As temperatures climb, our love for nice nails is also growing. It’s the perfect time of year to try a new nail design, right? If you’re by the sea, off to a wedding or simply want to feel better about your hands, the perfect nail design can really help.
This summer, everyone is wearing almond nails and they come in many styles — soft pastel swirls, juicy pink and orange combos, neon French tips and designs that are pink and glossy enough to rival your favorite Pinterest board. But which styles are worth the salon trip (or the at-home session)? And what kind of mani actually feels like summer?
We’ll go through some really cool inspiration, one photo at a time and who knows, you might find your next favorite look in the bunch. Ready to fall for long, colorful, effortlessly fun nails? Keep going.
Sweet Strawberry Sparkle
You can’t help but smile at strawberry nail art, especially when it’s combined with glitter and soft pink. It’s a fun, fruity style that’s been crafted into the universally appealing almond shape. If you like to stand out but also want something you can wear, this combination of red berries, tiny white flowers and light pink nails is a great summer idea. The sparkles are not too much — they’re positioned like the light shining on ripe fruit at a roadside stand.
To create this look, I’d recommend a good jelly pink base (OPI’s “Bubble Bath” is still a cult fave for a reason) and a red like Essie’s “Really Red” for the fruit. Adding a glitter polish such as Holo Taco’s “Menchie the Cat,” to the tips makes your nails sparkle. The floral details? Use a dotting tool and crisp white polish like Sally Hansen’s “White On” with a yellow accent dot for the center.
Put the glitter on the nail first, fade it toward the top and cure it afterwards. After that, put on the strawberry decals or paint your own berries — begin with a red oval, add green stems and end with tiny white dots for the seeds. Don’t overlook the gel top coat for a super shiny finish. Let each layer fully cure before moving on.
These make me think of summer afternoons picking berries with my cousin in New Jersey and then we’d go into town for lemonade and small trinkets. It’s small-town glam, reimagined with a modern edge. And honestly? They’ll get compliments at every BBQ.
Daisy Daydream in Blue
Soft sky blue and blooming white daisies? Yes, please. It’s as if this design lets you enjoy a glass of iced lavender lemonade in the sunshine. The flowers and French tip blend well, so each nail stands out equally. Because of its almond shape, this piece looks pretty and wearable without being too serious. You didn’t realize you were looking for these adorable summer almond nails.
I love using DND’s “Blue Bell” as the base for this — it’s soft without being washed out. For the florals, you’ll need a fine nail art brush (try Beetles Nail Art Liner Brush) and a crisp white polish like “Snow Me White” by Sinful Colors. Add a pop of yellow to the daisy centers (China Glaze “Happy Go Lucky” is perfect here).
When I try this at home, I begin with a sheer nude base so the daisies appear to be floating. Then, hand-paint the petals using gentle strokes. The trick is not to overload the brush. Use a dotting tool for the yellow centers. The blue nails? Decorate your nails however you feel like—all the way or just at the tips. Once you have a glossy top coat, resist the urge to look at your hands all the time.
They remind me of a relaxing weekend in a small lake town — they are calm, joyful and a little vintage. People at the baby shower were more interested in my friend’s nails than in the cake after she wore these sandals with a linen dress.
Pastel Swirl Paradise
This delicious combination of pastels gives you both modern-retro and soft serve at the same time. Mixing green, pink, purple and yellow in smooth stripes above a neutral color is like a summer treat — it’s sweet, fun, but not too sweet. The almond shape gives the look a bit of sophistication. Anyone who likes their inspiration from Instagram and Euphoria will love these cute summer almond nails.
Polishes like Lights Lacquer’s “I’m All Ears” (lavender), Olive & June’s “Sweet & Gracious” (mint), and Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” (soft pink) are ideal for this palette. You’ll need a good nail art brush to get those neat, curved swirls.
Nail artist Hang Nguyen explained to Allure that to do layered swirls, you should start with the lightest color and add darker colors as you go up. And she’s so right. I learned that the hard way! First, use a nude or sheer base and then build up your swirls. After each color is dry, cure the nail and lastly brush on a glossy top coat.
These make me think of a beautiful sunset at a fair — it’s so nostalgic. They encourage me to put on big sunglasses, listen to old Katy Perry and drive with the windows open.
Fresh Lime Marble with Gems
If you’re looking for something clean, stylish and a little bit fancy, this white and green marble nail design is perfect for you. The green is sparkly and the silver jewels look much like early morning dew. Because they are almond-shaped, the earrings are soft to wear and the marble makes them stylish. These feel like a spa day turned nail inspo.
The white in your hair can be done with Le Mini Macaron’s “Milkshake,” and you can make it pop by blending with Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Neon Lime.” Use a striping brush wet to mix the two colors and get the marble effect. Then, add tiny rhinestones before curing.
I found that applying a small amount of acetone to the swirl before curing will give you more natural veining. It gives the marble more movement. End the process by applying a top coat that doesn’t need to be wiped off, so the stones stay put and look great.
They give me the sensation of drinking mint water by the pool at a fancy hotel in Miami. They’re easy to wear, look great and are just fancy enough for someone looking for a new style without going overboard.
Golden Hour Lilac Curve
Purple, light pink and nude blended softly create a look that is elegant and a little different. The long shape of the almond design is elegant and the thin gold outline is a little sparkle — like sunlight on silk curtains. Their soft look means these summer almond nails are understated and that’s exactly what makes them special. It’s minimal, but not boring. Sophisticated, but still fun.
A manicure like this looks wonderful with either a simple wardrobe or a flowing dress. If you’re looking for purple, OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” is a great choice and for pinky-nude tones, pick up Zoya’s “Dot” and “Bela”. If you use a gold striping tape or a metallic gel polish, you’ll get the arcs you want.
Making these yourself is very simple using a detail brush. First, put on a nude base and then use diagonal half-nail color blocks with different colors. Trace the gold line along the place where the colors overlap after the paint is dry. Protect the gold by coating it with a top layer of finish. It’s all about precision, so don’t rush this one.
Just looking at these pieces brings back memories of the calm before a summer wedding — soft music, fresh flowers and a light excitement inside. If you’re the one getting married, a guest or just love hosting brunch — they work.
Pink Lemonade Vibes
A mix of citrus and cotton candy — this pink and yellow is doing everything it should. It looks bright, but it’s balanced because the colors alternate and the almond tips are sharp and long. These summer almond nails mean: I’m ready, I’m cheerful and I’ll be happy with a lemonade and lots of ice. It’s bold, classic, and 100% Pinterest-worthy.
If you want a great clean and opaque color, look for “Pink Noise” by CND or “Sunshine State” by Essie. You want full coverage with zero streaking. Because these nails are clear, you’ll see every mistake, so go slowly and use a top coat for a shiny finish.
You don’t need any special tools; strong polishing and shaping is all you need. If you’re doing this at home, push back your cuticles, shape the nail into a tapered almond, apply a strong base coat, and alternate two coats of each color across your fingers. A tip? Apply pink nail polish to your dominant hand first, since it’s easier to handle.
To be honest, this brings to mind pool floats, cherry snow cones and going on trips with your friends. I’ve been stopped at a gas station on vacation after wearing something similar, with someone asking me where I got them done. That’s the power of great color contrast.
Heartfelt and Flirty
Who said hearts are just for Valentine’s? The red and blush style is both playful, romantic and a bit cheeky, just right for summer flings and dates on rooftops. The mix of pink hearts and a scalloped French tip gives you a flirty look that isn’t too young. These cute summer almond nails are totally crush-worthy.
You might want to start with “Mademoiselle” from Essie for the base. You can use a dotting tool to make hearts and “Forever Yummy” or “A-List” will give you that classic red. I prefer to use a fine nail art brush to create the scalloped look at the nail’s edge. The hearts look better when topped with a matte finish.
Work the motion from your pinky to your thumb, so it becomes easier as you continue. Dot two dots next to each other, then draw a line down to make a heart. Wear the red polish for a while until it’s completely dry prior to adding the top coat.
I put on something similar for a weekend date and the guy saw it. Noticed! That’s rare. Whether you’re dating or just romancing yourself this summer, these are a sweet little confidence boost.
Coastal Chic with Gold Waves
With its blue, white and gold waves, this set has a modern mermaid feel over a soft almond shape. It’s about the Amalfi Coast, champagne out on the water and the wind blowing through your hair. These summer almond nails are just right for anyone who wants a hint of luxury but still wants to feel relaxed.
The blue looks soft and elegant on top of “Saltwater Happy” by Essie. A soft ivory color such as “Marshmallow,” is a good choice for the white. You can get the best gold look by using a metallic nail art foil or chrome pigment which adds depth without making your nails heavy.
To DIY: add the blue, let it dry and then use a fine brush to swirl on white and gold — it doesn’t have to be perfect. The magic is in the movement. As revealed by celebrity nail artist Queenie Nguyen, natural swirls and lines can soften your nails and echo nature. She usually advises overlapping the edges a little to improve the look of the fabric.
These nails are a vibe. I would put them with a satin slip and just a few pieces of jewelry. They’re so appealing that you might find yourself planning a beach trip, wherever you live.
Mermaid Dust & Marshmallow Swirls
It’s like a dream from the ocean: soft blue, gentle pink and dreamy curves, all with a little shimmering foil to make it stand out. The ombre feel between fingers, the flowing gold — it’s sophisticated whimsy. For those who love ethereal pastel decor, this is the one you’ll love.
My picks for creating that soft, milky look are Blue-tiful Horizon by OPI and Fiji by Essie. It’s actually simple to use gold foil — rip some small pieces, press them into the tacky base color after it dries and then cover everything with a thick top coat.
These can be done entirely with polish or gel. If you’re using gel, I suggest applying the swirls one layer at a time, with each layer being smooth and thin before curing. Finish the nails with a velvet top coat to get that soft matte effect. It takes the whole vibe to another level.
I wore these at a rooftop art opening and a woman asked if they were real or fake nails. That’s the sign that they’re perfect — dreamlike, detailed and still easy. If you’re a girl who loves the ocean and saves ocean-themed Pins all year, these are for you.
Cool Breeze French Fade
The fresh blue gradient version of this minimalist French tip is all anyone is talking about right now. The fade is not too strong — it’s gentle, modern and a bit icy, like seafoam coming onto the beach. Having the perfect almond shape and not being too long, it’s just the right amount of clean and fun. These summer almond nails are easy to do, calming and can be worn all summer long.
I’ve copied this style by using Essie’s “Mademoiselle” as a sheer base and painting a gradient with Beetles Gel Polish in “Sky Blue.” You’ll need a makeup sponge to blend the blue upwards toward the center — and trust me, it’s worth the mess.
I’ve discovered that dabbing the paint softly is important and you should always cure the paint after every thin coat. A glossy top coat at the end will help the fade look softer. It’s a style that suits city chic as well as beachy dresses.
I used these nails for my last trip down the coast. Since they matched the ocean so well, I couldn’t resist taking pictures with the waves — it felt like Pinterest and peace.
Electric Blue Wave Layers
This graphic layered design blue is like wearable art. Curved tips painted in different shades of blue, placed one on top of the other and brushed across the nails like the tide lines on a beach. It’s not subtle, but it’s surprisingly chic. These summer almond nails will help you turn any basic outfit into a stylish look — add white linen and gold jewelry and you’re done.
I’d pick up “Butler Please” by Essie, “Blue Moon” by Beetles and a soft pastel called “Saltwater Happy.” You should apply each wave with a striping brush and let the nail dry between each layer. It helps to be patient, but once you get used to it, it’s very relaxing.
According to celeb manicurist Tom Bachik (who works with J.Lo), layering tones in the same color family is “the easiest way to add dimension without cluttering the design.” He’s right — it feels editorial without overthinking.
These nails are a vibe. I wore a version of this on a yacht party (okay, a rental boat with rosé) and my friend kept asking how they weren’t press-ons. Hint: top coat everything — twice.
Pearl Dream Cotton Candy
The combination of light pink, baby blue and pearl is simply a dreamy softness. Think whipped frosting, fairy dust, and Sunday brunch selfies. It’s the perfect summer almond nails for anyone who loves the idea of soft glam. The high shine and big pearls give it a luxurious look, but it’s still simple to wear.
I prefer to use Gelish’s Pink Pong and Essie’s Blue La La for the color. If you want that pearlescent look, you can use ORLY’s “Snowcone” and add a shimmer topcoat. There are stick-on pearls everywhere now and you can find them in multi-size kits at Daily Charme or Amazon.
Put the primary colors on your nails and then secure the pearls with nail glue or builder gel. Press them down gently and cure. I usually stick to the “3 on 1 nail” rule so my nails don’t look too busy.
I saw my sister at her bridal shower in this outfit and her nails really caught my eye. They seemed elegant, romantic and just a little like icing on a cake — and that’s exactly what we matched to her nails.
Sky Marble Whisper
The whole design looks like a soft blend of blue and white marble and it’s both ethereal and airy. The mix of colors and soft finish make the look seem peaceful and relaxing — similar to the cool air that follows a summer storm. If you’re into nail art but prefer something simple, these summer almond nails are for you.
Use Essie’s “Marshmallow” and DND’s “Bluebell Breeze” to make this look. Squeeze the colors inside a circle by dragging them together while they are still wet with a brush. You should blend carefully and then let the polish work its way.
According to celebrity nail artist Sarah Bland, adding matte marbles to your nails helps make any style softer and less intense. She says applying a velvet matte top coat will give your nails a soft-focus finish.
I felt as if I was holding Monet paintings when I wore these. It’s art without trying. Just add some silver rings and a loose blouse and you’ve got a summer mood board.
Hot Coral French Edge
This high-energy hot pink (neon, really) take on a classic French tip is straight fire. Bright, tasty and all set for a night out, whether you’re just snapping selfies and drinking wine outside. These summer almond nails are a real statement piece.
You can use “Neon Lights” by Modelones or ORLY’s “Glowstick Pink” to get a lovely curved French pop look. A transparent base is important, so choose “Milky Pink” gels that won’t stand out from the rest of the nails. Use a curved French tip brush if you’re shaky-handed.
I normally begin with the base coat on the nude, then use my freehand to draw the curves of the tips following the smile line of the natural nails. Seal it all with a gloss top coat. The shine on this one is important to make it sparkle and shine brightly.
I wore this at a party on a rooftop in NYC and three girls asked me if I had them done at Paintbox. They’re bold, Instagrammable, and so summer-it-hurts.
Sun-Kissed Gradient in Pink and Orange
It’s impossible not to notice how pretty pink and orange look together on these almond-shaped nails. This manicure makes me feel like I’m wearing golden hour, with a bold look that’s not too much. The shape keeps things soft, but the colors? Pure neon flirtation. It’s the kind of design that makes you wish you were enjoying peach sangria on a balcony. It’s a dreamy nod to ombre that doesn’t shy away from color, while the light pink base gently blends into the bolder tones, creating a look that’s equal parts statement and softness.
To recreate this look, I recommend starting with a base of OPI’s “Let’s Be Friends!” for that subtle pink, then blending in “Hotter Than You Pink” and “A Good Man-darin Is Hard to Find.” When doing the ombre fade, use a soft sponge and press and dab gently, not a swiping motion.
One trick I’ve learned from watching Rita Remark’s tutorials (she’s Essie’s Global Lead Educator) is to lock in the ombre by applying a milky topcoat like Essie’s “Sheer Luck.” It softens the change between colors and leaves the nail looking as if it were painted with watercolor.
I tried this color scheme last summer while in Santa Monica and people seemed to like my nails more than my outfit. There’s just something about pink and orange in this combo that radiates beachy confidence without trying too hard.
Denim Blue Marble Swirls
Looking at these swirls makes you feel like you’re being cooled by a gentle ocean breeze and they really are that refreshing. The hand-painted look of blue marbling adds a touch of luxury and the almond form helps the vase remain light and fashionable for summer. I find it beautiful that the deep cobalt veins are balanced by a white and powder-blue background. It looks great with your everyday denim jacket as much as it does with a dress on a rooftop at sunset.
If you want your swirling design to look great, begin with a white base coat such as “Alpine Snow” from OPI. After that, use a detail brush to gently draw blue, navy and baby blue gel lines over the model. Don’t worry if it feels imperfect—that’s the charm. Seal it all in with a glossy top coat.
One of my favorite pro tips (shoutout to @nailartbyqueenie) is to use a dotting tool instead of a brush for marble designs. With gel polish, it’s easier to manage the way the colors blend and overlap.
I ended up trying something like that after seeing lots of summer almond nails on Pinterest and I couldn’t stop looking at my hands for days. It’s artsy, but never messy. Think: poolside painter chic.
Citrus Pop with Playful Dots
For my fearless girls who want their nails to shout, “Summer is here and I’m ready.” Even though the orange is very bright, the playful polka dots on one nail balance it out. The white dots add a playful little detail to the strong and bold colorful part of the design. The almond shape makes the look more feminine and keeps it fresh, fun and not too over the top.
I think Sally Hansen Insta-Dri nails work well for this style and “Peach Buzz” and “White On Time” are great alternatives. Use a dotting tool for precision, or just the end of a bobby pin if you’re going full DIY. Trust me, it works.
You don’t need to be an expert to make this design—it’s easy enough to do while watching “Love Island.” Paint your orange polish on twice, cure it under a lamp if it’s gel and then use the dotting tool for the accent nail.
For me, this look screams “BBQ season.” I put these on for a patio dinner with my friends and my mom thought they were really fun. That’s the secret sauce of cute summer almond nails—joy in color form.
Pastel Mirage in Matte
This look is a whisper—not a shout. The soft curves in pink, purple and minty green look like they’re dancing through the air. While it’s a simple design, it has a soft and almost soothing abstract quality. The serenity comes from the matte topcoat. If there was a nail look for spa days, it would be this.
I’ve seen Olive & June do some incredible pastel work, and for this, I’d mix “JM” (a soft lavender), “Angelfish” (a seafoam tone), and “Pink Sands.” You should use a fine striping brush to get the lines looking right.
This one might seem hard to do at home, but don’t worry, it’s not that tough. Draw your design using very thin polish lines and finish it by cleaning up with a detail brush and acetone. Let each color dry before layering to avoid muddiness.
Wearing matte pastel nails like this last time made me feel very at ease each time I looked at them. Yes, it can seem odd, but color can have an effect on your mood. It’s quiet, but powerful.
Golden Hour French Glitz
Now this is glamour with restraint. A nude base blends into gold glitter, making this the most comfortable French tip I’ve found this year. It’s dressed up, but can still be worn to work during the day or out at night. The clean edges around the nail allow the almond shape to be seen and the sparkle adds just a touch of magic.
A good base for a sheer nude would be Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” or “Mademoiselle.” After that, add glitter or shine by using “Set in Stones” or a fine gold chrome powder on the tip. Finish with a gel topcoat to smooth everything out.
If you’re trying this at home, tap the glitter on with a sponge instead of brushing it—that way you get full opacity without dragging it down the nail. According to nail artist Tom Bachik, who works with JLo, this technique gives a professional result.
I had my nails done just like this for a rooftop wedding last summer and felt like they were clinking with everyone else. This is the grown-up sparkle that never feels overdone.
Hot Pink Lace Accents
Wearing these, you’ll feel like you’re on a mini vacation, with hot pink tips and lace-like white details that look like embroidery. Because the almond shape adds length to the fingers and the finish is matte, the ring feels fashionably updated. It’s definitely girly, but in a cool way that reminds you of a model’s off-duty style and it’s still not afraid to show off cute summer almond nails.
To get that velvety finish, I usually reach for Cirque Colors’ “Retail Therapy” for the base and a matte topcoat like OPI’s “Matte Top Coat.” The detailed lines? Those take a steady hand. I prefer the Beetles Gel Nail Art Liner Brush Set because it’s thin enough for my tiny dot and stroke designs.
Creating this at home can be a little advanced, but here’s a tip from celeb nail artist Sarah Bland (known for her work with Bella Hadid): use stamping tools for clean lace patterns if freehand isn’t your thing. Simply use your design on a cured gel base and seal it with a matte finish for a professional look.
I’d go for this manicure at a girls’ brunch or while enjoying a coffee and music by myself. It’s romantic without being too precious—a balance I always crave in summer.
Colorful Groovy Stripes
This party is the most fun you’ll ever find on your nails. Light pink cream with rainbow stripes, topped off by a strong orange accent. It’s retro and playful, bursting with personality—and totally TikTok-core. It looks like it came from the 70s surfboard era, but it’s very modern too. It’s the kind of design that really stands out at the farmer’s market.
Shades that are both colorful and bright will suit you—you might like the “Brights” collection from Holo Taco or the “Electric Escape” collection from Essie. It’s important to have a good nail art liner and be patient. The process involves putting on one thin, clean layer after another and curing every color if you’re using gel.
While I’m not usually drawn to really bold ideas, this one caught my attention. I put it on for a road trip to Palm Springs and couldn’t help but take lots of pictures with slushies and vinyl records. It’s nostalgic, sure—but it feels surprisingly fresh.
Classic Dusty Rose Gloss
This nail style is the “clean girl” of nails, a soft pink neutral color in a glossy almond shape that looks good everywhere. It’s understated and polished without being boring. The secret to this look is keeping things simple, so there’s no shine or extra touches. Anyone who likes a simple look will love this for its cute summer almond nails that move easily from the office to the weekend.
You can get the same look with “Mauve Over” by Deborah Lippmann or “You’re Blushing” by Orly. Because the finish is important, be sure to smooth your nails and apply a base coat that fills any ridges for a nice shine.
I painted my nails this shade last year when I was very busy and it felt like my hands were still organized even though my schedule wasn’t. Sometimes less really is more.
Black & White Botanical Drama
It’s a stunning manicure that adds just a hint of excitement. The clean white nails let the black and grey botanical details stand out and a rhinestone flamingo takes pride of place. Yes, really. It’s fun and modern which makes me think of old-fashioned wallpaper and elegant dresses. Not like any other design and that’s the reason I like it so much.
For this, cover your nails with Essie’s “Blanc” and use a sharp black gel liner. Rhinestones and McCart’s Nail Rhinestone Glue Gel are what you need to make your flamingo look great.
Getting this look may take some time and a lot of patience. Nail artist Mei Kawajiri (who’s done work for Gigi Hadid) recommends building your design in layers—first paint, then place gems, then seal.
This one’s a conversation-starter. I did the same thing for a gallery opening and someone actually wanted to know if my nails were painted by hand. That’s how you know it hits different.
Emerald & Malachite Marble
Deep green with a dreamy design blue marbled accent? Yes, please. This mani is earthy, elegant, and grounded. The difference between the strong emerald nails and the white-green marbled design means every finger looks like a miniature sculpture. It’s giving garden party meets Mediterranean villa. In my opinion, it’s summer luxe—it’s relaxed, but always looks great.
For the base, I love “Arbor Green” by Zoya. To do the accent nail, put a layer of teal and mint gel polish over white and then swirl it with a fine liner dipped in acetone. It’s like creating wearable gemstone art.
I’ve seen this type of inspo all over editorial shoots and Pinterest lately. I think it works because it’s rich, but not in a flashy way. It’s a subtle, confident look when you go green with almond nails that seem so natural.
Lime Swirl & Sunshine Pop
What makes summer more obvious than yellow, green and abstract swirls? These almond-shaped beauties are a full-on dopamine boost. Neon solids and funky swirls together create a look that is both pop art and perfect for the pool. Because of the soft nude base, the swirls stand out more and the difference in textures keeps the makeup attractive. It’s a little like a mango mojito, but with its own twist—strong, citrusy and cool but with a hint of attitude.
To achieve this look, I’d mix “Electric Daisy” from Orly (for the yellow) with “Key Lime Creme” from Bio Seaweed Gel and a soft nude like “Bare It All” from Sally Hansen. A fine liner brush helps you create the psychedelic swirl look. For perfect curves, I use a dotting tool when I’m working with several colorful layers.
I’ve done a similar design before a trip to Miami and it turned into a big discussion at baggage claim. Swirls + green + yellow = instant attention.
Ocean Breeze Ombre
I can’t think of anything more beautiful than a gradient that looks like waves on the shore. The blue ombre fades into sheer nude, adding sparkle, so it becomes a unique version of the French tip. It’s a soft, sparkling and summery color—it’s perfect for a drink with salt on the rim. The almond shape makes it look elegant, but the shimmer helps it stay fun.
I believe a sponge is the best way to achieve a soft gradient. The tips can be done with “Blue-Tiful Horizon” by Essie and blend it into a sheer pink or nude base. Add a glitter coat such as “Set in Stones,” for a sparkling end result.
According to celebrity nail tech Julie Kandalec, using a milky base helps soften the edges of harsh glitter. It makes your hair look softer, but keeps your ombre clear. I followed that advice once and my results improved a lot.
This style is a go-to for me when I want something chill but polished—it’s wearable in every setting, from the boardroom to the boardwalk.
Silver Sparkle Meets Honeycomb Chic
This is a prime example of a stylish moment: shiny futuristic designs meet retro geometric shapes. The white hexagon grid has an architectural and chic feel which is balanced by the glamorous silver glitter on all the nails. All together, these pieces look like a modern mosaic—they are a little edgy, but still completely wearable. You can wear these nails when you’re out at night, at a wedding or any time you want to show off your cute summer almond nails.
If you want a glittery effect, try “Silver On Ice” by OPI and for the grid, I recommend “Apres Gel-X White.” If you’re worried about drawing hex lines, a stencil will make sure they look neat and sharp.
I put on something similar to what I’d wear to a gallery opening and it felt like I was wearing art. To be honest, I wasn’t shocked when someone stopped me to ask if my nails were real or fake. Pro tip: it’s always real when it feels this good.
Cracked Marble & Crystal Drop
If you’re a fan of artsy and sophisticated, you’ll love this one. While the base is white and looks like marble, it’s the gem-studded design that makes this watch special. When applied, rose quartz-look cabochons in gold give the nail a look of a tiny piece of jewelry. It’s both raw and refined—like summer’s answer to minimalist glam.
If you can’t find a marbled polish, have a white base and add long black lines with a fine brush, resembling marble. After that, stick nail charms or faux stones on with nail glue and finish the look by adding gold foil or chrome edges. It takes a bit of finesse, but the impact? Massive.
I’ve noticed this style appearing in bridal outfits and shoots lately. It’s dramatic without being loud—and surprisingly versatile. I once had a similar nail on at a friend’s engagement dinner and someone thought it was a ring on my finger.
Sun-Kissed Papaya Pop
Okay, this one’s for my maximalist girls. If you’re not shy about using color, this combination of orange and papaya will really make you happy. The use of mango colors, detailed fruit and rhinestone seeds makes this set feel like a little holiday. It screams poolside cocktails and glowing tan lines. The summer almond nails trend is really emphasized here.
The best base for papaya skin is Orly’s “Tangerine Dream,” and you can finish it with a yellow-coral ombre for the effect. The center is shaded with a gradient blend of yellow to green (yes, both!), and black rhinestones or beads mimic seeds. Add a glossy top coat to finish the look.
This set definitely takes a bit of finesse. Start with an orange base. Dab a little yellow and green along the edges of the papaya using a sponge. After the glue dries, place your rhinestones on the shoes with tweezers and a little nail glue. If you’d rather not paint, you can find fruit nail decals on Etsy or Daily Charme.
I wore something like this last summer at a rooftop brunch and the server even noticed. It’s fun, bold, and so not boring. Bonus: it looks incredible holding a margarita.
