As hemlines rise and sandals make their long-awaited return, pedicure season is officially back—and this year, it’s fresh and fun. While classic shades will always have their place, May 2026 is ushering in a more creative, fashion-forward approach to toe colour. Think elevated neutrals, playful twists on timeless styles, and bold hues that feel intentionally chosen rather than impulsive.
“The shift I’m seeing this season is towards curated colour,” says nail technician Ashleigh Bamber. “Clients aren’t just picking a shade—they’re thinking about how it complements their wardrobe, their jewellery, even their holiday plans.” From the resurgence of juicy tomato reds to the barely-there elegance of milky pink tones, this month’s trending pedicure shades strike a balance between statement and subtlety. The French pedicure, once considered dated, has also undergone a modern revival, reimagined in both softer tones and unexpected brights. Meanwhile, deeper shades like navy are proving that spring pedicures don’t always have to lean light or pastel.
Whether you gravitate towards understated polish or eye-catching colour, May’s pedicure trends offer something for every aesthetic. Consider this your definitive guide to the shades set to kickstart open-toe season.
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6 Pedicure Colours for May 20261. Tomato Red
If there’s one shade that screams effortless chic, it’s tomato-red pedicures. Brighter and more orange-leaning than a classic crimson, this juicy hue feels perfect for sunlit days and warm evenings. “Tomato red is my go-to recommendation for clients who want something timeless but with a modern edge,” says Bamber. “It’s vibrant without being overpowering, and it suits every skin tone beautifully.” Glossy finishes elevate the look further, giving toes a polished, almost lacquered appearance.
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Bright Tomato Nail Colour
A high-shine tomato red with warm undertones that delivers a gel-like finish without the need for a lamp—perfect for long weekends away.
A slightly deeper, muted-red polish with a creamy formula that applies evenly in two coats and resists chipping.
Barely-there milky pink is this year’s quiet luxury approach to pedicure shades. This ultra-pale, sheer pedicure offers just enough pigment to enhance the natural nail while maintaining a clean, minimalist finish. “A milky pink is huge right now,” notes Bamber. “It gives that ‘your nails but better’ effect, which a lot of clients are leaning into.”
This sheer, buildable milky pink creates a soft-focus finish, perfect for achieving that glazed, barely-there look.
Nailberry
Tokyo Spring Tokyo Spring
An even more delicate pastel pink with a creamy texture that smooths over the nail for a flawless, salon-quality result.
The French pedicure is back—but not as you remember it. This season’s take is softer, subtler and infinitely more wearable. Swapping stark white tips for off-white or delicate pastel tones, the modern French feels fresh rather than retro. “The soft French is a big request at the moment,” says Bamber. “It’s clean and classic, but the toned-down tip makes it feel more current.” The base is typically a sheer pink or nude, while the tip leans creamy or slightly muted, creating a seamless, blended effect. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a polished look without committing to full colour.
Essie
Sand Tropez Nail Varnish
An Essie classic, this delicate sandy shade paired with a cooler pink base creates a modern, diffused French finish.
This warm-toned white polish with a subtle warmth, is ideal for achieving a less stark, more wearable tip.
On the other end of the spectrum for those who prefer their pedicures with a playful twist, the neon French tip is the standout trend of the season. Combining a neutral base with a flash of bright colour at the tip, it strikes the perfect balance between subtle and statement. “It’s a fun way to experiment with colour without going all in,” explains Bamber. “Clients love it for holidays or festivals.”
OPI
Emflowered Nail Polish
This high-impact neon pink paired with a sheer nude base is ideal for creating a stand-out tip.
A bright, punchy neon coral polish with a smooth formula that delivers intense colour payoff in just two coats.
While spring often leans towards lighter shades, navy blue is emerging as an unexpected favourite. Deep, glossy, and sophisticated, it offers a refreshing alternative to classic black. “Navy is such an underrated pedicure colour,” says Bamber. “It’s dark, but softer than black and looks incredibly chic with sandals.” This shade works particularly well in high-shine finishes, which enhance its depth and richness. It also pairs beautifully with gold jewellery, adding to its luxe appeal.
Nails Inc
It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish in Whitney Dark Navy
A rich, inky navy with a mirror-like finish that delivers depth and shine in equal measure.
Chanel
Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour
This true midnight blue has an ultra-pigmented formula that applies smoothly and wears well over time.
Bright coral sits at the intersection of pink and orange, making it one of the most universally flattering shades of the season. Vibrant, uplifting, and inherently summery, it’s a colour that instantly enhances a tan. “Coral is always popular this time of year, but brighter tones are really having a moment,” says Bamber. “It’s fun, fresh and suits everyone.” If you’re looking for a colour that feels both classic and current, coral delivers on all fronts.
A vivid coral with red undertones that adds brightness and warmth to the toes in just two coats.
A bold pink-coral hybrid with a glossy finish—this captures the essence of summer in a single swipe.
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