How to pull off neon nails

Bold summer style

Make a modern color statement the right way with trendy neon nail lacquers as bright and carefree as the season! Neon colors create a fun, flirty summer look... bright, bold and casual.

Boldest summer nail trend: neon-bright!

Done right, neon manicures and pedicures make a modern color statement that complements breezy summer fashions and can be very flattering to glowing golden skin.

Neon is happy and optimistic and adds some flavor to your look, but it can be difficult to pull off in an entire outfit. That's part of the appeal of neon-colored nails! You can add a pop of the season's favorite hues without trying to carry off a head-to-toe look.

Choosing colors

Neon nailcolors offer enough options that every woman can find one that suits her personality and lifestyle comfortably. Bright pinks, corals and melons are suitable for nearly everyone, and they transition from the office to the beach very well. For work, the color can be toned down by wearing black, white, navy, beige and other neutrals. Just the pop of color on your nails, balanced by quieter clothing tones makes these neon nail colors more appropriate for the workplace. Generally, the more adventurous neon nail colors — lime, yellow and citrus colors, bright blues and turquoise — are not safe choices for work. Stay with the family of pinks, lavenders and melon colors that have just enough edge to follow the neon trend and can serve as an accessory to your business wear without being too bold.

For women who work in non-corporate settings and creative fields, the neon nail color options expand. Bright robin's egg blue, tangy lime greens and glossy yellows are hot and happening colors that you might try. Neon finishes are often flattering to skin tones, accentuating your sun-kissed look. The resort colors we favor in warmer months look fresh and fun, and so do bright neon nails! Punchy neon pink on perfectly painted toenails looks terrific peeking out of cute summer sandals.

Keep it neat

Keep your nails at a medium length if you want to pull off a great neon nail look. As with any manicure and pedicure, it's important to keep your color looking fresh by touching up and taking care of chips. Choose several neon colors and experiment! Part of the fun of the neon nail trend is changing it up and trying new shades. If a citrusy yellow makes your skin appear sallow, opt for the punch of apple green. If your normal go-to color selection is a safe blush color, amp the look up a few notches with a neon coral. Once you expand your color comfort zone, you may find yourself willing to try even more adventurous choices! Bright nails in neon colors are an easy way to add some sizzle to summer looks!

More beauty & style tips

Hottest nail colors and designs
Color trends: The hottest shades of summer
6 Ways to wear summer white