Wondering if black polish is so 2005? Intrigued by that yellow hue in that Essie bottle but not sure if you'd look like a clown? Here's the scoop on what's hot in nail shades this summer:

Bold, bright primary colors at the shades to try this season, according to Ji Baek, owner of Rescue Beauty Lounge, in the July issue of Harper's Bazaar. My friend Rachel, who's more daring than me, tried a great shade of purple recently, with a flower on the big toe. Canary yellow, royal blue, hot pink and tangerine are also popular shades, according to Bazaar.

The blog All Lacquered Up, which is all about nail trends, has a great piece on orange hues for summer. There's a shade to suit every skin color. All Lacquered Up recommends several shades, including OPI's Osaka To Me, pictured here.

According to the blog, BellaSugar, teens are going ga-ga over Color Power from Essie, a set of four bright nail shades (yellow, blue, pink and orange). These are certain to be the hit at summer camp this year.

Not sure you're into bright shades? Leave them to your toes and go clear or subdued on your fingernails. It is OK to wear two different shades on your fingers and toes as long as the shades complement each other.

As for black polish, several celebrities are still sporting this look, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Paris Hilton, so if it's your thing, you're in popular company. Photo of OPI Osaka to me: Pricegrabber

It's a holiday weekend, so here are some beauty tips:

1. The secret to sunscreen is reapplication. We think swiping it on in the morning can last all day, but it won't if we are out in the sun sweating some of it off. It's good to reapply every three hours on sweaty, physical days.
2. Waterproof mascara won't melt in the sun.
3. Skip the soft, pencil eyeliners. I'm finding mine melts just a couple hours into the day. Try liquid liner instead and set liner with eyeshadow. Or better, forego the liner and just wear mascara.
4. Avoid wet head, pull hair back into a loose bun or ponytail.
5. Don't leave the house with a peeling pedicure. Swipe a fresh coat of paint on nails before you head outside.

Happy 4th!