Summer brings a special energy to everything around us. The days are longer, everything looks more colorful and we feel the need to make a change. So, take all that main character feeling and show it off on your nails! Enjoying iced lattes at the beach, getting ready for a weekend trip or just changing your style—summer is a great time to give your nails some attention. In this article, I’ve pulled together real nail inspo for summer 2025—not just trendy for the sake of being trendy, but genuinely wearable, cute, and easy to recreate, even if you’re not a pro. Let’s check out five distinct summer moods, ready for you to play on the organ in no time.
Neon French with a Y2K Twist
I want to highlight this nail trend that reminds me of a retro dream and is popular now. We’re blending pink and creamy lemon pastels with a flash of electric lime French tips for a bold, throwback look you didn’t expect. What makes this one stand out is the square-cut shape (or eckig, for my Euro girls), which adds structure and attitude to the soft colors. The contrast is eye-catching in the best way. It’s cool and brings back memories and it definitely makes me think of the beach.
To get this look, I’d recommend using OPI’s Nail Lacquer in “Bubble Bath” for the pink base, paired with Essie’s “Banana Shake” and a neon green gel liner like Beetles’ Neon Set for the tips. If you’re pressed for time, opt for press-ons—you can find amazing sets that look just like real nails.
The trick with sharp square tips? Smooth the edges regularly so that nothing is caught between them. Use a gloss top coat such as Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, to make sure your nails stay shiny. According to Julie Kandalec, a nail artist, this design should not be dull to avoid hiding the contrast. Shine is what makes it pop.”
Whenever I wear this outfit, people often ask me where I had it made. It seems lighthearted, well-made and almost like a summer breeze on my skin.
Berry Sunset Dots
This summer nail design brings together pastel colors and some creative touches. A gradation of pink and blue is the base and light black dots give it a chic and attractive style. The whole vibe? Imagine a picnic set in a berry field or a Pinterest board for cottagecore that has been professionally designed.
To recreate this, blend Olive & June’s “Grateful & Kind” (light pink) and Lights Lacquer’s “Blue Moon” over a sponge for that perfect fade. The speckles? A tiny brush or a bobby pin with black polish can give you great results.
If you have never used gradients before, just start with the lighter color, gently tap the sponge and increase the pressure slowly. It might get messy, but trust the process. That lived-in look is part of the charm.
During my weekend trip to Sonoma, I wore this look and got more compliments on my nails than on my clothes. They feel light, a bit surprising and are great for everyday wear, even if you usually go for simple nails.
Sherbet Skies Ombre
This is like you’re running barefoot on a boardwalk to catch the sunset. When soft pink fades to juicy red and is kissed with coral and orange, the result is summer pink nail inspiration. It’s not too soft, but it still has a dreamy look and the gradient glows just like a filter in real life. The square shape is what gives the magazine its unique look and feel.
Cherry Jelly, Peach Fizz and Dream St. from Lights Lacquer would pair well for the blend. They’re all gel-friendly and perfect for ombré sponging. You can also opt for a press on set in gradient pastels, as many salons now offer custom ombre services.
The ombre technique works best with a latex barrier (like UNT Ready for Takeoff) to reduce cleanup. Dip a damp sponge in water and dab it on your face from the tip to the bottom to blend the colors.
It makes me feel like I’m on a holiday, even when I’m still at work. Bonus: It looks good on all skin tones and hair lengths, ranging from almond to coffin to square.
Mint Glow Almonds
Meet your new favorite nail style: summer almond. The shimmery, mint green nails look like a cool mojito at brunch. The soft fade makes the design muted, but the color is still vibrant and looks clean. This outfit goes well with white linen, light denim and your favorite iced matcha. Seriously—they’re that vibe.
You could do this by using Modelones “Mint Mojito” gel on your nails and Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” as a base color. Stiletto or almond tips are the best choice for lengthening and softening your nails.
This design looks more complex than it is. To get the fade, use a sponge to apply the mint color from the top all the way down. A matte topcoat turns it into magic. Betina Goldstein, a celebrity manicurist, recently posted a manicure with the same look and caption. “Summer doesn’t always need glitter—sometimes glow is enough.”
I wore this to a friend’s rooftop dinner party and it felt so clean girl meets soft glam. Every hand wave? Felt intentional.
Soft Petal & Sky Floral
This one delivers flower power in a delightful manner. A two-tone pink and blue combination with a 3D-style flower on the ring finger? Absolute heart-eyes. It seems like a light, planned and adorable style, making it ideal for a holiday meal or an event in the garden. If you prefer a French manicure but want a gentler option, this is the one for you.
You can get this look with Zoya’s “Jordan” for the coral pink and DND’s “Tiffany Blue” for the pastel teal. You can either use flower stickers or use Builder Gel and a dotting tool to create the 3d flower detailing.
I have noticed this style being worn at engagement shoots, brunch gatherings and beach parties and it looks great in every setting. It’s what I call quiet luxury for the hands.
Minimalist Stripe with a Graphic Punch
If you’re after a simple and striking look, these almond-shaped nude nails with bright fuchsia stripes in the middle are perfect. Black grid designs on the accent nail add a fresh touch and make the nails look like they belong on a fashion magazine. Everyone’s favorite architecture magazine seems to be writing poems to the color nail inspo summer pink.
A nude base like OPI’s “Put it in Neutral” and a fuchsia gel striping brush from Beetles Neon Gel Liner Set make this look really stand out. For the accent nail, a fine-tip art pen like Makartt’s Black Detailer will give you the sharpest precision.
The trick is patience and symmetry. Use nail tape to help you place the center stripe on your nails. Let each color layer dry before going in with your top coat so the design doesn’t smudge. If you decide to do it yourself, take a deep breath, sip on some iced coffee and enjoy the peaceful moments.
It has a touch of art in it and is always very refined. It’s ideal for when I want a relaxed look but still want people to notice my nails at brunch.
Glossy Berry Fade
Let’s be honest: At times, you just want your nails to look so savory that you could bite them. Rich red, raspberry and blush pink shades that blend together, forming a gradient, are the best way to represent summer fruits in a classy way. It feels as summery as a cool glass of sangria enjoyed high up on a patio.
Try Essie’s “Big Spender”, OPI’s “Malaga Wine” and Lights Lacquer “Cherry Jelly” for your nails. Go from light at the base to dark at the end of your manicure to achieve the melt look. Apply the colors by sponging or use a fluffy brush to paint with more precision.
Pro tip I picked up from nail tech @nailsbycanishiea: Painting a milky layer first can make your gradient blend together more smoothly. Adding a glossy gel top coat seals the nails and makes the colors really stand out.
It’s surprisingly versatile. I wore it to a wedding and then to a dinner on the beach and it looked appropriate each time. Not too loud, but definitely not shy.
Summer Sorbet Layers
This one’s a little unexpected in the best way: Square nails were given a retro-cool look by applying diagonal red, coral and peach colors. The way the warm colors interact looks like a popsicle has been cut into a graphic design. It stands out with bright colours and a strong sense of 2025, but it’s not overdone.
You should use three reliable shades and I suggest choosing Zoya’s “Sawyer,” “Clementine,” and “Carmen.” Make the clean-cut sections with nail tape and paint them in order from lightest to darkest. Applying each color after it dries will prevent the others from getting mixed on the palette.
I was surprised how much I liked it and once I tried it on, I couldn’t stop wearing it. I was complimented at the grocery store, during a Zoom call and by a stranger at the nail salon who wanted to take a picture with me.
Seafoam Skies
This nail look is perfect for anyone who wants beach-inspired nails. With a milky nude base and a soft baby blue at the tips, this look is perfect for someone who wants to look after themselves but not overdo it. If you want your nails to be soft but still catch attention, this is the perfect shade for you.
To recreate, start with a sheer nude (try Butter London’s “Mum’s the Word”) and sponge on a pastel blue like Essie’s “Saltwater Happy.” To get the best result, use a sponge that is only slightly wet and pat it gently on the face, without dragging it.
Elle Gerstein, a well-known nail artist, offers the advice of using a silicone tool for an even, airbrushed result. If you wish to achieve a salon-style finish at home, Apres’ Glossy Top Coat is absolutely wonderful.
Wearing this makes me feel like I’m on a yacht, even when I’m just running errands in my slides.
Cherry Pop Power
And in the end, for when you need a classic red, pick one from 2025 instead. This high-gloss cherry almond-shaped mani is all about impact. No glitter, no art, no extras. Simply gorgeous, deep color that looks like liquid was poured over the canvas. It provides you with confidence, enjoyable holiday meals and romantic evenings on the rooftop.
Consider using OPI’s “Big Apple Red” or Deborah Lippmann’s “My Old Flame.” Having two coats of color is enough if the paint is strongly pigmented. Don’t forget to use a base coat and top coat, as shine is the main goal.
This look doesn’t need tricks, it needs care. Clean cuticles, smooth base, and ultra-crisp edges. That’s what makes it feel intentional, not last-minute.
It’s my forever fallback. Whenever I use it, I feel confident, well-dressed and prepared to enjoy summer with one striking red nail.
Golden Dijon Gloss
This is for the ladies who can be bold with just their presence. The mustard-yellow gloss on these almond-shaped nails looks sleek, edgy and surprisingly can be worn in many situations. It’s basic—but make it fashion. The color goes well with a tan and shows off a high level of confidence in 2025. It’s your golden-hour selfie look turned into a mani.
For the shade, Olive & Canyon Clay by June and Terracotta by Lights Lacquer are similar shades. If you prefer gel, Beetles’ “Burnt Mustard” offers long wear and high shine.
The colourful block is enough to make a statement, so you don’t need to add any extra touches. Keep your nails filed into a perfect almond shape and make sure your cuticles are moisturized. I’ve chosen this when I wanted something that goes with everything and still stands out.
Minted Matte Moment
Pastels for summer? This mint color is still a game-changer for makeup. This nail look for summer gives off the feeling of a cool breeze during a hot day. It’s soft, smooth, and a little mysterious. Perfect for minimalists who still want that something.
Apply Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple” for a creamy mint and finish with OPI’s “Matte Top Coat.” As this is the last step, ensure there are no streaks in your base before you seal it.
I wore it to a wedding in Miami during the day and it turned out to be the most stylish little touch. It was so easy to pull off and it made me look put-together, even when I was hot in my satin outfit.
Ocean Ombre Mix
Here’s the mermaid-core moment of the season. This set of summer nails has ocean blue, seafoam and a flash of electric lime green on each finger, making a set of cool and bold tones that aren’t too overpowering. It’s the denim jacket of nail art—goes with everything.
Try shades from ILNP’s “Caribbean Crush”, Essie’s “Turquoise & Caicos”, and China Glaze’s “Lime After Lime.” Paint your nails with a solid stroke, avoiding any gradient effect.
When I put this outfit on, I wore silver rings and had my nails painted crisp white to make them stand out. The compliments? Endless. This is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to stay away from the usual.
Sunset Pop Ombré
This one is pure summer bottled up. The ombré of red, tangerine and yellow on square tips instantly reminds me of frozen drinks and fun festival times. It’s high energy, high shine, and unapologetically trendy.
Use a sponge to blend Color Club’s “Tropic Like It’s Hot” (red), Orly’s “Glowstick” (yellow), and Zoya’s “Thandie” (orange). Always start light and build—ombre is all about patience.
This style makes me think of doing a manicure before a holiday or just to let your hands make a statement. I brought this along on a music trip to Austin and it made every look feel festive.
Lemon Zest French
French tip, but make it zesty. This nail polish features a cheerful blue tip and lemons painted by hand on a blush pink base. It’s fresh, cheeky, and honestly—delicious. It’s inspired by summer white, but has a citrus touch.
You’ll want a baby pink base like Essie’s “Fiji”, a cobalt like OPI’s “My Car Has Navy-gation”, and a small brush or lemon nail decals from Etsy. Top everything with Seche Vite for that glassy shine.
This one just makes me happy. I put on my bikini for a beach picnic and chose to wear lemon earrings—I was that girl. But sometimes being extra is the whole point.
Bold & Bright Yellow Shorties
If I could describe summer with a nail color, it would be this: a bold sunflower yellow worn short and squared off. This nail look is for people who like to keep things simple but still want their nails to stand out. It’s simple, low-fuss and so bright that you can almost feel the sun.
Use Sally Hansen’s “Mellow Yellow” or Olive & June’s “Bright & Focused.” It’s best to apply two or three coats to make sure the color shows up well.
You can use this color for a fast update before heading out on a weekend trip. I prefer wearing it with a white sundress or a straw tote; it’s always cheerful and fun.
Nude Glow on Denim
This soft peachy-nude color on almond-shaped nails is exactly what I think of when it comes to basic summer style. It’s clean, low-key, and gives effort without the effort. This look is great for denim days, time spent at the beach or your usual Monday.
If you’re looking for a nude, try Essie’s “Spin the Bottle” or Dior’s “Incognito.” You can still look great without nail art.
I used this color for a week of coffee and yoga and I never got tired of it. It’s the color you look for when you feel overwhelmed by everything else.
Peach Cream French
This is a classic French dessert, but with a sorbet addition. Creamy peach is combined with white edges and one nail is painted with a bright orange to add contrast. This is a summer white nail idea with a playful touch.
Use both Zoya’s “Cora” and OPI’s “Alpine Snow” nail polishes and add a detail brush for the crescent shape. You can map out your curve with a thin line and then fill it in afterward.
It reminds me of ice cream at the beach and I always get more compliments when I wear it to a flea market on a Saturday.
Daisy Pop Art
Sunshine meets simplicity. The bright yellow base and huge white flower designs make this nail polish look playful and inspired by the Y2K era. It’s got a touch of cuteness, a bit of nostalgia and is perfect for anyone who loves sunny days.
You will need a China Glaze polish in “Happy Go Lucky” and either nail stickers or a dotting tool and striping brush. You’ll find the petals become easy once you get used to the pattern.
I wore this at a pool party and everyone kept commenting on it. Something about flowers and sunshine just brings people joy. Bonus: the bright shade looks amazing on feet too.
Mermaid Dreams
This nail inspo summer blue moment is pure fantasy. A touch of blue is added to the mermaid-like scales and sparkling decor for a sea-like appearance. It’s fun, detailed and suits anyone who hasn’t outgrown their love for mermaids yet.
Start with Essie’s “Bikini So Teeny” and add Holo Taco’s “Play Rosé” on top. When creating a scale print, use nail foil or press-ons like the ones made by Glamnetic.
Whenever I want to feel like I’m on a trip, I go for these nails. Of course, I put my press on toes on to complete the look of a mermaid.
Frosted Sky Fade
Soft, breezy and light as cotton, this pale blue fading into pristine white is like the color of the sky just before sunrise. Although the field is sleek and polished in its shape, the colors soften it and add a relaxed touch. This is a summer look that helps you feel calm even during your busiest times.
I like using OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” as a base and blending into Essie’s “Blanc”. Using a sponge and some patience, you can create a soft-focus effect that’s right at your fingertips.
Every day last summer, I would grab a pair of these to finish off my outfit in a tasteful way. For a beachy holiday with soft colors and light materials, this is the one for you.
Cool Blue Colorbar
If you prefer to use simple shades instead of nail art, this is the style for you. The colors range from navy on the thumb to sky blue on the middle finger and icy white on the pinky. The colors are arranged so perfectly and it offers just the right amount. Nail inspo summer blue never looked so balanced.
You can use Zoya’s “Sailor,” “Blu,” “Jo,” “Kristen,” and OPI’s “Funny Bunny” polishes. Choose a different color for every nail and stick with a glossy finish.
I prefer this style as it looks purposeful even though it takes little effort to create. With all the unique colors on each nail, you always find your hands interesting to look at. I used it for a whole week at work and it made me feel more cheerful while typing emails.
