August is the month when even the most ardent fans of nail minimalism (myself included) can embrace a little more colour. But the real upside of this month is that, with summer still in full swing and autumn just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to go with whatever suits your mood.
Best of all, if you’re over summer nail trends in the form of sugary pastels and barely-there neutrals, this month’s biggest nail colour trends offer something with a little more depth. If you’ve got a holiday coming up, then you know that jewel-toned teals and shimmering pastels are very much a vibe, according to my go-to pro Daisy Kalnina, founder & CEO of The GelBottle Inc.
Missing more autumnal tones? She also tells me that earthy olives, glossy espresso browns and fiery reds are making an appearance and effortlessly bridge the seasons. Whether you’re off to the salon or planning your next at-home manicure, these are shades to bookmark. With that said, happy new nail month to all those who celebrate.
The 7 Most Stylish Nail Colours For August
1. Dark Teal
Dark green lovers rejoice. “Teal had a real moment this summer, but as we head into late August, we’ll see it transition into a richer, moodier dark teal,” says Kalnina. “It bridges the gap between summer brightness and autumn depth perfectly, giving a jewel-toned finish that feels elevated and unexpected.”
For a polish that is chip-resistant and leaves a luxe looking shine, look no further.
This rich and regal teal is vegan and kind to sensitive nails.
2. Earthy Olive Green
You’d be hard-pressed not to have swooned over a milky pistachio nail manicure these past few months and Kalnina agrees. “Pistachio greens were also a summer hit, but August will see sweet pastels translate into muted olive and moss tones. Olive feels grounded and neutral while still offering a subtle pop of colour, making it the ultimate transitional shade for early autumn.” If you’re in the salon, ask for ‘Savage’ from The GelBottle, it’s perfect for this trend.
In a rush? This formula requires no top coat so you can paint and go.
For a slightly livelier take on the olive trend, this has yellow undertones which pack a punch.
3. Magnetic Pastel
“Magnetic cat-eye finishes aren’t going anywhere,” reveals Kalnina. This look is particularly pleasing in late summer as the subtle magnetic shift over warm tones gives nails a molten glow in the late-afternoon sun.
With a pearlescent finish, this creates the desired light-catching finish.
Now this is what I call a perfect summer blue.
4. High-Gloss Espresso
“Brown nails are a transitional staple, with people starting to look forward to darks for autumn,” believes Kalnina. If you want to get in the trend earlier, then opt for a high gloss espresso hue as it works brilliantly in the summer months thanks to its warm undertones. On her prediction for how the trend will develop, she adds, “I suspect we’ll see sheers develop with espresso-like shades layered onto perfectly prepped manis, allowing the base to peek through.”
This creamy brown is warm and elegant.
For something a little darker, try this subtle coffee-hued colour.
5. Deep Tomato
“Red is a staple in any nail kit throughout the year, but August shifts the palette from bright, orange-toned summer tomato reds toward richer, fiery crimsons. It’s a classic choice that feels tailored and bold,” explains Kalnina. We couldn’t agree more.
A rich red that is neither too bright or too dark. The perfect late summer tomato hue.
This extra-glossy red shines with a lacquered finish that’s striking.
6. Amber Yellow
If yellow is a hue that is still speaking to you, then you’ll be pleased to know that these are transitioning into warmer, golden upgrades. “Think amber, honey, and rich mustard tones that feel grounded rather than pastel,” says Kalnina.
The GelBottle’s Mustard is rich and golden, with warm undertones that give it an autumn-ready feel while still feeling perfectly wearable throughout August.
7. Sugar Plum
If you’re not ready to commit to deep autumn plums just yet, juicy sugar plum hues are the ultimate compromise. “They keep the playful, punchy energy of summer but with a semi-sheer jelly finish. They’re super glossy, eye-catching and buildable to your desired look,” explains Kalnina.
This is perfect for its glossy, jelly-like finish and playful sugar plum undertone.
Follow with this to dial up the shine.
