Pic credit: Andréa Barbet

Nails are the ultimate accessory; adaptable, short-lived bursts of fun and quick to nail! Mavala’s Global Trainer, Lynn Mason, shares the latest trends to inspire you for the sunshine season ahead.

Less-is-more aesthetic

Women are looking for low maintenance nails that still look elevated, without the fuss of synthetic nails (time and more importantly cost saving). A health-focused approach over insta-glam is trending, by rebuilding nail strength and natural radiance with colour correcting nudes.  Use a ridge-filler treatment to prime the nails and create a smooth canvas, followed by a nude base and high shine top coat for a juicy, plump natural finish. A nude base is like a CC serum in the way that it blurs out imperfections on the nails, creating a sheer finish to brighten the natural nail, elongating fingers in the process.

Nude diversity

Nude is anything but one-size-fits-all. Nudes are diverse, from cool beige to warm caramel, blush pink to deep cocoa, today’s nude nail shades celebrate every skin tone and style. Whether you’re after a barely-there veil of colour or a statement neutral with depth, there’s a nude to make your own. A simple, yet versatile nail polish choice.

Milky and rosewater nails

Milky nails have been having a moment for months. Semi-translucent, milky finishes - from almond milk to rosewater - give a soft, luxe feel and a dreamy, ethereal boost to your natural nail colour. Milky pedicures pop against a more tanned complexion. Soft pinks are the new neutrals, adapting to every fashion moment, rose’ and princess inspired nails are big news this summer… sheer, glossy and effortlessly chic. The royals have long adored this understated manicure moment.

Polka Dots

Thanks to Hailey Bieber, the polka dot nail effect has taken off this summer, more of a chic micro-dot rather than garish Mickey Mouse vibes. We’re seeing a lot of fine dot accents, retro combinations and mixed patterns this season. With just two colours you can create dozens of unique looks and it’s a nail trend that suits every nail length and shape. The good news is that you don’t need a full nail art kit to create polka dots. Everyday items like a toothpick and rounded end of a bobby pin can create the perfect micro dot!

Unexpected Neons & Vivid Pops

In stark contrast to simple, pared-back vibes are neon nails—think aqua blue, vibrant fuchsia and tangy yellow—injecting energy and summer boldness, pairing well with both natural and tanned skin. Whether applied to the hands or feet, these shades scream confidence, creativity and joy. Statement neon and pop shades are perfect for putting your feet in the spotlight whilst wearing sandals.

Short almond or medium coffin shaped

Pic credit: Diana-May

Short nails reign supreme for the new season, channelling a more understated and quietly luxurious approach. They are also comfortable, low maintenance and lean into the minimalist trend. Summer is a busy season of endless swimming, outdoor sports and travel, so short nails are easier to handle. Almond shape is flattering to the fingers or coffin de rigueur if your nails are slightly on the medium length.

Citrus burst

Pic credit: Trishna

In the holiday spirit of Aperol Spritz, orange is a fun and quirky shade for the summer season that works particularly well with pedicures. Transition into a pink/orange shade for a classic coral summer vibe, albeit a more citrus, brighter version. The sunshine effect of yellow is another quintessential summer colour. Yellow, whether bright lemon or muted butter, is a happy and uplifting symbol throughout the day.