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picture of a woman with pastel yellow nails holding a yellow handbag

🌞 Yellow Nails 2025: Say Hello to Sunshine with the Cutest Summer Trend

Lizz Banks
Authored by Lizz Banks
Posted: Saturday, May 17, 2025 - 12:03

I don’t know about you, but my social media feed is full of gorgeous nails in lemony tones and sunshine tips. From zesty neons to soft buttercup hues, yellow is the nail colour trend taking over summer 2025 — and we are so here for it.

In this post, we’re diving into:

  • What the yellow nails trend is all about
  • Why this shade is everywhere right now
  • The most popular yellow nail colours for 2025
  • How to style yellow into your summer nail routine
  • Tips for jumping on the trend (without feeling like Big Bird 😅)

🌼 What Is the Yellow Nails Trend?

Yellow nails are exactly what they sound like — nails in any shade of yellow, from pale pastel to bold mustard.

No longer reserved for festivals or kids’ craft kits, yellow is getting a grown-up glow-up. Pinterest boards are packed with sunny minimal manis, gradient yellows, sunflower-themed nail art, and even matte ochre tones for a retro twist.

☀️ Why Is Yellow So Popular Right Now?

Here’s why we think this happy hue is having its moment in the spotlight:

  • Mood-Boosting: Yellow is quite literally the colour of sunshine and positivity. After a pretty wet and gloomy winter, it’s no surprise we’re craving a little brightness.
  • Skin Tone Friendly: Whether you're fair, olive, or deep-toned, there’s a yellow that complements beautifully — keep reading to find out which one might suit you best!
  • Fashion’s Favourite: Yellow is popping up in summer fashion collections from high-street to high-end.
  • Nostalgic Yet Fresh: Think ‘90s smiley face vibes meets modern minimalist. It gives cheerful and editorial.

✨ Pinterest trend trackers have reported a spike in searches for “butter yellow nails” and “sunny nail inspo” — confirming this is the look to try now.

picture of a woman holding an ice cream with mustard yellow nails

🎨 Trending Yellow Nail Shades for 2025

Yellow might sound bold, but the range of trending shades means there’s something for every mood and skin tone:

  • Butter Yellow: Soft, pale, and dreamy — this pastel yellow is Pinterest’s golden child right now. Subtle but striking.
  • Sunflower Yellow: A warm golden yellow with a touch of mustard. Feels both trendy and timeless.
  • Neon Lemon: For the bold babes. This shade is eye-catching, edgy, and screams holiday energy.
  • Mustard Yellow: Slightly deeper and earthier. Think autumn sunshine — perfect for transitioning seasons.
  • Banana Cream: A cute, muted tone with a touch of vanilla — especially lovely on shorter nails.

💅 How to Style Yellow Nails This Summer

Not sure how to wear yellow without feeling over the top? Here are a few ways to ease in — or go all out:

  1. French Tip with a Twist
    Swap your white tips for a lemon yellow or buttercream hue. Classic with a sunny upgrade.
  2. Accent Nail
    Try one yellow nail on each hand (usually the ring finger), paired with soft nudes or whites for a low-commitment colour pop.
  3. Ombré Yellows
    Gradient nails that shift from pale to bold yellow across your hand give major warm sunset vibes.
  4. Matte Mustard
    Earthy matte finishes like mustard or ochre feel editorial and high fashion. Gorgeous paired with gold jewellery and linen outfits.
  5. Yellow + Nail Art
    Florals, fruit, (lemon nail art is adorable), smiley faces or abstract squiggles — yellow is the perfect backdrop for playful summer designs.

picture of a woman sat outside holding a summary drink with yellow on trend nails

🛍️ How to Jump on the Yellow Nails Trend

Whether you're a salon regular or a DIY nail enthusiast, it’s easy to get involved:

🖌️ At-Home:

  • Look for long-wear gel or non-toxic nail polish brands in trending shades
  • Add a high-shine top coat or opt for a matte finish for that modern edge

💅 At the Salon:

  • Take a few saved Pins with you and ask for:
    • A solid colour mani
    • French tips with yellow
    • A yellow base + minimalist nail art
  • Not sure what yellow suits you? Ask your nail tech to help match a warm or cool yellow to your skin tone

Final Thoughts

Yellow nails are more than just a cute colour — they’re a mood, a statement, and a pocket of joy at your fingertips. Whether you go full lemon sorbet or just dip into a pastel accent, this trend suits everyone — and brightens up even the cloudiest British summer day.

So if you’ve been hovering over that “save” button on Pinterest, take this as your sign: a pop of sunshine is just what your nails (and your vibe) need.

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