Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the vibrant wave of summer gel nails designs & colors trends 2024. Have you ever pondered the power of a fresh set of nails to elevate your style? Or how the perfect shade of polish can reflect your mood and outfit? In this article, we dive into the freshest manicure ideas that are trending for summer 2024. Whether you're looking for something cute and simple or bright and bold, we've got you covered.
Swirly Blue, White, and Gold Patterned Nails
Draped in the hues of the ocean, these nails epitomize the playful spirit of summer. But it's not just the blue that catches the eye—it's the effortless flow of the wave-like design, an ode to the serene sea.
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As a manicurist, I am captivated by the fusion of natural curves and golden accents that adorn these almond-shaped nails. The white base acts as the perfect canvas, allowing the blue and gold waves to stand out magnificently, encapsulating the essence of summer in a simple, yet pretty design.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- White gel polish: CND Shellac Cream Puff
- Blue gel polish: Essie Gel Couture - Pre-show Jitters
- Gold accent gel: Gelish All That Glitters Is Gold
- Top coat: Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Begin with a solid white base. Once dry, paint flowing curves with the blue gel polish—don’t stress about perfection; waves are naturally unique. Add gold accents with a thin brush along the edges of the blue curves. Seal your art with a durable top coat for a beach-ready look.
Blue and White Floral Nail Art
When one envisions summer 2024, they may not immediately think of classic floral patterns. Yet, here they are, stunning in their timeless beauty on a modern almond nail shape.
Professional Insight
This design captivates with its intricate blue floral patterns sprawling across a crisp white background. Ideal for those seeking a cute, pretty touch with a nod to traditional aesthetics, it’s a simple yet elegant choice for summer outings.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel
- White gel polish: Gelish Arctic Freeze
- Blue gel art paint: Blue Sky Nail Art Paint
- Fine-tip brush: Winstonia Fine Line Nail Art Brush
- Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Start with a white gel base, then with a fine-tip brush, gently stroke the blue gel to create floral designs. Allow spontaneity in the pattern—it's the imperfections that make it natural and trending. Finish with a top coat for lasting wear.
Black and White Line Art Nail Design
Who said neutral colors can't make a statement? This 2024 gel short square design proves that neutral shades can be just as impactful as their brighter counterparts.
Professional Insight
The monochromatic palette with bold black accents delivers an urban-chic look that's both easy and versatile. This is a testament to the trends of 2024, where simplicity reigns supreme.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Bio Seaweed Gel Unity All-In-One
- Neutral gel polish: DND Daisy Gel in Buff
- Black gel polish: OPI Black Onyx
- Top coat: Bio Seaweed Gel No-Wipe Top
DIY Instructions
Paint a neutral base and let it dry. Using black gel polish, draw thin lines for an abstract design. Precision isn't the goal here; it's the bold contrast you're after. A top coat will give it a glossy, professional finish.
Gold-Flaked Botanical Nail Art
A summer's tale is told on the canvases of these nails, with a vibrant floral pattern that speaks of sunny days and carefree laughter.
Professional Insight
As a lover of all things that bloom, I'm thoroughly enchanted by the bright and joyous floral motifs dancing across each nail. The combination of yellow, green, and a touch of red over a transparent base is nothing short of a pretty, summery daydream.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat
- Gel polish colors:
- Yellow: Dior Vernis Gel Shine in Sunwashed
- Red: Chanel Le Vernis Longwear in Gitane
- Green: YSL La Laque Couture in Jungle Green
- Top coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a clear base coat followed by spots of yellow, red, and green polish to create the flower's base and petals. Use a dotting tool for precision. Then draw in delicate green leaves to accentuate the floral art. Finish with a top coat for a durable, glossy appearance.
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Pink Nails with Floral Accents
The allure of cherry blossoms is captured on these nails, celebrating the beauty of pink against a sheer backdrop, creating a subtle yet trending look for 2024.
Professional Insight
The soft pink blooms and delicate branch designs represent a tranquil beauty. They showcase an appreciation for nature's simplistic elegance, making it a versatile look for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Sheer pink gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in Sheer Fantasy
- Pink and black nail art pens: Sally Hansen I Heart Nail Art Pens
- Top coat: OPI Gel Color Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Start with a sheer pink base. Then, with the nail art pens, carefully sketch the outlines of cherry blossoms and branches. Fill in the blossoms with a soft pink shade. The key is light strokes to keep the design airy and delicate. Seal with a top coat for a smooth finish.
Vibrant Pink and Magenta Floral Nails
Here we have the embodiment of 2024 long nails in a striking stiletto shape, boasting bold pink hues and dynamic patterns that scream summer fun.
Professional Insight
I'm struck by the fearless use of bright pink and the abstract design that combines both art and audacity. These stiletto nails are for those who wish to make a statement with every gesture.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Smith & Cult B-Line Nail Lacquer
- Pink gel polish: Marc Jacobs Enamored Hi-Shine Nail Polish in Shocking
- Black striping tape
- Top coat: Smith & Cult Above it All Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After the base coat, apply the pink gel polish. Once dried, use striping tape to create angular patterns, then paint over with a contrasting color if desired. Remove the tape to reveal the design and finish with a top coat for a protective and glossy effect.
Pastel Nails with Orange Botanical Design
As we navigate through the summer trends of 2024, we find that a touch of autumn can bring a warm, earthy feel to our gel short and oval designs.
Professional Insight
The scattered foliage in rich orange and green brings an unexpected but welcome contrast to the light neutral background. This design feels like a gentle transition from the bright colors bright of summer to the comforting shades of fall.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
- Neutral gel polish: OPI Be There in a Prosecco
- Orange gel polish: ILNP Autumn Blaze
- Green gel polish: A England St George
- Top coat: Butter London Hardwear Shine UV Topcoat
DIY Instructions
After your base coat, apply a neutral polish for a natural look. Then, with a thin brush, add delicate leaves in orange and green. It's a design that requires a steady hand and patience, but the end result is a beautiful, seasonal art piece on your nails.
White Nails with Gold Embellishments
Sometimes, the most stunning statements are made in simple black and white. Here, we see a perfect marriage of sophistication and edginess, ideal for the coffin and stiletto trends of 2024.
Professional Insight
The white base overlaid with black accents and gold embellishments gives a luxurious feel to these long nails. It's a design that demands attention while maintaining a certain easy and natural elegance.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Essie Here To Stay Base Coat
- White gel polish: LeChat Perfect Match in Purity
- Black gel detailing polish: Born Pretty Black Gel
- Gold studs and embellishments
- Top coat: INM Out The Door Super Fast Drying Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Cover your nails with a white base, then using black gel polish, create the detailed patterns. Add gold studs while the polish is tacky. Once you're satisfied with your art, apply a top coat to seal in your design.
Tiger Stripe Nails with Gold Details
In a bold embrace of the animal print trend that continues to reign, these nails roar with confidence and style, aligning perfectly with the 2024 gel almond and 2024 gel long trends.
Professional Insight
The tiger stripes set against a natural backdrop are a powerful expression of one's wild side. The gold accents elevate the look, making it both trendy and timeless.
Consumables List
- Base coat: CND Stickey Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: Zoya in Chantal
- Black striping polish: Sally Hansen I Heart Nail Art Striper
- Gold foil for accent
- Top coat: CND Super Shiney Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a natural-colored gel polish as your base. Once that's set, use a striping polish to draw on the tiger patterns—no need for perfection, as variations make it more realistic. Add touches of gold foil for a luxurious finish. Finish off with a top coat for trending durability.
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Jewel-Encrusted Nails with Gold Accents
Behold a design that whispers of antiquity and yet shouts modernity, a royal tapestry at your very fingertips.
Professional Insight
The milky white and translucent tips serve as a canvas for the bold application of gold and jeweled embellishments, each nail telling its own majestic story. Perfect for coffin or long shapes, they speak of luxury and timeless grace.
Consumables List
- Base coat: ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
- Milky white gel polish: Essie Gel Polish in Marshmallow
- Jewel embellishments and gold foil
- Top coat: CND Vinylux Long Wear Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After applying a base coat, layer on a milky white gel polish. Once dry, place the jewels and gold foil, using a dab of clear polish to secure them. The key is balance—don't overcrowd the nail. A generous layer of top coat will preserve your regal design.
Soft Pink Stiletto Nails
In a departure from the ornate, here's a flirtatious play of pink on stiletto nails, embodying the light-hearted essence of summer.
Professional Insight
The soft gradient of pink is a breath of fresh air, perfect for those long summer days turned into nights. The playful shine suggests easy, cute, and carefree vibes that are quintessentially summer.
Consumables List
- Base coat: ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
- Pink gel polish: Gelish Make You Blink Pink
- Top coat with a hint of glitter: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro
DIY Instructions
Start with a base coat before sweeping on a gradient of pink gel polish, blending as you go for that soft transition. To finish, a top coat with a touch of glitter adds that extra hint of bright, sparkling summer charm.
Classic French Manicure with White Tips
Reinventing the French manicure for 2024, this design plays with white tips on a natural base, perfectly aligning with medium to long nail trends.
Professional Insight
It’s a sophisticated nod to the classic with a contemporary touch. The crisp white lines are a testament to precision, offering a simple yet trendy allure that transcends seasons.
Consumables List
- Base coat: China Glaze Strong Adhesion Base Coat
- Natural gel polish: OPI Gel Color in Bubble Bath
- White gel polish: Gelish Arctic Freeze
- Top coat: Gellen Top Coat High Gloss
DIY Instructions
Begin with a base coat and then apply a natural gel polish for the base. Carefully paint the white tips, using tape as a guide if necessary. A smooth, high gloss top coat will give your modern French nails a simple yet trendy finish.
White Nails with Abstract Gold Foil Design
Here we see the delicate dance of minimalism and opulence, where every finger becomes a work of art in its own right.
Professional Insight
This design pairs a soft pink base with striking gold accents, reminiscent of luxurious marble textures. Perfect for a medium or long nail length, this look blends understated elegance with a touch of extravagance.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Soft pink gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor
- Gold leaf accents
- Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a natural-looking pink gel polish as a base. Carefully place gold leaf on the nail, using tweezers for precision. Remember, a little goes a long way with such a bold element. Seal your design with a glossy top coat to ensure longevity and shine.
Pink and Gold Accent Nail Art
Minimalism meets modern luxury in this simple yet elegant design, making it a trending choice for 2024 gel almond nails.
Professional Insight
The matte almond base combined with the glossy gold stripe strikes a balance between subtlety and boldness. It’s an expression of simple sophistication that’s undeniably trendy for 2024.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat
- Matte nude gel polish: OPI Matte Gel in Samoan Sand
- Gold stripe sticker or gold foil
- No-wipe glossy top coat
DIY Instructions
After the base coat, apply a matte nude polish for an understated elegance. Adorn with a gold stripe, achieved with either a sticker or foil, for a simple yet striking contrast. A no-wipe glossy top coat over the stripe alone will create a beautiful matte-gloss duo.
Nails with Metallic Wing Design
Embracing the future with a nod to the fluidity of the ocean, these nails combine sleek metallic designs with a timeless oval shape.
Professional Insight
This gel short oval style captures a dynamic essence through reflective metallic waves over a natural base. It’s an innovative look that’s both trending and easy to wear.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Essie Here to Stay Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: OPI Gel Color in Put it in Neutral
- Metallic nail art tape or silver gel paint
- Top coat: INM Out The Door Fast Drying Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a subtle nude gel polish for the base. Use nail art tape or paint to create the metallic waves, taking care to smooth out any edges for a seamless finish. A swift application of a fast-drying top coat will ensure your futuristic waves stay pristine.
Baroque Style Gold and Black Nail Art
Immerse yourself in the drama and decadence of the Baroque period with a contemporary twist.
Professional Insight
These nails, adorned with golden swirls and splashes against a deep, opaque background, are a declaration of opulence. They bring the grandeur of old-world artistry to the modern age, perfect for those who love to make a bold statement.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Chanel Le Base Protective and Smoothing
- Black gel polish: OPI Black Onyx
- Gold foil or gold leaf
- Top coat: Chanel Le Gel Coat Longwear Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After applying a protective base coat, layer on your black gel polish for a rich foundation. Then, with precision and grace, add the golden details—using foil or gold leaf for a more authentic texture. A high-gloss top coat will add the final touch of sophistication, ensuring your nails are nothing short of a masterpiece.
Soft Nude with Gold Foil Accents
Simplicity and elegance go hand-in-hand in this modern take on minimalist chic.
Professional Insight
This design's strength lies in its restraint; a pale, natural base with just a hint of gold along the crescent edge speaks volumes. It's a style that's both subtle and luxurious, a perfect match for the 2024 gel short square trend.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in At the Barre
- Gold striping tape or gold nail polish for detail
- Top coat: OPI Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Create a clean, nude base, and once it's cured, apply a thin strip of gold at the nail's crescent. Whether you use striping tape or hand-paint with a fine brush, the key is a steady hand for that pristine edge. A top coat adds shine and longevity to this minimalist yet striking design.
Long Nails with Silver 3D Art
Taking the gel nail game to the third dimension, these nails pair sleek lines with sculptural floral accents for a look that's both bold and delicate.
Professional Insight
This design transcends traditional nail art, venturing into the realm of wearable sculptures. The contrasting matte and shiny finishes add depth and intrigue, making these nails true conversation starters.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Essie Gel Setter Base Coat
- Matte grey polish: China Glaze Matte Magic Top Coat over any grey polish
- 3D floral nail decorations
- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After your base, apply a grey polish and let it set. Then add a matte top coat for a muted background. Carefully affix the 3D floral decorations, securing each with a dot of clear polish. Finish with a glossy top coat applied selectively for a mixed-finish look.
Orange and Pink Swirl Nail Art
A fresh twist on abstract art, this design takes the warmth of a summer sunset and turns it into a wearable delight.
Professional Insight
Swirls of pink, orange, and white mimic the mesmerizing colors of a sunset on the horizon. The design's fluidity and choice of bright colors encapsulate the joyful essence of summer.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Pink gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in The Fuchsia is Bright
- Orange gel polish: Gelish Mango Tango
- White gel polish: Gelish Arctic Freeze
- Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After a clear base, apply the white polish as the background for your canvas. While it's still tacky, add drops of pink and orange, and use a thin brush to swirl the colors gently. Finish with a top coat to seal the sunset scene on your nails.
Red Nails with Gold Crane Illustrations
Incorporating golden decals, this nail art brings together tradition and trend, perfectly suiting the summer's call for classic looks with a twist.
Professional Insight
The rich red base evokes the timeless beauty of a classic manicure, while the golden accents add a contemporary edge, making it a trending design for 2024.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
- Red gel polish: CND Shellac in Wildfire
- Gold nail stickers or gold leaf
- Top coat: Butter London Hardwear Shine UV Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Start with a smooth red base and let it set. Then carefully place gold stickers, or if using gold leaf, apply with a tweezer and seal with a top coat for a luxurious finish.
Nude Nails with Abstract Art
Bringing a whimsical touch to gel nails, this design uses delicate doodles to create a unique and personalized look.
Professional Insight
Set against a neutral base, the tiny doodles have an air of bespoke craftsmanship about them, making for a cute and pretty look that's also incredibly trending and simple.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: Zoya in Avery
- Fine-tip nail art pen
- Top coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After your base coat and nude polish, use a fine-tip nail art pen to create your doodles. It could be anything from abstract shapes to tiny symbols or letters. Seal your art with a top coat to protect it.
Nude Nails with Eye and Gold Accents
A beautiful blend of tradition and fashion, these nails don a protective charm that's been a staple in various cultures, accented with hints of gold.
Professional Insight
On a soft, neutral base, the evil eye design not only adds a mystical touch but also gives off a vibe that's both pretty and trending. The touch of gold elevates the look, making it perfect for 2024.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro in Dirty Little Secret
- Blue and black nail art pens
- Gold foil or polish for the accents
- Top coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a base coat followed by a nude gel polish. Once set, use nail art pens to draw the evil eye symbol. For the gold accents, you can either use gold foil with adhesive or a gold polish applied with precision. A final top coat will ensure durability and shine.
Almond Nails with Nude and Black Design
These stiletto nails are a true celebration of elegance and sophistication, adorned with black ribbons that give a nod to couture fashion.
Professional Insight
The blend of matte and gloss in the black detailing against a nude backdrop creates a stunning visual contrast. It’s a design that’s simultaneously edgy and delicate, making a statement without saying a word.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Essie Strong Start Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: OPI Gel Color in Pale to the Chief
- Black gel polish: Gelish Black Shadow
- Matte top coat for the base: OPI Matte Top Coat
- Glossy top coat for the ribbons: Seche Vive Gel Effect Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply your base coat followed by a nude gel. Once cured, add black gel polish in the shape of ribbons and apply a matte top coat over the nude areas. Finish the ribbons with a glossy top coat for a multidimensional look.
Long Stiletto Nails Featuring Abstract Yellow and Black Art
Dive into a tropical paradise with these nails that feature vibrant colors and dynamic patterns reminiscent of exotic flora and fauna.
Professional Insight
The bold use of yellows and greens, paired with intricate patterns, creates a visual feast that is as lively as it is artistic. These nails are perfect for those who want to carry the essence of the tropics with them.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat
- Yellow gel polish: Gelish I'm Brighter Than You
- Green gel polish: Gelish Lime All the Time
- Black nail art liner for details
- Top coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Begin with a base coat followed by a bright yellow polish. Add green accents and use a black nail art liner to outline and create patterns. Finish with a clear top coat to seal and protect your tropical design.
Sharp Nails with Stained-Glass and Floral Design
These nails transport you to a secret garden, where each nail unfolds like petals revealing vivid colors beneath.
Professional Insight
The stiletto shape gives a daring edge to the soft, botanical theme. The combination of stained glass transparency with vibrant floral hues creates a striking effect that's both elegant and bold.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Nude gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in Sheer Silhouette
- Colored gel paints for florals: A mix of Gelish colors
- Clear gel to create the stained glass effect
- Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply a nude base, then sketch your floral designs with colored gel paints. Use a clear gel over the florals to create a glassy effect. Cure and finish with a glossy top coat to enhance the stained glass illusion.
Long Nails with Transparent Base and Rose Patterns
A fusion of modern fashion and classic charm, these nails feature a soft pink base elevated by sparkling crystal accents.
Professional Insight
The pink shade is universally flattering, while the strategic placement of crystals adds a luxury touch that's perfect for any glamorous occasion.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat
- Soft pink gel polish: OPI Gel Color in Put it in Neutral
- Crystal embellishments
- Top coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Apply your base coat followed by a soft pink polish. Once dry, use nail glue to place crystal embellishments along the crescent or the tips of your nails. Seal the design with a top coat, making sure not to dull the crystals' shine.
Short Square Nails with Pink Base and a Heart-Shaped Rhinestone Design
Step into the world of geometric glam with these nails that pair the softness of pink with the boldness of silver.
Professional Insight
This design is all about precision and contrast. The clean lines and shapes juxtaposed with the soft pink create a strikingly modern and edgy look.
Consumables List
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Pink gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor
- Silver striping tape or silver gel polish
- Matte top coat for contrast
- Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After your base coat and pink polish, use silver striping tape or silver gel polish to create geometric patterns. Apply a matte top coat over the pink areas for contrast and a glossy top coat over the silver for a metallic sheen.
Two-Tone Citrus-Inspired Nails with Fruit Slice Art
Dive into a splash of summer with these nails that remind you of sipping on a refreshing citrus drink under the sun.
Professional Insight
The alternating shades of vibrant orange and fresh green are a bold statement, perfect for those who love to stand out. The design, reminiscent of sliced citrus fruits, is fun and perfect for summer festivities.
Consumables List
- Base coat: Sally Hansen Double Duty Base & Top Coat
- Orange gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in Looks to Thrill
- Green gel polish: OPI GelColor in Green-wich Village
- White gel polish for the accents: OPI GelColor in Alpine Snow
- Top coat: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat
DIY Instructions
Start with a base coat, followed by your choice of green or orange gel polish. Use a fine brush to add white gel polish accents that mimic citrus segments. Seal with a top coat to ensure your fruity design lasts as long as the summer days.
Swirled Orange and Turquoise Nails
Embrace the beauty of the ocean's waves with a nail design that flows from cool blue to bold orange, reminiscent of a beach sunset.
Professional Insight
These nails are perfect for those who are drawn to the sea's ever-changing beauty. The wavy patterns and gradient effects are not only eye-catching but also creatively capture the essence of summer.
Consumables List
- Base coat: ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
- Blue gel polish: CND Shellac in Azure Wish
- Orange gel polish: CND Shellac in Electric Orange
- Top coat: ORLY Glosser Top Coat
DIY Instructions
After applying the base coat, start with a blue gel polish at the cuticle, gradually blending into the orange towards the tip, creating a smooth gradient effect. Use a dotting tool to add droplets of alternating colors for a bubbly, wave-like pattern. Finish with a glossy top coat to enhance the depth of your oceanic design.
Each of these designs not only captures the essence of the summer 2024 trends but also offers an avenue for personal expression. Whether you favor the understated elegance of natural hues or the vibrant proclamation of bright patterns, there is something in the 2024 gel nails landscape for everyone.
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