In summer, your nails are able to catch some sun and look their best. Yet, with all the different styles on Pinterest and in salons, how do you find the one that’s right for you? Should you go playful or polished? Short or almond? And what’s really in for 2025?
We’ll look at why these nails are perfect for the summer, not just because they’re trending. If you’re the type who loves to screenshot inspo “just in case,” or if you’re planning your next nail appointment on a beach towel, this is for you.
Grab your iced matcha — we’re diving in.
Galactic Chrome for Electric Nights
There’s something seriously magnetic about this smooth chrome lavender with a slight icy sheen. It’s not quite silver, not exactly purple — it’s that sweet in-between that gives purple just the right update for summer. An almond shape helps the nails look longer and more elegant, so you don’t have to use claws. It’s giving “futuristic goddess at a rooftop party,” and honestly? Making a strong statement is easy when you don’t have to say anything.
To recreate this kind of iridescent glow, I’d reach for something like OPI’s Chrome Effects Mirror Shine or the ILNP “Mega (L)” for maximum flash. Make sure to use a silver-lavender chrome base if you’re using gel polish and always apply a no-wipe top coat before the powder. That’s what gives your nails the shiny, mirrored look that stays bright for a long time.
Many nail techs believe that the key to great chrome is in how well you buff the nails. Bachik explains that you should press the pigment into your nails with a silicone tool and then seal it straight away. I’ve done it both ways and yes, there’s a big difference.
This nail look is what we’ll be seeing in 2025 for sure. It’s simple, chic, slightly spacey, and completely unforgettable. You’ll also notice how great it looks in the sun or with LED lights. Chrome lovers, this summer is your season.
Tutti Frutti Fade with Pink-Lime Pop
If you want to make your nails your main style this summer, this one is for you. The transition from hot pink to lime green reminds me of watermelon sorbet and the white abstract swirl just gives the nails a bit of a psychedelic look. It’s a youthful, vibrant design — but don’t be fooled, it’s also very clever. Because it’s almond-shaped, this style remains feminine and easy to wear for both casual brunch and relaxing at the beach.
If you’re choosing colors, try Orly’s “Oh Cabana Boy” for the pink and Essie’s “Feelin’ Just Lime” for the neon green. Mix the paint with a dry sponge, tap it gently and finish with a gloss top coat. If you’re not confident with the swirl, nail art pens from Beetles are a lifesaver — they flow easily and dry clean.
Gradient designs might look hard, but it’s actually one of the simpler options when you learn the sponge method. Neon colors look amazing on almond nails or on square-shaped short nails if you’re looking for something edgier.
A year ago, I wore something like what I’m wearing today and people asked me about it five times before noon. People love nails that talk. I can tell you’re saying, “I’m here to win and I’m bringing it.”
Fresh Picked Daisy Greens
Nothing says summer like blooming daisies and grassy greens. This is such a feel-good manicure. The juicy green is so vibrant — it’s ideal for when you’re enjoying the sun outside. That daisy accent? It’s giving whimsical, but make it editorial. The almond shape has a feminine look but also feels stable, much like a fairy from the garden who’s good at dealing with rent.
A bright color like this can be tricky to get just right, but try using Olive & June’s “Jungle Green” as your base, and for the daisies, opt for a precision brush and shades like “Coconut Milk” (white) and “Sunshine State” (yellow). If gels are your favorite, let your nail tech know you’d like a pastel lime and botanical pattern.
This look is super simple to recreate if you’re using nail stickers or stamps, which are totally beginner-friendly and great for kids too. You just peel them off and press them on and they won’t move with a good top coat.
I think green nails are finally being recognized for how great they look. We’ve stayed in the pink-red zone for far too long — we should try something different. If you’re craving something fresh and playful but still pretty, this is your sign.
Neon French Twist with Crystal Drama
French tips are being updated in a big way this year and this yellow version is not shy about it. Paired with soft lavender bases and rhinestone accents, it’s part Y2K, part 2025 glow-up. The square base gives the sculpture a clear, architectural appearance. What I love most? It combines soft and loud — lavender is quiet, neon is loud. And somehow, it works.
You can achieve this look at home by using Essie’s “Lilacism” as your base. You can use neon striping tape to get a clean line for the French tips or just draw them on with your hand if you’re very steady. Crystal embellishments? I shop for mine at Daily Charme — they have the best holographic gems I’ve seen.
I learned from celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec that it is best to stick rhinestones on your nails while your top coat is only slightly tacky. That’s the reason they are held in place and don’t suddenly take off in the middle of the week.
I imagine this would be perfect for a summer wedding or for dressing up by the pool. It’s got that sparkle-meets-sassy vibe. Short nails square girls? This is a YES. Chic, bright, easy to personalize.
Leopard Heat Meets Ocean Cool
You’ve probably found yourself stuck between being fierce and being chill. This mani says, “Why choose?” The leopard print over metallic green which fades into blue chrome, is the perfect way to show summer’s split personality. The animal pattern is spicy and bold, yet the use of cooler colors helps make it suitable to wear. This one is sure to make heads turn, so it’s not for those who are easily scared, but you should save it for when you’re feeling brave.
You’ll want a set of chrome powders — green, blue, and black — plus a stamping kit or fine brush for the leopard detail. If you’re looking for metallic finishes, Born Pretty or Holo Taco are great options. Use a gradient brush to create the fade and coat the whole work in a high-gloss topcoat. It might seem hard, but it’s actually easy if you study one step at a time.
When I did a split-gradient design for a bachelorette weekend, I felt like I could have been on Pinterest. This design reminds me of bold, fun and confident feelings. If you’ve been circling the blue and brown shades, now’s the time to go wild (literally).
Color Clash & Neon Safari
You know when your vibe is unapologetically bold? This one is for that energy. Just enough drama is added to this blue, pink and orange look with the help of the black tiger stripe accents. Since it’s a rounded square, you can wear it all the time, but the design is still anything but boring. These nails add style to your look with each movement — they really are part of your outfit.
To DIY this, I’d start with Essie’s “Butler Please” (for the blue), “Mod Square” (for the pink), and China Glaze’s “Orange Knockout.” For the tiger print, a nail art pen or thin liner brush with black gel polish will get you that fierce pattern — it’s easier than it looks, promise.
Honestly, this one’s an easy way to spice up simple designs without leaning into complex art. Just using two tiger stripes per nail on a friend’s short nails gave a great effect.
If you’re in the mood for something fun this season or your nails need to reflect your mood board, this is the one for you. Summer doesn’t have to be soft.
Minimalist Microdots with Summer Swirls
When you’re craving something light, breezy, and simple, this design hits perfectly. With a neutral base, the makeup looks fresh, thanks to soft, wavy lines in green and coral and little confetti-like accents. The lines are painted in an easy way, without any strict rules, on the nail. The short almond shape makes it elegant and easy to wear for anyone who wants summer nails that are still fun to look at.
If you’re looking to recreate this, grab OPI’s “Bubble Bath” for the base, and then use a fine detail brush or dotting tool for the abstract shapes — try shades like Zoya’s “Janel” and “Josie.” The key is to have the polish drip a little so it stays flexible.
According to Byrdie Beauty, swirls and dots are trending because they’re forgiving. You don’t need perfect lines — just flow. And they work beautifully on short nails simple sets.
There’s something relaxing about it, like having a gentle breeze or a peaceful morning coffee on the porch. I brought a similar outfit on vacation last year and I swear it was so easy to pack because it matched everything I wanted to wear.
Soft Butterfly Whispers
Butterflies are always popular in warm weather, but this year they’re reaching new heights of elegance. The nails are painted simply in pink, with black and metallic butterfly wings on top. The design is placed right in the middle and looks like wings in the air which brings that special feeling. Because it’s shaped like an almond, the style looks even more elegant and easy to wear.
To create this effect, use a base like Butter London’s “Pink Knickers,” then opt for pre-designed butterfly stickers (Daily Charme has amazing ones) or use stamping plates if you’re feeling fancy. Seal the top of the project by applying a glossy gel sealant.
This is one of those looks that doesn’t need much explanation — it’s pretty, it’s timeless, and it makes you feel like you’re part of something dreamy. If you’re having a garden party, getting married or just want some winged help, these are great.
Modern Glam in Monochrome
Looking to bring some class to your summer outfits, but still want them to feel festive? The way this short nails square style using black-and-white stripes and gold foil makes it look completely editorial. The lines are gentle enough to be soft and the glitter detail? Gives just the right amount of sparkle. Having a museum vibe with a pool party feel is what makes it seem so 2025.
Use a milky white base (try Essie’s “Marshmallow”), then hand-paint the black swirls with a liner brush and add a touch of gold foil while the top coat is still sticky. Gold leaf sheets from Amazon or any craft store are fine, but be sure to press lightly and finish with a thick top coat.
Metallic touches can make any neutral design more special, according to Betina Goldstein. And this one proves it.
If you’re after a classic look yet want to stand out, this design is perfect, as it gives you elegance and a little bit of flair.
Dragonfruit Dreams
Of course, this one is inspired by fruit — and there’s no reason not to be! Soft pink bases, dotted white and black accents on one nail (dragonfruit realness!), and pale green French tips make this playful and sweet. The basic almond shape adds a feminine touch and the green color makes everything feel fresh. You can easily do a simple pink look this way — it’s not flashy, but still stands out a bit.
If you’d like to do this look, start by applying “Ballet Slippers” from Essie. Add the green French with a soft detail brush (try Olive & June’s “KMC”) and use a dotting tool for the speckled nail — you’ll want both a clean black and white polish.
You can achieve this look at home and it’s a fun choice for kids or those new to DIY. It’s playful but doesn’t require advanced skills.
It’s nice when your nails put a smile on your face and this design does just that. It’s the fruit salad of nail design: refreshing, cute, and just what your summer table (or fingers) needs.
Matte Moss & Gold Dot Delight
This set is living proof that short nails simple doesn’t mean boring. Matte forest green is the main star, with a cool tone and sophisticated look and it is joined by a few dot and wave details in warm brown and muted mustard. Because of its nude base and tiny metallic touches, the palette seems both natural and modern. It’s all about a calm picnic in the park, but with some extra class.
You can get this look with Olive & June’s “WKF” (for the green) and their “HD” for the neutral. You can make gold dots by dipping a toothpick into Essie’s foil polish called “Good as Gold.” If you want a smooth matte finish, apply OPI Matte Top Coat — it won’t leave any streaks.
I wore a matte set like this to a wine tasting event and everyone I met complimented it — it’s not flashy, but it definitely makes people want to talk to you. Works beautifully on short almond or rounded nails, too.
This one’s perfect if you want something sophisticated but still aligned with the natural summer vibe. Think botanical gardens, art galleries, and iced matcha.
Pastel Candy Beads
Hello, cute overload. The colorful look uses lavender, lemon, sky blue and baby pink and then adds little pastel beads in half-moons on each nail. The look is exactly what you’d find on a fairycore Pinterest board. Thanks to its almond shape, the earrings feel fun, but the simple, matte surface stops them from being overly sweet.
You’ll need a pastel polish collection like the one from Lights Lacquer (look for their “Sweet as Summer” set). To add the tiny beads, use a wax pencil or tweezers and you can buy rainbow pastel mixes on Amazon or Shein. Use a thick gel top coat to keep all your nails in place.
I actually tried making this at a friend’s engagement brunch and we both loved it. These nails are such a conversation starter — they feel playful but purposeful, like something you’d wear on your happiest day.
If you’re looking for a nail trend that feels nostalgic but is still modern, this is the one for you.
Strawberry Sweetheart Nails
Strawberries and cream, but make it nail art. The pink background of this manicure is decorated with just one lovely, juicy strawberry on the ring finger. It’s cute, flirty, and totally Instagram-worthy. And the shade of red? Vibrant and fresh, without being loud. The simple almond shape helps to soften the sweetness of the cake.
I’d use “Fiji” from Essie for the pink and “Big Apple Red” from OPI for the red. It’s possible to paint the berry yourself with a thin brush or just use pre-made stickers if you prefer.
To be honest, this is the nail version of a strawberry milkshake — it’s sweet, nostalgic and still stylish. TikTok is full of these sets right now, especially for young girls and kids, but that shouldn’t keep you from trying them. We’re all enjoying fun nail designs again in 2025.
When in doubt, add fruit.
Balletcore Pink Perfection
It’s hard to discuss summer nails without mentioning the classic pink, with a soft finish, on short square nails that show off the clean girl style. It’s not trying to be loud. It’s not even trying to trend. Even so, it’s always included in every 2025 nail trend roundup. For those days when you’re not sure what to wear, this one will match sundresses, linen shirts, messy buns and clear gloss.
For me, Dior’s “Rose Couture” is perfect for this, but a pale pink with a jelly finish will also do the trick. Apply a layer of Seche Vite at the end for a glossy look you’d get in a salon.
These are easy, elegant, and low-maintenance — ideal for when you’re running around all summer and don’t want to think too hard about your nails. It’s also great for children or teenagers who want to look more grown up.
I always go for this manicure when I want to start over. If I’m having trouble finding something to wear, this pink brings me back on track.
Botanical Daisies on Olive Green
We’ll finish this batch by giving nature a little recognition. The base is olive green, the petals are pure white and the center is a bright yellow. The bright colors contrast beautifully without overpowering the design. The almond shape makes the leaves appear softer which matches the darker green. Daisies here are more sophisticated and elegant, not as cute as you’d expect from a flower.
For the olive, Zoya’s “Evvie” is a great pick. I learned from a Vogue tutorial to use a dotting tool: white dots in a circle, a yellow dot in the middle and you’re finished.
Should you want a quiet luxury look this season but still want something playful and ladylike, this is the perfect choice. I had this style on at a market on Sunday and someone interrupted me while I was choosing avocados to ask where I’d had my hair done. Spoiler: I did it myself.
Strawberry Matcha Tips
A soft pink and muted green combination whispers both Parisian café and L.A. wellness. It’s a simple version of the French tips we’re used to, but this one is fun and doesn’t make a big statement. A thin neon pink line on the reverse moon adds a touch of retro style to the basic watch face. It’s a manicure that looks like you tried hard, but it’s actually very easy — perfect for short nails that are square or coffin shaped.
To get this soft-modern look, you’ll want a milky nude base polish (Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” works wonders), paired with a pastel green tip (try Olive & June “KMC”) and a striping brush dipped in hot pink. Matte topcoat will make the colors less shiny and give them more room to appear. I find that curing in stages helps keep the lines clear and stops the gel from bleeding.
Shaping your nails into a short square or soft coffin silhouette is the first thing to do. Put on your base shade and wait until it is completely dry or cured. After that, paint your French tips in a crescent shape; you don’t have to worry about making them perfect. The best way to add the hot pink curve is with a fine nail art brush. Seal with a matte topcoat. For the best results, apply two layers of topcoat to the tips so they won’t chip in the bright green area.
I really enjoy the way this design is light and modern. It’s a nail shape that can be paired with a linen dress or denim cutoffs and still look great. Even if you chip it, the design looks great, as it’s meant to be flexible. I’ve chosen this look for both a Sunday brunch and a gallery opening recently. It’s a multitasker.
Swirl Sorbet Fantasy
Imagine your nails are covered in summer sorbet, with a mix of lime, raspberry and a small sprinkle of sugar glaze. This dream looks like an almond, combining swirly art with bright neon pastel gradients in a gentle yet enjoyable way. It uses lots of pretty, pink and bright colors, but still looks balanced and easy to wear.
I often recommend using OPI’s “Strawberry Margarita” and “How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?” as the swirl shades. The white spirals can be done with a precision dotting tool and a steady hand — or just a good nail sticker sheet if you’re more of a DIY beginner. I’ve found that gels hold the colors truer for gradients like this, especially when you’re blending between pink and green tones.
A little trick I got from nail tech @nailartbysig is to sponge your polish onto a piece of plastic, blend the edges and then stamp it onto the nail using a clean sponge. It creates that airbrush feel without having to airbrush. Finish with a high-gloss topcoat to lock it in.
To be honest, these nails make me think I’m in a rooftop bar enjoying a strawberry mojito. There’s something about them that makes them hard to take your eyes off. If you’re looking for adorable summer nails ideas that look like they were pulled from a Pinterest board? This is it.
Neon Flame Flora
Okay, let’s talk attitude. If you’re one of the bold babes who loves a bright pop of yellow but wants to stay classy, this look is for you. The base is normal and shiny, but the flames at the end add a big dose of drama. It’s as if tropical leaves and fire emojis came together perfectly.
This design works best with almond or stiletto tips. Use a sheer nude base (think: Chanel Le Vernis “Ballerina”) and then layer a neon yellow (I swear by Orly “Glowstick”) before painting the black petal-shaped flame details using a fine nail art brush. I recommend sealing it with two layers of clear topcoat for dimension and durability — especially if you’re planning on beach days.
Creating the flame-leaf hybrids takes a little patience. I draw the design with white pencil or chalk and then paint over it with black polish to make sure the shape stays the same. If you’re not confident with freehand art, there are tons of flame-shaped nail stickers or stamping kits that make the process way easier.
There’s something so alive about this design. I had this on at a sunset pool party and got compliments from people I didn’t know. Neon and nude base together give a 2025 look and the result is surprisingly attractive on all skin tones. Honestly, it’s giving “summer main character.”
Lemon-Lime Botanica
It’s so easy to look stylish by mixing citrus colors over a glossy almond base. This one uses easy strokes and clever placement and the black plants add a little something extra. If you like your hair cut in short almond shapes or mid-length, you’ll love this.
You’ll want a nude-pink base (try Deborah Lippmann’s “Naked”) and bold primary tones like ILNP’s “Lemonade Stand” and “Sundance.” When it comes to black botanical detail, a micro-tip nail art pen will make your work much easier. I don’t use matte topcoats because the gloss makes the leaf outlines more visible against the citrus background.
This one’s super beginner-friendly too. Just paint every other tip yellow and green and use the art pen to add some small leafy branches. When your paint is dry, apply a glossy topcoat and you’re ready to use your furniture. It’s simple, tidy and doesn’t take much time — that’s basically my summer look at times.
You’ll find that this nail design looks especially nice when holding a cold drink or a woven straw bag. It’s a good mix of playful and new and offers a little effort without seeming overbearing. Plus, it matches everything from florals to linen.
Blue Daisy Days
Nothing is more summery than full bloom daisies and painting them over a blue background is like soaking up the sun’s warmth. It’s playful, nostalgic, and surprisingly wearable. It’s all about flowers, blue and short nails — a great choice for anyone who loves polish, grown-ups or kids alike.
You’ll need a sky-blue polish like Essie’s “Blue-Tiful Horizon,” a dotting tool (or a toothpick), and a white polish for the petals. You can paint the centers in a warm yellow and Sally Hansen’s “Mellow Yellow” looks fantastic. A gel topcoat helps your nails stay shiny and last longer which is important if you’re swimming daily with regular polish.
I first apply two coats of blue and then add the daisies using 5 dots in each flower. If you’re not steady-handed, daisy decals or stamps can save the day. Top it off with a glossy finish and you’re instantly in a floral fairy tale.
I tried this after spending time in a wildflower field and I have to say? It made me smile every time I looked down. The combo of pretty and playful just hits right. It’s a quick nail style that can suit anyone from teens to your favorite elderly aunt.
Retro Dot Pop
There’s something timeless about polka dots. A bright fuchsia base and a shiny finish make this manicure both simple, pretty and vintage. The mix of solid hot pink nails and crisp black-and-white dots makes this style feel both playful and super wearable — think ’60s charm meets modern mood board. Because of the short nails layout, they’re easy to use in real life, not just for photos on Pinterest.
Creating this design doesn’t require an art degree. Begin with a bright magenta — you can use “Mod About You” from OPI or “Pompadour Pink” by Nails Inc. If you’re using a dotted accent, a bright white like Essie “Blanc” is perfect. You can easily use a dotting device or a toothpick with black polish to mark dots on your nail. Don’t forget to cover your nails with a gel-effect topcoat for that glossy shine.
This nail art is quick to do, easy to wear and goes well with almost anything I put on — from jeans to sundresses. It’s also a wonderful idea for moms and daughters to try at the salon because it’s fun for kids, but still looks nice on grown-ups. You can’t really go wrong with a retro twist in the summer.
Sunset Butterfly Mix
This one’s a full summer cocktail on your nails. We’re referring to peach gradients, butterfly decals, sparkling gold and coral colors. Every nail has its own character, though all come together like a gentle warm breeze. It’s a look that feels cheerful and spontaneous — a total win for short nails easy styling that doesn’t cut back on fun.
To recreate this multi-mood set, you’ll need a soft pink base, coral-orange polish like “Hot & Spicy” from OPI, and gold glitter polish (Sally Hansen’s “Golden-I” does the trick). To get a nice ombré on the butterfly nail, use a fine liner brush and end with either a butterfly decal or a small hand-drawn design.
When I’m highlighting my hair, I begin with light shades and finish with darker tones to make the fade look more natural. The glitter finger offers a quick way to make a bold look more elegant. You don’t even need nail tools if you go with press-ons, since there are so many great pre-made summer looks out there.
I keep choosing this one because it lets me show different styles in a single set of nails. When I can’t decide between glitter, art, and brights? I just wear all of them. Totally acceptable.
Emerald Whispers
This design is sculptural, artistic and a little hypnotic, much like walking through a botanical garden at sunset. Emerald green colors the nail, contrasting with the sheer white, but the combination isn’t so loud that it looks like neon. This style’s shape makes the look more sophisticated but still fun.
Start with Zoya’s “Jacqueline” as your base and then put on “Jungle Green” from Cirque Colors or “Envy” by Deborah Lippmann. Use either an art brush or detail pen to sketch swirls, the different stems and any simple shapes you want. Seal your car with a shiny topcoat to make the green lines look their best just like summer vines.
I picked up this from Tom Bachik: use two different brushes, one with color and another with acetone to soften or blur your nail art. It’s magic for swirls or painterly details like this. That’s the technique I go for when I’m after a natural effect.
I felt very dressed up for my garden wedding last year, thanks to this design. I paired it with a simple dress and everyone noticed it. It’s subtle, simple almond, but definitely not boring. Great for those who want a new way to enjoy leafy greens in 2025.
Cherry Bloom Crush
What’s sweeter than a cherry on top? Maybe a cherry on every nail. You can’t help but smile at this: pink flowers, red cherries and bold French tips, all set against a nude background. I think of it as the nail art way of drinking cherry soda in a park surrounded by flowers. The almond silhouette keeps it graceful and timeless.
You’ll need a neutral base like OPI “Put It in Neutral,” cherry red polish (try “Big Apple Red”), and a detailing brush for painting cherries and blossom stems. Stickers or 3D decals work perfectly too if you’re not into precision work. Topcoat your project to seal everything and make the 3D art smooth.
For this design, you draw the smile line with white or nude and then cover it with red using a small angled brush. It’s less intimidating than it looks — promise. The glossy look of this design is best achieved with a gel topcoat, so don’t skip that step.
Cherry art is always a summer favorite, but the blossoms give it a new look. It’s romantic, but not in a sugary way and it’s playful, but not childish. This is easily one of my favorite cute summer nail designs for 2025 if you’re looking for something inspired by July.
Tangerine Florals & Rhinestone Charm
Hello drama, sparkle, and juicy citrus tones. Here, the main colors are bright coral-orange, there are small flowers and a bit of glamour comes from rhinestones. It’s a wonderful mix of beach and glam and its bold touch definitely deserves attention.
I usually advise using “Bare It All” by Wet n Wild as a base, then adding a neon coral like “Living Coral” from Essie to it. You can use daisy decals or paint on petals with a yellow dot in the middle and Zoya’s “Darcy” is a great bright yellow to choose. Finish with crystal rhinestones (available in most nail art kits on Amazon) and set them into a sticky base before topcoating.
You can really show off this look with short square or ballerina nails. If I do it myself, I put the floral decals on the ring fingers to make the look even. A little sparkle goes a long way, so you don’t want it to stand out too much.
I wore them at a rooftop birthday dinner and three people asked me where I had them done — the answer is I did them myself. I love how happy the daisy print is and the citrus colors stand out in any type of light. Totally summer, totally “main character” energy.
