Rising temperatures, lots of rosé and summer playlists stuck in our minds mean it’s time for summer to start. The real question is: what’s your nail style for this season? Whether you’re lounging poolside, brunching with the girls, or posting that sunset selfie, your manicure deserves its moment. For this reason, I’ve gathered a set of nail designs that are both fun and easy to wear, for any person or style.
We’ll look at the most desirable nail designs for this season—bright, pastel, juicy and sure to make you stop scrolling. These Colorful Summer Nails feature everything from basic gradients to fruity designs and acrylic almond drama—they’re all worth trying in 2025. Which one’s your favorite?
Orange Meets Orchid: High-Contrast Stiletto Tips
It’s fearless to mix electric orange with high-shine orchid purple on very long stiletto nails. The colors are painted down the middle in a fierce diagonal and the whole design is finished with a soft gold glitter outline. This isn’t just a bright manicure—it’s a full moment. If you’re after a luxe look, this design idea shows that you don’t have to be loud, but if you are, it will look great too. Go all in.
I usually use an acrylic almond base for this style, although the set here is pointed, you could tell your stylist to make them “almond but fierce.” Colors like OPI’s “Silicon Valley Girl” for the orange and Orly’s “Purple Crush” or Holo Taco’s “Magenta Jelly” for the orchid are close matches. Always add a gold liner, as it makes your look feel special.
You’ll need a super steady hand (or a good striping brush) to carve out that crisp diagonal divide. Put the base nude on first and then blend the shades from the far corners toward the middle. I noticed Betina Goldstein using a similar idea in a Refinery29 feature—the trick is to not overpower the nails with strong colors.
This kind of manicure? It doesn’t whisper; it speaks fluently in fashion. It’s not a “basic” choice, but it’s easier to wear than you’d expect. The nails got most of the compliments when I wore this look to a party on the roof.
Candy-Coated Blocks: Summer Rainbow Squares
This manicure in five smooth, glossy shades is the definition of easy one. One blocky solid shade is pastel green, another is lime, a third is soft purple, another is mid-toned pink and there’s a surprising bit of neon. It’s graphic. It’s playful. It’s giving summer sorbet but make it grown-up. If you’re looking for summer nails in 2025, this colorful style is a good fit for any mood you have.
I use short square acrylics for these, but you could also go for a natural overlay if you’re a minimalist. It’s important to use a glossy top coat such as Seche Vite or Essie’s Gel Couture, to keep your nails looking shiny and smooth.
You can easily paint each nail a different color and don’t need any tools—just five polishes and a good base coat. Choose from the Olive & June summer colors or mix them with Lights Lacquer shades. If you’ve got time to binge a Netflix series, this is a simple project to do yourself.
I’ve tried this look for both weekend brunches and friend weddings and it always seems right. And it’s so easy to switch up. If you’re looking for a summer nail “starter pack,” this is it.
Hot Gradient Waves with a Pop
This one is all about fun. From coral pinks to creamsicle oranges and a teal curve that looks almost like a tropical holiday—this nail design makes your hands feel like you’re on vacation. The soft blend and color swirl has that “heatwave energy,” and it moves in a way that makes your nails feel alive. To explain this style, I’d say it’s a design idea inspired by gelato and full of dramatic flair.
The reason this look is so powerful is because of the blending. It’s a good idea to have at least three gel colors: a creamy coral, a mango orange and a cool turquoise. Use nail art brushes from Kiara Sky and try a milky base to blend the colors together nicely.
I noticed that Allure featured something similar from manicurist Mei Kawajiri and they said a dry brush is perfect for creating an ombré drag. The secret? Blend before curing.
I had this design on when I went to Miami in July. It reflected light whenever I held my iced coffee and for a moment, I thought I had a sunset in my hand.
Retro Rainbow Tips with a Modern Twist
Okay, now we’re getting retro. This design is all about glam, but it doesn’t look like a costume. In other words, it’s a French manicure on vacation—with beautiful fuchsia, yellow and aqua waves rising from a nude-pink background. The way the colors stack feels like a nod to the ’90s, but with the precision and shimmer of now. A really eye-catching colorful summer nail to try in 2025.
Getting this effect means working in stages. First, apply a light pink or neutral gel, followed by stripes of color and use striping tape to keep the lines clear. If you love glitter, add a bit of holographic powder and then seal everything.
She said on Instagram, “It’s important to let each line of color dry enough so it won’t smudge.” I discovered that tip was very useful when I gave this style my own twist.
Some might call this look bold—I call it balanced. Bright, sure. When you add a white tank and gold hoops, the look becomes… personal.
Soft Pastel Clouds on Almond Tips
If you like things simple and lovely, this is the one for you. A combination of light pinks, gentle blues, buttery yellow and lilac produces a set that looks just like a morning sky. When done on almond tips, it’s organized enough to look put together, but not so formal that you can’t wear it every day. She’s a modern princess, but she’s also good at handling spreadsheets.
If you’re aiming for this vibe, go for shades like Essie’s “Fiji,” “Lilacism,” and “Mint Candy Apple.” They look just as pretty on basic gel overlays or on short natural nails if you want a simple nail look. If you like a soft finish, add a matte top coat or choose glossy for a shiny one.
It doesn’t need to be noticed, yet it still stands out. One of my best friends used these colors last summer on a mountain cabin trip and every woman at brunch wanted to know the names of the shades.
Vibrant Flames with a Black Spark
Think psychedelic flames but make them pastel. The manicure is done in an almond shape, with pink, yellow, green and sky blue gradient blends, all outlined with a dark black glitter flame. It’s as if Lisa Frank decided to become a nail artist. The area between the color and cuticle allows each shade to shine brightly. I think this design is my favorite of all the ones I’ve seen this season.
To nail this at home (pun absolutely intended), you’ll want a sponge or blending brush to pull off that soft gradient blend. You can use The Gel Bottle’s “Pastel Vibes” set or try the fun colors in Beetles Gel Polish sets. You’ll need both a steady hand and a precision brush to paint the black glitter flame detail, so try using Orly’s “Black Diamond” with a striping brush.
If you’re doing this DIY, apply your gradient first, cure, then carefully outline your flame shape in black. If a brush seems too big for the job, try using a toothpick instead. Coat the nails with a clear top coat that doesn’t need to be wiped off.
At a weekend art festival, someone actually stopped me to find out where I had this style made. That’s the kind of statement—it proves you’re aware of what’s popular but also enjoying yourself.
Bold Coral Meets Blue Tiger Stripe
Let’s talk square, strong lines, and bold color combos. The combination of this look is smooth coral orange and graphic navy-blue tiger stripes over a light pink base. It’s bold, makes a statement and is a bit edgy compared to usual floral summer nails. It makes me think of what I’d pick for a summer concert or gallery opening—something put together with confidence.
The main thing is to create a perfect solid coral base. Consider wearing Essie’s “Tart Deco” or Lights Lacquer “Clueless.” Navy blue from Nailtopia is my favorite for stripes; it’s not sheer and looks great with other colors. You could use a detail brush or a stamping kit to make the tiger’s stripes if you like to be precise.
If you’re not comfortable drawing animal print, you can begin with decals. But honestly? The flaws add to its appeal—it’s a more street-style brand than one that’s too polished for fashion magazines.
It can be nice to be bold, but in a way that’s still structured. Just like red lipstick, this manicure makes your entire outfit feel like it’s the main event.
Matte Rainbow Almonds: Primary Color Pop
Here’s your basic rainbow, but way chicer. Wearing these acrylic almond tips in solid kiwi green, sunflower yellow, lilac purple and bubblegum pink, you’ll look cheerful and simple. It’s full of energy and each song is strong on its own, but they all fit together like a great summer playlist.
The colors on these nails stand out best when worn on an almond-shaped nail of medium length. You don’t need nail art here—just great polish. Two swipes are enough for Olive & June or Color Dept. nail polishes to give you a rich color.
I’ve done this look at home and it’s the simplest one you’ll find here. I used color blocking and a glossy top coat and that’s all. That’s it. If you’re looking for something different, try substituting the yellow with orange.
This shade is the perfect summer nail because it’s easy, goes with anything and is never out of fashion.
Swirl French with a Twist
And what happens if you create a French tip that’s wavy, layered and perfect for summer? You get this sleek swirl design. The look changes from a neutral sheer base to coral, baby blue, lavender and hot pink in an easy square design. Every tip has a charming effect that looks more like art than a smooth polish—fun and neat.
Lay the lines from the tip of the thin brush toward the body of the figure. Bio Seaweed and Modelones are great gels that combine strong and soft colors. Base your design on OPI’s “Bubble Bath” after it has cured and then feel free to add more layers until you’re happy with the result.
It seems complicated, but it’s actually quite simple to do. If you’re into line work, it’s oddly relaxing. “Wavy French is the unexpected classic,” Miss Pop told Byrdie and she’s absolutely right.
I had this on at a friend’s beach wedding, with a white sundress and it was perfect. It’s got that summer airiness but still looks intentional.
Gilded Pastels with a Luxe Base
The soft pastel colors, along with a gilded gold half-moon? Yes, please. This easy almond nail design adds a touch of luxury to the classic colors mint, coral, periwinkle, lemon yellow and turquoise. The chrome gold base gives a simple look a little extra flair so you can wear it to work and for a special meal.
If you’re looking for a reflective base, try gold nail foil or chrome pigment from The Gel Bottle or Daily Charme. Choose gel pastel polishes that have a glassy finish, because these are meant to shine.
You should apply a nude base coat, press on the gold foil at the cuticle and finish by painting your pastel tip. Once you seal your nails, you have stylish 2025 nails all set.
It’s the kind of manicure you’d get if you were a celebrity who still answers their own emails. Understated but powerful—my kind of beauty move.
Wave-Tipped Pop Art Chic
This one is a little different, a little witty and totally cute. The wavy French moment here is pure genius. Rather than perfectly matching lines, these pink, teal and nude curves are playful and messy on short nails. Every nail I do feels like I’m painting on a tiny canvas. The overall vibe is light, fun, and artsy—like something you’d see peeking out from a glass of cold rosé on a sunny rooftop.
The best thing? It’s an easy project to do yourself if you have a dotting tool or a thin brush. Pick gel shades that are creamy and contrast each other, but don’t clash, for example, Orosa’s “Sweet Escape” or Lights Lacquer “Blue Moon.” You don’t need to be perfect, it’s the natural lines that make the design stand out.
My friend made a version of this before a weekend in the Hamptons and it was so refreshing. She chose to call them “brunch nails,” and that’s about all there is to say. Stylish without trying too hard.
Pastel Carnival Stripes with Pearl Drama
Cue the carnival music—these nails are showtime. The soft diagonal stripes remind me of sorbet ribbons and every nail has a slightly varied pattern of colors. Small white pearls give this one an extra touch of glamorous fun. Give the design a square shape and it becomes both playful and sculpted which is just what we’re looking for this year.
You’ll need a few essentials here: striping tape for crisp diagonal sections, a soft matte topcoat (Zoya’s Velvet Touch is a fave), and flat-back pearl studs from any beauty supply store. I found that Madam Glam’s “Cotton Candy” and Le Mini Macaron’s pastel colors are perfect for this look.
This method takes a while, but it’s well worth it. I used it once at a baby shower and everyone started talking about it. It’s fun but also well done—not all manicures manage to be both.
Pastel Ombré with a Pearl Glow
This set is pure softness. The colors in this palette are blended so smoothly that blue, green, pink and lavender lead to a pearlescent lilac. It’s giving glazed sugar cloud. If you want a muted approach to summer nails this year, this is the one to try—and it might be the easiest to wear.
You only need a bit of polish and a sponge to do the ombré. I like to use gel polishes from DND’s pastel range or Cirque Colors for this design. For that soft shimmer, a dusting of pearl chrome powder (like the one from Apres) does the trick.
If I needed a nail design on days when I’m not sure what I want but want something nice, it would be this. It feels like a deep breath in polish form.
Daisy Chain Dream in Pastel
You’ll find plenty of design ideas in these colorful summer nails for 2025. You can see peach, mint, lemon and lavender on each nail, with a few daisies hand-painted over them. The flowers are chunky in the cutest way, evoking something between ’90s stickers and Sunday markets. On an almond shape, they are just right between looking young and mature.
If you want to make flowers like this, nail artists often advise using a dotting tool. Simply place five white petals, dot a yellow center in the middle and you’re done. Olive & June has made nail art pens just for this purpose. It’s a basic technique with max charm.
I went for this look at a picnic last summer and my partner kept telling me how much he liked them. Sometimes, sweet is exactly what summer calls for.
Electric Glitter Pop: Neon Done Right
This one’s electric. Literally. From lime green to pink to pool blue—you’ll find a lot of bright energy in this look. And that micro-glitter overlay? Game-changer. It gives them a little shine that makes them seem like they’re vibrating under the light. Anyone who loves color and isn’t shy about it will love this set.
The key here is gel polish with built-in shimmer. Try out the colors in the Holo Taco “Electric Rainbow” set or use the Glitterbels “Neon Collection.” It’s best to leave your nails simple so the glitter catches the eye.
It’s giving summer festivals, rooftop happy hours, girls’ trips. Honestly? You won’t have this much fun unless you’re silent. A few of these in a glass of sangria and you’ll feel instantly better.
Confetti Splash on Almond Tips
This one? A total dopamine hit. Every nail shows off a different color—peach, lavender, coral, mint or lilac—with a common black speckled coating. The acrylic almond shape adds length to the fingers, making wild designs look more elegant. It’s the perfect casual outfit… but you took time to style it. These are bright, intentional, and the opposite of boring.
To get this look, you’d want a matte gel base in juicy pastel tones—think “Peach Daiquiri” by Essie, “Mint Condition” by Orly, and “Lavendairy” by Lime Crime. Cirque Colors’ “Speckled” provides the dotted look you want, with no mess at all. And yes, press-ons are totally fair game if you’re in a rush.
Start by applying your colors in rainbow order (or however your heart desires), cure if you’re using gels, and once dried, dab on that speckled top coat using a toothbrush or splatter brush technique. Top it off with matte sealant. According to celeb manicurist Tom Bachik (yes, the one behind J.Lo’s nails), “Matte finishes bring playful colors down to earth. It’s the sweet spot between edgy and chic.”
I wore something similar to this last July on a trip to Palm Springs and people asked about them everywhere we went, including gas stations, diners and a random cactus garden. The atmosphere is easy and cool, just as you’d expect in summer.
Sunset Gradient Fade
Now this one whispers: “I’m soft but not shy.” The effect of ombré combines pink, yellow, mint and teal—creating a tropical sunset on your nails. Because the base is clear and simple, it goes well with anything you wear. These almond beauties are equal parts glam and chill.
What you’ll need: gel polish in tones like “Tropic Like It’s Hot” (pink), “Limoncello” (yellow), “Matcha Made in Heaven” (mint), and “Pacific Dive” (teal). You can achieve salon results at home by using DND or Beetles Gel. It’s easy to blend the gradient with a makeup sponge. Always use a jelly base coat, as it gives your nails the glossy look we’re all still loving.
For this DIY, begin with a base coat and add one layer of sheer nude. Let it dry. After that, use a damp sponge to dab the color blends from the tip to the middle of your nail, curing as you work. Repeat 2–3 layers. Seal everything with a glossy top coat. I came across this trick on @nailartbyqueenie’s TikTok and I can assure you it’s simple to do. Give yourself some grace though—sponging takes practice.
Honestly? I always suggest this for weddings, trips or even for when you want to dress up on Fridays. It’s summer color without the chaos. So good.
Fruity Pop Nail Art
Okay, let’s be real—this is a mood. With watermelon slices and tangerine wedges on your nails, you’re celebrating the summer season. A touch of leafy vines and dark plum nails will give you one of the most unique designs I’ve seen this year. Fun, nostalgic, but surprisingly wearable.
You’ll need to be patient and have a small nail art brush for this look. You can use “Strawberry Margarita” and “Green-wich Village” colors as your base and finish with dots or lines made with gel pens. The purple is “Lincoln Park After Dark”—a forever classic. If you don’t enjoy freehand art, nail stickers are a quick and easy alternative.
I think it’s best to make the fruit art on just a few nails and keep the rest plain or with one color. Using a glossy top coat will make sure the detail stays in place and gives the look of dripping juice. Don’t forget to keep your nails hydrated, as cuticle oil will help when your manicure stands out.
It reminds me of being a child, eating cold watermelon on the deck with no shoes and a sunburn. That’s what summer should feel like. And now it’s on your hands. Tell me that’s not magic?
Psychedelic Swirls in Citrus Tones
The 1970s are strong in this set, but with a very modern feel. A swirl of lemon, lime, raspberry and grape colors can be seen in the aroma. The sunglasses have a matte finish, a sleek almond shape and look like what you’d wear to both a summer festival and a fashion shoot.
If you’re ready to get crafty, start with a buttery yellow base (try “Banana Smoothie” by Kiara Sky). After that, use a detail brush to apply neon green, coral and purple gel paints, changing the direction you move the brush in. Cure after each swirl for crisp lines. Top with matte finish.
Swirl designs can seem intimidating but don’t overthink it. Take a dotting tool and begin, then use a liner brush to drag a little. According to celebrity nail artist Mei Kawajiri, abstract nail art is meant to show the beauty in imperfection. Couldn’t agree more.
I wore this look to an outdoor art event in July and three people stopped me, one of whom wanted my nail technician’s Instagram. I did them myself. Small flex.
Rainbow Spike with Glitter Flicks
This look is drama in the best way. The nails have sharp almond acrylics and the base is clean with rainbow stripes coming out from the edges. Electric blue, neon pink, citrus yellow, tangerine and candy pink are the main colors and each is outlined with glitter for just a hint of sparkle. It’s lively, it’s vibrant and it still looks easy to wear for a regular glamorous look.
The base is a light pink like “Ballet Slippers” by Essie and you’ll also need some bright neon colors. You can find shade kits on Lights Lacquer or The GelBottle and they often sell rainbow collections. You’ll need fine cosmetic-grade glitter or foil flakes and a detail brush to make the sparkling lining. It’s true that nail tape makes it easier to keep those sharp lines looking neat, especially when you’re doing it at home.
I’d recommend painting the base and waiting until it’s dry before moving on. Put striping tape in place to make triangles pointing outward and then fill in every section with your neon colors. As the polish is still tacky, brush glitter only along the edges with a fine brush. Lay on a clear top coat to make your lips look plump and full. Nail artist Natalie Minerva (yes, Euphoria’s go-to) says it best: “Layering color with intention makes even the wildest look feel wearable.”
If I’m in the mood for something that feels like a summer cocktail, this is the nail polish I choose. And honestly? You’ll love how these look wrapped around a matcha drink or carrying your favorite beach book. Mood: nailed.
Color Curve French Tips
While this is a new version of a classic French tip, the tips now curve into color, making them feel modern, soft and totally new. The base for each nail is neutral, so the bright pink, orange, yellow, green and blue colors really stand out. The square shape helps everything stay clear and the unusual outlines give the design some lively movement.
You should use neon polishes for this—Lights Lacquer’s “Summer Squeeze” and the Color Club neon collection are great for smooth and pigmented results. You should use a nude base to help the neon colors stand out, so try “Put It In Neutral” from OPI or “Bubble Bath.”
You can try this on your own, but it’s not easy. Use a thin brush and outline the curves, then fill them in. Start each swoop from the sidewall, curve it inward and finish by looping it back out. If it helps, outline the shape in white first. You can see pop artist-inspired nail shapes everywhere in 2025 and this design fits right in with that trend.
I find it very enjoyable that this design is both playful and professional. I think it’s minimalist pop art and I would definitely put it on for a rooftop party or a day of matcha with friends in the sun. It means, “I’m stylish, but I know how to enjoy myself.”
Bold Candy French Tips
This is a summer manicure, but turned up a notch. Bold pink, orange, green, yellow and red French tips are easy to notice against a natural nail base. Because it’s square and short, the bold colors don’t look too overpowering. It’s the easy one you do when you want people to notice your hands but not feel overwhelmed.
The GelBottle’s “Neon Collection” is my choice here—it’s made to last, is from a salon and gets the color just how you want it. Choose a good base coat so it won’t stain and cover with a shiny finish using Seche Vite top coat.
DIYing it? Just use French tip guides or nail vinyls to tape off the tips. Paint each color, let it dry and finish by applying clear on top. Quick and effective. This style is super forgiving for beginners.
I find this is best for times when you want something easy and still look great—like a first date, a job interview or a picnic. It’s so nice to see bright nail tips on a plain nail base. They lift your mood before you even realize it.
Neon Leopard Jungle
This one is proudly loud and I couldn’t be happier about it. The background is a soft gradient from sunset to sky, but it’s covered in bold leopard spots. Every nail style includes a different mix of colors—lime and yellow, pink and lavender or blue and turquoise—in a matte finish for a high-fashion look. Their length and shape are typical of acrylic almonds, so you get lots of edge but still keep a graceful look.
For this effect, you should begin by sponging on ombré backgrounds with neon gels. After that, place black spots over the body with a dotting tool or a tiny brush. You can use Holo Taco’s “Retro Rainbow” or LA Colors’ neon colors for your nails. Use a matte top coat for a modern feel that’s velvety smooth.
Celebrity nail artist Brittney Boyce explained to Byrdie that animal prints are now as common as neutrals. And when they’re neon? Instant 2025 energy.
This is my choice when I want my nails to make a statement. I’d put this on for a concert, a street fair or to add interest to a plain white tank and jeans. It’s a collection that’s strong, stylish and brings summer to life.
Glazed Electric Bloom
With a mix of high shine and shimmer, this manicure is a true 2025 trend. Punchy yellow nails with a glossy chrome look are available, as well as nails with rainbow aurora gradients over a metallic base. The combination of different textures and lighting gives you the look of glass art on your nails. It’s not simple, but it’s mesmerizing.
For the chromatic effect, you’ll need a no-wipe top coat, chrome powders (especially in unicorn or aurora tones), and gel polish in base tones like fuchsia and lilac. Use pigments like those from Daily Charme or Apres. After your top coat has cured and is still warm, use buffing on the chrome.
It’s better to do with a friend, but once you master it, the result is worth it. Worth every second. Chrome and glow finishes are a big trend on the runway right now, according to Julie Kandalec. They highlight the sun’s rays and instantly improve your nails.
I think it’s great for beach dinners or music festivals because it highlights the golden hour light and makes you look polished without any effort. Similar to a summer sunset, only this time it’s on your nails.
Neon Swoop Squiggle Art
I call this wearable art for those who love a basic piece, but with a bit of attitude. The nails are kept short and square, letting the outline of the blue, green, yellow, orange and pink squiggles stand out. Each tip curves uniquely, keeping it organic and free-form. The base is a basic neutral and with it, the design is both playful and graphic.
This look is made for neon gel liners—try Beetles’ Neon Gel Art Polish or Modelones’ art pens. A sheer base coat will make the squiggles pop (OPI’s “Bare My Soul” is great for this). You’ll really need a flexible detail brush to get those curves just right. It should bend when you want it to, but not be so loose that you can’t control it.
For home use, first lay your base, cure it and then draw each curve by hand. Starting from one edge of the nail, follow the natural shape of your fingertip as you go. Don’t try to create a perfect design; it works best when things are always moving and flowing. Top your manicure with a high shine and you have set the tone.
I wore this idea to a girls’ brunch in SoHo and someone thought it was nail stickers. Nope—just neon polish and a little patience. I keep going back to this kind of jewelry because it is fun to wear, makes any hand look interesting and is always flattering.
