I was chatting with my nail tech this morning, and it turns out the colour you choose for your nails is a dead giveaway of your generation. It all started with a simple question, “How are most people decorating their nails this summer?”, to which she answered: “It depends on their age.”
Interesting, tell me more, I implored. It makes sense, really. Just as different generations dress “age-appropriately” (whatever that means), so do they choose to adorn their hands in a suspiciously generational fashion. Nobody agreed on this. It just happened, shaped by the beauty trends we absorbed when we were young.
Here’s what’s trending in the nail space this summer, broken down by generation — and a gentle nudge to mix things up at your next appointment.
Ages 60+ (Boomers): Nails as Glamour
According to my nail tech, for many women in this age group, red nails aren’t a trend — they’re a religion. So I looked it up. Classic reds, rich cherries and timeless scarlets have long carried associations of confidence, elegance and femininity, and this generation grew up in an era when a coordinated lipstick-and-nail look was the definition of being put-together. Red became the trusted staple that works for everyday wear, special occasions and everything in between.
Try this next time: If red is your signature, consider a summer variation — coral-red, watermelon, grapefruit or a warm orange-red. You’ll keep the classic confidence while adding a fresh seasonal twist.
Ages 45–60 (Gen X): Nails as Personal Style
Gen X sits between the classic glamour of Boomers and the trend-chasing of younger generations. Shaped by the bold beauty of the ‘80s and the cooler minimalism of the ‘90s, this group tends toward deep burgundies, mauves, taupes and French manicures. These shades feel sophisticated, wearable, and versatile, working for the office, a Saturday night and a summer holiday without much fuss about whether or not it’ll match your outfit.
Try this next time: If you’re a French manicure loyalist, try a rosy taupe, a muted lavender or a soft shimmer topcoat. Same elegant energy, just updated for the summer.
Ages 30–44 (Millennials): Nails as Polished Practicality
Millennials helped popularise the ‘effortless polish’ aesthetic, and there’s something quite telling about that. Millennials use nails to look impeccable while appearing not to have tried too hard. The irony. Raised on Pinterest boards, capsule wardrobes and Beyoncé telling us we woke up like this (we did not wake up like this), this generation gravitates toward soft nudes, milky pinks and sheer neutrals. Practical, versatile, and unlikely to clash with anything.
Try this next time: If nude pink is your default, consider a sheer peach, butter yellow, soft lilac or milky pistachio. They’re still subtle and super wearable, but they’ll catch the summer light in a way your usual shade simply won’t.
Ages 18–29 (Gen Z): Nails as Self-Expression
For Gen Z, nails are less a beauty treatment and more a creative canvas. Influenced by social media, celebrity looks and viral aesthetics, this generation is comfortable switching things up every appointment. Chrome one month, jelly nails the next, then animal print, then a “clean girl” minimalist moment, then back to chrome. Glazed jelly finishes are huge this summer — sheer, glossy, dimensional, like lip gloss on the nails.
Try this next time: If you’re always chasing trends, try going in the opposite direction. A classic cherry red, rich berry or elegant nude can feel surprisingly fresh when everyone else is doing chrome.
The Verdict
Whatever your age, the most flattering manicure is the one that makes you feel good, but summer is the perfect excuse to step just slightly outside your comfort zone.
Relax, it’s only 3 weeks until your next appointment. Might as well have some fun with it.
