Your Next Nail Appointment? These Are the Summer Trends You Should Try
I bit my nails for most of my life.
I never thought a nail appointment could change that…
But. It. Did.
In August 2024, I reached out to my nail tech, Francesca, and booked a spontaneous appointment that ended up changing everything.
In less than a year of consistent nail appointments, my nail beds? They’ve grown. My nails? Genuinely gorgeous. I (and others!) can’t believe they’re my own.
Instead of feeling shame or embarrassment when I look down at my hands, I now feel put together, polished, and - dare I say it - even a little more feminine.
Getting my nails done makes me feel like the most confident version of myself - even on the days I’m in joggers and haven’t brushed my hair. It’s one of those indulgent (and sure, sometimes labelled high-maintenance) self-care rituals that helps me feel like me.
It’s not just about the polish. It’s a rhythm. A regular moment in my calendar I genuinely look forward to - every three or four weeks.
The thing that really helped my nails grow? You guessed it. Francesca took me on a nail transformation journey with BIAB (Builder in a Bottle). If you’ve ever struggled with short nails, weak nails or breakage, it’s a total game-changer.
One of my favourite looks we’ve done to-date? My pre-birthday nails. They were a a pale blue French tip. My manager at the time actually copied the look - and honestly, it made me feel like the ultimate trendsetter. She already had the coolest style, so I was genuinely flattered.
If you’re ready to try something new this season - or you’re on a nail transformation of your own - here are the nail trends that UK salons (and TikTok) can’t stop talking about.
The Nail Trends We’re Loving
1. Chrome 2.0: Soft, Shimmery, Summer Sheen
This summer’s chrome is subtle, soft, and beautifully wearable. Think champagne, blush, and pale gold tones that catch the light in all the right ways.
2. Blurred French Tips: A Dreamy Update
The French tip is still going strong, but this season it’s all about soft edges and sheer bases. Gentle fades, subtle blues or pinks - a fresh twist on a classic.
3. Cool-Toned Blues: Coastal Girl Energy
Periwinkle, aqua, and soft sky blues are the colours this summer. They’re playful, polished, and pair beautifully with minimal, founder-friendly wardrobes.
4. Jelly Nails: French, Glossy, Playful
Jelly nails are everywhere. Translucent, juicy pastels in soft pinks, lilacs, and peaches feel light, glossy, and full of personality.
5. Milky & Glass Nails: Clean Girl Classics
Milky whites, sheer pinks, and glossy, glass-like finishes are timeless - and right now, they’re trending hard. Perfect if you love a minimal, versatile nail that works in every room you walk into.
6. Aura Nails: Soft, Airbrushed Magic
Aura nails are pure summer energy. Soft gradients in sunset or ocean hues, layered over BIAB, create a subtle glow that feels completely your own. Ask your nail tech for an aura blend, or try an airbrush kit if you’re feeling creative.
Finding the Right Nail Tech
The right nail tech doesn’t just fit into your schedule - they fit into your life.
You’ll spend hours with this person, catching up, swapping stories, and quite literally letting them hold your hands while you grow.
When you’re looking for your person:
Check their Instagram: Do their shapes, colours and styles match your vibe?
BIAB Experience: Especially if nail growth is your goal.
Schedule Compatibility: Can you realistically keep up regular appointments?
Good Energy: This is your confidence ritual - you should genuinely enjoy it.
You know you’ve found the right nail tech when you look up, nine months later, and realise you didn’t just find a brilliant nail artist - you found a friend.
Nails As A Confidence Ritual
Getting your nails done isn’t just about polish. It’s about feeling anchored, elevated, and quietly put together.
It’s a small, steady reminder that you matter, too.
And when someone copies your nail look? That’s the kind of compliment that sticks.
If you’ve been thinking about starting your own nail journey - or investing in a regular nail routine as your next confidence or self-care ritual - this might just be your sign.
