There’s nothing quite like the fresh pedicures you get during summer. I feel like spring has arrived when I see the sun, wear sandals and have some adorable toe nail polish. I’ve been noticing more interesting looks on feet this summer, with unexpected shades, smart touches and fun patterns. The vibe? Effortless, fun, and a little bit luxe. Whether you’re hitting up the beach, brunching with the girls, or just vibing on your porch with an iced latte, your toes deserve to show up for it. I’d like to share the designs I’m really enjoying at the moment.
Minimalist Glam with a Golden Line
This design is where minimal meets elegant. The base is a juicy green, but the real highlight is the super thin gold stripe that runs vertically down the center of each nail. Add a tiny, sparkling rhinestone flower near the cuticle, and you’ve got a look that feels polished without being overdone. The gold glitter in the polish looks wonderful in the sun—perfect for summer when you want to feel fancy, even in sandals.
I suggest using OPI’s “How Does Your Zen Garden Grow” as your base for an earthy green tone. You can use gold foil nail tape or, if you’re careful, apply Essie’s “Good as Gold.” The rhinestone flowers? You can use a pack from Amazon or from a local nail supply, but be sure to press the stickers into a top coat gel and cure them to secure them.
Mermaid Tail Texture
Having a pedicure in the summer feels like a bit of magic. This one resembles a mermaid, with the big toe covered in fine golden scales on a green nail. The smaller toes are held together by using both dark and light green finishes. This style of nail art looks like something a sea goddess would wear, but it’s still fun and grown-up.
No need to get ultra-complicated to recreate this. Grab a metallic stamp set (or a scale-pattern decal) and use a deep green like Zoya’s “Elphie” for that saturated base. Stamp the gold polish over your big toe and add the scale pattern. I’ve used Maniology’s kits before—they’re super beginner-friendly.
Matte Green with Silver Detailing
If you’re a minimalist but want some sparkle, this is the one for you. Every nail is covered in a rich forest green and a fine silver line is drawn across the big toe, finished with a single gem. The contrast between the matte base and the sparkle? Absolutely dreamy. It’s clean, it’s modern and I must say, it offers a quiet luxury.
If you’re trying to get this effect at home, make sure to use a matte top coat like Essie’s “Matte About You.” Using either a chrome gel and a nail art brush or a striping sticker will create a silver line. If you’re looking for a little extra sparkle, use flat-back gems inspired by Swarovski.
Retro Pop Art Meets Classic Red
Hello, dopamine nails! The little toes are covered in a bold cherry red and the big toe features a swirl in blue, lavender, pink and yellow. It’s enjoyable, a little flirty and makes me want to try cute summer nail designs. If you want to add color but aren’t ready for all-out neon or rainbow, this nail design is ideal.
Want to try this out? Apply Essie’s “Forever Yummy” to four toes and use nail stickers or decals for the big toe’s design. You can also draw the design freehand using a dotting tool and several pastel nail polish colors. If you want a mirror-shine on the finished gift, spray it with a thick glossy top coat.
Tangerine Pop with Black Dots
This is summer in a bottle. There is a beautiful orange, tangerine-like base on the nails, finished with scattered black dots for fun and fruity results. I get summer pedicure art ideas and have fun at the same time. I love this style for its ease and impact. It looks intentional but never tries too hard.
For the base, try “Tangerine Tease” by Sally Hansen. Once it’s dry, use a bobby pin or dotting tool dipped in black polish like OPI’s “Black Onyx” to create the dots—scatter them unevenly for a more organic feel. Finish with a quick-dry top coat if you’re on the go.
Tropical Sunset Ombre
This radiant gradient is the definition of warm-weather energy. The way the color changes from tangerine orange to juicy pink makes the finish seem like a tropical sky ending in a sunset. It’s shiny, smooth and gently hypnotic—excellent for a bold pedicure that still looks polished. I love this cute toe nail design because it always makes me feel better.
You can achieve the same look at home by blending with a sponge using “Summer Lovin’” from Olive & June and “Mod About You” from OPI. The trick is to put both shades on a sponge and tap it over white paint to get the fade.
Paint a base coat, followed by a coat of sheer white polish. After the top layer is dry, add the gradient to your nails a little bit at a time. You don’t have to clean up immediately; just do it later with a brush and acetone. When you’re done, put on a thick top coat to help your nails look glossy.
This look just screams summer vacation. I wore a similar outfit on a beach trip and got praised by everyone, including people I didn’t know. It’s not too bold and is comfortable to pair with any sandal.
Orange Floral Pop
The flowers add a cheerful island feel in an excellent manner. Most of the toes have a bright orange polish and the big toe is decorated with a group of simple flowers on a white background. It’s bright, cheerful and great for highlighting a tan or darker skin.
You should use Essie’s “Tangerine Tease” for the orange and “Blanc” for the white. You can either press the floral stamping plate or create the shapes with small brushes. A top coat with a glossy finish will highlight the print even better.
Start on the smaller toes, following up with the orange side of the nail; give it time to completely dry. Coat the big toe with white paint two times and then carefully stamp or paint the floral design using orange. If you’re using stamping polish, remember to seal it fast before any smudging occurs.
For me, this style brings to mind fruit smoothies and pool parties. It’s both easygoing and well put-together. You can’t have summer pedicures without trying out one of these cute toe nail designs.
Confetti Dot Sprinkle
I think it looks just like cake sprinkles: soft pink on the bottom, with rainbow-colored dots on the big toe. It’s a light and fun design and it still looks clean and comfortable. If you like simple nail designs, this version gives you a little bit of fun without making your nails too colorful.
For the base, I like “Ballet Slippers” by Essie. The dots can be created using a dotting tool and a few bright polishes like “Limonade” (yellow), “Mint Condition” (green), and “Candy Apple” (red). A random placement is all you really need.
Paint two layers of pink on the nails, then use your dotting tool to place dots of each color in a curved or sprinkled pattern. Use a top coat that leaves an effect of shiny gel on the nails.
I love how versatile this is. It matches well with white sandals or open-toe heels and it’s ideal for birthdays or picnics. My niece has given this a name that I think is perfect: “party toes.”
Geometric Black Luxe
If you’re feeling adventurous, try solid black nails with a modern silver design shaped like a maze on your big toe. It’s edgy, graphic, and full of texture. This is perfect for when you’re heading out at night, touring an art gallery or just feeling like a fashion editor.
Apply “Licorice” from Essie for a deep black finish and use a silver stamping plate on the big toe. Keep your stamp free of dirt and lined up straight, as this design looks best with sharp lines.
Stamp the silver pattern onto your black base after it has dried completely with stamping gel. Choose a stamper with a clear pattern so you know exactly where you’re putting it. After you’re done stamping, apply a protective layer of gloss to keep your nails smooth.
Whenever I put on a graphic nail like this, it feels like I’ve just finished a fashion show. This is one of those toe nail designs that aesthetic lovers will really enjoy. And it somehow goes with everything.
Iridescent Bubble Pop
Last but not least, this one’s pure fun. A neutral taupe base is topped with dots of pink, green and blue holographic glitter—and blue polish on the little toes. It’s modern and fun and the shiny surface adds a touch of luxury.
First, apply Zoya’s “Chantal” as your base and then add some iridescent dot stickers or use Cirque Colors’ “Hatch” as a holographic dotting polish. Try applying a bright electric blue like “Butler Please” from Essie to your smaller toes.
Apply the base and cure it fully. After that, put your dot stickers or paint circles of various sizes on the big toe. Put a thick clear layer on top to both seal your painting and bring out the bubbles.
What I like most is that this design doesn’t try to be too formal. It’s both popular and easy to wear and it adds the perfect amount of shine for your next rooftop brunch or evening walk. It’s true—these simple blue toe nail designs always look their best.
Red Sparkle Classic
Simple can be very striking and this glitter design shows that. It’s a classic, it’s attractive and it feels like the perfect little black dress for cute toe nail designs. The subtle shimmer below the surface gives the piece a little character without being too much. Suitable for any day or night, whether it’s hot or cool and full of stars.
I suggest beginning with OPI’s “Big Apple Red” and adding a touch of holographics by painting Zoya’s “Blaze” over it. This combination is lovely on every skin tone and feels extra luxurious with summer denim or gold anklets.
It’s simple to apply—red polish, let it dry, add a sparkle top coat and finish with a gel-shine layer. If you plan on using it at the beach or pool, cure it using an LED lamp.
Whenever I have a red pedicure, it makes me feel more confident. There’s something timeless and slightly retro about it, and honestly? I’d be happy to have Christmas sparkle in the summer if it looked this lovely.
Lime Fresh with Sporty Stripes
This pedicure is electric. The small toes are painted neon lime, but the big toe is white with silver and lime racing stripes. It’s sporty, modern and fresh—making tennis-core feel accessible and wearable.
To get the lime green, use China Glaze’s “That’s Shore Bright” and OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the clean white base. You may apply striping tape or use a detail brush and silver metallic polish to draw the lines.
First, paint the lime on every part of the foot except the big toe. Paint the big toe white twice, let it dry and then add your stripes using tape or a brush. A top coat prevents the design from peeling and makes the surface look smooth.
White sneakers and a sundress would make this look so adorable. It reminds me of Y2K fashion, but it’s still refined for today’s style. This is a toe nail design that is both cute and strong at the same time.
Ultra-Violet Glitter Glow
If you want a little glamour and excitement, this purple glitter design fits the bill. It’s bright, shiny and has a sparkle that encourages you to move your feet in the sun. Just imagine looking at the stars and drinking lavender and that’s a summer mood right there.
You might like the shade “Let’s Boogie” from Lights Lacquer or “Purple with a Purpose” from OPI. Apply a layer of holographic shimmer polish on top to get a stunning galaxy shine that’s not chunky.
Paint the purple color twice, wait for it to dry and finish with a sparkle top coat. Use plenty of clear top coat to level everything and prevent chips.
It makes me feel a little more confident right away. It’s a fun nail design that can be worn at the pool or for a fancy dinner.
Psychedelic Stripe Party
If summer were a pedicure, this might be it. A colorful pattern of neon orange, lime green and purple swirls across the big toe and the rest of the nails are kept bright purple. It’s playful, fun, and has major summer pedicures art ideas energy.
First, apply Orly’s “Fabulous” and then draw wavy stripes on top using neon green, orange and peach. Using nail striping polish pens can make it easier to create your design.
Paint the toes, except for the big one, in purple. To make the wave effect, curve the stripes for the big toe in opposite directions. Don’t hurry—use a dotting tool to smooth the edges before you gloss over the painting.
This one screams summer fun. I wore something like that during a music festival and every friend wanted to take a picture. If you’re looking for a cute nail design for summer 2025, this is perfect for you.
Turquoise Splash with Glitter Accent
Turquoise is always a top summer choice, but adding a glittery accent to just one toe? Genius. The teal polish looks soft and beachy and the glitter on one toe adds some extra shine. It’s peaceful, stylish and a bit elegant, but not in a showy way.
Apply Essie’s “Turquoise & Caicos” for a smooth solid color and “Set in Stones” for the thick glitter. Apply the glitter on the toe next to your big toe to keep things even.
Paint all your nails with two coats of turquoise, but leave out one for the glitter. To make the glitter toe stand out, put it over a base coat that is clear. Ensure a smooth effect by applying a good top coat over your nails.
This is a style I wear when I need something fast but still want to look stylish. It’s easy, it’s cute, and it works with flip-flops, wedges, or barefoot walks on the beach. Definitely a go-to pedicures summer moment.
Refreshing Green Marble and Gold Accents
Summer makes it easy to try bright, nature-themed nail designs and this green marble with gold accents is both eye-catching and elegant. The deep green looks great against the marbling and the gold lines make it look elegant. It’s a style that combines boldness with sophistication, so it can be worn for any occasion. If you enjoy a little luxury alongside natural scenery, this design could be perfect for you.
Creating this look at home is surprisingly easy. Use a thick layer of dark green polish as your first step. Afterward, take a nail art brush and blend the lighter green and white polish to make the marble effect. Add a little bit of gold using a fine brush to round out the attractive marbled look. Adding a top coat will give your nails an extra shine. It takes some effort, but you’ll end up with a beautiful masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a manicure that looks both elegant and modern, I would definitely suggest this design. Its luxurious feel comes from the marble which also makes the room look very calming and relaxing.
Soft Pink Glitter Gradient Pedicure
A simple soft pink glitter gradient is the perfect choice when you want your nails to look “easy, breezy” in summer. Its design is light and playful, so it’s perfect for spending time at the beach or on a casual night. The base is soft pink and the glitter finish at the tips makes for a lovely ombré look. It’s a great way to look relaxed and have fun during the summer.
To replicate this gradient look, start by applying a soft pink polish to your toenails. When the base coat is dry, take a sponge and dab glitter on the tips, putting more glitter at the top and less as you reach the bottom. After you’re finished, apply a quick drying topcoat to secure everything. This style is perfect for summer and the glitter gives it just the perfect touch of shine.
For a poolside brunch, I’ve worn something much like this and it really makes the season feel more relaxed. It’s so simple to achieve and the sparkles make every step feel a bit happier.
Shimmery Silver and Baby Blue Pedicure
If you’re looking for a brighter look, pairing silver with baby blue will make your outfit stand out. The majority of the toes are in pastel blue, giving a soothing look and the silver glitter nail adds just the right amount of excitement. It’s a light and airy manicure that’s ideal for summer nights.
For this design, apply a solid coat of pastel blue on your toes, and let it dry completely. Paint the silver glitter polish only on the accent nail, so it begins at the tip and fades lower. Before you’re done, add a shine-enhancing topcoat for a top coat. The secret is to blend the gradient smoothly so the shimmer is not too strong.
This design always makes me feel as if I’m walking in the sky. Even though the colors are blue and silver, the glitter keeps the design light and enjoyable.
Fuchsia and Rainbow Glitter Pedicure
Want to upgrade your summer pedicure? A fuchsia nail polish with rainbow glitter will definitely catch people’s attention. The fuchsia makes the look dazzling and the sparkling glitter on one toe adds some playful touch. It’s outgoing, full of color and not for those who are quiet. But if you’re looking for something different, this is just right for you.
You can create this look by first painting all your nails with a vibrant fuchsia polish. Then, on the accent toe, paint a basic color and then add a glitter polish that fades a bit for a fun look. A glossy topcoat helps to seal everything in place.
When you choose this design, you’ll feel like you’re surrounded by a sea of colors. It’s a manicure that really brightens your mood and it’s great for any summer event.
Yellow and Pastel Swirls Pedicure
The color yellow reminds us of the sun and this cheery, pastel pattern is perfect for enjoying summer. It’s a tiny piece of art on your feet, with soft yellows and calming blues blending for a pleasant and bright effect. The kind colors help make the design feel calm, yet the curves running through it give it a unique impression.
To achieve this look, paint your toenails with a soft yellow base. When the nails are dry, use a thin brush and dab soft swirls of pastel blue and peach over the nails. A little topcoat will maintain the design and give it a nice, shiny look.
I used this design at a summer gathering and it was just right for a fun and elegant occasion. It’s a design that makes you feel special, as if a bit of sunshine is always with you.
