The summer season is here and your nails should respond with something cheerful and happy. So here’s the big question—what’s the vibe for summer nail art ideas 2025? Would you prefer to dress in a simple and elegant way or would you rather rock sparkles, bold colors and a lot of rhinestones? The good news is, there’s no wrong answer. You can choose these nail designs for summer, whether you’re chilling by the pool or getting ready for a night out.
Grab a cold drink, scroll slow, and get inspired.
Love-Soaked Pink for the Romantics
Light pink is always in style and when paired with a long almond shape and just a hint of character, it looks really special, like this single-letter note on one nail. It feels elegant, feminine, and yes, a little flirty. Wearing a creamy blush with a bright orchid pink gives just the right amount of color, so it’s perfect for a summer outfit you can wear all day. Definitely a go-to summer nail art ideas to rock in 2025 when you’re in a “soft but statement” mood.
You could imitate this nail color by starting with OPI’s “Mod About You” and finishing with Essie’s “Cascade Cool”. Add a high-gloss top coat like Seche Vite, and finish with a fine-tip nail art pen (like Sally Hansen’s) for the hand-lettered detail.
File your nails to look like almonds at first and proceed to use both polish colors, alternating each layer. After the nails are dry, apply the “love” writing and cover with a gel top coat for a sharp finish. Pro tip from nail artist Betina Goldstein? Let the polish cure completely before adding art—no exceptions.
For me, this is what I refer to as “romantic armor.” You’re soft, but you’re sharp. Ready for candlelit dinners and spontaneous beach photos alike.
Pink & Green Royal Gems
This is the mani that says, “Yes, I do brunch, but I could also close a deal in heels.” Confident design features a muted green on one side and a simple, cream color pink on the other. And the gem-studded accent nails? Straight-up opulence. Rhinestones add a touch of style to the nails, but they don’t overpower the design, so this look is perfect for anyone looking for summer nail art for short nails.
Olive & June’s “WKF” will give you a mossy green look and “Ballet Slippers” by Essie will add a soft pink. A pack of flat-back multicolor rhinestones and a dotting tool are all you need for the gems. Use nail glue for staying power, not topcoat—trust me.
A friend of mine attended a wedding in the Hamptons wearing a set just like this. It’s safe to say that her nails were more talked about than the bride’s centerpieces.
Pastel Ombré Fade with Crystals
If you’re looking for a summer look that’s not too loud, this soft pastel ombré fade is perfect. Just like gelato melting flavors on a hot day, baby blue, mint and blush pink are a tasty mixture that is both classy and easy to carry off. With small crystals in matching colors, it remains adorable without becoming too tacky. I think this design is one of the top summer nail art ideas I’d recommend.
You’ll need a sponge applicator, sheer pastel polishes (think Cirque Colors “Mint Chip,” “Skylight,” and “Blush”), and rhinestones in matching tones. Dab your sponge into each color and use it to make a nice, smooth gradient.
Sometimes less really is more. It’s especially noticeable when your nails look like sorbet and shine under the light of golden hour.
Silver Glitter & Blue Wave Accent
Let’s talk about fun. I picture Fourth of July drinks and fun times by the pool when I see this blue set. Yet, that one white nail with a wavy oceanic line changes everything. It’s playful, abstract, and unexpectedly modern—just like the best summer nail art ideas simple and smart enough to make your hands the accessory.
To get this one, go for ILNP’s “Tidal Wave” (a shimmer baby blue), a crisp white like Essie’s “Blanc,” and a fine liner brush with bold teal gel polish for that wave. Add two silver glitter fingers by hand or use a glitter polish already mixed with glitter.
I always get compliments on looks like this. They’re not overly serious, but they’re hard to miss. They’re like sandals in your nail world—always waiting to be used.
Electric Violet with Chrome Swirls
This set is pure edge. Chrome-swirled details on a base of bold violet? I live for this kind of bright, Y2K-meets-2025 energy. It’s giving “festival in Ibiza” meets “fashion week afterparty.” The square ends hold it together and the layered ribbons of metal give it a touch of luxury. I love this nail art for summer beach designs because it looks so vibrant in the sun.
If you’re a DIY person, don’t let this stop you. Get Orly’s “Purple Crush” and paint it using a silver chrome powder and detail brush. After two coats of color, gently trace the swirl with a clear topcoat, pat in the chrome, seal, and you’re done.
I wore something very similar last year and people kept asking if they were press-ons from LA or a new trend on TikTok. I just smiled and said, “Nope—just good taste.”
Regal Violet and Gold Accents
Think of this design as your perfect summer night—rich purple nails, lovely gold leaf crescents and a sharp white contrast on the ring finger. This shape is almond, but it has a soft glamorous feel. This is an excellent choice for summer nail art if you’re getting dressed up or just want your nails to be like jewelry. Because it combines a simple layout with elegant colors, it is ideal for summer weddings or dinner parties.
If you decide to do this at home, use Zoya’s “Belinda” for the purple and OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the white. I think foil flakes from Born Pretty are the best choice for adding gold accents. Apply a glossy gel topcoat, let it dry and cure the item with UV light.
This design reminds me of velvet dresses and old rings, yet it seems very much from 2025. It’s luxe without trying too hard—and sometimes, that’s the best kind of statement.
Futuristic Blue and Silver Geometry
If you’re looking for a blue and futuristic nail art idea for summer, this one is for you. It’s simple, sharp and not overly complicated. The blue on the pinky is cobalt, a color that is everywhere this season and the silver stripes and rhinestones on white add a techwear touch to your nails. Very sleek, very editorial, and actually—surprisingly—wearable.
Materials-wise, you’ll want a chrome tape or silver gel liner (Le Mini Macaron makes a great one), Swarovski or pearl studs, and blues like Orly’s “Sapphire Silk.” Brush the area with a striping tool and stick the tiles down with builder gel.
This one makes me think of a visit to NYC, walking through SoHo with a drink and noticing how important your nails can be for your outfit. And honestly? They were.
Playful Yellow with Retro Polka Dots
There’s no chance you’ll stay in a bad mood when you’re wearing these. The mix of bright yellow and black polka dots is so retro and I love how easy this outfit is to wear while still getting noticed. If you’re craving summer nail art ideas simple that have maximum personality with minimum fuss—this is your go-to. It’s giving “summer playlist on repeat” vibes.
Honestly, all you need here is a punchy yellow like Sally Hansen’s “Mellow Yellow,” a dotting tool (or bobby pin!), and a glossy black polish. It’s perfect for anyone starting out or for a fast DIY project when you need your nails to reflect your mood.
I chose the same outfit for a picnic in Central Park and got complimented by three people. You don’t need a lot of steps to get a great nail art look.
Sunset Gradient with Palm Silhouettes
The ideas here are all about doing summer beach-themed nail art. The combination of pink, coral, yellow and palm trees makes any space feel like a vacation, even if you’re not actually on one. The square tips keep it fresh and modern. It’s definitely one of the more intricate summer nail art ideas 2025, but it’s also one of the most rewarding visually.
Make sure to use a sponge to blend light and soft sunset colors—ILNP has “Peachy Keen,” “Surfboard,” and “Sun Kissed.” Either press your gel polish onto the palms with a stamping plate or use a tiny brush and black gel polish.
It makes me think of those last warm summer days when the sun is perfect and everything seems picture-perfect.
Lemon Print Matte Nails
Here’s something fun, cheeky, and citrus-fresh. The pale blue and yellow base of these matte nails, along with the hand-painted lemon slices, makes them feel like you’re enjoying a glass of cold lemonade on your fingertips. They are just right for those late July and August days, when you have a tan, an overflowing tote and are wearing linen all day.
Finish your nails with Essie’s “Matte About You” and choose nail art brushes and creams like “Chillato” and “Saltwater Happy.” If you don’t feel confident painting by hand, you can use lemon decals.
There’s something special about nail art that just makes you happy. I’d put these on for farmer’s market mornings, for road trips or just for fun, because they always make me feel happy.
Neon Green Frame Tips
Few things scream “I’m here for the summer takeover” like a sharp almond-shaped set coated in fluorescent green with an edgy negative space twist. They’re spotless but still powerful and I have to say, they’re also architectural, not just fun. The strong border creates a surprising look and gives the outfit a strong runway vibe.
If you’re recreating these, go for Cirque Colors “Hustle” or Orly “Glowstick” for that retina-burning neon. To get the negative space windows, use nail tape or a reverse French tip brush and seal your design with a no-wipe top coat.
It’s a power move in manicure form. A look that makes people look twice when you’re getting a smoothie.
Wavy Citrus Groove
If you’re looking for easy summer nail art that stands out, try these ideas. They are square tips, each with a solid line and a squiggle line and come in yellow and green. They’re bringing back the lava-lamp and lemonade-stand vibes, making them bright, funky and easy to like. Hot girl walks and vinyl-hunting weekends are the perfect time to wear this as wearable art.
Try the Olive & June nail polish called “Sunshine State” for the base and a forest green gel for the wavy lines. You’ll need a thin brush and a steady hand, but sticker decals are an option if you’d rather avoid the fussy part.
There’s something about squiggle art that always makes me feel a little more spontaneous. You don’t need a special event to wear this style—you just want to.
Lime Glazed Lines
The neutral base is brought to life with lively green curves and tips in this set. Think minimalist with personality. It’s perfect for anyone new to summer nail art who wants to try a bold trend. Watching the green cover the tips and twist through the middle, especially where it’s casual and slight, feels natural and artistic.
I suggest applying Holo Taco’s “Fairy Floss” to bring out the neon liner on your nails. Apply a gel top coat after each layer to keep the shine looking just like glass.
It’s nice that the look is so casual, but you’d still think you’d just left a fancy Miami salon.
Punchy Pink & Orange Duo with Studs
Okay, this one? Pure candy crush glam. If you’re looking for nails that stand out, these bold pink and orange nails with silver studs will make a statement for you. They look cool and a bit wild—they’re square-shaped but with a little extra attitude. If you’re looking for a trendy nail look this summer, this is a great choice.
Try out “Electric Daisy” from Lights Lacquer and “Neon Orange” from Bio Seaweed Gel. The studs? There are so many Amazon options—just use nail glue instead of top coat if you want them to last all week.
I had on something similar at a rooftop party last year and people would stop talking to me and grab my hand. Safe to say—they understood the assignment.
Soft Mint Matte
We’ll wrap this up with a serene choice: this mint matte manicure is just what your hands need after the heat. Its dramatic square shape stands out, but the light color and matte finish add a touch of easy elegance. It’s perfect for anyone craving a simple, almost minimalist look that still fits the 2025 vibe.
A polish like Zoya’s “Neely” works wonders here. Paint on two layers and then use OPI’s “Matte Top Coat” as your final top coat. Clean lines and minimal texture really elevate this look.
It’s a nail that’s as fashionable as a linen sundress—it’s light, airy and never goes out of style.
Butterfly Bloom in Magenta
Butterflies always say summer without even trying. Here, they’re paired with a juicy light pink and deep magenta palette that feels soft but confident. The glossy finish keeps the design looking new and the symmetrical wings give it a little bit of harmony. It goes well with a day at the beach as much as it does with a coffee date and your favorite journal.
If you’re making this one, begin with Essie’s “Cascade Cool” or Sally Hansen’s “Pink Blink.” Add butterfly decals (Color Street and Etsy have great options), or hand-paint if you’ve got the steady hand. Make sure to finish with a layer of high-gloss gel coat to trap the wings inside.
If you’re the type of girl who loves a little magic and wants her nails to match her mood, this is for you.
Red Meets Yellow Garden Pop
The bright red and accent yellow nail with a simple floral pattern look very impressive. It’s adding some spice to cottagecore—it’s cheerful, bright and full of joy. You can easily wear the short nail shape, but it’s still a great way to show off your summer style.
To get the glossy look, use ‘Cherry Red’ by Revlon and the “Mellow Yellow” by Sally Hansen makes the base look floral. Draw little black lines and add a 3D flower using a dotting tool or a floral sticker. Seal it in with a long-lasting top coat.
I wore this outfit to a BBQ and felt like the main character—I also ended up telling three ladies at the grill the names of my nail polish.
Ocean Blue Petal Accent
This one is for people who like a minimalist look but still enjoy a touch of detail. A solid blue background and a single small white flower—simple, classic and just right for a cute look. Its square shape makes it a neat accessory and it’s great for adding a little more to your everyday look without being too noticeable.
You could also use “Bikini So Teeny” from Essie or “Pacific Blue” by Sally Hansen. If you prefer a flower, you can use a nail art brush or sticker—make sure it’s centered and not too large for a neat and stylish look.
There’s something peaceful about this design. It’s similar to placing a daisy behind your ear—it’s easy, but it makes a big difference.
Watercolor Florals in Motion
Now this one is pure summer in bloom. These flowers, painted by hand in orange, fuchsia, lime and yellow, are both soft and bold, as well as playful and artistic. It looks like an abstract painting you can wear and it’s as cool as you’d expect. The white and blush background helps to control the movement so it doesn’t seem too busy.
You’ll want highly pigmented gel polishes and a detail brush for that painterly effect. First wipe your brush between colors and then blend a little for a soft watercolor effect. You need a neutral base—use OPI’s “Funny Bunny” to start.
To me, this one feels like summer creativity unbottled. A bit messy, full of color and just as I like my August afternoons.
Blue French Twist
The classic French manicure is transformed here by adding an electric blue tip curved into a sharp inverted arc. I love the modern and playful look of a glossy nude base and a bright color edge. You can wear this look with any outfit—it’s always sharp and stylish.
For that razor-sharp tip, use French guide stickers or go freehand with a brush if you’re confident. You should try “Butler Please” by Essie for the cobalt color and “Beige Babe” from Sally Hansen as your base.
This is the mani that lives at the intersection of “cool girl” and “boardroom boss.” And if you ask me? That’s the energy we should all take into this summer.
Velvety Blue Matte Drama
Sleek. Chic. Bold. These long, sharp nails painted in a rich, velvety blue matte are everything you imagine for summer evenings. This nail art has none of the glamour or sparkle, yet it’s still one of the most striking summer ideas I’ve seen. At times, the right color and a bold shape can make the whole outfit stand out.
Get this look by applying “Butler Please” by Essie or “Blu” by Zoya, two richly pigmented colors and finish with OPI’s “Matte Top Coat.” Since shape is so important here, make sure to spend time perfecting your filing. The drama comes from the stiletto and the matte finish keeps it under control.
I picture these nails as the navy slip dress of nail design—simple, fitted just right and impressive. I pick it when I want something that’s cool, polished and commanding, but without any extra details.
