As Taylor Swift aptly puts it, this summer is slipping away like a bottle of wine. With August just around the corner, many of us rush to fit in those final beach trips and enjoy the lingering late sunsets and warm days. However, the transition from summer to fall doesn’t have to be daunting. A vibrant manicure can be the perfect way to ease this seasonal shift. Below, experts share their top nail color picks for your August manicure, helping you seamlessly transition from the dog days of summer into the early whispers of fall.
11 August Nail Shades
1. Poppy Orange
“Nail shades in August often strike a balance between vibrant pops of color and softer, muted tones as summer comes to a close,” explains Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood. “To make the most of the final days of summer, opt for bold, poppy shades.” One standout choice is Dazzle Dry’s Poppy Poison ($22), a lively hue that perfectly captures the essence of summer while adding a playful flair to your manicure.
Poppy Orange not only embodies the brightness of summer but also offers versatility, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether heading to a beach party, a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a leisurely day out, this striking color adds a cheerful touch to any outfit. Plus, its boldness can be paired with neutral ensembles for a fun contrast or matched with bright summer attire for a cohesive look.
To maximize your manicure’s impact, consider experimenting with different nail art techniques. A simple accent nail featuring nail art or glitter can elevate the overall design without overwhelming the vibrant base color. Additionally, incorporating this shade into your pedicure can create a unified, stylish appearance from head to toe.
As summer winds down, wearing Poppy Orange can serve as a reminder to savor the warmth and joy of the season, making it a perfect choice for your August nails. So, embrace this energetic hue and let your nails reflect the spirited essence of summer while you transition into the cooler months ahead!
2. Tiffany Green
Classic and timeless, much like Audrey Hepburn herself, Tiffany Green is another stellar recommendation from nail expert Mei Kawajiri for your transitional summer manicure. One excellent option is Essie’s It’s High Time ($6). This enchanting shade captures the elegance of summer while seamlessly transitioning into the cooler months.
Tiffany green embodies a refreshing, chic aesthetic perfect for various occasions—whether you enjoy afternoon tea or make the most of your last beach outings. Its soft yet vibrant tone adds a touch of sophistication to any look, making it a versatile choice for day or evening wear.
To elevate your Tiffany green manicure, consider adding delicate nail art, such as subtle gold accents or white floral designs, which can enhance the elegance of the shade. This color also pairs beautifully with neutral outfits, providing a pop of color that doesn’t overpower your overall look.
3. Denim Blue
While Megan Fox may have popularized denim blue hair, this versatile shade is equally fabulous for your manicure. Mazz Hanna recommends it as one of her top blue tones for August, ideal for those looking to embrace a cool, laid-back vibe as summer winds down. Dior’s Vernis in 796 Denim ($32) is a fantastic option, striking the perfect balance between boldness and subtlety.
Denim blue evokes a sense of effortless chic, reminiscent of classic jeans that pair well with nearly everything in your wardrobe. This shade can easily transition from casual outings to more polished events, making it a go-to choice for any occasion. Its rich, muted tone provides a refreshing alternative to brighter summer colors while still maintaining that playful edge.
For a trendy twist, consider combining denim blue with metallic accents, such as silver or chrome nail art, which can add a modern touch to your manicure. Alternatively, a matte finish can give it an understated elegance, perfect for sophisticated gatherings.
4. Sunset Orange
As we bid farewell to summer and watch the last 8 p.m. sunsets fade away, Mazz Hanna suggests embracing that serene, tranquil energy in your August manicure with sunset oranges. These warm, inviting shades, particularly those with a red base, capture the essence of a beautiful sunset and bring a sense of calm to your appearance. One standout option is Manucurist’s Green Natural Nail Polish in Coral Reef ($14), a vibrant hue embodying twilight’s warm glow.
Sunset orange is not just a color; it’s an experience reminiscent of those magical evenings spent watching the sun dip below the horizon. This shade can instantly brighten your mood and complement a range of skin tones, making it a fantastic choice for both casual and festive occasions.
To enhance the sunset vibe, consider pairing your manicure with soft, breezy outfits in pastel shades or crisp whites. Adding a touch of gold or copper jewelry can elevate the look, echoing the warm tones of a summer sunset. For those who love nail art, try incorporating subtle gradient designs that mimic nature’s beautiful blend of colors.
As you transition into fall, sunset orange remains relevant, effortlessly complementing autumnal palettes. This versatile color allows you to hold onto those summer memories while embracing the cozy warmth of the upcoming season. With Coral Reef on your nails, you’ll carry the spirit of summer with you long into the fall.
5. Periwinkle Blue
Mazz Hanna highlights periwinkle blue as an excellent choice for August, especially if you want a more relaxed vibe. This soothing hue captures the tranquility of a clear summer sky, making it perfect for those quiet moments at home or for unwinding by the shore. If you’re planning to indulge in self-care or enjoy leisurely beach days, consider Olive & June’s Quick Dry Polish in Royal ($7.50), a lovely, calming, chic, periwinkle shade.
Periwinkle blue embodies a sense of peace and serenity, effortlessly elevating your manicure while maintaining an easygoing aesthetic. Its soft, muted tones are ideal for those who prefer understated elegance, making it versatile enough for both casual outings and more polished events.
Consider pairing it with delicate silver or white accents to enhance your periwinkle blue manicure. A simple nail art design, like tiny stars or abstract patterns, can add a playful touch without overwhelming the soothing color. This shade also works beautifully with light summer outfits, providing a fresh and airy feel.
6. Classic Coral
Continuing the theme of vibrant summer hues, Mazz Hanna recommends a classic coral shade for your August manicure, capturing the essence of sun-drenched days and coral reefs. A standout option is Dazzle Dry’s Oh My! Polish ($22) boasts an opaque formula and a creamy finish—making it the ideal choice for transitioning from summer to fall.
Classic coral embodies warmth and energy, radiating a cheerful vibe for any occasion. Its bright yet soft tones can complement a variety of skin types, making it a universally flattering option that adds a pop of color to your look.
To enhance your coral manicure, pair it with playful nail art, such as delicate floral patterns or abstract designs in contrasting colors like turquoise or soft pink. This combination can add extra fun while still keeping your look sophisticated. Classic coral also pairs beautifully with summer dresses or casual outfits, providing a refreshing splash of color that evokes the carefree spirit of the season.
As you transition into autumn, classic coral remains a versatile choice that can blend with deeper tones like burgundy and navy, making it suitable for the changing wardrobe.
7. Champagne Beige
There’s no better way to celebrate the end of summer than with a touch of champagne elegance, and this effervescent energy can extend right to your nails. Mazz Hanna recommends a champagne beige shade for your August manicure, such as The Gel Bottle’s By Appointment Only ($19). This delightful hue embodies the warmth and sophistication of a bubbly toast, making it perfect for any occasion.
Champagne beige is a versatile color that combines subtle shimmer with a soft, neutral tone, giving your nails a polished and refined appearance. This shade is ideal for those who appreciate understated glamour, complementing casual and formal outfits effortlessly. It’s an excellent choice for transitioning into fall, pairing beautifully with earth tones and richer palettes.
To elevate your champagne beige manicure, consider adding delicate nail art, like a minimalist design with gold or rose gold accents. This can enhance the luxurious feel of the color while keeping the overall look chic and sophisticated. Whether attending a summer soirée or enjoying a quiet evening at home, champagne beige provides a radiant, classy touch that celebrates the season’s essence.
8. Muted Pinks
The “clean girl” aesthetic continues to shine, and muted pinks offer a timeless way to embody that fresh, minimalist vibe while keeping your manicure elegant and classy. Mazz Hanna and celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik emphasize that these delicate tones provide just a whisper of color, instantly enhancing any look with sophistication. One standout option is Gelcare’s Anemone Pink ($24), a beautiful shade that perfectly captures the essence of understated elegance.
Muted pinks are versatile and adaptable, making them ideal for any occasion—from casual brunches to more formal gatherings. Their soft hue complements various skin tones, offering a universally flattering option that adds a touch of femininity without being overpowering. This shade is perfect for those who appreciate a polished look while still wanting to embrace a hint of color.
To elevate your muted pink manicure further, pair it with simple nail art, such as tiny white florals or subtle geometric designs. These small details can add a modern twist while keeping the overall aesthetic clean and refined. Muted pinks also work beautifully with neutral or pastel wardrobe choices, allowing you to maintain that effortless vibe throughout the month.
9. Cobalt Blue
If you’re reluctant to bid farewell to summer’s vibrant energy, Mazz Hanna suggests embracing a bold cobalt blue to keep that sunny spirit alive a little longer. Addiction Tokyo’s Moroccan Blue ($19) is a fantastic choice. It is a striking shade that captures the essence of summer skies and ocean waves, making it the perfect remedy for those who want to hold onto the season’s vivacity.
Cobalt blue is not only eye-catching but also exudes confidence and creativity. This vivid hue is versatile enough to complement a range of outfits, from casual beachwear to chic evening attire, ensuring that your manicure remains a statement piece regardless of the occasion. Its brightness brings a refreshing pop of color, making it an excellent choice for late summer adventures or fun outings.
Consider experimenting with nail art designs incorporating contrasting colors like white or gold to enhance your cobalt blue manicure. Stripes, dots, or even abstract patterns can add a playful touch that elevates the overall look while keeping it stylish and modern. Cobalt blue pairs beautifully with summer whites and autumnal tones, allowing for seamless transitions as the seasons change.
10. Seafoam Green
Green nails are undeniably trending, and this chic vibe shows no signs of fading as we head into August. Tom Bachik, celebrity manicurist for Essie, highly recommends seafoam greens for both summer and the transitional period at summer’s end. A standout choice is Essie’s Cactus Jelly ($13), which boasts a refreshing hue and a delightful jelly-like finish that adds a unique twist to your manicure.
Seafoam green captures the essence of calm coastal waters, making it the perfect color to evoke serenity and relaxation. Its soft, muted tone is versatile enough to pair well with a variety of outfits, from breezy summer dresses to cozy fall knits. This color is ideal for those looking to embrace the beauty of nature while maintaining a stylish edge.
To make the most of your seafoam green manicure, consider adding a glossy topcoat for extra shine or experimenting with nail art. Delicate designs, such as white floral accents or gold foil details, can enhance the overall look while keeping it fresh and modern. The jelly finish of Cactus Jelly allows for a soft, translucent effect that can be layered for more intense color or worn sheer for a subtle touch.
11. Sandy Beige
As we prepare to say goodbye to our beach days, a sandy beige manicure is the perfect way to carry a touch of summer. This warm, neutral hue evokes the soft tones of sun-kissed sands, providing a seamless transition into the autumn months. For an elegant option, consider Chanel’s Le Vernis in Légende ($32), a sophisticated shade that captures the essence of sandy shores.
Sandy beige is versatile, complementing various skin tones and styles. It adds a subtle warmth to your look without being overpowering, making it an ideal choice for both casual outings and more formal occasions. This shade can effortlessly elevate your everyday appearance while still embodying that relaxed, beachy vibe.
To enhance your sandy beige manicure, consider incorporating a glossy topcoat for an extra shine or experimenting with minimalist nail art. Simple designs, such as thin gold stripes or delicate dots, can add a modern flair while maintaining the understated elegance of the sandy beige base. This color also pairs beautifully with autumnal hues, allowing a smooth transition as you move into the new season.