Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025: The Cutest Summer Looks in Style Right Now

In May, you start to feel more alive and your clothes, mood and nails all feel the same way. Whether you’re craving a fresh pop of color, a clean minimalist vibe, or playful art that channels sunshine and flowers, this season is all about having fun with your fingertips. This post is all about my favorite Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025, inspired by the start of summer. Ready to find your new go-to look? Let’s get into it.

Soft Sky Blue With a Minimalist Twist

There’s an easygoing feel about this blue and cream combination—it’s a bit like stepping outside to fresh air. The elongated shape of the oval almonds goes well with fingers and the stripes merge with the pattern beautifully. It’s giving minimalist, but not boring. It’s a style that is easy for May to pull off, yet always thoughtful. This nail style is sure to catch your eye and make you think, “That’s the look I was aiming for.”

To create this look, I’d start with OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” for that dreamy blue and Essie’s “Marshmallow” for the cream nail. For the stripes, a fine liner brush and a steady hand go a long way, or just tape off the stripes before painting if you’re nervous about precision.

I always put on a fast-dry top coat first, wait a bit and then add the tape when doing stripes like these. As a result, the color doesn’t come up when you remove the top layer. A coat of Seche Vite top coat will finish your manicure and make it look professional, even if you did it in your pajamas.

If you’re looking for a quiet style that still shows you pay attention to little things, this is the one for you. I had more people compliment my outfit at a baby shower last spring than they did my actual wedding dress. It’s delicate but smart.

Modern French With a Spring Green Pop

The updated French manicure here is perfect for spring. Unlike the usual white tips, this pair has a bright green stripe—it’s surprising, but still very wearable. A crisp white base keeps things clean and the touch of green adds a lively feel that’s great for the month of May. It’s like your nails are smiling a little. Squared-off nails give the house a modern look, but it still looks charming. This design is pure summer optimism in manicure form.

First, use Essie’s “Blanc” as your base coat and then use ORLY’s sharp and clear green “Moji-toes” for the stripe. Place striping tape or use a flat brush to add the color to the tip and then top it off with a high-gloss varnish for a professional shine.

Pro tip from editorial nail artist Betina Goldstein: if you’re doing a French tip with a color, apply the stripe slightly lower than the free edge to elongate the nails visually. It’s a small adjustment, but it has a big impact.

This is ideal for anyone who likes a new look but isn’t ready to try nail art. I took this outfit with me on a long weekend to San Diego and it looked great at the beach, for brunch and on the boardwalk.

Hot Pink With Chrome Accent Geometry

Now this is for the days when you’re feeling bolder. A strong fuchsia pink with chrome silver stripes gives a touch of attitude to a very simple base. Since the nails are short and squared off, the look feels modern instead of too much and they almost shout, “I’m the fun one!” without being pushy. The design for Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025 has to be unique and this one definitely fits the bill.

Making this yourself may seem tough, but it’s actually not that hard. I applied ILNP “Shocking Pink” and silver striping tape purchased on Amazon. Paint the color, wait for it to dry and then use tweezers to place the tape on the canvas. Apply pressure and then use two coats of top coat to prevent the paint from peeling.

A trick I’ve picked up from watching lots of YouTube nail tutorials is this. Don’t overdo the tape placement. You don’t need to do every nail to get the effect; just two can do the trick.

Whenever I wear a hot pink color, I feel like I’m a little more put together and a lot more fun. It’s a color that encourages you to go out for drinks on the roof or take a spontaneous drive.

Ocean Teal With a Sparkle Statement

It’s a manicure that blends fusion and kind of stands out. There’s a gentle shimmer in the polish, but the true highlight is when… A nail with so much glitter on it that it looks like a disco ball on your ring finger. It’s elegant, wearable, and totally summer-ready. It’s a beach look, but there’s enough glamour for a date. If you’re looking for a new nail idea this May 2025, shine and substance are a must.

For a DIY, use Zoya’s “Charli” for the teal and “Cosmo” PixieDust for the sparkle. They are both very clear and dry fast, so it’s easy to build up layers. Apply the glitter with a sponge if you’re aiming for a thick layer.

According to Tom Bachik, smoothing your nails with a buffer is a good idea before adding glitter polish. It allows the glitter to stay in place and prevents your nails from getting uneven.

The thing I like best about this design is how versatile it is. You might wear it to a spring wedding or simply because you’re bored with neutral colors. Either way, it’s going to shine—literally and metaphorically.

Peachy Nude With Daisies and a Citrus Twist

This is the definition of sunshine in a manicure. All of the art is about daisies on a peachy nude background, with just one orange nail to add a refreshing surprise. The balance is lively yet not juvenile, so it’s perfect for sunny May days and picnics. The nail is shaped long and slightly narrow which makes the floral design more visible. Of all the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025, this is my favorite.

To copy this, use “Peach Side Babe” by Essie, “It’s a Piazza Cake” by OPI for the orange and a dotting tool with white and yellow polish for the daisies. If I don’t have anything else, I use a toothpick or the end of a bobby pin.

According to celebrity nail artist Mei Kawajiri, adding a glossy orange on top of a sheer base makes floral nail art look more sophisticated. I’ve tested this combination on nails of all lengths and it always looks nice.

Every time I look at my hands, I can’t help but smile at the design. And isn’t that the whole point?

Lime Knit Texture That Turns Heads

This lime green manicure shows that nails can be a major fashion accessory. With its matte sheen and chunky raised stitching, it’s in between trendy and cozy. It’s a whole vibe—playful, bold, and definitely not shy. I really enjoy that this polish goes against the usual summer rule of having a smooth finish. Modernity comes from the square tips and the bright green color makes anyone happier instantly. If you want to try the latest nail art trends, this style is perfect for you.

You’ll need a matte neon green polish such as Cirque Colors “Kushy,” and a gel builder for the embossed look. You’ll need a fine liner brush and a bit of patience for this—this is for the girls who enjoy the whole process.

Once, I noticed celebrity nail artist Chaun Legend use builder gel to make press-ons look raised. His tip? After each pass, make sure to let the stencil harden, so it doesn’t blur the artwork.

If you’re tired of the same smooth manicure and want something new and exciting to touch, this is the perfect idea for you. It’s not your average manicure—and that’s the whole point.

Candy Pink and Blue Gloss Combo

If May made a playlist, this design would represent its cover. The bright pink and electric blue together are very noticeable, but the shiny finish makes it look chic. And those cute, short nails? So easy to wear. This idea is one of the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025 because it’s both visually fun and feels fun to wear. To me, this would be perfect with a white sundress, an iced coffee and a quick trip to Target that ends at a rooftop bar.

You should have Lights Lacquer “That’s the Ticket” for the pink and Olive & June “OMG” for the blue. Apply a clean base coat, put on two layers of nail polish and finish by topping your nails with a high-gloss gel top coat.

The reason this style is so easy to wear is that it’s not too round or too oval. The structure is just right, so it does not take away from the colors.

I wore the same color combo to a friend’s birthday brunch and so many people asked where I had gotten it done. It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed.

Pink + Green Optical Illusion Ovals

This combo is for the bold hearts. The combination of bubblegum pink and hunter green makes a striking oval design that appears as if it’s from a museum. The difference is clear, but the almond shape helps the look feel less harsh. I love that it looks like the nails were made just for that outfit. If you have a friend who loves thrifted finds and knows where to get great matcha, these are some Fresh Nail Ideas for them this May 2025.

If you want pink, use Essie’s “Cascade Cool,” and for the matte green, choose Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Jungle.” Draw the ovals with a dotting tool and then use a flat brush to fill them.

Britney Tokyo has demonstrated that properly sized geometric shapes can be very flattering on your nails. If you’re not sure, she always suggests tracing your design with a nude pencil before anything else.

If I were going to a concert or a creative pitch meeting, this is what I’d choose. It seems to help me start a conversation and feel more confident at the same time.

Velvet Shimmer in Multicolor Metallic

There’s something magical about this mix of moody metallics. Every shade of nail polish has its own feel, yet when you put them all together, it’s something special. They form a super cohesive, luxe moment. It’s the subtle sparkle that gives it that smooth velvet finish we’ve noticed on TikTok. These look like tiny galaxies on your fingertips. Although metallics are sometimes thought of as a fall trend, this month’s wild side is shining through—cool, textured and a bit mysterious.

These polishes from Zoya such as “Giada,” “Aubrey,” and “Aggie,” are great for making a multi-metal effect. Paint each nail twice, clean up the edges and seal it with a fine sparkle top coat.

If you’ve tried magnetized nail polish, it can make the velvet effect even better. You can see patterns of light by moving the magnet over the wet nail.

I was wearing something similar at a late May wedding and the string lights made everything so magical. They looked insane—in the best way. If you’re looking for a glam look without the glitter, this is the product for you.

Emerald Green with Minimalist Striping

This forest green moment represents elegance as it appears in nature. Its feminine shape comes from the long almond nails and the simple vertical stripe on the ring and middle finger keeps the look clean and simple. It’s totally wearable for work, but also has that fresh spring-in-the-park energy that makes you feel like you’ve got your life just a little bit more together. This style is perfect for the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025—it’s classic yet still has a twist.

Apply Deborah Lippmann’s “Laughin’ to the Bank” green polish and use silver or chrome gel as strips along the accent parts. A striping brush will work as long as you have a steady hand.

According to Miss Pop, vertical stripes can make your fingers appear longer and keep your nails in balance—so it’s a subtle way to look good.

I’d choose this manicure when wearing a light satin dress and stacking up my rings. It looks and feels like the best version of how you usually look.

Pastel Harmony with a Hint of Sage

It is as relaxing as taking a walk in the spring. If you’re not ready for bright colors, this mix of powder blue, blush pink and sage green on almond nails is the perfect option for a little seasonal update. The soft gloss finish gently reflects light which helps the colors seem both lively and stable. This style has a special cleanliness to it—it’s balanced, breezy and perfect for May.

My favorite way to achieve this look is by using Essie’s “Ballet Slippers,” OPI’s “Rated Pea-G,” and “Saltwater Happy.” You don’t need to plan too much—just mix the colors and let the design come together by itself. Paint two thin layers and then finish with a gel-finish clear coat.

If you have several pastels, Elle, a celebrity manicurist, suggests starting with a neutral-colored ridge filler. It makes lighter shades pop without looking chalky.

It’s a good choice for those who like a polished look but need something they can wear all the time. It’s gentle, stylish and quietly conveys that you care about fashion—without making a big deal about it.

Electric Chrome Green for the Daring

Let’s talk chrome. The bright green color of this manicure reflects light much like a sports car speeding through the city. It’s bold, draws attention and is undeniably daring, mainly because of its tapered almond shape. If you’re looking for a strong and daring manicure, this nail art is a must for your May mood board. It’s one of those Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025 that makes you feel like the main character.

To get this look, Daily Charme’s “Green Mirror Chrome” is used over a no-wipe gel top coat. The tackle coat needs to be buffed with a sponge, followed by adding a gel top coat for better and longer reflection.

Gina Edwards, a manicurist, has noted that chrome is a quick way to turn a basic shape into something fashionable and she’s right.

I’d choose this outfit for a night out or to cheer myself up in the middle of the week. It’s dramatic without being messy. It means, “I was there,” even if it was just for a simple brunch.

Classic Berry with a Luxe Twist

This color gives you the look of wine-stained lips without having to apply lipstick. Its classic almond shape makes it look timeless and the shiny finish brings it up to date. It’s easy to wear, romantic and never goes out of style, even for people who usually avoid bright colors. It’s like the perfect lipstick, but for your nails. May is the ideal month to move from bright spring colors to sultry tones without being too early or late.

I choose Essie’s “Bahama Mama” whenever I want a shade that’s somewhere between purple and red. Should you like a glossy finish, use Seche Vite to seal your mani.

Don’t forget to use cuticle oil if you’re doing your nails without acrylics. A moisturized foundation can turn your makeup from cute to expensive very quickly.

It’s one of the outfits I wear when I want to feel refreshed. It’s chic, a little sultry, but still spring-appropriate. It’s really versatile, much like the perfect pair of heels.

Groovy Purple Swirls with a Graphic Edge

Let’s get playful. The wild card in this manicure is the abstract swirl nail which stands out right away. It reminds me of the past, but it’s not overdone and the square shape makes it easy to wear. If you like to be different but don’t want to fuss with your nails, this is one of the best Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.

Lilac You A Lot from Lights Lacquer looks great when paired with white gel paint for the swirl effect. If you find it hard to make curves with a brush, use a stamping kit instead.

According to Natalie Minerva, putting the swirly nail on just one finger helps the other nails stand out.

It makes me think of bright days at the farmers market and drinking iced lavender lattes. It’s a great way to show your style, without being too much work.

Orchid and Yellow with a Graphic Bloom

Bold color combinations are very popular right now and this yellow and purple shows why. What makes it unique is the flower art on her ring finger—it’s simple, but really eye-catching and fun for May. The colors are bold, but they blend with nature and feel as if wildflowers have grown up in your backyard. If you enjoy bright colors, you should definitely try this idea among Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.

You should use OPI’s “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants” for the yellow and Essie “Play Date” for the purple in the base. Paint the flower onto your yellow nail using a black nail pen or micro brush after it has dried completely.

Celebrity tech expert Miss Pop shares that rounded petals and a black outline in floral designs give them more impact, but without making them look too cartoonish.

Honestly, this one feels like joy bottled into polish. I’d put it on for a garden party or to brighten up my Monday. In any case, you’ll find yourself smiling every time you look at your hands.

Blush Pink with a Lavender Glitter Accent

Soft clean pink is always stylish, but adding just one glittery lavender nail? That’s where things go from sweet to sparkling. The manicure is polished and pretty, so it’s ideal for brunch, weddings or even just admiring at your office window. Because it’s a rounded square, it’s easy to wear, no matter if you’re used to wearing sparkle. Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025 is all about simple designs with a new twist.

Apply “Baby Pink” from Olive & June and put OPI’s “Grape Shifter” on your sparkly accent nail for a mixed effect. When you use a peel-off base coat, the glitter will be easier to remove when you’re done.

I always feel a bit more elegant when I have this mani. It’s easy to wear, but still festive—and looks great with gold jewelry or a soft cashmere sweater.

Retro Diagonals in Citrus and Plum

The retro look of color blocking is updated here with orange, lilac, yellow and coral stripes crossing diagonally. It’s not too violent, but it’s still colorful and has a fun summer feel. It’s easy to picture yourself wearing this next to the pool with a tropical drink. Even so, the matte texture gives it a current and polished look. If you’re feeling bold and bright, these are the nail ideas to try this May 2025.

A flat nail art brush, tape or stencils will help you paint neat diagonal lines. Look for polishes like Zoya’s “Sawyer” (coral), Essie’s “Play Date” (lilac), and OPI’s “Don’t Tell a Sol” (yellow). A matte topcoat gives your nails a classy finish.

According to Madeline Poole, to make your bold manicure look elegant, make sure there’s balance by having a few plain nails with the rest. The fact that all the nails are the same makes this style work.

Whenever I put on something with a geometric pattern, I end up having conversations about it at coffee shops, on Zoom and even in the checkout line at Trader Joe’s. It’s just that kind of look.

Neutral Blush Meets Unexpected Teal

A soft and simple manicure like this includes just one teal nail for a little variation. The design is neat, the length is right and the colors are classic—but then there’s that burst of color. And that contrast? Genius. This design shows that you don’t need to be extravagant to be noticed. It’s subtle rebellion dressed in clean, blush pink. If you’ve been enjoying the quiet life, this is your perfect upgrade this May.

Use a soft nude like Essie’s “Minimalistic” for the main color, and “Stay Off the Lawn!” by OPI for the teal accent. The design looks great on short, natural nails that have a square or soft round edge.

According to celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, adding just one bright color to a neutral set can make it more special and he’s correct. This is proof.

I brought this on a weekend vacation and it worked perfectly for both coffee in the morning and dinner by candlelight. It’s quiet, but confident.

White Floral Pop with Cobalt and Tangerine

If you love art but hate fuss, this one’s for you. These nails are white, but the bold cobalt and orange flowers on top make them both fun and mature. White, orange and blue together just give off a summer patio vibe. The look is fresh, fun, and totally Pinterest-board-worthy. This idea is one of the top Fresh Nail Ideas to try this May 2025.

Paint an OPI “Alpine Snow” nail as the base and then use a small brush to apply blue and orange petals. Finish by putting a yellow dot in the center and finishing with a top coat.

Bold floral nails are a classic choice for summer, according to Hang Nguyen, a pro nail artist. Her tip? Hold the design toward the tip to avoid it getting covered as your nails grow.

I chose the same outfit for a friend’s beachside bridal shower and it stayed strong despite the sand, water and champagne. Bonus? They looked amazing in every photo.

Electric Indigo That Radiates Cool

This manicure with deep cobalt blue almonds is easy to do and hard to forget. Its shiny finish and strong pigment make it stand out on its own. It makes a big impact and draws our notice in positive ways. It’s a cool-toned color, but I still think it looks good on me. It’s sleek, smart, and totally wearable. If you like simple yet strong looks, this is your best bet for Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.

You won’t need many colors: “Butler Please” by Essie and “Royal Navy” by Orly are great choices. Applying Gelous or Seche Vite will make your nails look amazing.

Last year, Hailey Bieber wore a blue polish on vacation and it became a big hit online. Honestly, I can see why.

I find it amazing that such a bright color doesn’t require sparkles or art to stand out. Just shape, shine, and a little attitude. Done.

Petal Punch in Pink and Beige

Bold fuchsia, soft beige and floral art on your nails are sure to make you feel cheerful. The shoes have pink daisies and yellow stems on a nude background and are surrounded by glossy dark colors on both sides. Thanks to its almond shape, the logo is sleek and the use of both color and illustration makes it stand out and stay fun. This pair of scents reminds me of a cheerful spring moment and it’s a scent you can wear on your hands in May.

To recreate this at home, you can use a mix of gel polishes—try OPI “Coconuts Over OPI” for the nude, “Suzi Will Quechua Later!” for the fuchsia, and a fine nail brush with yellow and pink shades from a set like Beetles Nail Art Gel Color Collection. Apply a top coat that doesn’t need to be wiped to keep your design looking neat.

According to manicurist Jin Soon Choi, mixing different shades can help make nail art wearable and I think that’s true. The colors are just right, so the design doesn’t look too flashy.

It feels to me like I’ve just left a flower shop with a beautiful bouquet and a cup of coffee. It’s sweet, stylish, and delightfully expressive.

Soft Lilac Minimalism with a Matte Finish

Sometimes less really is more—and this design proves it. A matte finish of lilac on almond nails gives off a feeling of a gentle breeze in the shade. It looks elegant, doesn’t need sparkle to be chic and is quietly confident. I call this a “reset” manicure which is perfect when you want to feel like your usual self after a month of trying different looks. This look hasn’t lost its place in Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025, as it continues to feel very timeless.

For a similar shade, use Olive & June’s Can’t Be Beet and then finish with a layer of Matte About You for a matte look. Before using matte top coat, make sure to buff your nails so it sticks well and doesn’t leave any patches.

According to nail artist Deborah Lippmann, matte nails are the new French tip because they instantly improve any look without any extra effort.

I’ve put this shade on several cloudy spring days when I wanted to keep my look light but grounded. It’s similar to a hug in color: gentle, neutral and always there for you.