When the sun starts heating up and sandals become our go-to, it’s officially time to give our toes the spotlight they deserve. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, celebrating a birthday, or just craving a fresh look for your everyday fits, May toe nails ideas 2025 are here to deliver. From bold blues and dreamy greens to soft florals and glittering chrome, this season’s pedicure trends are all about self-expression, color play, and mood-lifting designs you’ll want to show off all summer long.
Fresh Emerald Sparkle for a Playful Kick
The strong green in this area is also very confident. This shade gives off a vibrant energy that instantly brings to mind sun-drenched picnics, grassy fields, and garden parties where you’re sipping something minty. I’ve always liked the way green looks with light and this sparkly version is even more impressive: it sparkles but still looks mature. The best and most creative May toe nail designs will be seen in 2025.
To recreate this moment, I’d reach for something like OPI’s “I’m Sooo Swamped!” layered with a coat of Orly’s “Shine On Crazy Diamond” for just the right amount of glimmer. Finish your nails with Seche Vite’s dry-fast topcoat — people love it for a good reason. You can achieve the same look you’d get from a salon by using these products at home.
Ensure your nails are shaped and smooth to make applying for a good start. Applying a base coat and allowing it to dry first will make the rest of the green layers go on much better. Gently touch the sponge’s glittery part to the nail for a nail art effect. Finish with a high-gloss topcoat for serious durability.
I usually choose this bright green for my pedicure when I’m getting ready for a fun season. It’s a fun style that goes perfectly with simple summer outfits. If you’re someone who usually avoids green — this one’s your entry point. Trust me.
Cool Blue-Grey for Understated Elegance
There’s a special charm to a light blue pedicure that has just a hint of grey. It’s a peaceful place, yet not dull and it has style without being loud. The polish’s minimalist style is perfect for women who want their toes to blend in with their outfit, but still want to look fashionable.
If you’re going for this style, you can’t go wrong with “Mind-Full Meditation” from Essie or “Angelfish” from Olive & June. Their formulas apply buttery smooth, which helps if you’re doing your own pedicure. They also look great on every skin tone, especially dark skin, where they stand out without being too bold.
This look is beginner-friendly. After your prep (cuticle push, file, buff), go in with a strengthening base coat. Paint two layers of color, ensuring you wait 2–3 minutes in between to avoid bubbles. Topcoat the edges of every nail to keep them from chipping over time.
On Sundays when I’m feeling lazy, I’ve painted my nails this color while watching TV and drinking matcha — it always seems effortless, but it’s still a look. This color matches well with linen sandals, jeans or a beach cover-up. A style that looks great no matter what your plans for 2025 are.
Soft Lemon Pop with a Rhinestone Detail
If joy were a color, this would be it. The bright yellow color of this sandal looks like the sun and the little rhinestone on the big toe? Pure elegance. It’s perfect for any birthday, brunch or just to flaunt your pedicure. There’s something really special about bright pastels like this — they add fun without looking childish, and they flatter literally everyone.
I suggest using China Glaze’s “Lemon Fizz” or DND’s “Pastel Yellow” and adding Swarovski crystals or Daily Charme nail gems. A reliable nail glue and some curved tweezers will make it easier to place your gems precisely.
If you’re using a lamp, apply a pale yellow gel polish and cure it between each layer. Once you’ve finished curing, cover the design with a no-wipe topcoat and press the stones in using a dotting tool, then flash cure them. Finish with another layer of topcoat around (not over!) the gems for hold.
I tried a similar look for a close friend’s summer wedding, and it held up beautifully. I’ve kept a small collection of stones in my pedicure drawer, just in case I want a bit of sparkle. I think this look is one of the most celebratory ideas I’ve seen for nails.
Daisy Dreams in Baby Blue
There’s just something sweet and nostalgic about baby blue toes decorated with tiny white daisy petals — it’s like stepping into a ‘90s daydream. It looks young, but not too young and it’s still wearable. The small gold studs scattered around the daisy add interest and a little more detail, but they don’t make the piece seem crowded.
To pull this off, I’d go with Sally Hansen’s “Babe Blue” as a base and use a fine-tip dotting tool with white polish (try OPI’s “Alpine Snow”) for the flower. The gold accents? A metallic nail pen or pieces of foil sealed in with a shiny topcoat can be used.
This isn’t the easiest design, but it’s definitely worth your time. After you finish your base, use white paint to dot five petals in a circle and add a central gem or gold dot in the center. Add a gel-like topcoat so you will get the most even and attractive shine.
My inner DIY-artist lives for these kinds of designs. It’s a small area to work with and even when you make mistakes, it still looks lovely. This is the type of design that beginners step by step art could work towards — easy tools, pleasing results.
Electric Indigo with Silver Sparkle Accent
Welcome this indigo and cobalt blue shoe with a silver-glitter toe that is sure to catch your eye. May’s energy is captured in this style: it’s bold, unapologetic and a little rebellious. Imagine music festivals, wearing jean shorts, drinking iced lattes and having no plans until Sunday. This is 2025 summer mood in nail form.
The best way to recreate this? Apply Cirque Colors “Majolica” or Essie’s “Butler Please” as a base and then add ILNP’s “Mega” chrome silver glitter on the accent toe. If you’re in the mood for something special, add a holographic topper to give it a shiny disco look.
Start with a clean canvas and hydrate your cuticles. Place the blue on the nail surface and cover the toe with two layers of the silver sparkle. Remember to put on polish after everything else — you don’t want your big toe ruining the look.
Matching my nails and toes in cobalt is always a fun idea with this one. It’s also flexible: you can wear it with white sneakers, tan sandals or just barefoot outside. No notes. Just wear it.
Grape Jelly Shine with Glitter Pop
A rich, purple color with a sparkling glitter on the big toe? Yes, please. This look is both fun and elegant, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to keep it playful without losing style. The glossy look brings a glassy feel and the glitter adds a little shine to make the nail polish feel unique. It’s what I look for when I want a bold color but not a bright one. Another win for may toe nails ideas 2025.
You can use ILNP’s “Violet Femme” or OPI’s “Do You Have this Color in Stock-holm?” to get this look. For the glitter? If you like, try “Orchid-ing Me?” from KBShimmer — it’s perfect for both night and day. Maintain the steps by applying a gel topcoat which will help everything stay in place for a longer period.
It’s simpler to create this glitter accent than you might imagine. Apply purple nail polish as your base, let it dry and then press glitter polish onto your nails with a makeup sponge. Make sure to use two layers of topcoat to get the polished salon look.
I put this on once at a summer concert and it looked amazing with the string lights. If you’re tired of your usual light shades, this lipstick stands out and keeps your look stylish and seasonal.
Classic Raspberry Gloss That Never Misses
I always return to this pink raspberry shade because it’s classic, looks great on everyone and makes your feet look well taken care of. The look is just as good with a linen sundress as it is with edgy sandals. The color is deep, it shines nicely and you don’t have to put glitter or nail art on to complete the look.
If you want this color, try Essie’s “Watermelon” or Butter London’s “Dahling.” If you like gel, try Gelish’s “Gossip Girl” — it will stay shiny and fresh for a long time.
You can do this manicure yourself with just one color. After you’ve trimmed and shaped your nails, push your cuticles back, wipe them with rubbing alcohol and then paint two coats of color. Give it some time after each layer, finish with another layer and then seal the artwork with a topcoat.
This color brings to mind my favorite market strawberries which are always sweet, summery and always available. To be honest, if you’re unsure about your next 2025 pedi color, this one always works for me.
Heart-Dotted Red That Says Summer Romance
This design of a red and white heart is just as sweet as it is easy to wear. It combines a bit of flirtation with a polished look, resulting in a major retro pin-up vibe that’s still modern. The heart pattern isn’t just cute — it gives that graphic element that catches the eye in the best way. Imagine having drinks on the roof, enjoying iced spritzers and feeling that romantic what if feeling.
Simply use OPI’s “Big Apple Red” on all your nails and add OPI’s “Alpine Snow” hearts using a thin pen or a dotting tool. If you’re just starting with nail art, choose heart-patterned stickers or stamps to make it easier.
If you want to paint it yourself, first paint the base red and let it dry. After that, use a dotting tool to make two dots and pull them together to make hearts. It takes patience, but it’s worth it. Add topcoat once dry.
When I wore this last May for a girls’ trip, people I didn’t know would always compliment me whenever I took off my sandals. Such details help your look stand out and you don’t need any accessories to achieve it. Cute without trying too hard — that’s the vibe.
Sunset Ombre with Glitter Drama
Orange and red in a gradient? Groundbreaking — in the best way. This mix of orange, red and neutral hair with glitter at the base looks like the sun is shining on you. It’s like a cocktail on a rooftop. Include the micro-glitter and white dots and you’ll have one of the trendiest manicure ideas for 2025.
Pick up the DND trio of “Orange Sunset,” “Cherry Red,” and a beige called “Milkshake.” Use a sponge to apply makeup so that it blends evenly and isn’t thick. You should try a glitter mix that has several sizes, like the one from Nail Supply Glam’s loose glitter pot.
Once you’re done prepping, use a sponge to paint each third of the nail in its color and then stamp it onto your nail. Keep repeating until the nail is opaque, then add some glitter at the base and finish with a gel top coat.
To be honest, this makes for a perfect pedicure during birthday months or special weekends. I’ve also worn this to the beach and the sparkle? Unmatched in sunlight. Total main-character energy.
Ice Blue Meets Silver Sparkle Luxe
With these light blue and chrome silver colors, you’re getting a cool-toned, futuristic look for summer that you didn’t even realize you wanted. Even though it’s soft, the silver glitter and rhinestone make it stand out — like when your outfit becomes perfect because of your accessories.
You should use Zoya’s “Blu” or Cirque’s “Skylight” as the base polish. For the chrome glitter, use nail foil or a shimmer-heavy polish like OPI’s “Turn On the Northern Lights!” Adding rhinestones from Daily Charme or Amazon’s nail art sets finishes the style.
Paint the blue base first and let it dry after. Brush glitter polish or foil onto one side of the big toe with a detail brush. Put a drop of nail glue and then use tweezers to set the gem in the middle of the nail. Cure if using gel, then topcoat.
This combo feels like modern elegance without overdoing it. I’d definitely pick this for a wedding in summer or a weekend trip. It’s a nail style that’s a little different, but it’s easy to wear with a basic T-shirt and jeans.
Hand-Painted Florals on a Cool Pastel Canvas
The combination here is just right for the season — a light purple and green floral on a milky white background, with light blue on the rest of the toes. It seems like I’ve just spent time at a farmer’s market. That little flower detail is beautiful, especially because it’s intricate and elegant. It’s a standout among may toe nails ideas 2025, especially if you’re into toe designs that whisper instead of shout.
This look requires precision. Essie’s “Find Me an Oasis” is a good pastel to use as the base. For the flower art, use fine brushes and polishes like DND’s “Grape Jelly” (for petals), “Mint Mojito” (for leaves), and “Sunshine State” (for the center). A dotting tool or detail brush is essential.
Unless you’re skilled at nail art, just paint your nails blue and let them dry or cure before moving on. At this point, paint in the petal shapes and deepen some by adding more color, as well as lighten other places with a brighter shade. At the end, coat your ticket with a fast-drying, protective layer.
Once, I did a similar look for an engagement party in the backyard and someone thought my toes had been painted at an art gallery. If you like to focus on the finer points and don’t mind taking your time, this is the design that will impress people.
Glossy Teal That Screams Poolside Chic
I can picture this color by the pool, along with some large sunglasses and a citrus drink. The shiny finish reflects light well and makes you look like a cool girl on vacation. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to wear color but doesn’t want to commit to art or glitter.
If you want a salon-quality look from home, try either Gelish “Amazon Flirt” or OPI’s “Teal Me More, Teal Me More.” The colors glide on easily and keep their shine for several days. If you want your makeup to last all day, use gel.
This look is all about clean execution. Make your nails square and with softened edges, put on a base coat and then apply two layers of teal. Trim the uncovered wood and apply a drying topcoat that gives a shine.
I always reach for this when I’m at the beach, since it looks great with both light and bright outfits. A simple 2025 pedicure that helps you look polished without trying too hard.
Hot Pink Zebra for Wild Summer Vibes
Okay, how fun is this? With a bright pink base and clean black zebra stripes, this nail color feels perfect for summer and brings a fun Y2K style. The lines are clean, the colors are strong and the design is always very bold. It shows that having wild ideas doesn’t stop you from creating fun and wearable looks.
Sally Hansen’s “Pink Blink” or Orly’s “Beach Cruiser” makes a good base for this look and a striking black edge. You can either draw the zebra stripes by hand or use a stamping plate to get them all the same size.
Apply your base pink color, let it dry or cure and then continue. After that, use a thin nail art brush or press your design onto your toes. Don’t make the lines perfectly straight to keep the style natural. It’s important to seal the paint or the stripes may soon disappear.
To be honest, I really enjoy this when I’m feeling playful and confident. It’s like adding an accessory without wearing one. Denim skirts, swimsuits or any time you want a bold pedicure—that’s when you choose this color.
Matte Noir with a Monochrome Pop
If you love black but want to stand out, this is for you. With its sleek matte finish and one white and zebra striped accent toe, the shoe offers depth, luxury and a bit of style. It’s the kind of design that appears laid-back, but it still pays attention to the finer points. This is a must-have for the cool minimalist types in the may toe nails ideas 2025 group.
Using Zoya “Dovima” or Essie “Licorice” matte black polish and finishing with a matte topcoat will give you the look. To get the zebra look, use OPI “Alpine Snow” as your bright white and a thin striping brush.
After you’re done prepping, paint every toe except one in black and top it with matte topcoat. First, add white polish to the accent toe and then use a gentle curve with black to give it an animal print look. Glossy top on just the striped toe adds contrast.
I’ve paired this with both slides and heels and it always gets me compliments. It may be simple, but it’s never dull and makes a good choice for any capsule nail wardrobe.
Metallic Red Meets Denim Chrome
The mix of molten orange, fire red and dusty blue in the chrome finish means the design appears to move like oil on water. It’s bold, it’s glamorous and it’s not what you’d expect for toes which makes it perfect. The shimmery look is adding a touch of excitement to late-night events, healthy-looking skin and some drama.
You’ll want a metallic polish with a duochrome finish. I got good results using ILNP “Brilliance” or Born Pretty’s magnetic gels. You should use a magnet wand for the shift, especially when applying cat-eye gel.
After the base coat dries, paint each nail with the duochrome, then hold the magnet wand over it until you cure them. This pulls the pigment into soft waves of color. A gel sealer applied at the end will give you the best results.
This always happens to me whenever my toes feel the warm sun. It’s not what you’d expect, but it’s wearable and it takes nail art into a modern and artistic place.
Sage Simplicity for Everyday Calm
There’s something soothing about green when it’s this soft and muted. The earthy feel of this sage polish makes it perfect for wearing with linen and on the beach. It’s minimal without being boring — exactly what I reach for when I want to feel fresh, feminine, and pulled together. There is no shine or art — only straight lines and a strong shine.
I’d recommend Olive & June’s “WKF” or Essie’s “Can Dew Attitude” to get this look. Two coats of these soft shades are needed and they look their best on dark skin and tan toes. If you want a gel, Beetles’ “Mint Green” is the perfect choice.
If you’re moving on from pinks and whites, this is a good starting color. Just buff your nails, clean your cuticles and wait for them to dry after applying two coats. A glassy topcoat seals it in beautifully.
I’ve taken this on weekend trips because it’s stylish and matches almost anything I wear. It’s an easy-to-do idea that still looks very fashionable.
Glitter Fade on Sheer Blush Pink
The moment I saw this look, I thought: elegance. The soft white glitter fading from the pink sheer base makes it look like fairy dust blowing in the air. It’s light, gentle and ideal for weddings, brunches or whenever you want to look your best without trying too hard. A pedicure that looks good with heels as well as when you’re walking barefoot.
Fist, apply OPI or Essie’s natural pastel polish for the base and finish with glittery Cirque polish on top. Dip a makeup sponge into cosmetic-grade glitter if you want to control how quickly it fades.
First, apply two coats of sheer polish and then use a sponge to add some glitter only at the tips, fading it out as you go toward the base. Finish with a high-shine topcoat. As a result, the hair has a soft ombré that looks stylish with no effort.
It’s a great birthday pick because sparkle has a quiet celebratory feel. It’s also very easy to wear, even if you tend to stick with neutral shades.
True Blue Pop of Summer Fun
A bright blue nail color looks amazing when you’re wearing sandals and enjoying the sunshine. The color is bright, cheerful and will make your shoes stand out against both denim and linen. It’s a mix between electric and classic and it’s definitely one of the best nail colors for 2025.
I prefer to use Essie’s “Butler Please” or Lights Lacquer’s “Send Noodles” — they cover well and keep their color. Acrylic toes look amazing when paired with this color and a sculpted shape.
This one’s all about precision. Use a clean base, base coat, two coats of blue and finish with a glossy top. Let each layer dry fully to avoid bubbles.
Whenever I wear this blue, someone always asks me what color it is. It makes you want to dance — it’s full of energy, fun and just feels right for summer.
Minimalist Leopard on Snow White
The combination of animal print and clean lines is seen in this white pedicure which has just a single black and brown leopard accent. It’s popular because it’s not too busy — it’s bold, simple and works for everyone, even if you usually avoid patterns. A great way to add some fun to white french or solid designs.
Begin with OPI “Alpine Snow” or Beetles gel “A1” for the best clean base. For the spots, use a dotting tool with black and a warm brown (like Essie “Cliff Hanger”) and lightly layer the dots to create irregular shapes.
After painting the white base, let it dry. Now add some small uneven areas — this design looks best when it’s a bit messy. Finish with a sealing topcoat.
It’s a great choice for people just starting out in nail art — it’s simple, gives a cool edge and adds some extra style to basic toe nails.
Minty Daisy with Gold Foil Accents
If you’re looking for a soft and pretty look, this green mint polish with a white daisy and golden foil is perfect. It is romantic, nostalgic and a little boho, much like walking through a field of flowers with no shoes. It’s a design that always puts a smile on your face when you look at your watch.
You might like to use DND “Pistachio Cream” or Zoya’s “Neely” as your base color. You can either stick a nail sticker on the nail or paint a daisy using white and yellow polish and a dotting tool. For the foil, press each piece in gently and then cover it with topcoat.
After you have painted, use tweezers or a brush to place the daisy first. After adding gold leaf to the sides or corners, seal everything twice with a topcoat to prevent lifting.
I chose this for a garden party and it seemed like the perfect way to add a soft touch. It’s a way to embrace spring even when the weather is getting warmer.
