Hold the Red—It Girls Are Pairing Black Sandals With This Chicer, Punchier Pedicure Color
Our take

The cyclical nature of trends is a constant fascination, isn't it? While the classic red pedicure will undoubtedly endure—it’s a foundational element, much like the timeless summer outfits we champion I Love Experimenting With Trends, But These Timeless Summer Outfits Will Always Make You Look Chic—the shift towards bolder hues like cobalt blue and hot pink signals a broader evolution in how we approach personal style. This isn't a rejection of tradition, but rather a subtle recalibration, a willingness to inject vibrancy into established aesthetics. The move away from the ubiquitous red, particularly when paired with the prevalent “clean girl” aesthetic and minimalist black sandals, suggests a desire for a touch of playful rebellion, a quiet assertion of individuality that doesn't scream for attention, but rather whispers of considered choices. It's a move towards a more nuanced form of self-expression, where color becomes a deliberate tool, not just an afterthought.
The appeal of these brighter pedicure colors lies in their ability to elevate a simple look—black sandals being a wardrobe staple—without overwhelming it. It’s a masterclass in understated impact. This echoes a larger trend we've observed in fashion: a move toward “quiet luxury,” where quality and subtle details speak volumes. It's about the feeling of confidence that comes from knowing you’ve made a thoughtful choice, a feeling echoed in the meticulous craftsmanship highlighted in our piece exploring Herbert Levine’s latest venture Inside Herbert Levine's Second Act, and The Mastermind Bringing it to Life. The pedicure, in this context, becomes an extension of that philosophy—a small, yet significant, detail that contributes to an overall sense of refinement and intentionality. The trend also plays into the broader conversation around personal style as a form of self-curation, a deliberate construction of an image that reflects inner values and aspirations.
Furthermore, the embrace of these bolder pedicure colors aligns with a growing appreciation for sensory experiences. Cobalt blue evokes the stillness of a summer ocean, while hot pink whispers of sun-drenched gardens. These aren't just colors; they're mood-setters, atmospheric cues that enhance the overall feeling of a look. This emphasis on feeling is a crucial element of modern femininity—a move away from performative trends and towards genuine self-expression. Just as Zendaya effortlessly embodies effortless chic in her summer whites Zendaya Showcases Exactly How to Wear Summer Whites During a Date Night With Tom Holland, a vibrant pedicure allows for a similar infusion of personality and confidence, even in the simplest of ensembles. It's a subtle yet powerful declaration of self.
Looking ahead, it's intriguing to consider where this shift in pedicure preferences will lead. Will we see a further diversification of color palettes, with even more unexpected hues gaining traction? Will the focus on emotional resonance and sensory experience continue to shape our choices in beauty, extending beyond pedicures to encompass a wider range of self-care rituals? Perhaps the most compelling question is whether this trend represents a more profound shift in our understanding of luxury—a move away from ostentatious displays of wealth and towards a more intimate and personally meaningful form of self-expression, where even the smallest details are imbued with intention and feeling.
Don't get it twisted. A red pedicure will never truly fall from grace. It's one of the most timeless polish colors you can choose, but that doesn't mean you can't switch things up every once in a while! If that sounds like you, I suggest opting for one of summer's most stylish hues, such as cobalt blue, hot pink, or punchy orange—the latter of which I'm dubbing the "persimmon pedicure." Yes, it may look similar to a classic coat of red at first glance, but I promise the slight tweak spices things up just right. Scroll ahead to see manicurists' POV and how it looks with fashion-forward footwear.

Why Is the Persimmon Pedicure Trending for Summer 2026?
According to celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec, a juicy persimmon polish is the perfect combination of classic and fresh. "It's still close to red, which, to me, is one of the most chic shades," she explains. "It's crisp and goes with everything all summer long." That said, the orangey hue bumps up the vibrancy and warmth, making it a solid choice for beach season. Editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choi would agree, as she previously shared that vivid oranges (like persimmon!) "feel energetic and sunlit" without completely overpowering an outfit. In short, if you're itching for a slight change to your pedi aesthetic, a persimmon pedicure will do the trick.

How to Get the Look
A rich coat of persimmon polish is really all you need. While you can absolutely play with intricate designs (French tips, micro nail art, etc.), Kandalec recommends opting for a classic, solid pedicure to "let the color do all the talking." That said, she says you could add a chrome powder or subtly shimmery topcoat over it to make it look even more on-trend. "I'm seeing a lot of shimmer accents and topcoats this summer! And why not? The way they reflect the sun is so stunning," she adds.

In terms of persimmon polishes, she suggests selecting a formula with a shiny, creamy finish. "My pick is Candy by The GelBottle. That one skews more red than orange. If you happen to have a bottle of the, again, retired but still iconic Essie Clambake, that's a fave as well," she notes. "Also Kokoist Vermilion Orange, and Nail Thoughts in Wake Me Up." Below, shop all of these shades—plus a few more I'm eyeing—before your next salon appointment.
The Best Persimmon Polishes to Shop

An Hermès nail polish is never a bad investment, especially in this iconic orange.

If you're looking for something on the redder side, Kandalec's pick from The GelBottle is a solid choice.
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