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6 statement nail shades to get your tips in the summery spirit

Not today, neutrals

By Delaney Loane

Digital Beauty Editor / January 14 2021

However you slice it, summer calls for a lot of hand modelling. There's just a lot more cocktail drinking and ice block holding that needs to be documented, okay?

So, it would really be a crime (at least against your Instagram feed) to not make sure your nails are looking their very chicest for all aforementioned photo opportunities.

But while intricate nail art looks are no doubt still going strong for 2021 (and the everything-at-once mani certainly remains a standout) you still can't deny the simple summery magic of a good block colour, especially when they're as bright, sunny and stunning as these ones...

Here are the polish shades we're obsessing over this summer...

Orchid

Lilac may be lovely for spring, but when the weather really warms up, we think your purple polish palette should, too. Enter orchid, AKA the fuchsia-violet hybrid we can't get enough of.

Try: OPI Infinite Shine in Positive Vibes Only

Image via: @frecklepusnails

Aqua

Nothing pops against a (faux) summer glow like bright aqua. We like to think of it as highlighter for your hands – choose the right colour (a neon teal is foolproof, if you want our two cents) and they'll look radiant.

Try: Sephora Collection Color Hit Nail Polish in Way To Heaven

Image via: @embrace.nails

Terracotta

While it wouldn't be summer without an orange polish in tow, we're switching things up this season, and swapping our traditional glossy tangerines for something a little moodier – meet matte terracotta.

Try: Kester Black Nail Polish in Paradise Punch

Image via: @the_gelbottle_inc

Raspberry

Raspberries are as glorious in lacquer form as they are in daiquiris, and this punchy pinky-red proves it. Our tip? Go for a polish packed with loads of gloss for a juicy finish that'll rival the real thing.

Try: Sienna Byron Bay Nail Lacquer in Kiss

Image via: @sienna.co

Seaspray

Why leave the sparkling blue of the sea in the water when you can paint it onto your tips, too? Layer a glistening glitter polish over a frosted metallic in the same shade for the ultimate oceanic effect.

Try: KB Shimmer Set In Ocean Nail Polish over Barry M Nail Polish in Under the Sea

Image via: @frecklepusnails

Marigold

A sunshine shade for the sunny season is simply a no-brainer, but look, we understand your reservations re: it looking OTT. Luckily, this glossy Chanel lacquer keeps the colour at prime levels of chic and cheeky.

Try: Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Giallo Napoli

Image via: shaaandiego