Summer is the perfect time to play with colors and designs on your nails. Bright skies and sunny days inspire a wide range of fun and vibrant nail art that stands out.
In this article we’ve together a collection of the hottest summer nail inspiration to help you add some extra sparkle to your look.
These are 25 summer nails inspiration:
1. Glazed Citrus Nails
Embrace the essence of summer with Glazed Citrus Nails. Start by applying a glossy base coat to your nails. Choose vibrant citrus colors like orange, lemon yellow, or lime green and apply a thin layer. Add a holographic top coat to mimic the shimmer of citrus zest in the sunlight. This style is perfect for those who enjoy vibrant, eye-catching nails that are both playful and chic.
2. All-White Nails
For a sleek and sophisticated look, opt for All-White Nails this summer. This style features a monochromatic palette that is both versatile and elegant. Use a high-gloss white nail polish and apply several coats for an opaque finish. This manicure pairs beautifully with any outfit and adds a touch of sophistication to your summer wardrobe.
3. Neutrals and Nude Nails
Neutrals and Nude Nails are all about understated elegance. Choose shades of beige, soft pink, or warm peach to create a seamless look. Apply a matte top coat for a contemporary finish or a glossy one to enhance the natural beauty of your nails. This style is ideal for those who prefer a subtle yet chic nail look that complements any summer attire.
4. Pretty in Peach
Capture the soft hues of summer with Pretty in Peach nails. This style involves a peach-colored base with a slight shimmer to reflect the summer sun. Accentuate with a thin gold stripe on one or two nails for a touch of elegance. It’s a refreshing look that’s perfect for casual outings and evening events alike.
5. Perfectly Pink
Unleash your playful side with Perfectly Pink nails. Choose a bold pink shade and apply two coats for full coverage. Consider adding a slight glitter overlay on the ring fingers for a fun twist. This manicure is great for adding a pop of color to your summer looks, whether you’re heading to the beach or a barbecue.
6. Pale Pastels
Pale Pastels offer a soothing palette of lavenders, soft blues, and mint greens. Apply each pastel shade to different nails or use a sponge for a blended effect. This style is not only trendy but also versatile, working well with both casual and formal summer attire.
7. Gradient Nails
Create an ombre effect with Gradient Nails by blending two or more complementary colors. Use a sponge to dab the transition line for a smooth gradient. Seal with a glossy top coat to enhance the depth and transition of colors. This nail style is perfect for those who want to add a creative and personalized touch to their nails.
8. Bright Shades/Neon
Stand out with Bright Shades or Neon nails. Select vivid colors like electric blue, hot pink, or neon green. Apply a neon polish as the base and consider a contrasting color for a geometric pattern or stripe. This style is ideal for summer festivals or a night out, ensuring your nails get noticed.
9. Rainbow Nails
Rainbow Nails are all about fun and colors. Paint each nail a different color of the rainbow for a vibrant look. Use striping tape for clean lines between each color, and finish with a shiny top coat to make the colors pop. Perfect for pride celebrations or anytime you want to showcase a spectrum of colors.
10. Ocean Marble
Ocean Marble nails are inspired by the swirling patterns of the ocean. Use shades of blue and green, applying them in a marble effect using a small nail brush or toothpick. Add white lines to mimic the foam of sea waves. This style is particularly suited for beach vacations or ocean-themed parties.
11. Summer Swirls
Summer Swirls involve playful spirals and curves in multiple colors on a white or pale base. Use a fine brush to draw freehand swirls, or use nail stencils for more precise shapes. This nail art is dynamic and cheerful, great for lively summer events.
12. Metallic Nails
For a futuristic touch, go for Metallic Nails. Choose metallic shades like silver, copper, or rose gold. Apply two coats for a reflective finish and consider a frosted effect on top for extra shimmer. Metallic nails are perfect for evening events, adding a touch of glamour to your look.
13. Maiolica-Inspired Nails
Inspired by Italian ceramics, Maiolica-Inspired Nails feature intricate designs in bold, bright colors. Use a fine brush to paint detailed patterns or floral motifs reminiscent of Maiolica pottery. This style is a beautiful nod to traditional crafts, ideal for those who appreciate art and history.
14. Fruit-Inspired Nails
Add a playful element to your summer with Fruit-Inspired Nails. Choose designs like watermelon slices, kiwi, or citrus fruits. Use vibrant colors and a small brush to detail the fruits. This style is fun and perfect for picnics or outdoor summer parties.
15. Flower Inspired Nails
Capture the beauty of summer blooms with Flower-Inspired Nails. Choose soft pinks, yellows, and greens to paint small daisies or roses. Employ a dotting tool for precision and add small leaves for a natural look. This style is both romantic and versatile, perfect for weddings or casual garden parties.
16. Glitter Nails
Glitter Nails are all about sparkle and shine. Start with a base coat of your favorite summer color and sprinkle fine glitter over the top while the polish is still tacky. Apply a top coat to seal the glitter. This style is fantastic for special occasions or nights out during the summer.
17. Seashell Nails/Shell Tips
For beach enthusiasts, Seashell Nails or Shell Tips are perfect. Use natural shell pieces or nail decals to create a beachy vibe. Apply a nude or light blue base and carefully place the shell designs on the tips or as a feature on one nail. This look is especially great for beach vacations or coastal events.
18. Barbie Nails
Channel the classic Barbie doll with Barbie Nails. Opt for a vivid pink base and add shimmering accents or tiny rhinestones for a playful touch. This bold and girly style is sure to be a hit at summer parties or any fun outing.
19. Mermaid Nails
Mermaid Nails are perfect for those who dream of the sea. Use shades of blue and green with a metallic or pearlescent finish to mimic the colors of the ocean. Add scale-like patterns or glitter to enhance the mermaid effect, making this style magical for any summer occasion.
20. Pearl Chrome Nails
Elegant and sophisticated, Pearl Chrome Nails feature a luminous finish that mimics the inside of a seashell. Apply a chrome powder over a base coat to achieve this look. It’s perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your summer wardrobe.
21. Neon Nails
Make a statement with Neon Nails in shades of electric yellow, vibrant green, or hot pink. These nails are bold and eye-catching, ideal for those who want to stand out at summer festivals or late-night events.
22. Watercolor Nails
For an artistic touch, try Watercolor Nails. Use a blending technique with pastel polishes to achieve a soft, diffused color effect reminiscent of a watercolor painting. This style is subtle yet creative, perfect for art lovers and those who prefer a softer nail look.
23. Pink Chrome Nails
Pink Chrome Nails offer a futuristic yet feminine look. Apply a pink metallic polish and use a sponge to dab on a chrome powder for the reflective finish. This style is both modern and stylish, great for those who love to experiment with different textures.
24. Airbrushed Nails
Airbrushed Nails provide a custom and unique design. Choose any combination of colors and ask your nail technician to create a gradient or abstract pattern using an airbrush. This technique gives a smooth and flawless finish that is eye-catching and personalized.
25. Butterfly Design Nails
Delicate and whimsical, Butterfly Design Nails feature tiny butterflies in soft pastels or vibrant hues. You can paint these freehand with a very fine brush or use butterfly stickers for ease. Add a few glitter accents or a glossy top coat to enhance the ethereal quality of this design.
