Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new nail designs. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a picnic, or just enjoying the warm weather, having fabulous nails can make all the difference. But what if you’re a beginner or just want something simple yet stylish? Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll explore various easy & cute summer nails ideas that are not only stunning but also achievable at home. Let’s dive into the world of summer nail designs!
Neon Green Vibes
Neon green nails are a bold and vibrant choice for summer. This eye-catching color is perfect for making a statement and complements the sunny, lively atmosphere of the season. The matte finish adds a sophisticated touch to this otherwise playful shade.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Neon green polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Vibrant Vibes”
- Matte top coat: Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of neon green polish, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Finish with a matte top coat for that trendy, non-glossy look.
Iridescent Elegance
This simple yet stunning iridescent nail design is perfect for those who love a subtle yet chic look. The soft, pearly finish reflects light beautifully, giving your nails a unique, luminous appearance.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Iridescent polish: Zoya Nail Polish in “Leia”
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to smooth out the nail surface.
- Paint two layers of iridescent polish, ensuring even coverage.
- Seal the look with a glossy top coat for extra shine and durability.
Tangerine Dreams
Bright and cheerful, these tangerine nails are ideal for summer. The accent nail with a wavy design adds a fun twist to this classic color, making it a super cute option for any summer event.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat
- Tangerine polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Where Did Suzi’s Man-go?”
- Nail art brush for accents
- White polish for design: Essie Nail Polish in “Blanc”
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Begin with a base coat.
- Apply two coats of tangerine polish.
- Use a thin nail art brush to create wavy designs on an accent nail with white polish.
- Finish with a top coat to protect your art.
Neon Mix & Match
Combining bright neon shades like orange and yellow can create a super vibrant and fun summer look. This mix-and-match design is perfect for those who love to play with colors and want something bold yet harmonious.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann All About That Base
- Neon orange polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Orange Knockout”
- Neon yellow polish: Orly Nail Lacquer in “Glowstick”
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat.
- Alternate between neon orange and yellow polish on each nail.
- Apply a top coat to finish and protect your manicure.
Nude Sophistication
For a more understated look, nude nails are always a great choice. This simple and elegant design is perfect for any occasion and works well with any outfit.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Smooth-E Base Coat
- Nude polish: Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in “Cafe Au Lait”
- Top coat: OPI Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat.
- Apply two coats of nude polish, ensuring smooth and even application.
- Finish with a top coat for a glossy, polished look.
Berry Beautiful
Berry-toned nails are a classic choice that never goes out of style. This rich, glossy hue is perfect for summer, adding a touch of elegance and vibrancy to your look. The high-shine finish makes the color pop, creating a sophisticated yet fun manicure.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Berry polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Berry Fairy Fun”
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails and ensure smooth application.
- Apply two coats of berry polish, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Finish with a top coat to seal in the color and add extra shine.
Lavender Leopard
This playful lavender design features an accent nail with a chic leopard print, adding a fun twist to the soft purple base. It’s a great way to incorporate animal print into your summer manicure while keeping it cute and subtle.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat
- Lavender polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Lilacism”
- Black polish for leopard spots: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in “Black to Black”
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Paint most of your nails with lavender polish, leaving one or two nails for the leopard print.
- Using a dotting tool or a thin brush, create leopard spots with black polish on the accent nails.
- Seal the look with a top coat to protect your design.
Strawberry Delight
This adorable nail art features cute strawberry designs that scream summer. The combination of bright pink polish and intricate strawberry patterns makes for a sweet and eye-catching manicure perfect for sunny days.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann All About That Base
- Pink polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Make an Entrance”
- Green polish for leaves: Essie Nail Polish in “Mojito Madness”
- White polish for seeds: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of pink polish for the base color.
- Use a thin nail art brush to paint strawberry designs on your nails, starting with the red berries, then adding green leaves and white seeds.
- Finish with a top coat to seal your design and add shine.
Minimalist Lavender
This minimalist lavender design features simple yet striking red geometric accents, perfect for those who love a modern and clean look. The combination of soft lavender and bold red creates a unique and stylish manicure.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Smooth-E Base Coat
- Lavender polish: Zoya Nail Polish in “Malia”
- Red polish for accents: Essie Nail Polish in “Really Red”
- Thin nail art brush or striping tape
- Top coat: OPI Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to smooth out your nails.
- Paint all your nails with lavender polish.
- Use a thin nail art brush or striping tape to create geometric red accents on selected nails.
- Finish with a top coat to protect your design and add a glossy finish.
Coral Crush
Bright coral nails are perfect for summer, adding a pop of color that complements sun-kissed skin. This vibrant hue is ideal for beach outings and summer parties, giving your nails a fresh and lively look.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Coral polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Get Mod”
- Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat to protect your nails and ensure long-lasting color.
- Apply two coats of coral polish, allowing each coat to dry fully.
- Seal the manicure with a top coat for a durable and shiny finish.
Classic Red Nails
Red nails are a timeless classic that never goes out of style. This bright red manicure is bold and sophisticated, making a striking statement. The glossy finish adds an extra touch of elegance, perfect for any occasion.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Red polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Big Apple Red”
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of red polish, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Finish with a top coat to seal in the color and add a glossy finish.
Neon Green Manicure
Neon green nails are a fun and vibrant choice for summer. This bold color is perfect for making a statement and is sure to turn heads. The glossy finish enhances the brightness of the color, making it pop even more.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat
- Neon green polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Lime After Lime”
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of neon green polish, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Finish with a top coat to seal in the color and add shine.
Pastel Swirls
This pastel swirl design is both elegant and playful, perfect for summer. The combination of light blue and white creates a serene and refreshing look. The swirls add a touch of creativity and fun.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann All About That Base
- Light blue polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Bikini So Teeny”
- White polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”
- Nail art brush for swirls
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Paint your nails with the light blue polish.
- Use a nail art brush to create white swirls on each nail.
- Finish with a top coat to protect your design and add shine.
Deep Blue with Accent Nail
This deep blue manicure is sophisticated and elegant. The glossy blue nails are complemented by a single accent nail featuring a sleek design, adding an extra touch of style.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Blue polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Aruba Blue”
- Silver polish for accent: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Cheers to You”
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of blue polish on all nails except the accent nail.
- Paint the accent nail with silver polish and add any desired design.
- Finish with a top coat to seal the colors and add shine.
Floral Elegance
This floral design is perfect for those who love a touch of nature on their nails. The delicate flowers are painted over a soft pink base, creating a feminine and elegant look.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Pink polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Mod About You”
- Assorted colors for flowers: Essie Nail Polish in “Blanc”, “Mint Candy Apple”, and “Butler Please”
- Nail art brush for floral designs
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Paint your nails with pink polish.
- Use a nail art brush to create delicate floral designs with assorted colors.
- Finish with a top coat to protect the design and add shine.
Shimmery Pink Delight
This shimmery pink design is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your summer nails. The sparkling finish catches the light beautifully, making your nails look enchanting and elegant. This design is ideal for both casual and formal summer events.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Nail Envy Original Nail Strengthener
- Shimmery pink polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Strawberry Fields”
- Top coat: Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect and strengthen your nails.
- Apply two coats of shimmery pink polish, allowing each coat to dry completely.
- Finish with a top coat to seal in the shimmer and add extra shine.
Blue French Tips with Floral Accents
This modern twist on the classic French manicure features delicate blue tips and intricate white floral designs. It’s a chic and sophisticated look that’s perfect for summer, combining elegance with a touch of playful creativity.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann All About That Base
- White polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”
- Blue polish for tips: Essie Nail Polish in “Butler Please”
- Thin nail art brush for floral designs
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Paint your nails with white polish.
- Use a thin nail art brush to create blue French tips.
- Add delicate white floral designs with the nail art brush.
- Seal the design with a top coat.
Nude Perfection
Nude nails are always in style, and this design is no exception. The soft, natural color is perfect for a clean and polished look. It’s versatile and can be worn with any outfit, making it a great choice for summer.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat
- Nude polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Bare Dare”
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat to ensure smooth application.
- Apply two coats of nude polish, allowing each coat to dry fully.
- Finish with a top coat for a glossy, polished look.
Neon Green and Pink Combo
Bright and bold, this neon green and pink combo is perfect for those who love vibrant colors. The contrasting shades create a fun and energetic look that’s ideal for summer parties and beach outings.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Neon green polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Celtic Sun”
- Neon pink polish: Orly Nail Lacquer in “Beach Cruiser”
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Alternate between neon green and pink polish on each nail.
- Seal with a top coat for a long-lasting, glossy finish.
Minimalist Rainbow Tips
This minimalist design features clean, white nails with subtle rainbow-colored tips. It’s a modern and elegant look that adds a touch of color without being overwhelming. Perfect for those who love understated yet stylish nail art.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- White polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Blanc”
- Various colored polishes for tips
- Thin nail art brush for tips
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Paint your nails with white polish.
- Use a thin nail art brush to create rainbow-colored tips on each nail.
- Finish with a top coat to protect your design and add shine.
Tropical Orange and White Gradient
This vibrant orange and white gradient design is perfect for summer. The smooth transition between the two colors creates a stunning ombre effect, while the touch of glitter at the cuticles adds an extra sparkle. It’s a fresh and fun look that’s ideal for sunny days.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Orange polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Tangerine Tease”
- White polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Get Mod”
- Fine glitter for cuticles: Kiara Sky Sprinkle On Glitter in “Gold Dust”
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply a gradient of orange and white polish using a makeup sponge.
- Dab fine glitter at the cuticles for a sparkling accent.
- Seal the look with a top coat to ensure longevity and shine.
Pink Stars
This playful nail design features delicate pink nails adorned with glittery red stars. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of whimsy and sparkle in their summer manicure. The elongated shape of the nails adds elegance to the fun design.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat
- Pink polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Bubble Bath”
- Red glitter polish for stars: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Ruby Pumps”
- Nail art brush for star designs
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Paint your nails with pink polish.
- Use a nail art brush to create red glitter stars on each nail.
- Finish with a top coat to protect the design and add shine.
Pink Abstract Swirls
This abstract nail design features a mix of pink and white swirls with a touch of shimmer. It’s a creative and eye-catching look that’s perfect for summer. The combination of different shades of pink and the abstract patterns make this design unique and stylish.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann All About That Base
- Light pink polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Fiji”
- Dark pink polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Charged Up Cherry”
- White polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Blanc”
- Shimmery top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Top Coat Shimmer”
- Nail art brushes for swirls
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Use different shades of pink and white polish to create abstract swirls on each nail using nail art brushes.
- Apply a shimmery top coat for an extra touch of sparkle.
- Seal with a top coat to protect your design and add shine.
Pastel Marble
This pastel marble design is elegant and perfect for summer. The soft pink and white shades blend together beautifully to create a marble effect. It’s a chic and sophisticated look that’s great for any occasion.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: Essie Ridge Filling Base Coat
- Pastel pink polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Pink Cadillaquer”
- White polish: OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”
- Nail art brush for marble effect
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to your nails.
- Apply a coat of pastel pink polish as the base.
- Use a nail art brush to create a marble effect with white polish.
- Finish with a top coat to protect your design and add shine.
Green and Black Abstract
This bold and modern nail design features a mix of green and black abstract patterns. The contrast between the bright green and the black creates a striking look that’s perfect for making a statement this summer.
- Consumables:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Green polish: Essie Nail Polish in “Mojito Madness”
- Black polish: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Liquid Leather”
- Nail art brush for abstract designs
- Top coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat
DIY Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
- Paint your nails with green polish.
- Use a nail art brush to create abstract patterns with black polish on selected nails.
- Finish with a top coat to protect the design and add shine.
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