Summer Short Acrylic Nails Ideas 2025: Trendy & Simple Designs to Try This Season

There’s nothing like a new summer manicure to show your mood. Whether you’re lounging beachside or just dreaming of iced matchas and golden hour selfies, this season is all about summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 that are vibrant, fun, and made for showing off. But don’t stick with the usual—we’re entering a time of vivid colors, fun touches and bold shapes that are perfect for now.

This post brings your mood board to life, showing you what’s trendy, easy to wear and full of character. From bold cherries to soft ombrés and juicy avocados (yes, really), these are the looks you’ll want to screenshot and bring to your next nail appointment. Just because they’re small, doesn’t mean they’re not interesting—let’s look at the best new styles together. Ready to find your next obsession?

Fresh Daisy Blues

When you see soft sky-blue nails with daisy art, it instantly shows you’re in your soft-girl summer time. This design doesn’t make a big statement—it whispers in a pleasant, cheerful way. The best part is the accent nail which has tiny white daisies and bright yellow centers on a calm peachy-pink background. It’s a great example of how simple charm can be updated with a 2025 touch. They are the kinds of summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 that are easy, planned and cheerful—perfect for when the weather heats up.

If you want to copy this look, use OPI’s “Gelato On My Mind” for the blue and use Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” as the background for the flower nail. You can freehand the daisies using a dotting tool (or a toothpick, tbh) with Orly’s “White Tips” and Sally Hansen’s “Mellow Yellow”. Finish everything off with a top coat that looks like gel by using Seche Vite.

I tried this mani before a long weekend in Cape Cod and every time I got iced coffee, someone complimented me. It’s giving romantic picnic energy—you know, linen dresses, woven baskets, the works. If you’re looking for a trendy way to do simple cute art without choosing bold colors, this is the guide for you.

Strawberry Fields Forever

If you’re looking for something fun and neat, these tiny strawberry tips are the perfect summer short acrylic nails idea for 2025. This version of the French tip is anything but traditional. A sheer pink background is decorated by strawberries and outlined with white tips that make the art look clean and neat. They’re flirty, flirty, flirty—and maybe a little bit delicious?

If you’d like that juicy red pop, I’d go for China Glaze “Ruby Pumps” on the berries and Olive & June’s “HD” for the soft pink base. Green leaves? Use Essie’s “Mojito Madness”. To get that perfect white French tip, nail strips or guides are the easiest way unless you’re very steady.

This design appears complicated, but it’s much simpler to achieve than it looks. A pro tip from celeb manicurist Miss Pop? “When in doubt, simplify the shapes. You’re free to make your strawberries as fancy or simple as you’d like.

If you’re a Pinterest fan, this design is made for you! It’s a playful way to include bright colors, without taking things too seriously. I’ve also tried a toes matching watermelon pink pedicure and it looks great together.

Butterfly Bling & Peony Pinks

How do soft pinks, zesty corals and one golden moment blend when they meet? Magic. This mani makes me think of a beautiful summer sunset in every nail. The accent butterfly brings in a touch of innocence, but doesn’t make the whole outfit look too casual. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bright colors and neon art, but still wants a ring they can wear every day.

I’ve found that you can get a similar look by using “Juliette” from ILNP for the liquid-metal gold and “Wendy” from Zoya for the coral. The butterfly decal? You can buy them in nail art sticker packs on Etsy or Amazon and they are generally easy to stick on. Super satisfying.

When you use several colors, it’s all about keeping things even. It doesn’t matter if you go for squares or almonds, but I think the oval looks especially nice here. The nails still look elegant, despite all the sparkle and shine.

I wore these colors to a garden wedding in July and I can tell you it gives me a big confidence boost. You’re growing beautiful nails as the peonies are blooming.

Primary Colors, Primary Energy

Bold, abstract, and totally unapologetic—this is what summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 are all about if you’re ready to bring the color. The use of just a few bright swirls in blue, orange and yellow over a bare skin base creates a mix of old and new styles. It’s all about giving: a museum visit, drinks on the rooftop and maybe a little fun with string lights. It’s so refreshing to do simple nail art with bright colors.

The easiest way to get this design? Apply OPI’s “Put It In Neutral” as your base and then use Color Club neons or Sally Hansen Insta-Dri for the color details. Thin detail brushes are your go-to here. Just swirl and seal with a top coat.

I noticed this exact color combination on the runways for the Resort 2025 season. Think of it as art class meets fashion week. Recently, nail artist Betina Goldstein said that adding bold shapes to short nails makes the color stand out even better. Agreed.

If you’re a little hesitant about dopamine-mani, this is a gentle introduction that won’t overwhelm you.

Greenhouse Glow

Many people forget to appreciate how great green looks on nails. But here? It absolutely shines. The combination of lime and emerald looks clean, lively and a bit wild. And that leafy black outline? Chic botanical realness. This design is popular in summer and works between being simple and making a statement—it’s also very flattering for all skin tones.

If you want that gradient, begin with DND’s “Green Garden” and blend it with Color Club’s “Feathered Hair Out To There.” You can do the leafy line art with a fine nail pen like Makartt’s Detail Brush Pen. Yes, having a steady hand is good—but little flaws give it a more authentic look.

After I became a plant mom last summer, I tried this look and found that watering my pothos was so relaxing. You won’t notice this style at first, but it will still attract attention. You’ll look great if you wear this with a white sundress or a linen set from the tropics.

Neon Kiwi Frenchies

These little citrus nails are the perfect way to capture summer’s fun. The combination of electric yellow, mint green and black lines creates a neon art look, making it seem like you’re wearing a watermelon party on your hands. I can wear this necklace because the base is clear, but it’s still a lot of fun. If you’re looking for designs for hot days and cold lemonades, this is one of the freshest summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 out there.

For this look, you’ll need a solid nude base (try Bio Seaweed Gel in “Barely There”) and super pigmented neons like China Glaze “Highlight of My Summer” and ORLY’s “Glowstick”. The black lines? You can use a striping brush, but if that’s too much, try using nail art pens from Kiss or Makartt.

I’ve done this style for summer travel—it’s the kind of mani that doesn’t chip easily and gets compliments at the smoothie bar. I like what celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein suggests: “Adding bright color-blocked designs to your short nails gives you a neat and lively look.”

Crystals, Florals & Classic Squares

For those girls looking for a mix of fragrances, sparkly details, bold color and the iconic shape, this one’s for you. It’s dainty but glamorous, grounded but flirty. Every nail stands out on its own and all together they make a lovely 2025 picture of charm. If you’re curious about what summer short acrylic nails will look like in 2025 when you mix styles—this is it.

Go with OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the daisy petals, Butter London’s “Ladybird” for that vibrant orange, and finish with flatback Swarovski-style crystals (they’re all over Amazon or Shein). Apply the petals with a fine brush and adhere your gems to the manicure while the top coat is still drying.

Personally? It seems like the kind of design you’d see at a Sunday brunch. It’s adding main character energy, but in a gentle way. NailPro’s spring previews for 2025 show that floral designs with strong shapes are definitely gaining popularity.

Gilded Gradient Dreams

Now this one? It’s pure opulence. Light pastel blue and pink blend together until they look like a sunset over the ocean and then metallic gold foil adds the final touch from the nail gods. If you’re craving oval nail designs that look expensive without being flashy, this is the inspo to pin. It’s a delicate way to show off bright colors in your outfit.

Mixing this look with CND Shellac “Pink Bikini”, Essie “Blue-tiful Horizon” and gold foil sheets from any beauty supply store is a great idea. Sponge the base shades together before curing and then press the foil in when your top coat is still a bit wet.

I’ve styled summer weddings before and every time I feel like I should be holding a champagne glass. It’s elegant, but modern. Gold leaf nails were a standout in Harper’s Bazaar’s list of nail trends for 2025 and I understand why.

Cherry-Tipped & Red Bloomed

This one’s classic cherry red, but with a twist. Hand-painted flowers make the French tip more colorful and the pattern goes from simple red swirls to delicate blooms. If you are a fan of simple cute art, you will find plenty of flair without any extra effort. I love its bright colors and floral design, so it’s one of my top summer short acrylic nails ideas for 2025.

You should start with a sheer nude like OPI “Bubble Bath” and finish with a strong cherry red like Essie’s “Forever Yummy”. Use a detail brush to create your mini blooms. Add a green detail for stems (try Zoya’s “Josie”) and top with clear coat to lock everything in.

I wear this mani when I’m on a weekend away with my friends—convertibles, red lips and ice cream cones are involved. Did you know? This look has been all the rage in Japan and is now taking over NYC salons for the summer of 2025, Refinery29 Beauty says.

Minimalist Green & White

This manicure is like a breath of fresh air—seriously. The basic white background is modern and neat, with the green leafy art adding a bit of natural life to it. If you prefer a natural or earthy look, these almond-shaped nails are the best summer short acrylic nails idea for 2025. It’s chic, it’s clean, and it’s totally cottagecore-cool.

It’s important to use DND “Snow Flakes” for your white and Beetles “Green Forest” for the green. As nail artists often say, gel polish is best for designs like this because it doesn’t drag the brush. A bonus hint is to apply your leaf patterns using a thin liner brush and moving quickly.

If you’re looking for a grounded style when summer is ending, this is it. I had on something similar while hiking in Asheville last August and it seemed to dress up my boots. By 2025, we’ll want balance and this design has it.

Color Pop Confetti

White nails? Always a classic. Yet, add a single nail with rainbow dots and the look becomes more fun. This design adds a retro candy look to the clean and simple look of a full white square mani. It’s a great way to add a little fun, without being too much. It’s perfect for simple lovers who still want to dip into the bright colors trend that’s everywhere in 2025.

Use a pure matte white like Beetles “Snow White” Gel Polish as your base, and then grab a tiny dotting tool (or even a bobby pin) to create the multi-color dots using shades like OPI’s “Sunrise… Bedtime!”, Zoya’s “Dacey”, and Sally Hansen’s “Mellow Yellow”.

I always think of those little sugar candies we got at parties when I see this design—it’s sweet, cheerful and reminds me of summer. Plus, it’s easy enough to DIY without sacrificing style.

Teal Palm Breeze

There’s a gentle breeze in this one—you can almost notice it. The teal watercolor blends into the shape of palm leaves which make me think of warm pool days and relaxing sunset drinks. What I love about this style is that it’s both tropical and soothing. You can use these for summer short acrylic nails in 2025 to show that you’re still on vacation.

The ombre should be formed by blending “Aquamarine” from Madam Glam onto OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” using either sponging or airbrushing to make the look airier. The palm detail? A thin brush and a dark teal shade like Essie “Go Overboard” will give you the look. Or opt for stickers if you’re not ready for freehand.

I actually wore this set before my beach trip last year and it put me in the mood before I started packing. Beach prints are currently trending, according to NailPro which predicts they will be a big hit in nail art next year. Once you try it, you’ll want to return to it every year during the summer.

Avocado Toast Tips

If you can’t get enough avocado, why not try avocado nails? The design here is simple: a square base with an avocado pattern and soft orange tips at the edges—it’s a unique look that everyone will love on Instagram. It’s one of the more playful designs simple cute art trending this year, and honestly? It slaps.

For the tips, try Modelones “Tangerine Dream” on top of DND “Milkshake”. You’ll need thin brushes and shades such as Leafgel’s “Matcha”, CND’s “Cream Puff” and a tiny amount of Essie’s “Partner in Crime” for the pit when doing an avocado.

I tried this design out on a whim with a friend and people loved it so much at brunch. It’s unexpected but still super wearable. Plus, it matches your avo toast order. What’s not to love?

Cherry Blossom Whispers

Soft white nails decorated with pretty pink flowers are perfect for bridal, vacation and quiet luxury. The use of fine gold lines and painted flowers makes this nail style one of the most romantic summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 I’ve come across. Its shape is simple, traditional and fits right in with the latest trends.

Your base should be Gelish “Arctic Freeze,” and Born Pretty’s Blossom Pink can be finished with gold foil tape or detailing gel. If you’re not using decals, you need fine-tipped brushes for this style.

I wore this once at a friend’s engagement picnic and it looked wonderful with soft pastels and pearl jewelry. It looks both elegant and easy—and it’s a great choice if you want your toes to match.

Cherry Bomb Meets Leopard Pop

Here’s where Y2K fun meets wild glam. Cherry nail art meets glossy leopard print and the combination is surprisingly successful. Using these patterns together on short nails gives any outfit a strong and unique touch. It’s popular, it’s a little over the top and it’s definitely included in the 2025 trend for bright colors.

For cherries, you’ll want to use Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” for the base, Olive & June’s “CV” for the poppy red and a green detail polish. The leopard? Put on Zoya’s “Janel” on your nails, then add OPI’s “Never Have Too Mani Friends” to the spots, over CND’s “Bare Chemise.”

I’ve always liked fruit designs and this one is striking enough to be noticed but still practical. According to Allure, mismatched patterns are huge for 2025, especially when they’re rooted in nostalgia. This set hits all the right notes.

Fresh Leafy Green Energy

It’s all about including a bit of green brightness which reminds us of tropical smoothies and fresh air in the garden. The base is a green akin to matcha, with a lime zest and it has white and yellow petal swirls that softly move, like leaves blowing in the breeze. The difference between the two is so noticeable that it seems to vibrate. It’s a lively design, but not too much which is ideal for those who like trendy art that looks balanced. Anyone who wants to try bright colors or add something new to their usual summer short acrylic nails ideas 2025 will find this a good choice.

To bring this design to life, I’d start with a highly pigmented gel polish like “Lime After Lime” by China Glaze as the base. For the petal work, you’d want a fine nail art brush (like Winstonia Detailer #000) and shades like OPI’s “Alpine Snow” and “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants” for that creamy yellow contrast. A glossy topcoat seals it with a summer-ready shine. UV or LED curing will be your biggest ally when making these projects.

You can enjoy DIYing this style since you don’t have to make the leaves perfect. First, decide where you want the swirls and then add your colors from the lightest to the darkest shade. According to nail artist Mazz Hanna, imperfections in nail art can make a manicure feel more unique and this design shows that well.

Personally, I’d pair this look with a linen dress and woven sandals, maybe even a straw hat for a farmers’ market stroll. Actually, I’ve gotten more compliments from people I don’t know when I wear this green—it seems to suit every skin type. It’s not just a design, it’s a mood.

Daisies and Bees, Please

Soft pink sheer polish sets the stage here, while delicate white daisies with cheerful yellow centers (and the cutest micro bee details) take the spotlight. It’s a mix of cottagecore and a polished city girl—both sweet and sharp. It’s the kind of design simple cute art that feels like sipping lemonade under a pergola, or adding a little buzz (pun intended) to your brunch outfit. Even though it’s fun, the design is still elegant because of the negative space and very clean lines. If you’ve been curious about toes matching but don’t want to go all neon, this is a perfect way to start.

The thing I like best about this design is that it seems complicated, but it isn’t. You’ll need a sheer pink base like Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” or Zoya’s “Portia” for that clean-glassy finish. For the flowers, a dotting tool (even a bobby pin in a pinch!) helps you create consistent petals. I use Le Mini Macaron’s precision pen to do the bee stripes. For a bright finish, cover the shellac with Seche Vite as your top layer.

I got her to try this design first and she’s usually all about neutral beige nails. She told me she felt a bit naughty which is the whole idea. A bit of playfulness can easily bring a fresh feeling to your summer.

Berry Fade & Silver Dust

Here’s where the glam comes in. This design starts with fuchsia, moves through orchid and ends with a light lilac, all finished with a sprinkling of silver sparkle along the edges. What I get is a color combination that makes me think of gelato, parties in the moonlight and cocktails with berries at sunset. It’s classy, but with a touch of drama. The almond-shaped nail makes your fingers look longer, so this design is ideal if you’re after something classy and attractive this summer.

What’s smart about this is that the designer uses cool colors but manages to avoid a cold feeling. For the base, I’d recommend polishes like “Big Bloom Energy” by Olive & June for pink, “Dreamscape” from Lights Lacquer for purple, and a classic silver glitter like “Set in Stones” by Essie. To get a smooth ombré, gently dab the sponge on your hair, rather than swiping it through. You can make a silver edge by dipping a nail striping brush in glitter polish.

Gina Edwards, a celebrity manicurist, recently told Byrdie that gradient is a big trend again when paired with chrome or metallic. This look totally channels that runway-meets-reality energy.

Would I wear this to a wedding? Absolutely. And just to add a little extra fun to going to the grocery store. And isn’t that the whole point?

Confetti Party Pastels

This is for anyone who loves glitter, but also wants something softer. Pink, yellow, orange and lavender shards are spread over a nude base, making the skin look playful and shiny in every light. You won’t find this piece bulky, but it’s still memorable. Whether you’re on vacation, celebrating a birthday or it’s Tuesday, you deserve it.

This design looks best when you use foil flakes or cellophane pieces. Multi-color sets are available from Amazon and also from brands such as Holo Taco. Use a nude base (Zoya’s “Sabrina” is great), then press in the foil using a toothpick or silicone tool while the polish is tacky. Use a gel topcoat to finish everything off and make your nails look great for longer.

It seems like this style is easy to care for, but it’s always fun. Perhaps it’s because I was wearing it in Santa Cruz and each time I held a coconut drink, I felt like I was in a travel commercial. Highly recommend for boosting serotonin.

Pink Pop & Dots Remix

The combination of hot pink and monochrome polka dots is both fun from the past and stylish today. The nail’s square shape ensures it’s neat and the mix of matte, white and black makes it feel different. Anyone who loves a classic but striking look would find this one perfect and it would look amazing in a TikTok GRWM video.

The matte finish is essential here. Try OPI’s “Suzi Needs a Loch-Smith” for the base pink and top it with a matte finisher like Essie’s “Matte About You.” To get uniform dots, use a dotting tool dipped in gel black and a full coverage white polish for the white part.

A friend of mine at a corporate job wears this dress every Friday in summer and she says it makes her feel like she’s on a party roof instead of at her desk. It’s a manicure that makes it clear I have my own style. Want to see it sparkle?”

Pink Petal Vibes with a Twist

A pink nail is always elegant, but this shade makes it a little more interesting. Barely visible blush on the lids is very girly, while strong magenta strokes bring to mind flower shapes, making it stand out. Instead of a white curve, this French tip has a bright pink one. The finish is shiny and the oval form gives the whole design a graceful, ballerina-like appearance. This is where you’ll find designs that are simple, cute and still fashionable.

The reason this design stands out is the strong contrast between colors that are similar. I prefer using “Mademoiselle” for the base, as it’s a pretty pink and “Mod Square” for the bright fuchsia. You can get the same curved French tip by applying nail tape or a semi-circular stencil. The detail brush allows you to paint the petals by hand, so don’t worry about being perfect; the movement gives your picture life.

I choose this one when I’m looking for a fun, but not too flashy, outfit. It’s flirtatious without being flashy. Date night on a rooftop is a great idea or you could go alone just to feel your best.

Sunset Brushstroke Mosaic

This design feels like abstract art meets tropical getaway. You’ll find nails in various colors—coral, yellow, blue, purple—and they are all decorated with shimmering gold foil in unique, natural shapes. It’s not just about vibrant colors, but about strong color—and it gives you the same energy as a modern painting. You don’t have to match this style to your clothes, because it is your outfit. It’s also great for toes that match if you like a bright and colorful look.

To DIY this, you’ll need a few ultra-pigmented gel polishes—try “Sahara Sunset” by Orly, “Sun Bleached” by Color Club, and “Blue My Mind” by Sally Hansen. It’s easy to apply gold foil sheets with tweezers when your polish is still a little sticky. No need to be precise—embrace the messy! Miss Pop, a nail artist, explained to Refinery29 that it’s the uneven and unfinished edges that make these looks feel current. Couldn’t agree more.

I love this one when I want a simple outfit that looks like I’ve packed a lot of options. It’s easy to eat chips in public because they’re not easy to spot and every time you look at your hands, you see bits of food everywhere.

Candy Dot Carnival

Welcome to a world where matte baby pink nails are home to bright and bold blue, yellow, green and magenta polka dots. This design is not complicated, but it gives a huge dopamine boost. It’s youthful without feeling juvenile. In addition, the square nail shape helps everything look neat and put-together. If you can’t get enough of neon colors this summer, this is your chance to say yes.

Use a matte pink base like OPI’s “Let’s Be Friends!” then apply your dots with the round end of a bobby pin (truly underrated tool). Wait until the dots are dry before you put on the matte topcoat—you don’t want any smudges. I love ILNP’s matte finisher for this. Make sure your hands are still or use a dotting guide to help you space out your eyes.

This design looks like you’re at a summer street fair on your nails. At a Fourth of July BBQ last year, I wore my bracelet and had people I didn’t know asking to take pictures of my hands—it’s that adorable. This is also the one that made me reconsider matte. It’s just so satisfying.

Zesty Lemon Leaves

It’s a bit like drinking a cold lemonade with a touch of art deco. The set is mostly sunshine yellow, with a few nails adding white and yellow botanical designs on a nude background. It’s a surprisingly wearable way to try bold tones—thanks to the clean symmetry of the design. If you’re looking for a trendy floral look with a pop, this one is perfect. It’s an excellent choice for outfits you wear at the beach or in a sunny office.

You should start with “Sunshine State of Mind” by Essie, a creamy yellow polish. To do leafy nails, use a fine brush and LeChat’s “White Out” gel polish. Branch out your lines just like ferns or feathers and cure them under an LED lamp afterward. Although the design seems tough, it’s actually very easy to work with.

If you’re not sure about bright colors but want to experiment, this is a clever way to start. I wore it when I wanted something other than pink and now it’s part of my regular look. It’s energizing but soft, like early morning sunlight.

Pink Gradient Dream

It starts out soft blush and ends in deep fuchsia in a neat vertical ombre that’s both feminine and bold, making it look completely smooth. The square nail shape makes the transition look interesting but still keeps it simple. If you’ve been curious whether gradients will still be a big trend in 2025? Yes. And this version proves it. It’s a summer short acrylic nails idea in 2025 that you can wear just as easily as you can look at on Instagram.

To get the effect, begin with “Minimalist” from Zoya, “Pink Friday” from OPI and “Hotter than You Pink.” Dab the colors up and down on your nail with a sponge to achieve that gradual gradient. Top with a glossy finisher to blur everything together.

I wore this to a friend’s engagement dinner once and everyone complimented my nails more than my dress. True story. Pink fades never go out of style—they’re Barbiecore, but with a refined touch and they always impress.

Pastel French Kisses

I’ve never seen a softer version of a French tip this year and I absolutely love it. A sheer, glossy base is followed by a fun pastel arc at the tip—these include lavender, mint, bubblegum pink, sky blue and peachy coral. A tiny heart just above the smile line, in the same color, connects everything. It’s not simple, but it’s not crowded either and the oval shape adds a touch of elegance. If you’re into simple nail art but want a modern, Pinterest-worthy twist, this one delivers.

You should begin with a sheer nude like OPI’s “Bubble Bath” to create this design. To create your own, use a striping brush or a French tip guide to paint each tip in a different pastel color from the Lights Lacquer “Sweetheart Bundle.” To make the heart detail, use either a dotting tool or a toothpick. Finish it off with a gel coat that really makes the nails sparkle.

You can tell this look is stylish, but it doesn’t have to make a big deal out of it. I’ve dressed up this design for both the beach and casual weddings and it always catches people’s attention. Picture yourself sipping iced tea in a light summer dress and that’s what romantic but relaxed looks like.

Retro Striped Delight

I knew right away that I liked this one because of those bright and clear lines. The base is a transparent nude and white, yellow, pink and green stripes across the top give the look a bold shape. There’s a touch of 70s nostalgia, but everything is updated for the future. The short, square shape keeps it all looking polished. If you’re looking for something fun but still polished, this is the design for you on confident days.

You should have a brush that applies stripes very well and pigmented nail polishes. Zoya’s “Snow White,” “Dacey,” “Eunice,” and “Bee” work together wonderfully in this palette. If you’re confident, skip the tape and try to draw the lines by hand or you can use tape to help you. Make sure you apply a neutral gel base and a solid topcoat to finish the manicure.

I find this design is a real conversation starter. The symmetry is so satisfying—and there’s something comforting about orderly, bold lines. I paired this with a large white button-down and some vintage jeans and it felt like I was in a J.Crew advertisement.