Square Summer Nail Inspo 27 Ideas: Colors & Designs That Spell Sunshine

Curious about what nail magic has in store for you this summer? Whether you’re lounging by the beach or strolling the city streets, the right square summer nail inspiration colors and designs can elevate your look from simple to stunning. Can short nails create the same drama as long acrylic nails? Does the timeless French point hold its own against the avant-garde almond shapes? Let’s dive into the vibrant world of summer nails and discover your next manicure muse.

Electric cobalt: a bold summer statement

This exciting gel blue manicure is an absolute game-changer. The square-cut nails painted in a striking cobalt blue are not just any nails; they are your own personal slice of heaven. Perfect for those with a penchant for unique and trendy styles, they are a confident choice for anyone who wants to make a statement.

• Products used: high-quality blue gel polish, UV lamp, glossy top coat.
• Expert advice: Choose a top coat that won’t rub off to maintain that enviable shine and keep your blue as deep as the ocean for weeks.

DIY tips: Start with clean, polished nails. Apply a thin base coat and cure under a UV lamp. Then apply two coats of your chosen gel blue, curing after each coat. Finish with a gloss top coat and cure one final time for durability and shine.

Sunshine Ombré: sparkling summer gradient

The photo brings to life a wonderfully preppy and funky version of the French tip with an ombré twist. The sunny yellow melts into a cloud of sparkle, evoking the feeling of a summer holiday.

• Products used: Sunny yellow polish, fine glitter, clear top coat.
• Expert opinion: For a seamless blend, use a sponge to dab the glitter onto the tip while the yellow is still sticky.

DIY tips: Paint your nails with the yellow polish. While it is still wet, use a sponge to press glitter onto the ends. Mix by gently dabbing. Seal with a clear top coat.

Classic redefined: the bold and beautiful red

Celebrates the simple elegance of square nails in classic red that is both timeless and aesthetic. It is the ultimate holiday color, cool enough for an adventure and yet suitable for a stylish dinner by the sea.

• Products used: quick-drying red lacquer, base and top coat.
• Expert opinion: A quick-drying formula is key to preventing smudging so your manicure stays as flawless as a Greek sunset.

DIY tips: Apply a base coat to protect your natural nail. Add two coats of red polish so they can all dry thoroughly. Finish with a quick-drying top coat for a smudge-free shine.

Neon green: vibrant and unapologetic

The long nails are a testament to the power of neon green. It’s funky, it’s a villain and it’s all about standing out. This color turns your nails into a trendy accessory for any spring/summer wardrobe.

• Products used: Neon green paint, reinforcing base coat, high gloss top coat.
• Expert opinion: The green shade is a brave choice, but pair it with a muted outfit to let your nails do the talking.

DIY tips: After a base coat, apply two coats of neon polish. Use a top coat for a glass-like finish. Remember, neon requires confidence!

Marbled artistry: chic meets funky

Gives an artistic twist with a marbled yellow and black design, adorned with a charming nail ornament. It’s a marriage of preppy and funky, ideal for someone who embraces both almond-simple pink and unique style expressions.

• Products used: yellow and black polishes, marble tools, nail jewelry glue.
• Expert opinion: Nail jewelry can turn a simple manicure into a wearable work of art. It’s the ultimate funky statement.

DIY tips: Apply your base color. While it is still wet, dab on the second color and use a toothpick to create marbled effects. Attach nail jewelry with nail-safe glue.

Serene Blue French: a twist on the classic

In the image we see a mesmerizing view of the French Point with a serene blue that mimics the tranquil seas of Greece. This manicure combines the simple sophistication of the French manicure with a unique square shape and a touch of spring/summer shine.

• Products used: sky blue polish, silver glitter, white polish, top coat.
• Expert opinion: This design is a nod to the classic with a trendy twist that makes the French tip fresh.

DIY Tips: After your base coat, apply white polish to the tip and then carefully line the edge with sky blue polish. Add a touch of glitter for a spring/summer sparkle and finish with a top coat for a long-lasting finish.

Blue waves: reflective summer vibes

Showcasing a beautiful range of blue hues, swirled together to create a design reminiscent of the waves of the ocean. This look is perfect for those looking for a unique yet sophisticated nail art that captures the carefree essence of summer.

• Products used: multiple shades of blue polish, gold leaf accents, nail art brushes, top coat.
• Expert opinion: The interplay of different shades of blue with gold accents gives a nod to the luxurious summer resorts of Greece.

DIY tips: Paint a light blue base. Using a fine brush, swirl and blend the dark blue shades while they are wet. Apply gold leaf to desired areas before sealing with a top coat.

Green with envy: powerful and lush

The vibrancy of cannot be underestimated, with its lush green tones making for a powerful statement. The square shape keeps it preppy and polished, while the intricate glitter design adds a unique touch.

• Products used: Vibrant green polish, white base coat, glitter, top coat.
• Expert opinion: Green is a bold choice for summer, and the square shape is perfectly trendy.

DIY Tips: Apply a white base coat and then paint over it with your vibrant green. Use a thin brush to add glitter patterns and finish with a glossy top coat.

Cosmic contrast: a universe on your nails

Takes us on a cosmic journey with a mix of deep purple shades and bright glitters that look like a galaxy. It’s a long acrylic masterpiece that’s funky, evil and undeniably unique.

• Products used: purple and black polish, holographic glitter, clear acrylic powder, top coat.
• Expert opinion: This tall acrylic design is a showstopper and is sure to turn heads with its unique deep space inspiration.

DIY Tips: Shape your square nails with clear acrylic powder. Sponge on your purple and black nail polish for a cosmic effect and sprinkle with holographic glitter. Finish with a high-gloss top coat.

Peachy Keen Jelly Bean: sweet summer days

We see a playful take on the almond short hairstyle with a peach base and unique jellybean-style dots. It’s a sweet, simple and preppy choice for a fun holiday look.

• Products used: Peach polish, various pastel polishes for the dots, gold flakes, top coat.
• Expert opinion: The soft peach and playful polka dots offer a unique take on the almond shorts trend, making it perfect for a simple yet chic summer look.

DIY tips: Start with a peach base, then use a dotting tool to add colorful dots. Apply gold flakes and finish with a clear top coat for a shiny finish.

Geometric elegance: striking patterns in black and white

Shows that black and white can be anything but basic. Here we find a square nail design that plays with bold, geometric patterns, creating a unique visual impact that is both artistic and modern.

• Products used: white gel polish, black striping tape, matte top coat.
• Expert opinion: This design proves that simplicity can still be striking. The use of matte top coat gives it a contemporary touch.

DIY Tips: Apply a white gel polish as a base. Once cured, use striping tape to create the designs, paint over it with black, then quickly remove the tape before curing again. A matte top coat completes the deal for this unique look.

Sapphire waves: oceanic inspirations

Captures the essence of a summer vacation, with blue and black playing off each other, reminiscent of waves crashing into the ocean. The striking nail is an artistic take on the French manicure, making it a unique choice for summer evenings.

• Products used: Sapphire blue gel polish, black gel polish, nail art brush, glossy top coat.
• Expert opinion: The design is a playful yet elegant take on color blocking and is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to a simple blue ensemble.

DIY tips: Paint your nails sapphire blue and leave one finger for a French design. Use a nail art brush to create the French tip with black polish, then add intricate lines for that unique flair. Shine it on with a top coat for that oceanic shine.

Speckled minimalism: simply chic

Demonstrates the beauty of minimalism with a speckled design. It’s a simple yet unique approach, with small black flecks spread across a beige base, offering a modern take on the square nail trend.

• Products used: Beige lacquer, black acrylic paint, dotting tool, top coat.
• Expert opinion: This look is perfect for those who prefer understated elegance with a twist, making it a versatile choice for both work and play.

DIY tips: Apply a beige lacquer as a base. Dip a dotting tool in black acrylic paint and carefully outline the nails. Finish with a top coat to protect the speckled design.

Neon Lime: Vibrant and lively

We see a long acrylic set that draws attention with a neon green color so vibrant it’s almost electric. These nails are for the daring and the fearless, a statement in itself.

• Products used: Neon green acrylic powder, high gloss top coat.
• Expert Opinion: Perfect for the fashion-conscious individual, these nails are a bright extension of one’s personality and reflect a unique and funky summer vibe.

DIY tips: Shape the nails with neon green acrylic powder. Once the acrylic has hardened, file it into the desired square shape and apply a high-gloss top coat for that enviable shine.

Goldenrod luster: soft yellow

Soften the summer palette with a warm yellow hue that’s both comforting and chic. The nails are long and finished with a gloss that catches the light just right, making them a simple yet unique option for a sunny day out.

• Products used: yellow gel polish, high gloss top coat.
• Expert opinion: The goldenrod shade is surprisingly versatile and complements a wide range of summer outfits, from casual to formal.

DIY tips: Start with a clean, polished nail. Apply the yellow gel polish in two layers and let it harden in between. Finish with a high-shine top coat for a long-lasting and shiny manicure.

Blooming Charm: floral fantasy within reach

A summer dream realized on nails. Bright fruits dance on a white background, interspersed with gold accents that reflect a blooming field of wildflowers.

• Products used: white gel polish, various flower stickers, gold foil, non-erasable glossy top layer.
• Expert opinion: The flowers give a nod to vintage, but fit perfectly with trendy nail art and bring a touch of spring/summer to any look.

DIY tips: Apply a white gel polish as a canvas. Once hardened, place floral stickers on the nail, accent the nail with gold foil and seal with a glossy top coat for long-lasting use.

Pastel French: a modern twist on a classic

The image reimagines the French manicure through a pastel lens. Each nib is dipped in a different shade, softening the traditional design with a playful spring/summer vibe.

• Products used: light pink gel polish, pastel gel polish for the ends, fine tip brush, non-erasable glossy top coat.
• Expert opinion: This manicure is perfect for those who love classic French but crave a touch of unique whimsy.

DIY tips: Start with a light pink base. Paint each dot with a different pastel shade and use a fine-tipped brush for precision. A glossy top coat provides a smooth, shiny finish.

Pure elegance: subtly speckled

Presents a translucent pink base, elegantly speckled with black. This design is for the minimalist who wants a touch of creativity on their simple yet stylish nails.

• Products used: Translucent pink polish, black micro glitter, dotting tool, matte top coat.
• Expert opinion: The contrast of the transparent base with the black dots puts a modern twist on simple nail designs, combining a minimalist aesthetic with a touch of playfulness.

DIY tips: Coat your nails with sheer pink nail polish. While it’s still tacky, use a dotting tool to apply black micro glitter spots. A matte top coat gives an ultra-modern finish.

Serene sky: clear horizons

The nails are like a clear sky on a perfect day. The design uses soft tones and a unique sky blue dot for a serene and simple look.

• Products used: Pure nude polish, sky blue polish, dotting tool, high gloss top coat.
• Expert opinion: It’s a refreshingly simple design with a pop of color that adds a unique touch without overwhelming the nail’s natural beauty.

DIY tips: After your pure nude base, take a dotting tool and apply a little bit of sky blue nail polish. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a seamless shine.

Classic revisited: timeless French with a twist

Shows the typical French manicure, but with a contemporary update. The nails are kept simple and short, with a creamy base and an almond-inspired tip for a modern, yet timeless look.

• Products used: creamy beige polish, natural white polish for the ends, top coat.
• Expert opinion: This look is a testament to the enduring charm of the French manicure, which remains both simple and unique.

DIY tips: Apply a creamy beige polish as a base. Carefully paint the ends with a natural white lacquer for that French flair, then apply a top coat to protect and add shine.

The whisper of spring: delicate floral touch

Showcasing a soft, almost ethereal aesthetic with a translucent pink base, decorated with delicate floral art. It’s a breath of spring air on your nails, perfect for any summer tea party or a quiet walk in the garden.

• Products used: translucent pink nail polish, nail stickers with flowers, small gold studs, transparent top coat.
• Expert opinion: The use of flower stickers and gold studs adds a romantic uniqueness without being overwhelming, maintaining the simple elegance of the design.

DIY tips: Apply a sheer pink base coat, apply flower stickers as desired and add gold studs for a touch of sparkle. A transparent top layer ensures that your floral whispers can tolerate the summer breeze.

Lavender dreams: marble elegance

The nails evoke a dreamy landscape with swirls of lavender and white strings. Bits of gold leaf are scattered everywhere, a nod to the luxury of marble statues found in ancient Greece.

• Products used: Lavender and white gel polish, gold leaf, swirling tool, glossy top coat.
• Expert opinion: This marbled effect combined with the elegance of gold leaf creates a unique look that is both sophisticated and artistic, a true celebration of summer’s trendy aesthetic.

DIY tips: Mix lavender and white gel polish on the nail and add pieces of gold leaf before the polish hardens. Finish with a glossy top coat for a smooth, glass-like surface.

Oceanic eddies: aquatic artistry

Brings the ocean within reach with deep blues and mint greens, creating a water dance accentuated by golden lines that shimmer like sunlight on water.

• Products used: deep blue and mint green gel polish, gold striping tape, top coat.
• Expert opinion: This design is perfect for those who want to carry the tranquility of the ocean with them. The addition of gold stripes adds a touch of unique luxury.

DIY tips: Paint a base of deep blue, then add mint green polish and use a fine brush to swirl the colors together. Place gold striping tape to define the swirls and apply a top coat for shine.

Geometric chic: sharp lines and bright colors

We see the unique interplay of clear geometric patterns with three colors: sky blue, soft white and a powerful black accent. It is a statement design for those who love a mix of art and modernity in their nail aesthetic.

• Products used: sky blue, white and black gel polish, fine tip brushes, matte top coat.
• Expert opinion: The combination of matte and geometric patterns is ultra-modern, making it a unique, eye-catching choice for the fashion-conscious.

DIY Tips: After your base color, use fine tip brushes to hand paint the geometric patterns. A matte top layer gives your work of art a contemporary touch.

Sunset Matte: warm tones and abstract lines

Captures the warm tones of a sunset with a smooth, matte finish. The orange shade combined with abstract black line art is unique, funky and perfectly in line with bad nail trends.

• Products used: matte orange polish, black nail art pen, matte top coat.
• Expert opinion: The choice of matte paint emphasizes the unique design, while the abstract lines add a playful edge to the simple color base.

DIY tips: Coat your nails with the matte orange polish. Once dry, use a black nail art pen to create your designs. Finish with a matte top coat to improve texture and finish.

Frosted Tips: the cool edge of summer

Demonstrates a sleek twist on square nails, combining a soft matte base with a shimmering matte tip. This style appeals to those summer evenings where the light catches every surface and creates a dance of light and shadow.

• Products used: Nude matte varnish, silver glitter varnish, masking tape for precise lines, matte top coat.
• Expert opinion: The contrast between the matte nude and the sparkling silver offers a balance between understated grace and playful glamour.

DIY tips: Apply a matte nude polish as a base. Once dry, use masking tape to create a clean line and apply the silver glitter polish to the ends. A matte top coat over the nude part maintains the subtle refinement.

Vivid Strokes: A symphony in pink and purple

The vibrant pinks and purples are a bold statement of the vibrancy of summer. A single nail features a dynamic shade of blue with a hint of glitter, creating a work of art that is wearable.

• Products used: Bright pink and lavender gel polishes, royal blue polish for the accent, fine glitter, glossy top coat.
• Expert opinion: Bold yet harmonious, this color palette captures the essence of summer’s dynamic nature.

DIY tips: Paint alternating nails with bright pink and lavender. Apply royal blue nail polish to the accent nail and, while it is still sticky, carefully sprinkle with fine glitter. Seal all nails with a glossy top coat for a protective shine.