Must-Try Nail Designs for Summer 2025: Bright, Bold, and Totally Beachy

The summer of 2025 beckons and your nails should be able to respond in style. This year it’s all about bright colours, fun textures and new takes on classics – from bright French almond shapes to juicy red cherries and imaginative floral patterns. Whether you’re lounging poolside, heading to a holiday brunch or just looking to freshen up your everyday manicure, these must-try nail designs for summer 2025 are here to inspire. Ready to change up your look with something simple, beachy or something completely unique? Let’s take a look at the season’s most scroll-stopping nail trends.

Pastel color with a graphic edge

If you’re craving something clean, modern yet fun for summer, this pastel split color design is a sorbet dream with character. The balance of pale blue almond and soft pink with fresh white and lilac accents is an unexpected twist on the classic French layout, except here it’s where playful geometry and subtle elegance come together. The short almond shape makes it feel delicate and wearable, while the graphic lines make it feel sharp and distinctly 2025. These nails are perfect for a rooftop brunch or with linens for a new holiday vibe.

For this look I would choose OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” for the blue and “Let Me Bayou a Drink” for the pink base. Use a nail strip brush and white gel liner (such as Beetles Gel Polish Nail Art Liner) for the sharp edges. Want that hint of purple at the tip? Try the lilac mini gel from Le Mini Macaron. I would suggest going slowly and letting each stripe harden before moving on to the next. There is a flow to constructing this design.

I did something like this with a friend last year at a 4th of July cookout and it was such a conversation starter. Everyone thought it was salon work – and honestly, it wasn’t that far off. A steady hand and a good matte top coat (if you want to soften it a bit) make the difference. To achieve this you just need precision and good lighting, you don’t need ten cleaning sessions.

Cherry red meets floral playfulness

A classic never dies, but sometimes it blooms. This summer red nail design is a combination of striking, cherry-shine nails and playful, pink daisy art, which is retro and refreshingly modern at the same time. The alternating fingers give it that trendy mix-and-match look, but the medium-length oval shape keeps it feminine and universally flattering. It’s a look that’s reminiscent of a holiday picnic, but one that can easily transition into the workday with the right outfit.

Use Essie’s “Forever Yummy” as a red base and combine it with a nude base like Zoya’s “Dot” for the floral nails. You can create the flowers freehand with a dotting tool – CND’s “Cream Puff” for the petals and a touch of green gel for the stems. Finish everything off with a top coat that shines for that glassy look.

I’ve been loving nostalgic designs lately, and there’s something about little flowers that reminds me of all the fun of Y2K sandals with shine and jelly, without being kitschy. Moreover, red is one of those shades that suit all skin tones. This might be one of my favorite summer pink and red nail design combos yet.

Fruit salad tips with a twist

Can summer nails be any more cheerful? This fruity French tip design is a mini vacation at your fingertips. Watermelon slices, lemons, strawberries – you name it, it’s probably here. The base is a clean, nude shade, which makes the bright mini illustrations pop. The square nail shape gives it a fresh beach energy for those looking for something out-of-the-box but wearable.

DIY with Sally Hansen: “Pink Pong.” Prep each nail with a clear base. Then it’s all about detail brushes and point tools. I would recommend using a palette of gel liners from Modelones for those bright colors – yellow, lime green, cherry red and turquoise. A little practice in drawing fruit shapes can go a long way. Try sketching on a spiked wheel first!

This one is a love letter to summer smoothies, poolside snacks, and that carefree 3 p.m. sunshine. I had a similar design when I went to Key West last July, and I swear, every barista I met complimented my nails. It’s like you’re in control of your own mood: cheerful, colorful and completely on-brand for summer nail designs.

Sun-drenched sunflowers and citrus tips

What’s more summery than yellow? Answer: yellow and sunflowers. This sunshine nail look is the floral mani version of sunshine. The French almond crescent pattern pairs perfectly with striking sunflower art, combining graphic lines with natural hand-painted details. If you want to add some floral flair to your rotation of almond-shaped nails, this is your sign.

To recreate this, use a nude gel like Madame Glam’s “Perfect Beige” and combine it with China Glaze’s “Lemon Fizz.” The sunflowers require a steady hand, but with a thin art brush and brown/black gel polish you can get there. Dot white gel in the center for highlights. You need a good top coat to fix the art without running. Look for a thicker gel like Seche Vite for more shine.

Sunflowers are my mother’s favorite flower, so this one has a personal charm. I believe that’s the magic of such summer almond nail designs like these – they are not only trendy, but also packed with little stories. A sunflower mani on Tuesday morning? That’s joy in an instant.

Blackberry sprinkle drama

For those who want to create atmosphere with their mani, this long stiletto-inspired design in juicy red with dark speckles is summer’s worst version. It produces watermelon seeds, berry-stained lips and candlelit beach dinners. A pure almond nib provides sharpness and the speckled finish provides texture and movement. This is one of those summer acrylic nail designs that leaves a mark.

To achieve the look, I would start with OPI’s “Big Apple Red” and add speckles with a nail art sponge and black stamping polish. Apply it carefully so as not to overload the surface. Or use a pre-mixed glitter speckle gel like the one from Born Pretty to avoid mess. Shape with a glass file to keep the almond silhouette clean and strong.

I’m just going to say this: This is one of those sets I dream of wearing with gold rings and a sunset tan. It’s sexy without trying, editorial without trying. Just enough drama to say, “Yes, I thought about it carefully.” Combine with a matching red lip and you’re done.

Botanical chic in earthy tones

For the ‘golden hour nature lover’ who leans further away from poolside neon, this square-tipped duo of muted terracotta and matte violet with delicate white botanical accents is pure elegance. It’s quiet luxury, but for your nails. The combination of warm peach and cool purple gives this long design a subtle tension and the fine white leaf lines. They whisper instead of shouting. It’s a great summer option for simple nail designs that doesn’t feel basic.

The polishes I would recommend in this case are Essie’s “Toned Down” for the terracotta and Cirque Colors “XOXO” for that deep purple. Use a fine art brush or white stamping polish to outline the leaf details. Stay in the mood with a velvet matte top coat.

Not all summer designs have to be about flamingos and palm trees. Some of us want to put on linens and drink ice-cold oat milk lattes while journaling in the sun — and this manicure? Especially that girl.

Emerald Sparkle French tips

This look is where glamor meets garden party. The rich green gel base evokes a confident color lover, while the dazzling silver glitter tips add a festive French almond twist with a high-shine finish. This design walks the line between edgy and classic, and the almond-shaped silhouette keeps it sleek. It’s a mani for summer evenings with Christmas lights and clinking prosecco glasses.

For the color, think of “Smaragd” from Bio Seaweed Gel and OPI’s “Ce-less-tial is More” for the silver glitter. You’ll need French guides or a steady hand to make that crescent moon dip. I like to use a sponge to tap glitter onto the ends for that blur effect – it adds dimension without bulk.

I had tested this design once for a wedding and I can tell you that it was the only thing that was more sparkling than the bride’s earrings. This is one of those summer nail design tips that doesn’t take the safe route – and thank goodness for that.

Citrus sorbet slices

Pink has never been so spicy. These glossy segments of citrus fruit take the concept of fruit nail art to new, chic heights. Bold stripes in bubblegum and rosy pink scream from a bright glossy almond canvas and the contrast between solid colors and designer nails makes everything feel contemporary. It’s playful but intentional, and such a unique twist on summer almond nail designs.

You can build this look with Orly’s “Oh Pink!” and “Kiss Me, I’m Kind” for the pink shades. The fruit segments? Go 3D with nail art slices or make them with gel decals covered in thin top coats to keep everything smooth. Nail glue is your best friend here.

One summer I took this design to Santa Barbara. I didn’t expect my nails to get more compliments than my dress, but they did. Summer nail designs can also be the most memorable.

Bold blue daisies

These blue daisy-adorned nails strike the right note between retro whimsy and contemporary color impact. I’m in love with the way the deep cobalt base works with the white and yellow floral design on certain nails, adding interest without being too much on the eye. This is the definition of summer nail designs, cute with just the right amount of bold, with a new oval shape.

Try “Butler Please” from Essie and combine it with white base gel on the accent nails. Use point tools to build up the flowers; OPI’s ‘Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants’ for the centerpieces is ideal. Finish with a high-gloss top coat to protect the floral details.

This was one of the first patterns I tried to master when I first started doing nail art. There’s something about daisies that makes everyone smile. And with this color palette? It’s like a field of daisies during golden hour; within reach.

Classic red with a neutral twist

Some colors are just summer. And red, especially in this juicy, glazed form, is one of them. What I love about this set is the soft beige accent that breaks up the intensity and feels like it’s totally intentional and not ‘a red mani’. The almond acrylic shape is elegant and classic and is suitable for long or medium nails.

The combination of Essie’s ‘Really Red’ and Zoya’s ‘Avril’ creates that classic-modern contrast. If you want it to last throughout your vacation, opt for a gel base. Shaping is important here – make sure you have a perfect almond with 180 grit and buffer.

This is my foolproof, “I don’t know what to wear, but I want to feel expensive” manicure. It always works. And the trend for summer red nail designs is still strong in 2025, I see this everywhere on Pinterest.

Speckled forest French

This vibrant French design adds a speckled touch that adds dimension and fun. The glossy almond-shaped silhouette is bright and sleek, but the real magic is in those creamy, nude accent nails, creatively splashed with black and trimmed with a forest green curve. It’s like minimalists and maximalists got together and went on vacation. One of the cooler summer French Tip twists on nail designs I’ve seen so far this year.

Beetles Gel Polish in “Greenery” would be my choice for that deep, cool tone, and a sheer neutral like “Baby Take a Vow” from OPI for the base. The black dots can be applied using a toothbrush-style smudged technique with a speckled top coat or black polish gently splashed with a stiff brush.

This is the look for when you want to add a little edge but don’t want to lose the elegance. I wore a variation of this on a weekend beach trip and it looked fantastic with a margarita in hand and my beach reading book in the other. It’s unique, low effort, high reward.

Tutti Frutti tropes

The mini almond design adds a fun tropical touch here with a wild mix of barbie pink, mango yellow and a daisy accent that’s straight up holiday, wrapped up in a nail set. The alternating color scheme and a fully floral nail ensure that this is a summery pink look that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Think pool parties, retro swimsuits and a playlist full of sunshine.

Use a bright pink and yellow touch with Lights Lacquer “Cherry Jelly” and Zoya “Darcy”. For the daisy art, you can hand paint with acrylic nail polish or use layered stickers with a thick top coat. Sculpture in a clean almond with a buffer and file gently – it counts when the color combination is so powerful.

These nails are like the candy aisle and the sunset combined. I once paired this with my swimsuit and I got compliments all day long. They’re loud, they’re cool and they’re suitable for your holiday mood board.

Glow Citrus Garden

This long lemon-lime set is like the fresh squeeze of the season. The bright and fresh, radiant yellow base is offset by the real character of the oversized pink daisy accents. This design manages to embody that sun-kissed, just-back-from-Miami glow, but is surprisingly versatile with the essential white or denim ensembles.

You’ll want to start with a neon yellow, like Essie “Hay There” or Orly “Glowstick.” The flowers can be created with the dotting tools from OPI’s “La Paz-itively Hot” and a fine black detail brush. Don’t forget to finish with Seche Vite for a glass finish.

I instantly feel more awake when I wear yellow nails. This one in particular? It’s energy in a bottle. And the daisy detail is one of the more summery nail design options that still has a wow factor.

Lavender disco dream

There’s something hypnotic about lavender, especially when it gets a glittery sidekick. This gel design combines a smooth lilac polish with full sparkle on one accent nail to provide contrast without clashing. The stiletto shape makes it tough, but the softness of the lilac balances everything. I would put this under summer acrylic nail designs, because the glitter needs structure to shine.

Use ILNP’s “Lilac Bridges” and their holographic topper “Mega (X)” layered on the ring finger. This combo shines like a disco ball and uses a high-shine gel topcoat to keep it all with dimension.

I wore this to a rooftop dance in August and when the light hit my nails, someone literally asked where I got them done. They give an ‘effortless glow’ in the best way.

Blue-green + speckle contrast

Sleek, elegant, but a little sassy, ​​that’s what this teal and speckled blush design gives. The contrast between the solid teal gel and the playful black-on-blush nails makes this set one of my recommendations for summer acrylic nail designs that are suitable for work and weekends.

For this one you can use ‘Teal the Cows Come Home’ by OPI and a pink nude like ‘Piece of Cake’ by Butter London. Apply a coat of speckled top coat (try Cirque Colors “Speckled”) or stipple manually with a stiff brush.

I’m a fan of these types of two-tone designs because it’s low-stakes drama. It doesn’t need rhinestones and heavy art to catch the eye. It’s simple, clean and perfectly 2025.

Rainbow stripe graffiti

This striped square set has a kinetic and expressive quality: it appears as if rainbow flames merge into white points and black roots. This bright, colorful design screams summer acrylic nail designs and honestly? This is what a heat wave and street art would look like if they ever met. The color gradations are smooth and wild, and the matte finish enhances the visual effect. It’s energetic, statement-worthy and just right for the art-core trend of summer 2025.

This one is all about layering. Start with a matte black gel base and a French style white tip. Then use strip brushes dipped in bright colors such as yellow (OPI “Sun, Sea, and Sand in My Pants”), green (Zoya “Josie”), and blue (Beetles Gel “Blue Bliss”) to stripe together vertically. Allow each layer to cure slowly to avoid staining.

I did something similar one summer after seeing something like it at a gallery opening. It’s bold, artistic and not for the faint of heart – but what if you want nails that seem to have their own soundtrack? These are them.

Soft sage flowers

If you need a break from the full-on colors, this soft sage-almond set with mini daisy clusters is like sipping matcha on a sun-drenched patio. The matte green provides a natural backdrop and the scattered daisy flowers are the kind of details that are quietly intentional. This one goes to the summer simple hall of fame of nail designs.

To achieve the look, apply Orly’s “Sage It Ain’t So” and create daisies with the dotting tools: white for the petals and a touch of peach or rust for the centers. Finish with a matte top coat for a velvety soft effect.

This was my favorite set last May. I paired it with flowy white dresses and soft knits and it somehow went with everything. If your vibe this season is ‘cottagecore meets curated Instagram feed’, then this look will see you through.

Neon love punch

There is nothing subtle about this juicy orange gel design and that is why it is perfect. The rest of the nails keep it sleek and clean with a single black heart detail as the focal point. The vibrant tangerine hue gives this almond stiletto-style set a jolt of electric energy that’s tailor-made for sun-drenched weekends, pool parties and impulsive selfies.

For the perfect orange, try “Hot & Spicy” from OPI and use a nail stamping tool or an ultra-fine liner brush for the heart. Shape is everything here – file into a long almond shape and polish the edges for that perfect sharp but smooth feel.

This is one of those summer orange nail designs that always get compliments. I’ve had people ask for the color in coffee shops. It’s bold but so wearable – a true testament to the fact that sometimes all you need is a little heart and a great color.

Red wave summaries

Now there is a power play. This group combines different styles in one short square constellation. a strong shiny red, zebra-like swirls in black and white and abstract ribbon curves on white. As a pair they are an artsy, slightly retro summer red set with nail designs that ooze personality. It is the kind of design that not only follows a trend, but also creates its own atmosphere.

Use OPI’s “Big Apple Red,” a classic black, and a stark white like Essie’s “Blanc.” Striped brushes and detail tools – your best friends here – sweep tight curves with gentle wrist movements and finish with a glossy top coat.

I love this style when I need a set that matches my wardrobe but still has that edge. It goes great with leather jackets, strong prints or even a fresh button-down. Trust me, people will stare in a good way.

Lavender Ombre with line art

We end with this dreamy lavender ombre that gradually changes from natural to violet at the tip. But the best part is in the details: a little kitten line drawing, a cursive “Honey” and soft, square tips that would look right at home on a Pinterest summer board. This is one of those summery, easy looks that combine effortlessness with charm.

Mix a transparent pink base with a sponge technique and apply lavender polish such as Zoya “Abby” to the ends. The art details can be applied using decals or ultra-thin nail art pens. Finish with a jelly top coat for shine and softness.

This type of design is like a love letter to your inner teenager: cute, light and a little nostalgic. I wore this after a stressful week, and to be honest, it brought a smile to my face every time I looked at it.

Ladybug & Dragonfly Garden Yellow

There’s something undeniably cheerful about this warm yellow set: it’s like summer in a bottle of nail polish. Featuring sleek long square nails in a sunny pastel base and two cute insect details (a ladybug and a dragonfly), this design fully leans into the whimsy of the season. It’s a bit of a fairy tale and a bit of modern minimalism, and a lovely twist on summer easy nail designs that will instantly put you in a good mood.

To achieve this, buy ‘Mellow Yellow’ by Sally Hansen or ‘Sunshine State of Mind’ by Essie. The insect details can be added with decals or hand painted with ultra-fine art brushes and gel paint in black, red and silver. Finish with a jelly top coat for dimension and that fresh, professional shine.

The gentle storytelling of this set is what I love about it. I wore something similar to a friend’s baby shower picnic, and people kept asking where I got it done. There’s something about ladybugs and soft yellow that feels nostalgic, but never outdated.

Cherry glow atmosphere

You can’t go wrong with cherries in the summer, especially when they’re this cute. This short square design combines a glossy red polish with minimalist cherry art on a cream white base. It’s classic but with a twist, it’s sweet but with a bit of sass, and it’s such a standout in the summer red nail designs and summer simple nail designs category. Not to mention, it’s just as good for a day at the farmer’s market as it is for a cocktail evening on the roof.

Start with a gel foundation in OPI “We’re in the Red” and a neutral color like “Alpine Snow” for the accent nails. You make the cherries with a dotting tool with red gel and a strip brush for the green stems. Add a little sparkle to each cherry so it looks like it has that 3D shine.

I’ve always had a thing for fruit nail art, and this one might be my favorite. It’s fun, but not too designed, and it definitely screams summer without being too difficult. It’s flirty, fresh and, let’s face it, quite irresistible.