Tomato Red
A red pedicure is timeless, and a bright, tomato red is an absolute dream for a summer pedi. ‘It’s confident, classic, and looks unbelievably chic in the sun. I’m obsessed with Santa Monica from The GelBottle, or for a DIY option, try Chilli from Peacci,’ says Dunford.
Get the Look:
This rich red is perfect for summer.
Nails.INC
Jennifer 1-Step Gel It’s Topless Nail Polish
For something a tad brighter, I suggest adding this to your basket.
7. Teal Grey
If you want a break from the usual brights, this teal based colour is the under-the-radar star of July. ‘It brings a cool, coastal vibe to your toes that feels instantly chic. We love using Bikini Bottom from The GelBottle to give our clients that deep, tropical-sea look. It’s vibrant without being neon, making it an effortlessly stylish transitional shade that carries you beautifully from the beach to the city,’ reveals Dunford.
Get the Look:
Nailberry
Minty Fresh Oxygenated Nail Lacquer
A winner for those are vegan, thanks to its plant-based formula.
Essie
Essie Original Nail Polish 893 Caught Under the Rain
This hue is slightly cooler for those who want something a little less predictable.







