26 Short Summer Nail Designs: Your Go-To Guide

Are your nails ready to enjoy the sun? As the mercury rises, are you looking for the perfect balance between statement and simplicity for your nails? Summer calls for a pop of color and a touch of fun, and what better canvas than your own nails? Whether you’re lounging by the pool or typing at work, let’s see how short summer acrylic nails can be your style statement this season.

Square pink perfection

Professional insight: The appeal of square pink acrylic nails lies in their understated elegance. The short length exudes functionality, while the square shape adds a modern twist. The color pattern in the image is soft, like the blush of a summer sunrise, offering a cute and stylish aesthetic that works just as well for a casual beach day as it does for a professional meeting.

• Consumables: Premium pink acrylic powder, a fine square-tipped brush, a glossy top coat for that summer glow.
• Recommendations: Choose a non-yellowing formula to maintain the true pink hue.

DIY tips: Start by thoroughly cleaning your nails. Shape your nails with a square nail shape, apply the pink acrylic powder and finish with a top coat for durability and shine.

The art of simplicity

Professional insight: A square, simple design captures the essence of summer with its uncomplicated beauty. This natural look with a solid color scheme is the epitome of easy chic and emphasizes the shape and natural color of the nails.

• Consumables: clear acrylic, square mold, glossy kit.
• Recommendations: A clear base can be versatile: adorn it with gemstones for a touch of sparkle or leave it bare for minimalist grace.

DIY tips: A simple nail file, clear acrylic and a steady hand are all you need. Finish with a gloss sealant to protect and enhance.

The call of the ocean (3.jpg)

Professional insight: The blue in this design not only screams summer; it whispers the calm of the ocean’s depths. These square summer nails with their striking blue are a statement of both fun and trendy sensibilities and invite thoughts of serene beach holidays.

• Consumables: Vibrant blue acrylic paint, square shaping tools, high gloss finisher.
• Recommendations: Always choose a paint with a high pigment content to achieve that deep ocean blue.

DIY Tips: Prep the nail, apply the blue with confidence and seal with your gloss for a sea goddess finish.

Shiny sand

Professional insight: In this design, the glitter on a neutral base mimics the sparkle of sun-drenched sand. It is a beautiful design of medium complexity that can be suitable for work as well as for a party.

• Consumables: neutral acrylic base, fine glitter, gemstone glue.
• Recommendations: Use a fine glitter to avoid a clumpy look.

DIY tips: Cover the neutral base with fine glitter, apply glue and place the gemstones with precision.

Midnight elegance

Professional insight: The square black acrylic nails provide extra drama on summer evenings. The short cut keeps it simple, but the bold color adds an extra touch of sophistication and baddie vibes.

• Consumables: black acrylic paint, square tool, matte or gloss finish options.
• Recommendations: Matte for an enigmatic look, gloss for a classic shine.

DIY tips: After you’ve prepped the nails and applied the black base, choose a finish that matches the theme of your evening.

Electric lime green: the color of energy

Lime Green: the epitome of Summer Vibes This neon green shade is exciting and bright and radiates summer fun. It’s not just a color; it’s an attitude. Wearing these nails is like carrying a piece of the tropics with you.

• Consumables list:
  • Highly pigmented neon green acrylic powder
  • Ultra-shiny top coat for a wet look finish
  • A no-lift primer for a durable manicure

Recommendation: For sunny days and electric nights, this neon is a good choice.

DIY How-To: Prepare your nails, apply a primer and go for a cool look with neon acrylic powder. Shape them into a soft square for a boxy, simple yet bold look, and seal them with a glossy top coat for a super shine.

Warm sunset yellow: a soft embrace

Sunset Yellow: warmth within reach This soft yellow brings the beauty of a sunset to your nails. It is a simple color with a complex look: soft yet bright, inviting yet trendy.

• Consumables list:
  • Sunset-inspired yellow acrylic powder
  • A strong bonding agent to prevent lifting
  • Matte or glossy topcoat, depending on your preference

Recommendation: A matte top coat makes this yellow more suitable for work, while a glossy top coat increases the fun.

DIY How-To: Start with a clean surface, lay down the yellow acrylic and decide on your finish. This shade is versatile: it can be playful or toned down, perfect for a square summer nail.

Emerald green with a hint of gold

Emerald green: elegance with a twist. Dark green with gold flecks radiates an atmosphere of mysticism and luxury. These nails can be the crown jewels of your summer look: stylish, with a touch of extra.

• Consumables list:
  • Deep emerald green acrylic powder
  • Gold flake accents for that rich embellishment
  • A top coat that enhances the shine of the gold

Recommendation: Add gold flakes sparingly for a natural yet inspiring design.

DIY How-To: Apply the emerald green acrylic as a base, sprinkle gold flakes and coat with a top coat. This design is easy to love and easy to wear, whether you’re in the office or on a beach vacation.

Classic Burgundy: a toast to timeless taste

Burgundy: The Wine of Nails Burgundy is a timeless color that speaks of good wines and stylish evenings. It is simple yet profound and exudes a sense of refined pleasure.

• Consumables list:
  • Bordeaux red acrylic powder for a rich, full color
  • A high-gloss top coat for an elegant finish
  • Nail oil for cuticle care and overall health

Recommendation: Keep your nails beautiful and healthy by regularly applying cuticle oil.

DIY How-To: Cover your nails with the luxurious burgundy color, shape them to a medium length and finish with a high-shine top coat. It’s work-friendly and pretty enough for a night out.

Sky Blue Dreams: your personal piece of heaven

Sky Blue: The Whisper of the Summer Breeze There’s something fun and liberating about sky blue: it’s like having a piece of the clear summer sky at your fingertips. This color is trendy, bright and oh so beautiful.

• Consumables list:
  • Sky blue acrylic powder that mimics the summer sky
  • A protective top coat to keep the blue as bright as the first day
  • A strengthening foundation for natural nail health

DIY How-To: Apply a strengthening base, apply the sky blue acrylic, then shape it into your desired nail shape. Whether you choose a square, simple or almond style, the sky blue looks extraordinary with a gloss or matte finish, ready for any summer adventure.

Abstract artistry on nude nails

Minimalist design meets modern art The nude base of these nails provides a canvas for abstract lines and dots, creating a look that is both simple and sophisticated. It’s an artistic expression that captures the whimsical side of summer.

• Consumables list:
  • Nude acrylic powder for a natural base
  • Black nail art pen for precise lines and dots
  • A clear top coat to seal the design

Recommendation: Use a dotting tool to achieve uniform dots for this design.

DIY How-To: After applying the nude base, use a nail art pen to draw your design. Finish with a top coat for a fun, yet stylish manicure that will speak volumes at a beach brunch or gallery opening.

Playful pink and heartfelt designs

Whimsical hearts and glittery pink This design is a love letter to all that is beautiful and fun. The playful swirls and heart motifs on a pink and white base are perfect for those who like some extra flair on their summer short acrylic nails.

• Consumables list:
  • Pink and white acrylic powders for the base
  • Pink glitter and nail art brushes for detailed designs
  • A durable top layer to protect the art

Recommendation: Alternate the designs on each nail for a trendy, mix-and-match look.

DIY How-To: Make a pink and white base and let your imagination run wild with swirls and hearts. A little glitter on one nail adds glamour, because summer is the time to shine.

The elegance of black outlined nails

Bold edges for a dramatic effect These nails combine the subtlety of a natural nail polish with the drama of black contours. The result is a design that is both understated and striking, perfect for summer evenings.

• Consumables list:
  • Neutral base acrylic powder
  • Black acrylic paint for the contours
  • A high-gloss top coat for a glass-like finish

Recommendation: Keep the rest of the nail simple so that the contours stand out.

DIY How-To: Apply a neutral base, then carefully paint the black edges. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a stylish and trendy look you’ll love.

Pure and chic for the sophisticated

Pure elegance with a glossy finish A natural nail polish, when applied properly, is timeless and stylish. These simple yet elegant nails are the epitome of chic: beautiful without being overdone, perfect for both work and play.

• Consumables list:
  • Translucent pink acrylic powder for a sleek look
  • A high-quality brush for a smooth application
  • A glossy top coat for a durable, glossy finish

Recommendation: For a natural look, choose a color that closely matches your nail bed.

DIY How-To: Polish and shape your nails, apply the sheer pink powder and finish with a glossy top coat for a polished look that’s easy to maintain all summer long.

Vibrant blue for a touch of coolness

Dive into the cool blue. Nothing says summer more than a touch of bright blue. These nails are for those who are not afraid to show their vibrant side; the color is fun, trendy and perfect for any summer activity.

• Consumables list:
  • Vibrant blue acrylic powder for a striking look
  • A thin brush for clean edges
  • A final top coat to retain the color

Recommendation: Pair with a white outfit for a stunning contrast that is sure to turn heads.

DIY How-To: After your basic prep, apply the vibrant blue powder. Gently clean any edges for a sharp look and finish with a top coat for a summer hairstyle that’s as cool as it is warm.

Lavender dreams: a soft touch of elegance

Lavender Shades for a Soft Summer Soft lavender nails add a dreamy quality to your summer aesthetic. This pastel purple shade is flattering on all skin tones and adds a soft touch of elegance to any ensemble.

• Consumables list:
  • Lavender acrylic powder for a pastel base
  • Fine brush for a clean, even application
  • A quick-drying top coat that seals in the color

Recommendation: Combine with silver or gold accessories to make the color stand out.

DIY How-To: Prep the nails, apply the lavender powder and smooth the finish. This color works well for both a day at the office and a quiet evening walk along the beach.

Romance in pink: whimsical designs for the heart

Whimsical Hearts in Pink Shades Romantic and playful, these nails are a love story told in pink. The delicate heart designs against the soft pink background make for a cute and trendy summer statement.

• Consumables list:
  • Soft pink acrylic powder for the base
  • Red and white polish for the heart details
  • A glossy top coat for a smooth, protective finish

Recommendation: Use a toothpick or a fine nail art tool for the heart details to get that super pretty design.

DIY How-To: Start with a pink base, then add your hearts and seal the deal with a top coat. It’s the perfect look for a summer date or a picnic with friends.

Gold accents: luxury meets simplicity

Minimalism with a touch of gold These nails are the definition of stylish. The nude color is timeless, while the gold accents at the cuticle give a luxurious yet simple twist.

• Consumables list:
  • Nude acrylic powder for a pure, natural look
  • Gold foil or gold leaf for the accents
  • A reinforcing top layer for a durable finish

Recommendation: Apply the gold accents with tweezers for precision.

DIY How-To: After the nude base, apply the gold accents to the cuticle and encapsulate with a top coat. This design is suitable for work and also perfect for an extra special event.

Sunshine and smiles: bright yellow for a cheerful summer

The Joy of Yellow Bright and sunny, these nails bring the happiness of summer days right within reach. The playful yellow combined with the soft pink is a fun and trendy take on summer nail art.

• Consumables list:
  • Bright yellow and soft pink acrylic powders
  • A detail brush for fine point work
  • A fast-hardening top coat for a durable manicure

Recommendation: Keep nails short for a square, simple look that is easy to maintain.

DIY How-To: After applying the basic colors, add dots and lines for a playful touch. A fast-hardening top coat ensures that your nails are ready for all the summer fun.

Neon camouflage: powerful and playful

Neon camouflage: make a powerful statement For the brave and courageous, these neon camouflage nails are a must-try. The combination of neon green and purple is for those who like to stand out and have fun with their summer nail art.

• Consumables list:
  • Neon green and purple acrylic powders
  • A thin brush for the camouflage patterns
  • A matte topcoat for a modern finish

Recommendation: Use a matte top coat to contrast the bright neon colors.

DIY How-To: Apply the neon colors in a camouflage pattern and top them off with a matte top coat. This nail design is for the summer adventurers who are ready to explore the urban jungle or the great outdoors.

Striped precision: monochrome elegance

Lines of Sophistication Monochrome stripes accented with yellow accents make these nails a statement piece. They speak of a refined taste with an unexpected twist, perfect for someone who loves a classic look with a playful edge.

• Consumables list:
  • White acrylic paint for the base of the design
  • Black nail art pen for precise stripes
  • Yellow acrylic paint for a touch of summer vibrancy
  • A glossy top coat to protect the design

Recommendation: Use striping tape to achieve perfectly straight lines.

DIY How-To: Using a steady hand, create the base with white paint, then add black stripes and yellow accents. Finish with a glossy top coat for a look that is both edgy and chic.

Pastel play: soft shades for warm days

A palette of pastel colors This range of pastel shades is like a summer sky at sunrise: soft, inviting and endlessly beautiful. Each nail has a different pastel color, creating a harmonious mix that is trendy and fun.

• Consumables list:
  • A variety of pastel colored acrylic powders
  • A smooth brush for an even application
  • A long-lasting top coat to keep the colors fresh

Recommendation: Mix and match the pastel colors for a personal look.

DIY How-To: Apply any pastel shade to a nail, creating a delicate rainbow. Finish with a top coat to keep the colors from one summer adventure to the next.

Vibrant blue: the bold and the beautiful

Deep Ocean Blues Vibrant blue nails are a bold choice for those who aren’t afraid to stand out. This rich, saturated shade is for the daring, those who use their nails as a form of self-expression.

• Consumables list:
  • Vibrant blue acrylic powder for a dynamic look
  • A high-quality top coat for a sleek finish
  • A base coat to protect the natural nail

Recommendation: Combine with simpler outfits to really make the nails shine.

DIY How-To: Start with a protective base coat, apply the vibrant blue, and finish with a glossy top coat for nails that look like they’ve been submerged in the ocean.

Subtle shades: quietly confident

Confidence in calm colors A muted palette can speak volumes. The combination of dark teal, soft olive green and neutral pink shows a quiet confidence and appreciation for the understated beauty of nature.

• Consumables list:
  • A selection of muted acrylic powders
  • A fine brush for neat edges
  • A top coat for durability and shine

Recommendation: Choose muted colors that match your skin tone for a natural look.

DIY How-To: Paint each nail with a different muted shade and apply the colors carefully for a smooth finish. A top coat adds shine and durability to this earthy palette.

Mint condition: fresh and minty for summer

Mint freshness Mint green nails provide a breath of fresh air on every summer day. This cool, refreshing shade is perfect for those who want to add a pop of color to their look without going over the top.

• Consumables list:
  • Mint green acrylic powder for a fresh summer feeling
  • A fine brush for a flawless application
  • A glossy top coat for a watery shine

Recommendation: Keep nails short and round for a modern, simple aesthetic.

DIY How-To: Coat nails with mint green acrylic, then seal them with a top coat for a natural look that’s still bright and fun.

Skyline Edge: modern art at your fingertips

The Sky’s the Limit The clean lines and soft blue points of this design mimic a serene skyline. They bring together the vastness of the sky and the refined edge of cityscapes – ideal for the urban explorer who wants to bring a touch of tranquility of the air into their busy lives.

• Consumables list:
  • Translucent pink acrylic powder for a natural base
  • Sky blue paint for the tips
  • Tape or stencils for precise lines
  • A high gloss top coat to seal the design

Recommendation: Apply the tape diagonally for a unique, modern twist on the classic French tip.

DIY How-To: Prep the nails with a translucent pink base. Once dry, use tape to create a clean line and apply the sky blue polish to the ends. Finish with a top coat for a sleek and polished look.