Summer Green Nails Ideas 2025: Trendy Short, Long, and Almond Designs for Every Woman

Green is the new black – and I am not talking about your smoothie. Whether you’re sipping iced matcha on your porch or daydreaming of poolside getaways, green nails are one of the most unexpected yet utterly essential beauty choices this summer. But which shade should you try? How bold is too bold? And is green really a colour that can go with everything in your closet? (Spoiler: yes.)

If you have ever been on Pinterest or stared at a salon menu feeling lowkey overwhelmed, this is your sign to lean in. I’ve rounded up the most trendy, light, and playful summer green nails ideas 2025—each one inspired by bold shapes, cool vibes, and just enough personality to turn heads (or at least spark compliments at brunch).

So, ready to meet your next mani?

Green Jungle Meets Zebra Chic

There is a certain luxury about this green manicure – it is bold, but not brash. The luxurious forest green color has that glassy gel finish that I’ve been loving recently, and the accent nail? A clean zebra swirl in white and green that is like it just came out of a summer rooftop party in Brooklyn. The squared-off nail shape adds this design a wearable edge, ideal for anyone who is embracing 2025 short or gel looks that are both elevated and everyday.

If you’re a DIYer like me, Essie’s “Off Tropic” is a fantastic green polish match, and for that swirl, use a detail brush and OPI’s “Alpine Snow” or go for nail art stickers to save time. Seal in that wet look with a glossy gel top coat – it’s a game changer.

To replicate this at home, file your nails into a clean square with 180-grit file. Use two coats of green, allow it to dry completely before you add the accent nail. Use a fine nail art brush to trace zebra stripes (they don’t have to be perfect—just fluid). Top off with a gel-effect top coat or cure under a UV lamp if you are going for full gel.

I, personally, have worn this one to a summer wedding – and yes, people noticed. It’s an unexpected take on minimalism and it is a perfect match with a white slip dress or even an all-denim outfit. Try it once and you’ll see—it gives.

Stiletto Green With a Smiley Twist

This design shouts fun in the sun with a helping of Gen Z mischief. The long stiletto nails are done in a high gloss emerald green, but the real twist? Alternating nails in clean white with adorable neon green smiley faces dotted on them. It’s beach party, iced lattes, and no-apologies joy – all in one.

To make this pop, look for a saturated green gel (Beetles Gel Polish in “Emerald Envy” is a fave), and for the smiley faces, I’d recommend dotting tools and a tiny liner brush. You’ll want a creamy white base—try Orly’s “White Tips.”

When I did a similar version last summer, I used press-ons and just painted over them – it was surprisingly easy. Pro tip: Make sure that the white polish dries up completely before painting on faces or your lines will blur. Set it all with a quick-dry topcoat, especially if you’re rushing out the door (we’ve all been there).

This is such a fun, hip way to do summer green nails ideas 2025, and really? It’s perfect if you are going somewhere tropical or just want your nails to reflect your mood. Since some weeks, “bold but playful” is the energy we need.

Pop Art French With Lime Drama

This nail look is loud—in the best way. Almond-shaped and with a sharp French tip, it has a neon-lime green sweeping over a translucent pink base. The contrast is electric, and the swooped design is contemporary and three dimensional. It’s that kind of 2025 almond shape that is ultra-sculpted and high-fashion without being too trying.

What you need: Start with a sheer pink base (Zoya’s “Dot” is subtle and perfect), then use a neon green like Cirque Colors “Kushy.” A fine detail brush is the secret to those clean swoops – take your time, and do it with a light touch.

For a variation that you can do at home, you can outline the swoops with white first for structure, and then fill in the green for contrast. If you’re using gel, flash cure each nail as you go to avoid smudging. I got this from a Reel by the celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec – small habits, big difference.

I wore something similar to a rooftop launch party last July and actually had strangers compliment me whilst waiting for drinks. This look is that sweet spot between editorial and wearable. It’s not for everyone, but when it’s for you? You’ll feel unstoppable.

Olive Garden Florals

Dark olive is not only for fall anymore but is blossoming perfectly into summer, particularly with fine daisy art. These long coffin nails have a matte olive base and hand painted white and yellow flowers. It’s giving picnic in Tuscany. It’s giving Pinterest board goals. And yes, it’s giving 2025.

For this look, try Olive & June’s “WKF” polish or ILNP’s “Central Station” if you want that mossy-meets-eucalyptus feel. Use a dotting tool for the petals and a nail art pen for the yellow centers – don’t overthink it, florals are supposed to be a little bit playful.

At home, I would suggest to work with one nail at a time. Put two coats of green and then go in with your petal designs before the polish dries completely. It helps to achieve a slightly blended effect, that is almost like watercolor. Use a matte topcoat for that Instagram-ready finish.

I once did this design after I binge-watched cottagecore decor videos, and it made me feel so soft and put-together. It’s girly, but not too sugary – the perfect kind of easy floral nail art that goes with jeans or linen sundresses.

Mint Leopard Energy

Leopard print is never really out of the chat, but in mint green? It’s the twist we didn’t know we needed. This fierce but still fresh almond-shaped set has clean white base with teal-green leopard spots outlined in black. It’s an unconventional approach to neon and light colorways that seem to be festival season appropriate.

You’ll want a crisp white (try Essie “Blanc”), a minty green like “Mint Condition” by Sally Hansen, and a thin detail brush or toothpick for outlining the spots. Trust me: a gel liner in black makes all the difference when doing detail such as this.

Leopard spots may appear threatening in the first place, but they are surprisingly forgiving. Begin by painting randomly green blobs and outline them roughly in C-shapes or dots in black. Don’t try to be perfect—leopard print thrives on chaos (in the best way).

Personally? I wear this when I am in the mood for something bold but still together. It’s a hot, attention-grabbing look that can be applied to pedicures just as well – yes, toenails pedicure leopard is now a thing, and I’m all for it.

Leafy Minimalism in Olive Tones

There’s something soothing and grounding about this leafy design in muted olive green – it’s understated and yet statement-making. Each nail features a smooth, gel-like finish, with two accent nails featuring fine black botanical illustrations that mimic the look of nature sketches. It is elegant without even trying, a quiet luxury version of nail art. The 2025 almond nail shape adds to its organic feel, which is perfect for someone who is in need of soft edges and clean lines this summer.

To recreate the effect, look for muted green tones like “Sage It Ain’t So” from Lights Lacquer or “Olive Grove” by Cirque Colors. Add to that a highly pigmented black gel liner for the leaf outlines. What makes this one feel contemporary is the lack of glitter or gloss-just a clean botanical shape on a matte or soft-shine base.

I thought that nail art had to scream to be stylish, but designs like this made me change my mind. A couple of summers back, I was all about neutral tones, and this leafy pattern was a great way to bring in some detail without going all out maximalist. It also goes with gold rings and natural linen outfits so well. Earthy elegance at its finest.

Bright Botanicals on Lime Base

If sunshine had a cousin, it’d be this design. The bright almost neon lime-green base is full of life and is speckled with soft flecks of gold, which gives it an effervescent quality. One accent nail has a fine, drawn botanical in black – giving you just the right amount of contrast. The overall aesthetic is a mix of playfulness and clarity, ideal for 2025 short nails or those wanting to test the waters of the simple nail art world.

For that vibrant pop, ILNP’s “Limelight” or the eco-friendly “Electric Daisy” by Habit are the way to go. You can also hand draw the floral details using stamping plates or nail stickers if you are not a precision person. That glowy speckled finish is enhanced with a layer of jelly topcoat.

Not to lie, but this one makes me think of garden picnics and lemon sorbet. I had tried it after I had seen a similar style on Olive & June’s Instagram and was instantly hooked. If your wardrobe is all about whites, tans, or washed out yellows, this manicure is the perfect punch without overpowering your look.

Kiwi-Fruit Pop Art

This one’s juicy. Literally. These shiny green nails are like they’ve just been plucked from a tropical fruit bowl – with one show-stopping kiwi slice perfectly painted on the ring finger. The harmony between pop art and photo-realism is delicious, and the bright green gloss adds that refreshing kick you are looking for in your summer green nails ideas 2025 set.

You will need a base such as “Mojito Madness” by Essie or “Green With Envy” by Revlon. Use a fine brush for the seeds and shading – start light and build up the pigment. A glossy top coat is non-negotiable here; it makes the kiwi art shine (pun intended).

Making this design may require a bit of patience but the reward? Worth it. I did a fruit-themed manicure for my best friend’s bridal shower picnic and this kiwi nail stole the show. It’s playful, but grown, perfect for those who want to wear something summer-coded and still hear compliments at the office.

Lime Fade Ombre Vibes

Ombre nails, but elevated. This gradient ranges from juicy lime to a rich rainforest green-smooth, clean and ultra-satisfying. It’s the kind of design that looks complex but is surprisingly wearable. The square shape keeps it modern, and the shine? It practically glows. This is your to-go if you are a gel nails fan or want to complement your toenails pedicure to something breezy and light.

Ombre kits such as Makartt’s sponging tool or beetles Gel Polish ombré sets can make this a fun weekend DIY. Simply paint the lime shade on one side and the forest green on the other and blend the two using a sponge or soft brush while wet. Top it up with a glossy top coat to seal it.

Personally, I love gradient nails because they are mood shifters, each time I look at my hands, it is like a mini tropical escape. Additionally, ombre designs are a perfect match for 2025 almond or square shapes, especially if you want to create an illusion of longer fingers.

Mint Marble for the Win

Soft, swirly, and completely mesmerizing – this marble nail design is a treat to the eyes. The light mint base is swirled with milky white and dark green veins creating an illusion of real stone. It’s a little retro, a little arty, and completely on-trend for both 2025 short and long nails. If you are a person who likes abstract detail but hates strict symmetry – this one is for you.

Marble nails work best with a medium-thick polish. I recommend Lights Lacquer in “Sea Foam” or Modelones’ marble gel set. Use a dotting tool or toothpick to drag the colors into swirls prior to curing. The trick is not overblending—embrace the movement.

The first time I tried marbling, it was a mess (and I loved it). Every nail ended up being unique, and that honestly made it feel like wearable art. It’s a great option if you are over minimalism and want to dip into something that is still simple, but not basic.

Chrome and Gemstone Luxe

Talk about a glow-up moment. This design combines toned down mint green with full chrome nails and a gem-studded centerpiece. It’s part futuristic, part baroque, and all glamour. The stiletto shape adds to the luxe effect and the minimalist palette helps to keep it down to earth. If you are looking for long, gel, or statement-worthy designs for summer soirées, this one hits the nail on the head — literally.

For that mirrored finish, you’ll need a chrome pigment powder (Born Pretty has a great one) paired with a no-wipe gel top coat. The green shade might be such as “Pistachio” by Olive & June and the crystal cluster? Check Swarovski nail gems or pre-set nail jewels for accuracy.

This manicure will take a little time but trust – it’s the kind of set that has people reaching for your hand to get a closer look. Last time I wore chrome, a person at a rooftop bar did ask if it was a press-on from a high-end collab. That’s when you know it’s giving.

Floral Foil Meets Dusty Green

A modern floral fantasy. This design alternates between dusty green nails and muted mauve with fine metallic floral foils. The mix feels vintage yet current, soft but intentional. The almond shape and shimmer add a touch of highness to it – this is a perfect option for women who want their summer green nails ideas 2025 to whisper elegance without uttering a word.

To recreate this, you’ll want foil transfer sheets (gold and rose are perfect), a tacky base coat, and a foil sealer. For polish, consider Zoya’s “Sage” and Essie’s “Eternal Optimist” for that muted contrast. Pair with thin florals or stickers if you are not using foil.

It’s giving museum exhibit vibes—but wearable. This is what I’d grab before a friend’s baby shower or summer brunch where mimosas are a-flowing and everyone’s in floaty dresses. Soft glam with personality.

Jungle Stripes on Soft Neutrals

There’s something effortlessly tropical about this almond set. A nude base prepares the way for stripes in jungle green layered in lime, emerald, and even a touch of gold. The stripes run diagonally, which gives a soft movement that is at the same time fluid and fierce. This one embraces 2025 almond nail trends but is light enough for hot balmy days.

Apply a sheer nude base such as OPI’s “Put It In Neutral”, and apply your stripes with a striping brush. Apply Cirque Colors’ “Avocado” and “Palm Springs” with gold foil or liner to give them a shine. Seal it all in with a glossy or semi-matte top coat for finish.

This is my go-to “vacation nails” vibe. I did something like this before a week in Tulum, and the compliments piled on. It also goes perfectly with swimsuits, sunglasses, and that golden-hour lighting that you always wish you could bottle.

Farmhouse Cow Meets High Gloss

Alright, I wasn’t anticipating to fall in love with this cow print and green combination, but here we are. This nail trend switches between luxuriant jungle green and sharp black and white cow spots – somehow it just works. It’s quirky, fresh, and the type of 2025 short or medium-length design for a person with a bold taste and a sense of humor. Add sunglasses and attitude for best results.

Essie’s “Off Tropic” or Sally Hansen’s “Jungle Green” will be perfect for the solid nails. Use a dotting tool or brush to paint on irregular black blobs over a white base (I love Orly’s “White Tips”). It’s easier than it looks—no need for symmetry.

This one is great for music festivals, outdoor barbecues or even scrolling your feed in a cute outfit. It’s playful, but not childish and a no-fuss choice for anyone who wants to make a visual statement.

Matte Forest Meets Minimal Swirls

Sleek and sculpted with a matte finish that is just begging to be touched. This long set with a point is deep forest green with little white and sage swirls on two accent nails. The contrast between the matte texture and airy art keeps it down to earth and sophisticated. This is the type of nail design that looks editorial but doable.

Use a matte top coat such as OPI Matte Finish, and for the green base, “Evergreen” by DND. Nail art pens or striping brushes are a must for the swirl work – use off-white and soft sage to keep it low key.

I find matte nails incredibly chic for late summer when the weather cools just slightly but you’re still living in sandals. They’re also great for toenails pedicure if you’re ready to coordinate but not to match. Just… matte everything. It’s a vibe.

Emerald Forest Luxe

There is a certain casual luxury to deep emerald greens when they’re teamed with transparent bases and botanical details. Here, the stark contrast between solid glossy green and sheer nails with soft leaf patterns, makes the look both polished and whimsical. The rhinestone embellishments give just the right amount of glitter to catch the sun – great for those late July rooftop dinners. It’s a well-balanced combination of statement and softness, grounded in nature but given glam touches. This one’s a go-to for women who are looking for something a little more grown up but playful.

To recreate this vibe, I’d recommend starting with a gel base like OPI GelColor in “Stay Off the Lawn!” for the green and a milky sheer for the negative space (try Essie Gel Couture in “Sheer Fantasy”). The subtle botanical accents can be hand painted with the use of a fine brush or stamped on with the help of nail decals. Add a couple of Swarovski flatback crystals for the luxe shine. Cap it all off with a thick, glossy topcoat to seal it all in.

It’s a little time-consuming if you are doing it at home, but not impossible. I usually start by shaping my nails into a long square tip (classic for 2025 long trends), apply the base colors, then carefully sketch the leafy shapes using a liner brush. The gem placement is the last one – you can imagine it as the earrings for your nails. Celebrity nail artist Chaun Legend often emphasizes balancing heavy accents with subtle backgrounds, and this look nails that (pun intended).

I wore a variation of this to a summer wedding once and had strangers come up to me to ask who did my nails. And honestly? I only smiled and said, “Me, with a glass of wine and three hours of patience.” Worth it.

Lucky Charms Minimalism

This matte green look is all about charm—literally. The best thing about it is the straightforward but powerful message that is printed on creamy shamrock silhouettes: “Lucky” and “Charms.” It is playful, wearable, and a great reminder that nail art can have a personality. The rounded 2025 short nail shape maintains it low-maintenance but the design ensures that it does not feel boring. This type of vibe is ideal for summer brunches or music festivals if you would like to say something subtle but cute.

I’d go for Zoya’s “Wyatt” for that deep matte green base, and a pale pistachio polish (try Olive & June’s “KMC”) for the shamrocks. You can use nail vinyls or stickers to bring those shapes crisp. And don’t forget to put a matte gel top coat on top of it to give it that velvety finish that just shouts trendy and cool.

This one’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. Once you have prepped your nails, apply your base shade and cure. Cut a stencil for the clovers and very carefully apply the lettering using a fine-tipped nail art pen. I always top mine with a no-wipe matte top coat for that super smooth finish.

My roommate really saw me wear this design on a Thursday and she copied it for a Saturday baby shower. That’s the kind of look this is—it spreads. And I mean, why not? A small amount of luck and charm never goes out of fashion.

Olive Drizzle Chic

Subtle. Sophisticated. With just a whisper of shimmer. This olive-toned manicure is for those who are minimalist at heart but still want to feel like they’re nails are made for an editorial shoot. The fine golden waves that run through the green polish are the ones that provide that liquid-metal effect that seems to be just right for golden-hour selfies. And the rounded almond shape is a gentle bow to the most popular 2025 almond nail trends silhouette.

The best part? You don’t need a million tools to recreate it. I’d suggest Essie Expressie “Taxi Hopping” as your olive base and for the shimmer line, a thin line of Orly’s “Gold Leaf” or even a little bit of gold foil for that luxe ripple. Apply using a fine liner brush for control. For that clean, sophisticated finish, finish it all off with a high-gloss top coat.

I have done this one a couple of times when I needed my nails to look polished without being flashy. Think: job interview, in-laws’ dinner, or a low-key beach wedding. As celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec says, combining muted bases with delicate metallics is one of the simplest ways to keep your nails fresh, but seasonally appropriate, and I can’t agree more.

Sometimes the best nail moments are the quietest ones.

Palm Paradise Energy

Now this one? This screams vacation. A combination of high-shine lime, soft pastel greens, and that iconic yellow-green gradient with palm frond accents – this is everything that a summer green nails ideas 2025 board requires. It has that island-fever vibe, the kind that makes you want to get on a plane or at least sit poolside with something frozen in your hand. The almond shape is providing a lot of 2025 almond manicure power.

The best shades to copy this look would be Lights Lacquer “Now & Later”, China Glaze “Lemon Fizz” and a jelly green like Beetles Gel Polish in Neon Green. For the palm details, a stamping plate or a fine brush with black or dark green gel polish is amazing.

Creating this at home is all about layering. Sponge on your green base, the yellow gradient and then the palm design on top. If you are confident, use a detail brush or use a stencil for a safer bet. Seal it with a topcoat that won’t take the gloss out of it—this is all about neon shine.

I wore something like this last summer on a cruise, and I swear that my nails became the informal theme of the group. If you are one of those who like to be the sunshine in every room, this set? Total power move.

Neon Acid Pop

Let’s end this batch with a bang. This green is loud. Like, can-see-it-from-space loud. Combined with a trippy combination of abstract black-and-white and jelly lime swirls, this design is for the most daring girlies. It is not a 2025 moment, it is an always look-at-me moment. The shiny finish and the round tips make it surprisingly wearable but still a punch. Great for club nights, brave brunches, or simply waking up and deciding on ✨drama✨.

For that glow, go for Holo Taco’s “Green Taffy”, Essie’s “Off Tropic”, and Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Lime Punch”. The swirls are easiest with a dotting tool or a wavy stencil, and a steady hand (or a forgiving friend). For the monochrome panel, use classic white and jet black gels and then freestyle with pops of green splatter. Finish with a glassy gel topcoat.

If you’re doing this one at home, just know: it’ll take patience, but it’s worth every minute. And don’t hurry the drying time in between coats – I’ve smudged way too many of these while multitasking. Once a nail artist Betina Goldstein said, “A great nail look is like a great outfit—you don’t need it to make sense, you just need it to work”. And this? Works overtime.

Mint Shimmer Pop

This is the minty breath of fresh air your summer look may be in need of. With sleek, almond-shaped nails in a cool turquoise-green hue, and one finger glittering and studded with rhinestones, it’s pretty much the mani equivalent of ocean waves catching sunlight. This combo straddles the line between easy and all-out mermaid magic, and hits the mark. Literally.

For the base, I would suggest something along the lines of CND Shellac in “Mint Convertible”. The glitter finger could be done using Kiara Sky’s “Teal We Meet Again” with a chunky glitter top coat. Then just grab a rhinestone wheel (Amazon has tons) and a dab of nail glue to place those statement gems at the base.

You don’t need pro tools to pull this off. Apply the base coats and let them cure. For the glitter accent nail, I press a layer of sparkle polish and finish with topcoat before placing rhinestones while it’s still tacky. It’s a little detail that adds a touch of luxury without the whole salon work.

I’ve worn different versions of this when I’m not sure if I want to be calm or glam. And here’s the truth—it gives both. It’s the mani that complements your sundress and your Saturday night.

Mint Waves & Metallic Threads

This design has that cool, futuristic feel I love. Minty green is the dominant colour but all the magic lies in the two accent nails, where abstract metallic threads in silver, green and black give movement and personality. It’s a little art deco, a little 2025 runway, but completely modern. These gel nails can add a little touch of curation even to the most basic outfit.

To make this I’d use Modelones Gel Polish in “Matcha Latte” for the base and place striping tape or hand-painted stripes using Orly Instant Artist in black, silver and green. A glossy finish brings the whole thing to life.

For me, these kinds of looks start with intention. After shaping my nails into soft ovals (great for balance), I apply my base. The swirl detail is one that I lightly map out with a dotting tool first, it helps guide the lines. One of the tricks of pro nail artist Miss Pop is to use colors in thin layers, so that every tone remains visible even in a pattern.

I wore a variation of this to a gallery opening once, and suffice to say—my nails were more complimented than the art on the walls. Sometimes, your manicure is the real masterpiece.

Gold-Framed Greenery

This is such a chic twist to 2025 short nail art. The subdued green base is down-to-earth and serene, but the true show-stoppers are the botanical accent nails with soft gold frames. One nail employs the use of pearl dots to create a curve while the other frames a single stem of leaves. It’s elegant, wearable and does not scream for attention – but gets it anyway.

I would go for OPI “Saguaro” for that dusky green and Beetles Gel Polish in “White Sage” for the leafy detail. Frame using gold foil strips or use Leaf Gel Gold Liner. Pearls? Any nail supply kit will provide flat-back micro pearls.

When I’m doing a more complicated design like this one, I prepare the nails very carefully, shorter square shapes help to fix the look. A dotting tool creates the pearls curve. Pro tip from Tom Bachik: use a thin art brush loaded with top coat to put your foil and pearls in the exact location you want them, then flash-cure.

This one brings to my mind peaceful mornings – coffee, sun, wheat fields waving outside a window. It’s a bit romantic, a bit down to earth, and it’s all for women who prefer their nails to whisper, not scream.

Glossy Garden Greens

Here’s something ultra-polished but still super fresh. The intermittent glossy green shades with a gentle “boho” script on one nail gives off a vibe of a lazy summer afternoon – the kind where you’re barefoot in the grass and life is moving slow. The 2025 short square shape has a neat, easy to maintain edge which is great for everyday wear, including toenails pedicure if you want to match things up.

To re-create this at home, try Olive & June “WKF” and “LD” – two stunning greens that work well together. For the script accent nail, nail art stickers or stamping plate can be used. That leafy touch? Apply with a feather-light hand and a detail brush loaded with sheer dark green.

Honestly, this look is kind of a staple. It’s timeless, requires zero embellishment, and still feels artistic. I recall doing this style for a weekend upstate with friends. We cooked outside, we wore linen and my nails never chipped once. They were equally as pretty next to a picnic blanket as they were with a glass of rosé in hand.

Modern French in Emerald

The 2025 almond twist on a classic French tip? Say less. These nails are polished perfection in nude-based nails with shocking emerald green tips. It’s modern, sharp, and all-round versatile – you could wear this with a bikini, or a business suit, and it would still hit. French tips are being re-invented left and right, and this one adds some bold energy to the table.

Use Bio Seaweed Gel “Nude Peach” for the base and Beetles Gel “Forest Green” for the tips. Use a French tip guide sticker or do it freehand if you’ve got a steady hand. Such almond shapes lengthen the fingers and make everything look more graceful.

Doing this at home? Buff, shape, and apply your base color first. Then, use a fine brush to add on the tips. Finish with a high gloss top coat and you are ready to roll. Celebrity nail tech Britney Tokyo always says that the secret to a modern French is sharp tip lines and ultra clean cuticles – it makes all the difference.

This is my default when I want to feel like I have done something without doing much. It’s one of those trendy styles that’s quietly powerful.

Retro Citrus Wave

Okay—this one is summer bottled up into a manicure. The color blocked swirls of orange and mint green provide full-on citrusy popsicle energy, and I’m obsessed. It’s graphic. It’s bold. It has that 70s beach ad feel, but in the most awesome way. And honestly? This is precisely the direction that 2025 short nail trends are going – punchy, creative, and fun, but not fussy.

To pull this off, you’ll need Lights Lacquer “Now & Later” (for that mint green base) and Sundays “No.17”—a creamy tangerine that glides on like sorbet. Use a nail art brush or French curve guides to get those curved segments clean.

I usually start with a nude or green base, then map out the swirl shapes lightly using a pencil liner (yep, an old beauty trick). After you have painted your swirls, go over them twice for opacity. Let it dry between coats to keep it crisp. A top coat that does not smear your design, Mei Kawajiri swears by Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, which is still the gold standard.

This is one of those looks I’d sport to a Sunday market or beach day. It feels like something you do on the spur of the moment – saying yes to one more cocktail because the sun is still up.

Mint Fairy Dust

Light, sparkly, ethereal – this one will give me pure toenails pedicure fantasy but for fingers. The translucent mint green base is soft and diffused and the scattered flake glitter sparkles in all the right ways. The overall effect is dreamy, light-catching, and super flattering on long almond-shaped nails (the forever favorite silhouette for summer 2025).

The best way to do it at home is with a jelly polish, such as Born Pretty “Mint Macaron” on top of a milky base. For the glitter, pick up a flake top coat or an iridescent pigment powder such as Daily Charme’s Unicorn Flakes. Sponge or dab lightly for that scattered, natural look.

This design is actually easier than it looks. Apply your jelly base and then tap on the flakes with a makeup sponge softly. I then seal it in with two layers of clear builder gel for added smoothness and glassy finish. Nail pro Sarah Bland says layering soft colors with shimmer is one of the simplest ways to make nails look luxe without a lot of technical work, and I am completely in agreement.

The previous summer, I had a similar look on when I was at a lake house getaway. My nails were like sun rays on water, and I really didn’t want to remove it. It’s that kind of mani—the one you don’t forget.