Summer Nail Trends to Elevate Your Seasonal Style 25 Ideas

When the sun is shining and the days are long, isn’t this the perfect time to let your nails do a little talking? From lounging on the beach to summer evenings, what styles will put your hands in the spotlight? We’ve got the scoop on the hottest summer nail trends making waves this season.

The serenity of sea glass

Nothing whispers ‘summer’ like the cool, translucent touch of sea glass on your fingertips.

These long nails that combine a sea glass color pattern with an almond shape are as refreshing as a dip in the ocean. The shimmering inclusions, nestled in a clear gel, are reminiscent of a sun-drenched coral reef. This design is perfect for both dark skin tones and lighter skin tones, offering a versatile and trendy look.

• Consumables list:
  • Clear gel: CND Brisa Sculpting Gel
  • Blue-green glitter: Young Nails Glitter in “Ocean”
  • Foil Accents: Daily Charm Foil Flakes in “Gold Rush”
  • Top coat: Glistening and shiny top coat

DIY Guide: Start shaping your gel extensions. Mix your clear gel with teal glitter and apply sparingly for a diffused effect. Place foil flakes strategically before curing. Finish with a long-lasting top coat to capture the serenity of the sea directly on your nails.

Twilight by the sea

When the sky meets the sea at sunset, these nails are the embodiment of that magical summer moment.

The deep navy blue shade, with its simple yet powerful color, captures the essence of a twilight ocean. The short and chic length makes them practical for summer activities, while the single long stripe adds a touch of elegance.

• Consumables list:
  • Navy polish: OPI nail polish in “Russian Navy”
  • Striping tape
  • Matte top coat: Matte Velvet Top Coat from Zoya

DIY guide: Start with two coats of navy blue polish. Once dry, use striping tape to create a clean line, then paint over it with a matte top coat for a contrasting finish. The result is a summer design essential that pairs perfectly with a cocktail dress or a simple T-shirt.

A flirt with pink perfection

Soft yet vibrant, this pink is the essence of summer nail trends, playful and bright like the season’s blooming flowers.

The long pink nails, with their smooth jelly finish and subtle floral accents, evoke the carefree atmosphere of summer. The choice of a simple yet preppy glitter gradient at the ends is both new and nostalgically chic.

• Consumables list:
  • Pink Jelly Polish: Dior Vernis in “Tra-La-La”
  • Gradient Glitter: Nails Inc. London Sparkle Like a Unicorn Nail Polish Duo Kit
  • Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel

DIY guide: After your base coat, apply the jelly polish in thin layers to build up the color intensity. Before the final layer dries, carefully dab the glitter towards the ends for a sugary sweet color gradient. Finish it all off with a glossy top coat for a long-lasting summer flirt within reach.

Whispering waves

Ethereal and dreamy, these nails are reminiscent of gentle waves caressing the sandy beaches during a moonlit beach vacation.

The transparency and delicate marble effect create a simple yet sophisticated summer look. The long nails provide the perfect canvas for the art, allowing the green and white tones to swirl together like soft sea foam.

• Consumables list:
  • Clear nail extension gel
  • Marble Shades: Entity One Color Couture in “Seafoam” and “Snow White”
  • Finishing wipe: Gelish Nail Surface Cleanse

DIY guide: Start shaping your nails with the extension gel for that long, simple elegance. Then, working quickly, apply drops of green and white and use a toothpick to marble them together. Cure under a lamp and remove any residue for an out-of-this-world nail type statement.

Safari chic

Who says summer nail trends can’t go on the wild side? These nails are a powerful testament to the inspiration drawn from nature’s own patterns.

The combination of neutral tones with the striking animal print offers a bold contrast that is both sophisticated and fun. The long shape of the chest provides a sharp backdrop to the designs, making it a striking choice for those who want to make a statement.

• Consumables list:
  • Beige polish: OPI Infinite Shine in “You’re Blushing Again”
  • Print Lacquers: Essie’s “Licorice” and “Sand Tropez”
  • Detail Brush: Winstonia Fine Line Nail Art Brush

DIY Guide: After your base coat, apply a beige polish as a background. Use a fine brush to hand-paint the animal patterns with black and a lighter sand color. Finish with a top coat that will bring out the chrome accents and ensure your nail shape stays bright and flawless through any summer adventure.

Red hot summer finesse

Classic red has a fiery look and is undeniably perfect for any summer adventure.

The long nails presented here are a powerful statement of passion and self-confidence. The unique accent nail adorned with delicate gold leaf art takes the entire set to the next level, making it the trendy choice for those with a sense of drama.

• Consumables list:
  • Red polish: Essie Gel Couture in “Rock the Runway”
  • Gold Leaf: Nail Artisan Cosmetics gold leaf leaves
  • Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Topcoat

DIY guide: After your base, apply two coats of red polish. For the accent, apply gold leaf to a tacky base coat and seal with a top coat for a summer look that’s as warm as the weather.

Summer sizzle with a wild twist

Let your wild side run wild with nails that radiate summer fun and freedom.

These short gel nails in electric neon orange are nothing short of a summer sensation. The contrasting animal print on the ring finger is a nod to the striking patterns popular in the European fashion scene.

• Consumables list:
  • Neon paint: China Glaze in “Celtic Sun”
  • Black detail polish: Konad Stamping Nail Art in “Black”
  • Matte top coat: OPI Matte Topcoat

DIY tutorial: Start with neon polish and for the animal print use a small brush or dotting tool to create the spots. Finish with a matte top coat to keep it bright and fabulous from sunrise to sunset.

Oceanic curls and waves

Evoke the serene waves of the ocean with these beautifully designed nails.

The almond shape combined with a tranquil seafoam green and swirls of white and navy blue encapsulate the rhythmic movement of the ocean waves. The addition of blue glitter adds depth and mimics the sparkling color pattern of water in sunlight.

• Consumables list:
  • Seafoam green polish: Sally Hansen Complete salon manicure in “Breezy Blue”
  • White and navy blue paint: OPI in “Alpine Snow” and “Yoga-ta Get this Blue”
  • Blue glitter: Orly in “Star Spangled”

DIY tutorial: Swirl the white and navy blue onto a sea foam base while it’s still wet, then add a touch of glitter. Use a thin brush for precision and finish with a glossy top coat for a long-lasting oceanic vibe.

The typical summer square with a preppy touch

In terms of professional manicure, this design captures the essence of the trendy streets of Europe with its sharp summery square shape and preppy finish. It is a love letter to the bold yet understated:

• The base is a high-shine nude, ideal for dark skin or a sun-kissed tan, and provides a perfect canvas for the design.
• A special green nail provides a pop of color – a nod to the lush green of summer.
• The geometric precision of the black strip on a single nail is the epitome of chic inspiration.
• Delicate yet striking: the flower accent on the ring finger radiates elegance.

To recreate this ensemble you will need:

• Nude polish – choose one with a creamy finish for that luxurious look
• A vibrant green polish – for a touch of summer
• Black striping tape or a fine brush and black paint
• A small flower sticker – or hand-painted if you’re feeling artistic

To bring this look home, you’ll need a steady hand and a penchant for minimalism. Start with a high-quality base coat, followed by two coats of your chosen nude. Go bold with the green nail, but make sure it stays neat. Next comes the striping tape, or use a fine brush to draw your line. Finish with a high-gloss top coat and carefully apply your floral sticker for a professional look.

Neon dreams: the bold and the beautiful

This design screams bright, neon and unapologetically fun – a surefire hit for beach holidays. This is what sets it apart:

• The bold neon tips take you back to the funk and spunk of the 80s.
• The long, simple nails serve as an ideal backdrop for the vibrant tips, showing that long doesn’t have to be complicated.
• The combination of neon pink and yellow tips is a nod to trendy color patterns and evokes the vibrant atmosphere of summer.

To complete this design, your kit should include:

• A skin-colored gel polish for a tight, long-lasting base
• Neon pink and neon yellow polishes for radiant tips
• A fine-tipped brush to get the lines just right

DIY tip: After your base coat and nude gel polish, use a fine-tipped brush to paint the neon dots. What matters is that you can work freehand with confidence. If you wobble, don’t worry: a little acetone on a clean brush can clear it up. Cure under a lamp and seal with a top coat for that glass-like shine.

Neon border

Summer is neon time and these nails scream neon excitement with bold, bright edges. It is the perfect long white canvas full of electric colours, a design that combines chic and shock. This look is trendy, striking and screams summer from the rooftops.

Consumables:

• White paint
• Neon paints (pink and yellow)
• Precision brush or striping tape
• Quick-drying top layer

As a manicurist I would say precision is key for the clean edges. A thin brush helps create sharp lines.

To do it yourself, paint your nails white and once they are dry, carefully apply the neon polish along the edges using your brush or tape as a guide. Finish with a quick-drying top coat to set the look.

Lavender dreams

The soft, white base covered in a dreamy lavender hue creates a serene atmosphere and evokes images of a dusk sky. It is a design that is both soothing and captivating, suitable for the mild summer evenings. The long, simple elegance of this manicure makes it versatile and timeless, just like those endless summer evenings.

Consumables:

• Lavender polish
• White paint
• High-gloss top coat

In my experience, combining two pastel colors can create an ethereal effect that is quite enchanting for summer.

For an at-home attempt, apply the white base, followed by a soft swipe of lavender. Blend lightly to achieve that smooth gradient. A high-gloss top coat adds the finishing touch of magic.

Candy store spectrum

Summer is synonymous with vibrant, vibrant colours, and what better way to showcase this than with a mix of pastel shades? Each nail is a different shade, creating a playful palette that feels like dipping your fingers into a jar of sweet treats. This short gel manicure suits any nail type and exudes a fun, preppy vibe that’s definitely on trend.

Consumables:

• Pastel yellow gel polish
• Baby pink gel polish
• Sky blue gel polish
• Lavender gel polish
• Creamy gel polish
• Base and top coat

From a professional’s perspective, a gel formulation is the key to longevity, especially if you plan to go on beach vacations.

Apply a base coat at home and let it harden under a UV lamp. Then apply two coats of each color and cure after each color. Don’t forget that the top coat will give you that enviable summer glow.

Love in the air

Inspiration strikes and love is painted in red on a teal canvas in this long, simple nail design. A trendy choice for summer designs, it combines a seductive red color with playful accents of soothing teal. This design is perfect for those who want to add a touch of whimsy to their summer wardrobe.

Consumables:

• Blue-green polish
• Red paint
• Point tool or toothpick
• Clear top layer

This design requires a steady hand and a little patience, but the end result is simply beautiful.

For DIYers: paint your nails with teal nail polish and let it dry completely. Then use a dotting tool to add small red designs. Finish with a top coat to capture the love!

Safari so good

Unleash your wild side with these long nails that scream adventure. The bright yellow base, accented with black tiger stripes, is bold, trendy and perfect for making a bold statement. It’s a chrome-like finish that captures the essence of a long, simple nail design with a twist that’s sure to turn heads on your European summer getaways.

Consumables:

• Bright yellow polish
• Black stripe paint
• Shiny top coat

As a professional, I recommend practicing the stripes on paper first to get the hang of it.

For your safari-inspired nails at home, paint a bright yellow base, let it dry, then artfully draw on the black stripes. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a cool look.

Icy blue waves

Embrace the coolness of the ocean with this long white nail design with an ice blue wave pattern. It is an inspiration for those longing for beach holidays, with a subtle hint of sparkle that mimics the sunlight dancing on the water’s surface. The chrome finish gives an unexpected trendy touch to this design summer classic.

Consumables:

• White chrome polish
• Ice blue paint
• Glitter top coat
• Detailing brush

For a professional look, use a chrome polish with a mirror-like finish, which will give your design a green sea look.

The key to nailing this look at home is patience. Use a detail brush to paint the wave pattern and don’t rush the drying time between coats. Finish it off with a glitter top coat for that shimmering sea effect.

Classic elegance

When it comes to timeless styles, a coffin-length nail in classic red is hard to beat. It is the epitome of elegance, suitable for both dark skin tones and fair skin tones, making it a perfect choice for any summer occasion. Whether it’s a formal event or a casual day out, this simple, bold color remains an essential part of nail shape fashion.

Consumables:

• Deep red paint
• Base layer
• High-gloss top coat

This look is all about preparation. A smooth, clean nail bed and a high-quality base coat form the basis of this beautiful long red color.

To achieve this long, simple design at home, apply a thorough base coat, two coats of your chosen red polish, and then finish with a high-gloss top coat for a luxurious, wet-look finish.

Classic pink with a modern twist

Behold a shade that sings the sweet songs of summer: a luscious bubblegum pink that’s both playful and balanced.

The long, simple nails painted in a candy-like pink shade bring out an aura of youthful exuberance, perfect for summer nail trends. The shape is a nod to the classic, but the uniform, sleek color gives it a modern touch.

• Consumables list:
  • Pink polish: OPI Infinite Shine in “Mod About You”
  • Base layer: Essie Here to Stay base layer
  • Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Topcoat

DIY guide: Prime your nails with the base coat for longevity. Apply two even coats of pink polish, allowing each to dry thoroughly. Finish with a glossy top coat for a candy shell finish that is long lasting and as sweet as summer itself.

Vibrant violets

Dive into a more dramatic palette and these nails will be a real showstopper. Dark shiny purple framed by sparkling accents is a bold statement, perfect for summer evenings.

• Consumables list:
  • Deep violet nail polish: Choose a highly pigmented nail polish for a deep color base.
  • Glitter Accents: Select a multi-dimensional glitter for that starry effect.
  • Gemstones: Crystal gemstones to catch the summer light.

To achieve this luxurious look, apply a purple base, carefully place your glitter and accent with gemstones using a little bit of nail glue.

Sunkissed gradient

This design summer brings the magic of sunsets within reach. The flowing gradient from sunny yellow to deep twilight blue, finished with a delicate lace pattern, is reminiscent of summer skies.

• Consumables list:
  • Gradient paints: Sunny yellow and twilight blue.
  • Lace Stencil: For a detailed pattern overlay.
  • Matte top coat: To give the color gradient a soft summer evening finish.

Start with the lighter color at the base and transition to the darker shade at the tip. Use a sponge for the gradient effect. Apply the lace stencil design and finish with a matte top coat for a serene summer twilight feeling.

Shining in red and green

These nails, with an almond green base with red accents, are perfect for someone with a zest for life. It’s a unique twist on the trendy green nail, with a hint of red for contrast.

• Lush green gel polish (“Emerald Envy” from EverGreen)
• Vibrant Red Dot Polish (“Ruby Rhythms” by ColorPop)
• Point tool for precision

For this fun design, paint your base color and then use a dotting tool to add red dots in a pattern you like. Top it off with a top coat and you’re ready to turn heads.

The sweet side of splatter

The short gel nails shown here are a playful variation on a pink canvas with spicy splashes, reminiscent of a carefree summer party. This nail shape is practical for everyday use, while the vibrant pink and gold splashes give it a trendy touch.

• Pink gel polish (“Candy Floss Delight” from Gelicious)
• Gold splatter accents (“Golden Glee” paint)
• Matte top layer (“Velvet Touch” from MatteIt)

Start with a solid pink base and then flick your wrist to splash the gold. Finish with a matte top coat for a modern twist. This design is suitable for those looking for something fresh yet simple and perfect for any summer adventure.

Majestic purple meets playful orange

This is a design that demands attention with its bright purple and a delightful hint of orange, decorated with silver accents. It is a mix of colors suitable for the best summer celebrations.

• Purple gel polish (“Royal Velvet” from RegalNails)
• Bright orange polish (“Sunset Burst” from TropicalShine)
• Silver gemstones (various sizes from “Bling Box” by NailGems)

Paint a purple base, let it harden, then add orange accents. The silver gemstones are the grand finale and transform your nails into a work of art. It’s a trendy choice inspired by the contrasting shades of summer.

Vibrant contrasts and marble elegance

Imagine nails as vibrant and vibrant as a summer festival.

This nail design embodies the essence of summer with its neon yellow and deep plum tones, accentuated by a sophisticated marble effect. The long almond shape serves as a canvas for a color pattern that is both bright and bold, perfect for those endless square summer moments.

• Consumables list:
  • Neon yellow polish: China Glaze in “Celtic Sun”
  • Plum Polish: OPI in “Lincoln Park After Dark”
  • Marble ink: Daily Charme alcohol ink in “Rose Quartz”
  • Gold Leaf: The Nail Stuff Gold Leaf Sheets

DIY tutorial: Alternate neon and plum on different nails for a vibrant contrast. For the marble nail, drip rose quartz ink onto a white surface and manipulate it with a brush dipped in alcohol. Add pieces of gold leaf and finish with a durable top coat for a design as unique as a summer sunset.