It’s so great when your nails match the mood of the season. For summer nail designs in 2025, we’re all about bold colors, simple but fun designs, and textures that make your nails sparkle. You can be a fan of bright colors, love simple styles, or just want to have fun with your outfits this summer. Here, I’ve gathered the newest styles that are easy to wear and full of fun and bright colors. Ready to find your next favorite mani? Let’s dive in.
Blue Wave Abstract on Short Nude Nails
The design of this summer nail is so hypnotic, with its wavy lines of electric blue over a soft base. This way of writing is trendy and chic without being too flashy. It’s cute and smart—a design that works as well for a casual rooftop hang as it does for a brunch date. This pattern is so perfect that it reflects the sunlight when you have an iced matcha latte in your hand.
If I were to recreate this design, I’d reach for OPI’s “Bubble Bath” as the base—a tried-and-true gel x nude—and for the blue curves, I love Orly’s “It’s Brittney, Beach!” in a high-gloss formula. You should also use a detail liner brush to create the swirls, and being patient will help a lot. The design thrives on asymmetry, so there’s no pressure to make them match.
Make sure to put on a rubber base coat before doing your nails, as it will help them last longer in summer. Apply two coats of your nude base and let them dry with the help of a UV lamp. Dip a thin brush in your boldest blue and sketch out the loose shapes, then cover the whole thing with a shiny top coat. Steph Stone, a nail artist, said that the key to abstract art is not overthinking it, and I completely agree.
This look is unexpectedly versatile and definitely one I’d recommend if you’re dipping your toes into minimal art with personality. I wore a similar outfit to a gallery opening last year and got compliments from people and fashion experts. The blue nails show that even the simplest nails can be the center of attention.
Bright Lavender Stiletto With a Glossy Finish
Let’s talk stiletto shape and summer power color: this high-gloss lavender is giving straight-up boss energy. It is bright, smooth, and says a lot without any extra details. The sharp point gives it a modern look, and the soft purple makes it look appealing and feminine. It’s ideal for those of us who like our nails to do the talking while sipping watermelon spritzers poolside. Being polished and playful, it’s easy to see why this is trending for 2025.
I’d suggest using The GelBottle Inc’s “Lilac You Lot” for that clean, creamy purple payoff. Their formulas are gel x friendly and ultra-pigmented. Remember to use a long-lasting base like the “BIAB” to avoid your nails from breaking. And if you’re going this bold, a high-gloss, no-wipe top coat is a must—think of it like the cherry on top.
Achieving this at home is simpler than it looks. After making the nails into that sharp point, put on your base coat and then two to three coats of lavender, allowing each coat to dry. Don’t rush it—thin coats are your best friend here. Finish off by sealing the manicure with the top coat and massaging your cuticles with jojoba oil. Elle magazine says that preparing your nails is half the battle to looking good.
I have been wanting this color ever since I saw it in a backstage NYFW post. It reminds me of the time when the sky would turn that color at the end of summer. It has a pretty look that is both appealing and soothing, making it a great choice for your next manicure.
Sunset Gradient With a Tropical Fade
There is a special moment before sunset when the sky turns into a soft peachy-orange color. That’s exactly what this manicure captures. It’s so soft, adorable, and perfect for taking pictures at sunset. The gradient goes from pale pink at the bottom to coral, tangerine, and yellow, similar to a tropical holiday in your nails. Bonus? The nail’s shape, which is squared off, gives it a 90s and preppy style.
You’ll want sheer, buildable polishes for that seamless blend. The songs “Ballet Slippers,” “Tart Deco,” and “Sunshine State of Mind” go well together. I use a little sponge and dab the shades, one on top of the other, to get a smooth blend. A creamy white base helps the colors pop even more—especially if you’re rocking summer nail designs short.
You can create this type of ombré effect at home with a little layering. Paint the base, let it dry, and then sponge the colors on in a gradual way. After cleaning up the edges, apply Seche Vite for a really shiny finish. Julie Kandalec, nail educator, suggests using a damp sponge to get rid of texture lines.
There’s something incredibly mood-boosting about this blend. It makes me think of eating popsicles outside without shoes and cruising with the music on. If you want summer nail designs that are pretty and easy to achieve, this one is perfect.
Peachy Orange With a Floral Twist
This style is great because it combines classic and modern elements. The base color of the nails is ready for summer, but the main attraction is the flower-covered accent nail. The bright orange and green tulips against the white background are simple and still have a cheerful feel. If you’re into summer nail design ideas 2025 that whisper “I’m creative” without shouting, this one’s for you.
You can do this task with a Sawyer base and a nail art brush or dotting tool for the tulips. I’d use OPI’s “Alpine Snow” as a base for the accent nail, then add dots and lines in “Cajun Shrimp” (for the petals) and “I’m Sooo Swamped!” (for the leaves). Choose between a matte or glossy surface to match your feeling.
I attempted to draw flowers in a similar way the last spring, using a small brush and being very patient. You can also try using decals or stamps if you don’t like painting. All in all, it looks like it was made with care and love. DIY art inspired by nature and nostalgia is set to be a big trend in 2025, says Allure.
There’s something cozy about this one—even though it’s bright. Maybe it’s the handmade feel or the tulips that remind me of my mom’s garden. Either way, it feels personal, and sometimes that’s the best kind of pretty.
Yellow and Pink French Tip Remix
This design is a mix of the classic French tip and features buttery yellow and candy pink in overlapping blocks that look like they’re from a Lisa Frank notebook. And yet, it works. She looks playful, bright, and gives off a lot of hot pink energy, but it’s not over the top. This nail art is perfect for you if you want a simple summer design but also want something with a little personality.
Color choice is everything here. If you like “Sugar Spun” by Olive &, go for sheer baby pink for the base. June. You can do the yellow with “Copacababana” from Essie, and for a splash of hot pink, pick “No Shade Here” from Lights Lacquer. Tape or stencil guides help keep those angles sharp.
Do two coats of your base and give it plenty of time to dry. After that, cover the diagonals or curves with tape and put down your accent colors, curing them as you go if using gel. After everything has dried, apply a high-gloss top coat to make it look professional. Celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik always says: He is correct that symmetry isn’t the most important thing in summer designs.
This look is giving “main character” energy. It’s a carefree style and goes well with everything, from a white dress to your favorite swimsuit. It’s a nail design that makes you feel like all is well, even if your hair is a little crazy from the beach.
Romantic Green and Pink With Gold Heart Accents
This is the manicure you wear when you’re feeling soft but still want a touch of depth. The way the deep green and blush pink are combined is a gentle but striking balance. The pink nails are connected by the little gold hearts, adding a touch of sparkle. This outfit has a light and soft quality, much like a picnic in the summer with fairy lights.
You can get this look by using Suzi – The First Lady of Nails for the green and Baby Take a Vow for the blush pink. I prefer to use gold foil hearts or stickers from Daily Charme because they are easy to apply and still look luxurious. Finish the paint job with a top coat to make it shiny and glossy.
If you are making this at home, start by buffing your nails and applying a base coat. Paint alternating nails in green and pink. When the nails are dry, put a dot of clear top coat or nail glue on each nail and press the gold hearts in place with a dotting tool or tweezers. A strong coat of gel will hold everything in place and avoid any snags.
I wore a version of this mani last summer for a garden wedding, and people couldn’t stop asking where I got it done. The way the simple colors are combined with different textures is both romantic and fashionable for the year ahead.
Beach-Glazed Glitter Ombre
Now this is what you wear when you want your nails to look like they’ve been kissed by sunlight and ocean spray. A lavender-to-blush ombré with gold and silver glitter makes the hair look like a mermaid’s hair on a summer holiday. Whether you’re headed for Cabo or just daydreaming at your desk, this mani brings the hot, sparkling magic of golden hour to your fingertips.
To get the same appearance, I’d use Beetles Gel Polish in “Lilac Love” and “Blush Baby.” A glitter that looks like the one in the Born Pretty mixed glitter kit, with its gold and holographic silver, will give that sparkling effect. You should use a sponge for the ombré and a flat brush to sprinkle the glitter in a natural way.
Put a white background on your nails and sponge two shades to make the ombré look vibrant. When you have finished curing, dab the glitter from the tips, working slowly downward to make it look like a falling star. Top coat generously—it’s what keeps everything sealed and smooth. Pro tip from celeb nail artist Gina Edwards: Putting glitter between layers of your design is good for both the shine and the durability.
I think this is great for any summer party, especially at beach weddings or when you are having a margarita under twinkling lights. It has a pretty, glamorous look and gives off a feeling of being radiant.
Hot Pink Meets Golden Glam With Swirls
The design is not shy at all; it’s hot pink, elegant, and artistic all at once. The white, nude, and gold lines in each nail give the nails a sculptural look. Its major gel x energy comes from its long, stiletto-like shape and the fine golden details. Total head-turner. This is the style you go for when you want to be the vibe.
Apply Gelish “Toky a Go Go” for a bright and hot pink base. Then, use a fine liner brush and paint the wave patterns with white, nude, and metallic gold striping polish. To get the best results, you should take your time and build up the layers with care.
Use your base color, then cure the area, and finally work on it with your detail brush. Draw flowing lines, use different colors, and apply the gold accents as the last step. Finish it off with a thick topcoat to make the texture smooth. It is better to warm up your hands a bit before doing detailed work, as it helps you control the brush better.
This lipstick is the summer’s bold version of a classic lipstick. empowering, radiant, and not afraid to stand out. It’s giving main character. And that’s exactly the vibe I want this 2025.
Modern Red French With a Shimmer Edge
This is a new take on the French tip that I didn’t realize I was missing. The white base is always in style, but the red glitter tips give a modern and sharp finish. A little bit of micro-glitter has been applied to one nail to highlight it. It is easy to use, looks nice, and has a touch of spice that makes it unique.
For this manicure, you should use “Alpine Snow” by OPI as your base color. I like DND’s “Ruby Red” glitter polish for the red, since it has just the right amount of sparkle. A striping brush or stencil will help you keep the tips of your hair clean and pointed.
After you have laid down your white base and let it cure, tape off the triangular shapes or draw them yourself with confidence. Two coats of red glitter, then a light scatter of loose shimmer (optional, but fun) on the accent nail. Lock it all down with a gel top coat. As Allure recently said, triangular tips are one of the biggest trends in nail design for 2025 and help make nails look longer.
When I want to look bold but not too much, I go for this style. She looks great in red lipstick and an evening dress. It’s subtle until it’s not—and I’m into that duality.
Juicy Ombre With Daisies and Studs
Do you really have summer without putting flowers on your nails at least once? This combo of orange and pink with 3D daisies is the perfect representation of sunshine. As the colors blend like a sunset sangria, the studs in the middle of each flower make a beautiful contrast. It has a happy and nostalgic feeling that is hard to resist.
I use Madam Glam’s “Juicy Mango” and “Rosy Nude” to create the ombré. You can make the daisies using 3D gel paint or stickers instead of sculpting them. You can get half-round studs for the centers in any nail art kit on Amazon or in your local beauty supply store.
First, fade your pink color with a sponge or brush from pink to orange. Cure between layers. Dot the petals with a tool, and then let the leather dry again. The studs are placed on the last, still-sticky layer of the top coat or a little bit of nail glue. Seal and shine. According to Mei Kawajiri, the trend of flower power never really disappears, and I agree with her.
This set gives vacation, daisy fields, and endless sunshine. For a pick-me-up or to add some smile to your nails, this is the perfect list of summer nail designs for 2025.
Playful Pastel Floral on Soft Pink
This manicure looks like a summer garden filled with sweet flowers. A soft pink background is covered with flowers that are hand-painted in white, yellow, and lavender. It has a sweet, pretty look and reminds me of a sunny porch with fresh linen and iced tea. The design is both comfortable and has enough detail to make it feel unique.
I would start with “Fiji” by Essie, as it gives a lovely creamy pastel look. If you want to do floral artwork, gel paints in the Le Mini Macaron nail art kit will let you have the colors and control you need. You can use dotting tools or ultra-fine brushes, depending on which one you are most comfortable with. A matte top coat could turn this look into a vintage-style if you want to dress it up.
If you’ve got time and a steady hand, this style will be easy for you to do yourself. Begin with your base and make it fully cured, then use a micro brush or dotting tool to sketch every petal and dot. Let the layers dry one by one, and finish it off with a shiny coat to keep the cheerful flowers in place.
This summer nail design is just so cheerful, bringing back memories and always being fashionable. It reminds me of Sunday picnics, the smell of sunscreen and daisies, and a good mood.
Lavender Leopard Print for Preppy Vibes
Say hello to your new favorite style of animal print. The look is both sweet and edgy, with a lavender base and purple leopard spots that are more on the fashionable side than tough. It has a style that would fit well on a tennis skirt or a modern crop top, making it one of the more preppy trends for 2025. The sunglasses are also very stylish when worn in the sun.
The color scheme you want can be found in Essie’s “Lilacism” or Modelones’ “Violet Dreams.” After that, use a dark violet nail art pen to add freehand leopard spots. You can even use stamping plates if you’re more of a tech girlie than a hand-painting gal.
Base coat first, then two solid coats of lavender. Let it cure. Use your tool to put dots on uneven shapes in dark purple, and it’s fine if they are not perfect. You can use a thin brush to add a few more details to the shapes if you wish. Apply a glossy gel top coat to get the best possible shine.
I go for this when I want something that looks cool and playful. It gives you summer nails with a modern and fashionable look, to be honest. It gives jeans and bikinis a touch of coolness.
Bold Tropicana With Black Botanical Linework
This one’s a hot, juicy cocktail of color. Bright pink, orange, and purple blend into one another in the graphic blocks, and the whole outfit is finished with fine black lines and tiny flowers that add a fashionable touch. It’s bold, artsy, and impossible to ignore—the kind of mani that turns a simple outfit into a full-on vibe. This is your go-to if you’re into trendy, statement nails that still feel wearable.
I’d use “Neon Pink Punch” by Lights Lacquer, “Tangerine Tease” by Cirque Colors, and “Grape Jelly” from Nailtopia to make this look. Brush the outline with a striping tool and black gel paint. If you do not like freehand, you could use a stamping kit for the detailed black botanical parts.
Use each color in a section, leaving the borders sharp and graphic. When the first layer is dry, go over it with a detail brush. Cure and top coat. Nail artist Betina Goldstein always emphasizes balance when it comes to bold colors—this mani nails it (pun intended).
While I was at a rooftop party, I ended up showing my nails to more people than taking pictures of myself. That’s how you know it’s doing its job. It’s not just cute—it’s a conversation starter.
High Contrast French With Graphic Edge
Here’s where French tip gets a full-on glow-up. This set is made up of a nude base, a pink accent, and a black mesh detail on one nail. It’s an editorial, it has a graphic style, and it gives me the feeling of a cyber-babe during summer. You’re not just going to brunch—you’re styling brunch.
You can use “Bare With Me” by OPI as your milky base, and for the hot pink, use “Rose Tinted Glasses” by Holo Taco. It is possible to achieve the netted effect by using foil transfer or stamping gel. The gel x set is very friendly because it has a good length and structure.
Make the shape into a long square and lay down your base. Apply the stencils or brush to your sharp pink nails, and then press the mesh print on the accent nail. Top coat generously to keep the lines crisp.
It would be great for a fun night out with friends or for a streetwear-themed shoot. The look is just bold enough, and not too much, which is why I love it for summer nails.
Glossy Neon Green Power Look
This glossy green is the “it-girl” move for 2025. It’s a bright, attention-grabbing color, just like someone who’s always busy and has a full schedule. Its almond shape makes it comfortable to wear, but the bright color turns it into an icon. If you’re the kind of person who’s always up for a trend before it hits Pinterest, this one’s your vibe.
The colors I would use are “Lime After Lime” by China Glaze or “Key Lime” by DND. A mirror-gloss top coat will help give your nails the stunning shine you’re looking for. Having a strong base coat prevents the dark colors from staining.
This one’s easy to do at home. Just do your nails, paint them with two layers of neon color, and finish with a glossy top coat. According to nail influencer Stephanie Stone, it is best to keep your cuticles healthy and your nails clean to make your nail art stand out.
This look makes me feel fearless. This is a fun and punchy song that seems perfect for iced matcha dates and lime green bikinis. This is perfect for those who like a little bit of simple drama.
Electric Citrus Waves in Retro Colorblocking
Summer could be described by this set of colors. These colors of lemon-lime, tangerine, and blue are scattered in a free-flowing, abstract pattern that looks really cool. This matte finish makes the look more stylish and still keeps it casual. It’s the type of nail design that instantly boosts your mood—sunshine in manicure form.
Use polishes like “Tropic Like It’s Hot” (lime), “Mango Mambo” (orange-peach), and “Blue-Tiful Horizon” by ORLY. You should use a fine detail brush to make those smooth wave lines. A matte top coat gives the whole look a modern and polished look.
To DIY, map out your color blocks with a fine brush and work one shade at a time, curing in between if you’re using gel x. Don’t stress perfection—it’s all about playful movement. Brittney Boyce, a celebrity nail artist, says color-blocking is the way to go for a bold look that isn’t too busy, and I understand why.
This one is pure energy. I wore them during a weekend trip to Miami, and they became an important part of my outfits. If you want your nails to speak for you this season, this is the look to go for.
Pink Leopard Pop in Soft Neutrals
This one’s for the cute, quiet rebels. Hot pink leopard spots instantly change the mood of a sweet, soft pink base. It’s a soft contrast that adds a little spunk, so it’s great for anyone who likes simple summer nails with a bit of a wild side. I think this outfit is perfect with both a white sundress and a pair of ripped jeans.
My choice would be Essie’s “Romper Room” as the base, and use a dotting tool with “Pucker Up” by Olive & June for the spots. If you’re not comfortable with freehand, you can choose leopard decals or stamping plates to help you out.
After your base has dried, use the dotting tool to make loose, irregular spots on your accent nails. If you wish for more depth, add some brush outlines in either pink or red. Lock it all down with a glossy finish.
I simply go for this set when I want to hear nice things without any effort. It has a bold look that is still suitable for everyday activities. However, it’s a trend, but one that still feels special to each person.
Teal Glitter and Chrome Mermaid Vibes
Put on this green-teal set with scattered glitter and a holographic silver accent nail for a serious ocean energy look. The gel x shine has a glassy and rich look, perfect for when you’re by the water for a long time. This manicure has the right amount of sparkles and solids to make it seem luxurious without being overpowering.
You can achieve this style by using Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Aqua Blue” for the base and adding Glitterbels’ silver chunky glitter or chrome powder for the accent nail. A glitter top coat is a good way to mix in sparkle with the rest of your makeup.
First, put on your teal base, then add glitter to your ring finger or the chosen accent. Press the sponge into the glitter to get the color out, and then apply a top coat to make it smooth. The 2025 trend report by Harper’s Bazaar lists oceanic metallics as one of the top nail polish finishes.
This is the type of nail art I’d go for on a cruise or when vacationing at the beach. They seem like they would cost a lot, and that’s what summer glam is all about.
Minimal Marble in Cool Tones
For people who love simple and elegant looks, this soft marble effect is perfect. A sheer milky base with swirls of black and gray gives off a soft and elegant look that works well with denim, silk, or anything else you choose for summer. It has a cool, creative, and slightly bold vibe that fits the non-basic neutral look.
To make the marbled look, apply “Mademoiselle” by Essie and then use a toothpick or nail art brush to mix blobs of gray and black while the base is still wet. If you like to have more control, gel polish and a thin brush are the best options.
Apply your base and cure halfway. Then, use a dotting tool or liner brush to put a few drops of darker colors and gently swirl them. Top with a glossy finish to smooth and seal. Pro tip: Make sure there is enough space between the swirls to give the stone a natural feel.
This always makes me feel like I am ready to go, without effort. These nails are modern, simple, and perfect for a summer look that is not over-the-top.
Ombre Meets Animal Print: A Sunset Safari
The design looks like the lovechild of a neon ombré and a wild safari theme. The combination of yellow, pink, and nude with leopard spots gives off a summery and fun vibe. I like that the print is used a little, making it stand out but not overwhelm the whole design.
Apply “Pink Lemonade” by Kiara Sky as the base ombré and use a little brush to dot black and brown spots with “Licorice” and “Coca-Cola Red” from Essie. If you put a nude sheer polish over the base, it will add a more modern and skin-like tone to the ombré.
After you have blended your pink into yellow, let it dry and then add a few spots to your nails. I really like the mix of beauty and power in this look.
This mani is so cool that it gets everyone’s attention. It’s summer confidence, painted nail by nail. Wear it when you’re in your main character era—trust me.
Classic Glossy Yellow for a Sunny Pop
There is something powerful about this simple, square set in bright yellow. This color is so bright and cheerful that it stands out all on its own. It’s clean, bright, and impossibly fresh. Think sunshine on your nails, plain and perfect.
For this result, you only need one product that gives both intense color and shine. I am a fan of “Sun’s Out, Buns Out” by Lights Lacquer and “Exotic Birds Do Not Tweet” by OPI. A high-shine gel top coat is also necessary, and you can try Seche Vite if you don’t want to use a gel.
Start with a base coat that fills in the ridges to get a professional appearance. Put down two layers of yellow, and then finish with the top coat. If you’re using gel x, make sure each coat is fully cured before layering. The color stands out when all the surfaces are polished and shine.
I decided to paint my nails yellow last August, and it was the most praised color for me that season. Yellow can really make your tan stand out, make your accessories shine, and put a smile on anyone’s face. Simple? Yes. Boring? Never.
Neon Orange and Yellow Geometric Energy
This nail art style uses bold orange and neon yellow to add a hot and graphic look. The modern and lively split design is similar to color-block bikinis and mango smoothies. It gives energy, youth, and attitude in every swipe. This is a confidently hot style for 2025.
For this exact high-impact payoff, use polishes like “Hi Viz” by DND (yellow) and “Don’t Be Spotted” by ORLY (orange). A detail brush or nail art tape will help you get clean and even edges. They look so good on square or almond tips, adding just the right amount of drama for summer.
First, apply the base color (I recommend yellow), then use tape or a striping guide to block off sections for your orange overlay. Work slowly—neons are pigmented but can be streaky. Give your nails a gel-like finish for that shiny and smooth look.
This reminds me of rollerblades, old fashioned swimsuits, and sunsets on the roof. It has a modern and trendy look, but also reminds me of the past. This is what makes it so great—it gives off a summery and fun vibe.
