Sandal season means exposed toes, and this summer’s pedicure colors feel playful, polished, and slightly nostalgic. “We’re seeing everything from juicy tomato reds to rich, berry-purple shades that feel moodier, softer, and more dimensional than classic neutrals,” says Kanna Fujita, founder of Kirei House, a nail salon in New York City. “At the same time, creamy minimalist shades are continuing to trend because they make sun-kissed skin look instantly more refined.”
Ahead, you’ll find the best summer pedicure colors to inspire your next appointment according to nail artists and pro manicurists. Just remember: If you’re doing your pedicure at home, the best results come with proper prep like exfoliation and callus softeners as well as applying thinner layers of your chosen color. “The biggest mistake you can make is applying your polish too thick,” says celebrity manicurist and nail artist, Rachel Messick. “Keep it thin, let it dry between layers, and have a clean-up brush and a tiny dish of acetone at the ready for mistakes.”
Here’s to welcoming summer with a fresh pedi. Keep reading for summer 2026’s most popular pedicure shades.
Tomato red
Moritz Scholz/Getty Images
Tomato red is the ultimate summer pedicure shade because it has a juicy orange-red undertone that makes summer skin look gorgeously sun kissed. It’s also more playful than cherry reds.
“It feels classic but the brighter tone gives it a fresh Mediterranean-inspired twist for sandal season,” says Jacqueline Pham, a celebrity manicurist for Color Street. Let’s just say it’s manifesting a European summer.
Styling tip: Pham recommends pairing it with gold jewelry, linen looks, and glossy finishes to enhance the richness of the shade.
