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It’s like what Elle Woods said: summer gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t kill the vibe – they just don’t. (Or something like that.)

The same thing applies to the color of your nails. When you look down at your hands, the shade you’re wearing can have a profound, physiological effect on your mood – just like sunlight, sex, or exercise. That makes painting on a fun chrome finish or bright-pink polish the perfect way to get ready for the season. It’s science. (But, like, please don’t put us on trial.) Summer Nail Polish Colors to Wear All Season Long

“Summer nail polish colors are super bold, bright, and happy,” Rita Remark, nail artist and Essie global lead educator, tells PS. “It’s all about choosing colors that give a dopamine rush, so it’s trendy but also personal and expressive.”

If you’re curious to know the mood-boosting nail-polish hues that everyone will be wearing for summer 2024 – or are looking for a reason to finally whip out your sandals in the coming weeks – we’ve asked a few nail experts to dish on their predictions for the season. From bold oranges to metallics, the best summer nail colors have a little something for everyone and every beauty style.

And, of course, when in doubt, you can bet your money that classic, crisp, white nails won’t be going anywhere anytime soon (unless you’re still boycotting due to the Scandoval drama, that is), so feel free to bust out that bottle along with the white pants you put away after Labor Day last year.