Red Summer Nails 25 Ideas: Shades & Designs

Are you ready to elevate your summer look with the hottest red summer nails shades & designs? From bold cherry hues to intricate nail art, red nails are a staple for the season. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of trendy and chic designs that are perfect for summer. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next manicure or want to try something new, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover the latest trends, expert tips, and DIY instructions to achieve stunning red nails this summer.

Fiery Red Almond Nails

When it comes to summer nails, nothing says bold and beautiful quite like a fiery red shade. These almond-shaped nails are the epitome of classic elegance with a modern twist. The intense red polish creates a striking contrast against any skin tone, making it a versatile choice for any summer occasion. The glossy finish adds a touch of sophistication, perfect for both day and night looks.

• Consumables:
  • OPI Nail Lacquer in “Big Apple Red”
  • Almond-shaped nail tips
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp for curing
  • Nail file and buffer

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start by shaping your nails into an almond shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
   3. Apply two coats of OPI Nail Lacquer in “Big Apple Red,” allowing each coat to dry.
   4. Seal the look with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish by moisturizing your cuticles with cuticle oil.

Red and Nude Floral Accent Nails

This design combines the timeless elegance of red nails with a delicate floral accent. The nude base on one nail features a hand-painted flower, adding a touch of femininity to the overall look. This design is perfect for those who love a mix of classic and contemporary styles.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “Forever Yummy”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Dulce de Leche”)
  • Nail art brush for painting flowers
  • White and pink nail polish for the flower
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish and one with nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, paint a small flower on the nude nail with white and pink polish.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Black and Red Glitter Nails

For those who love a bit of sparkle, these black and red glitter nails are a must-try. The combination of black accents with red glitter creates a dramatic and eye-catching look. Perfect for a night out or a special event, these nails are sure to turn heads.

• Consumables:
  • Red glitter polish (e.g., China Glaze “Ruby Pumps”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI “Black Onyx”)
  • Fine glitter for extra sparkle
  • Top coat
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
  2. Paint your nails with a coat of black polish, leaving one nail for the red glitter.
  3. Apply red glitter polish to the accent nail and add fine glitter while wet.
  4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add extra shine.

Red and White Heart Nails

Celebrate love and summer with these adorable red and white heart nails. The mix of red polish and white heart accents creates a fun and playful look, perfect for beach days and summer parties.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “A List”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., OPI “Alpine Snow”)
  • Heart nail stickers or nail art brush
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with red polish.
   3. Using heart stickers or a nail art brush, add white heart accents to two nails.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat.

Red and Black Leaf Nails

This design features a bold red base with intricate black leaf accents. The combination of colors and patterns creates a unique and sophisticated look that stands out.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI “Black Onyx”)
  • Nail art brush for leaf design
  • Gold glitter for extra detail
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with red polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, paint black leaves on one or two nails.
   4. Add gold glitter accents for a touch of sparkle.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Dark Cherry Almond Nails

If you’re looking for a bold yet sophisticated look, these dark cherry almond nails are perfect for you. The deep, rich color exudes elegance and is ideal for any occasion. The almond shape enhances the classic appeal while maintaining a modern edge.

• Consumables:
  • OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Cherry Chutney”
  • Almond-shaped nail tips
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp for curing
  • Nail file and buffer

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Shape your nails into an almond shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
   3. Paint your nails with two coats of OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Cherry Chutney,” letting each coat dry completely.
   4. Seal with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and hydrated.

Red and Crystal Embellished Nails

These nails are the perfect blend of simplicity and glamour. The vivid red polish is complemented by a single crystal-embellished nail, adding just the right amount of sparkle for a trendy look.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Clear rhinestones
  • Nail glue or clear polish for adhering rhinestones
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint all but one nail with red polish.
   3. On the remaining nail, apply clear polish and place rhinestones in a desired pattern.
   4. Finish with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Use cuticle oil to moisturize your nails.

Strawberry Nail Art

These fun and fruity strawberry nails are perfect for adding a playful touch to your summer look. The cute strawberry design on a nude base creates a whimsical and eye-catching effect.

• Consumables:
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Samoan Sand”)
  • Red, green, and black nail polish for the strawberries
  • Nail art brushes for detailed painting
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, paint small red strawberries on each nail, then add green leaves and black seeds.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat to add shine and protect the art.

Red Heart and Glitter Nails

These nails feature a combination of red polish, glitter, and heart accents, creating a romantic and glamorous look. The mix of textures and embellishments makes this design perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of sparkle to your everyday style.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “A List”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Bubble Bath”)
  • Red glitter polish
  • Heart-shaped rhinestones
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a combination of red and nude polishes.
   3. Add red glitter polish to accent nails and heart-shaped rhinestones to others.
   4. Finish with a top coat to secure the design and add shine.

Leopard and Matte Black Nails

For a bold and edgy look, try these red and black leopard print nails. The combination of glossy red, matte black, and leopard print creates a striking and unique design that’s sure to stand out.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Matte black nail polish (e.g., Essie “Matte About You”)
  • Black nail polish for leopard spots
  • Nail art brush for detailed painting
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish, leaving one for the matte black and leopard print.
   3. Using a nail art brush, paint black leopard spots on the matte black nail.
   4. Finish with a top coat to add shine and protect the design, avoiding the matte nail.

Elegant Red and Gold Heart Nails

These red and gold heart nails are the perfect blend of elegance and romance. The red nails are complemented by a nude accent nail adorned with a small red heart and gold foil, creating a sophisticated and eye-catching look.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “Forever Yummy”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Bubble Bath”)
  • Gold foil flakes
  • Nail art brush
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish, and one or two nails with nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, apply a small amount of nail glue to the nude nails and place gold foil flakes around a red heart accent.
   4. Finish with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Apply cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated.

Short Red and Gold Nails

These short red nails with gold accents are a chic and sophisticated choice for any occasion. The deep red polish is beautifully contrasted with subtle gold detailing around the edges, adding a touch of luxury.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Red Hot Rio”)
  • Gold nail polish or gold foil
  • Nail art brush
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of red polish, letting each coat dry completely.
   3. Using a nail art brush, apply gold polish or gold foil along the edges of each nail for a luxurious touch.
   4. Finish with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Use cuticle oil to maintain nail health.

Red and White Damask Nails

These nails feature a stunning red base with intricate white damask patterns, creating a classic and elegant design. Perfect for those who love detailed nail art, this look is both sophisticated and eye-catching.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “A List”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., OPI “Alpine Snow”)
  • Nail stamping plate with damask pattern
  • Stamper and scraper
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of red polish, allowing each coat to dry.
   3. Using a nail stamping plate, stamper, and scraper, apply white polish to the damask pattern and transfer it onto your nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Red and Black Animal Print Nails

These nails combine red, black, and white polishes with various animal prints, creating a bold and trendy look. The mix of leopard and cow prints makes this design perfect for fashion-forward individuals.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie “Licorice”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., OPI “Alpine Snow”)
  • Nail art brushes for detailed painting
  • Top coat
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
  2. Paint your nails with a combination of red, black, and white polishes.
  3. Using a nail art brush, create animal print patterns (leopard and cow prints) on designated nails.
  4. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Orange and Gold Leaf Nails

These vibrant orange nails with gold leaf accents are perfect for making a bold statement this summer. The combination of bright orange and metallic gold creates a striking and unique design.

• Consumables:
  • Orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze “Orange Knockout”)
  • Gold leaf foil
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of orange polish, allowing each coat to dry.
   3. Using a nail art brush, apply a small amount of nail glue to the tips and place gold leaf foil.
   4. Seal with a top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and shiny.

Glossy Red Square Nails

These glossy red square nails are perfect for a sleek and sophisticated look. The deep red polish has a high-shine finish that exudes confidence and elegance. This classic design is ideal for any occasion, adding a touch of glamour to your ensemble.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp
  • Nail file and buffer

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Shape your nails into a square shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
   3. Paint your nails with two coats of red polish, allowing each coat to dry.
   4. Seal the look with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and shiny.

Red and Zebra Print Nails

These red and zebra print nails combine bold red polish with striking animal print accents. The combination of red and black stripes on a nude base creates a trendy and eye-catching design that is perfect for those who love unique and fun nail art.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “Forever Yummy”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Bubble Bath”)
  • Black nail polish for stripes
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish, and a couple with nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, paint black zebra stripes on the nude nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Red and Pink Glitter Nails

These red and pink glitter nails are perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to your summer look. The combination of red polish and pink glitter accents creates a fun and glamorous design that is sure to stand out.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., China Glaze “Ruby Pumps”)
  • Pink glitter polish
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a combination of red polish and pink glitter polish.
   3. Apply a gel top coat to seal the design and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   4. Use cuticle oil to keep your nails moisturized and healthy.

Red, Black, and Zebra Print Nails

These nails feature a bold combination of red, black, and zebra print designs. The mix of colors and patterns creates a striking and trendy look that is perfect for making a fashion statement.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie “Licorice”)
  • White nail polish for zebra stripes
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a combination of red, black, and white polishes.
   3. Using a nail art brush, create zebra stripes on the white nails.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Red and Nude Swirl Nails

These red and nude swirl nails are a perfect blend of elegance and modern design. The vibrant red polish is beautifully complemented by the nude base with swirling accents, creating a sophisticated and eye-catching look. The added touch of glitter on one nail adds a bit of sparkle, making this design perfect for both day and night events.

• Consumables:
• • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie “Ballet Slippers”)
  • Fine glitter polish or loose glitter
  • Nail art brush for swirls
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Start by shaping your nails into an almond shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to all nails.
   3. Paint most of your nails with red polish, leaving a couple for the nude base.
   4. Using a nail art brush, create swirling patterns with red polish on the nude base nails.
   5. Add glitter polish or loose glitter to one nail for a sparkling effect.
   6. Seal the design with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   7. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails moisturized and healthy.

Zebra Print and Red Nails

These nails feature a stunning combination of red, black, and white zebra print designs. The mix of solid colors and intricate patterns creates a bold and trendy look that is perfect for making a fashion statement.

Consumables:

• • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie “Licorice”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., OPI “Alpine Snow”)
  • Nail art brush for zebra stripes
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a combination of red, black, and white polishes.
   3. Using a nail art brush, create zebra stripes on the white nails.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Red and Leopard Print Accent Nails

These nails combine the classic red polish with a fun and trendy leopard print accent. The contrast between the solid red nails and the detailed leopard design on a nude base makes this manicure both stylish and playful.

Consumables:

• • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “A List”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Bubble Bath”)
  • Black and red nail polish for leopard spots
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish and one with nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, create leopard spots with black and red polish on the nude nail.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Bold Red Coffin Nails

These bold red coffin nails are a striking choice for anyone looking to make a statement. The bright red polish on the elongated coffin shape adds a touch of drama and elegance to any look.

Consumables:

• • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Coffin-shaped nail tips
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp
  • Nail file and buffer

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Shape your nails into a coffin shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
   3. Paint your nails with two coats of red polish, allowing each coat to dry.
   4. Seal the look with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and shiny.

Red and Black Glitter Nails

These nails feature a vibrant red polish paired with a black glitter accent. The combination of the bright red and the sparkly black creates a bold and glamorous look that is perfect for any occasion.

Consumables:

• • Red nail polish (e.g., China Glaze “Ruby Pumps”)
  • Black glitter polish
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish and one with black glitter polish.
   3. Apply a gel top coat to seal the design and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   4. Use cuticle oil to keep your nails moisturized and healthy.

Red Nails with Floral Accent

These red nails feature a delicate floral accent on one nail, adding a touch of femininity to the bold red polish. The combination of the vibrant red and the soft floral design creates a balanced and elegant look.

Consumables:

• • Red nail polish (e.g., Essie “Forever Yummy”)
  • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI “Bubble Bath”)
  • Black nail polish for floral design
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with red polish and one with nude polish.
   3. Using a nail art brush, create a delicate floral design on the nude nail with black polish.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat to add shine and protect the art.

Classic Red Square Nails

These classic red square nails are timeless and elegant. The bright red polish on the perfectly shaped square nails creates a sophisticated and chic look that is suitable for any occasion.

• Consumables:
  • Red nail polish (e.g., OPI “Big Apple Red”)
  • Gel top coat
  • UV/LED lamp
  • Nail file and buffer

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Shape your nails into a square shape using a nail file.
   2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
   3. Paint your nails with two coats of red polish, allowing each coat to dry.
   4. Seal the look with a gel top coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails healthy and shiny.