With summer just around the corner, it’s time to refresh nail styles! Embracing bold colors, minimalistic stylish elegance, or intricate designs, every can agree they look stunning. This May 2025, the creativity reigns and color dominance is back with bright combo colors and subtle nail art. What do you think about some jaw-dropping ideas?
From vibrant yellows to blush pinks, soft pastels, or cool toned blues, I’ve gathered the most elevating inspiring nails that will be a hit this month. They are perfect for the buzz that is trending and is just waiting for you to post on your next Instagram story.
Delight in Sunlit Lavender
There’s no denying the loveliness that comes with this soft and clean summery ay-lilac multi-colour nails. Sophisticated colors also scream glee with the lavender accented pastel base and an average bold yellow nail that can be seen on fashionistas everywhere right now. The subtle lavender flower patterns on the accent nail over the yellow base floral twirls add a gentle and warm hint of spring’s favorite blossom flowers.
As for the lavender shade, OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” works very well, matched with “Sunny Daze” by Essie for the yellow. For the flower, a dotting tool and thin nail art brush will be needed. And of course, don’t forget a glossy top coat so that your nails shine like they’ve just left the salon!
The steps you should follow are to first apply a base coat, and then on half the nails apply lavender while the other half receives yellow. For the floral design, use a fine brush draw small petals with a small dot for the center. Seriously, it is much easier than it sounds, and the joy it brings is simply blissful.
This is a trending look on Pinterest so thank you to the platform for the inspiration! This floral design is guaranteed to brighten up any outfit which is an element I deeply enjoy.
Bold Blooms in Pink
On the other hand, if you are looking for summer inspired statement nails that are fun, bold, and playful, this bright pink floral design is for you. Perfect for brunch with friends and celebrating birthdays, the statement manicure compliments well with magenta and the soft pastel floral accents.
To create this style, you might want to start with the base fuchsia color by Sally Hansen called “Fuchsia Power” and for the daisy flowers use Essie “Ballet Slippers.” With a detail brush or liner brush, you can create cute little daisy flowers.
Pink will be the most dominant color which will need to be applied on all the nails except one or two as accents. To finish off, floral pattern with a pastel yellow, white, and pink will be added which can be done with a dotting tool. Seal off with a gloss top coat.
I absolutely admire this design since it looks joyful and makes me happy. Wearing floral nails reminds me as if I carrying a little bouquet wherever I go. They’re also good for starting a conversation—everyone appreciates a splash of pink!
Its Zesty Lemon Pop
I challenge anyone to look at yellow and not feel energized! It is hard to disagree that it is euphoric during the summer since it is bright and truly refreshing. If you are looking for bold and playful styling then go for this zesty lime lemonade pop manicure with its striking focus along with clean work outline filled with beautiful hues.
As the main color, use China Glaze’s “Happy Go Lucky” and accent with a detailed lemon art sticker for the accent nail. You may also opt to paint the lemon yourself using gel polish and a precision brush.
To achieve the desired finish, paint all the nails to a bright yellow and then carefully place the lemon design on the accent nail. Finish it off with a top coat to preserve the design.
This manicure captures the essence of yellow sunshine. Bold yellow nails always make me feel more energetic. Additionally, it’s surprisingly easy to style. Pair it with a white summer dress or even jeans and a tee for that effortless summery look.
Blue Jewel Elegance
For a powerful and elegant statement, look no further than these stiletto nails with royal blue color and gems. The almond shape paired with the rhinestone details elevates the look that is always welcomed for any elegant event.
To achieve this luxurious style, “Russian Navy” by OPI works perfectly. Simply adding tiny crystal embellishments along the edge will elevate the design further. For the best results, use a fine-tip brush and be meticulous during application.
Apply two coats of navy blue polish, then strategically position the crystals either near the cuticle or along the tips. The jewels will be securely held in place with a strong gel top coat.
I find this design ideal for special outings and events. The blue and sparkle combination feels audacious and sophisticated at the same time. Also, it channels the royal blue trend effortlessly without being too overdone.
Peachy Ombre Perfection
An ombre of soft, milky pink with a hint of peach, which this design embodies, speaks elegance like no other. The dreamy mix of pastel pink coral is alluring and suitable for the late spring and early summer.
For this design, I recommend Zoya’s “Coral Reef” and OPI’s “Bubble Bath”. These shades can be blended together seamlessly thanks to a makeup sponge.
Once the base coat is done, apply both colors on a sponge, dab it on and press it on the nail gently. Apply more for a more intense gradient. Use a top coat to finish with a glossy shine and a smooth texture.
I love how simple yet elegant this ombre style is. It is a timeless style that also looks gentle and a little romantic—ideal for daily activities or casual dates. Furthermore, it’s a refreshing change if you mostly wear solid colors.
Refresh with Citrus and Mint
The color combination of juicy orange, refreshing mint green, and hinting beige is what dreams are made of. This manicure embodies a summery dream and feels bright yet calming. Essie hand-painting leaves and fruit slices give a delightful and fresh touch.
For the bright orange and mint green, I suggest OPI’s “A Good Man-darin is Hard to Find” and Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple,” respectively. For the beige, any soft muted color will do but would be well placed with Zoya’s “Beige Breeze”. To draw the some leaf and citrus details, a thin brush is key.
Start with a base of orange, green, and beige, painting them onto the nails. For accent nails, use a detail brush to draw the tiny leaf and fruit designs. A steady hand helps, but it’s not a disaster if it’s a little messy. Adorable is how it will still look.
The design truly stands out for it’s whimsy. It resembles a portable summer cocktail—captivating and novel in every sense. These nails recall the tropics and offer that refreshing vibe during routine commutes or workdays.
Pastel Garden Party
“Dreamy” is the focal word to describe this design. The composition of soft flowers in pastels shades placed over a nude polish, topped with a hint of holographic chrome is pure elegance. It fuses artistry with minimalism beautifully. This nail design will sute those looking for subdued tones accentuated with a hint of color.
For these nails, I recommend a base of OPI’s “Put it in Neutral” and with Sally Hansen’s “Miracle Gel in Mauve-olous” for the flowers. The flower embellishments can also be crafted with Born Pretty Holo Powder. A skilled hand with a detail brush aid in perfecting the floral accents.
To achieve this look, begin with a soft nude polish and paint the tips with pastel hues. For the best result, use light pink, baby blue and soft peach. Spruce to your desired “dreamy” finish by adding a holographic top coat to one accent nail.
I wear this outfit for weddings and fancy brunches, as it never goes out of style. This outfit is perfectly balanced between eye catching and modest, and the flowers can be customized to suit your attire.
Golden French Elegance
No one can deny the stunning qualities of a French manicure; however, this particular design elevates it to another level. This is a contemporary version of the classic French tip. It is almond shaped with a golden outline and sleek white edges. While the gold accents provide a luxurious finishing touch, they are not overly ostentatious.
Sally Hansen’s “Golden-I” for gold details alongside Essie’s “Blanc” for the tip’s gold edges will help you achieve this look. For perfect clean outlines, don’t forget to grab a striping brush.
Start by gently shaping and filing your nails into a soft almond shape. After applying sheer pink polish as a base, draw the almond shaped white tips with precision. Add the golden accents using a striping brush to the edges, and finish with a glossy top coat.
This is my choice for someone who likes looking elegant as it is put together. This type of manicure is good for the office, and also works for a summer gathering.
Blossoming in Spring
Floral nails are one of the best designs to represent spring; and this specific design does capture it well. This specific design features light yellow tips with hand-painted pink flowers which gives it a garden-like appearance. It is soft, feminine, and utterly stunning.
For this look, I recommend Essie’s “Vanilla Bean” for the soft yellow and OPI’s “Mod About You” for the pink flowers. Remember that the petals are delicate and a fine detail brush is helpful.
Paint the tips of the nails with light yellow but keep the base color natural. Pick a few accent nails and paint flowers with a fine brush. Adding leaves painted in green is super cute too. And always seal with top coat for a silky finish.
The design is lovely and refreshing. It does work for someone who desires floral patterns but wants it more subtle and elegant.
Vibrant Tangerine Bloom
Bright orange flowers on a soft, neutral canvas warm the heart. This design is both flirty and refined. Literally, the shade decs tilts your head and summons a sprinkle of sunshine.
To achieve this design, I recommend China Glaze’s “Orange Knockout” for the bold florals and OPI’s “Bubble Bath” for the soft neutral background. Creating the floral elements will require the finesse of a fine-tipped brush.
Paint most of your nails with the neutral base color, using some as accent nails to showcase the floral design. Layer orange flowers and green leaves for added decor. Seal everything in with a glossy top coat for eternal summer sparkle.
Make no mistake, tangerine bloom is ain’t ordinary. It screams “look at me,” while adding a hint of pizzazz.
Modern Leopard in Cool Tones
This leopard print design is reinvented into a more sleek, sophisticated version with the incorporation of muted gray, black, and touches of pink. It is effortlessly edgy and chic so that it can stand out while still remaining versatile enough to be worn daily.
For the modern leopard design, I suggest using OPI’s “Suzi Takes the Wheel” for the light gray base and accenting with Essie’s “Big Spender.” To apply the leopard spots, use a fine tipped brush for the details.
Like always, start with a base coat to protect the nails and evenly polish all the nails to a soft gray. Design leopard spots over gray nails using black and filling some spots with pink. Make sure to add a top coat for that shiny finish and to keep everything smooth.
What I love about this design is that it is a statement using animal print but is not overly loud. It’s ideal for those who want to feel elegantly wild.
Green Leafy Serenity
These soft, leaf-inspired designs on a clear base captures a fresh botanical vibe. The gentle green hues creates a calming look which is great for anyone who appreciates a simple design and a dash of nature.
In my opinion, Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple” and OPI’s “Stay Off The Lawn!” pair wonderfully for better green options. An essential nail art brush for drawing thin leaves is also a must.
Start with a clear base coat and follow with drawing leaf outlines with the green colors on several accent nails. While it requires a steady hand, the design’s forgiving nature means you shouldn’t stress about getting everything perfect.
To me, this design evokes peaceful gardens. It’s calming yet classy for daily wear and ideal for those who cherish nature on their nails.
Soft Pearl Elegance
These pearl white nails match greatly with a timeless style infused with opulence. The soft shine makes them sophisticated and offers a hint of bridal charm.
I recommend using OPI’s “Funny Bunny” for the base, paired with Born Pretty Pearl Powder for that shimmering finish. A glossy top coat will keep them looking chic and salon-perfect.
Start with a base coat, and then apply two layers of the soft white shade. Lightly press the pearl powder over the nails for that gentle shimmer. A top coat locks everything in place.
This is luxury in a bottle, and my go-to for a fresh, sophisticated look that matches any outfit and occasion.
Watermelon Craze
Capture summer and carry a slice wherever you go with these fun watermelon nails. They are colorful and vibrant with green and pink with black seeds painted in.
Use China Glaze’s “Four Leaf Clover” for the green and OPI’s “Strawberry Margarita” for the pink. Don’t forget the tiny black seeds! These can easily be painted on with a fine brush.
Start with a pink base, leaving the green accent tip. Dip a thin brush into black polish and make tiny dots for the seeds. Finish it off with a glossy top coat.
These nails are perfect for beach days, picnics, or any day you just want to glow. Looking at these designs instantly brings a smile to your face.
Delicate Blue Blooms
These delicate blue floral nails are spring’s most elegant offering. The petals and silvery leaves sit beautifully on a sheer base, resembling watercolor art on your fingertips.
To achieve this look, use Bikini So Teeny by Essie for the blue petals and silver on ice by OPI for the leaves. Do note, you will need a thin nail art brush for the details.
Essie starts with a clear base coat and adds blue petals and silver leaves, applying the two in steps. Each petal requires a bit of patience to dry. A top coat will give a glossy, protective finish.
I have always loved floral patterns, but this gentle blue version’s charm is irresistible. It is elegant but not excessive, making it perfect for spring brunches and even summer weddings.
Neon Splash: Fun Yet Stylish Nail Art
Neon splash nails are bright, energetic, and bold. This May, I’m all about neon colors for sunny days and fun nights. Imagine neon pink and mint green intertwined as abstract shapes on each nail. It’s the kind of look that screams “Nail Ideas To Try May 2025,” and it’s a great way to stand out.
To achieve the look, you will need a mint green neon polish, like Essie’s Mint Candy Apple for the dreamy base, and bold accents such as Orly’s Beach Cruiser. A thin nail art brush will help with the playful lines.
Doing this design at home is simpler than you might think. Start with a clean base and apply a clear coat to ensure smoothness. After it dries, mint green can be added as a base, but ensure it is completely dry before moving on. Using a fine brush, create swirling abstract shapes with neon pink. Finish with a matte top coat to give it a chic and velvety look.
I remember wearing this design for a friend’s birthday, and it sparked an instant conversation. Everything fun with neon boosts creativity, and this design is certainly a hit on Instagram.
Chic Pink Swirls with a Touch of Gold
For those feeling a tad more classy while still wanting to turn heads, this pink swirl design is absolutely stunning. Picture this: a glossy vibrant pink with a marbled accent nail adorned with a hint of gold. It’s sophisticated yet playful and deserves a spot among the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.
For this design, I recommend using OPI’s Strawberry Margarita as the bright pink gel polish, a milky white for the marble accent, and Sally Hansen’s Gilded Glow for some gold glitter liner. Don’t forget to finish with glossy top coat for that truly professional finish.
Your base should be pink for most nails with white for the accent. Using a fine brush, add pink swirls with a touch of gold for luxury over the white nail. Remember to cure each layer with a UV lamp if you are using gel.
Last weekend, I wore a similar design for a brunch date and it felt like a statement accessory. Pink and gold will always scream luxe and fun together.
Strawberries And Bows: Sweet Yet Sophisticated
Looking for something sweet without the sugar? Cause I have this super cute manicure design featuring strawberries. A perfect blend of simple yet elegant French tips, topped with tiny strawberries and an exquisite bow. If you’re off to a picnic or just want to feel fresh, look no further.
To achieve this design, a soft nude polish like Essie’s Ballet Slippers is best, along with a white polish for the tips and tiny strawberry decals. You can use a nail art pen to draw the bow.
As always, begin with a fresh canvas to work on. In this case, apply a nude polish. When dry, apply French tips and create the strawberries with a brush or decals. Don’t forget to add the bow for extra charm and shine. A glossy top coat is essential to really make the nails stand out and shine.
I wore these for a friend’s garden party, and let me tell you – they were a show stopper. The design is sweet and sophisticated, ideal for summer.
Wild Animal Print Meets A Bold Sunny Yellow
Feeling wild? Look no further, the combination of animal print and sunny yellow is exactly that. A design with fierce energy, that brings excitement, and attracts attention. The contrast between a bright yellow base and neutral animal print creates quite the visual appeal.
To achieve this look, grab a bold yellow polish like Sally Hansen’s Mellow Yellow, along with a nude polish for the leopard print. You will also need a fine black nail art pen or brush for the leopard print details.
Get creative with your nails by painting half with a base yellow while leaving the other half nude for the animal print. Once your nude polish is dry, carefully apply the black spots. Remember that applying a top coat is essential for a smooth shine.
I personally find this look perfect for the summertime as it adds spice into a casual outfit, making it a dazzling choice for a day at the beach, summer festivals, or literally anytime.
Color Splash: Drips for the Daring
This design serves up proof that, at times, more really is more. We’re talking about a color cascade on every single nail—playful, full of energy, and absolutely impossible to ignore. If you are after Fresh Nail Ideas To Try This May 2025, we got you covered. Consider it bold wearable art, a statement piece for yourself.
You sorely need a clear or nude base for this drip romp so the main colors pop after application. I suggest coral, neon pink, electric blue, and sunny yellow. In my case, I adore the OPI Neon Collection for those color staples we all need. Drip action can be done best with a fine nail art brush or even a dotting tool.
The process is exciting! Start with a clean base and a clear coat. With your dotting tool or brush, add dots of every color close to the cuticle and then drag them down for the drip look. Don’t think too hard about it; the gorgeous part is the chaos. After you’re done, a glossy top coat is perfect for sealing it all off.
For me, trying this style on a dreary day was incredibly uplifting and brightened my mood, which was a definite bonus. It is the sort of design that instantly puts a smile on your face. Because of how stunning the nails are, you will receive a lot of praise.
Zesty Citrus Vibes: Fresh Lemon Nails
Citrus is the highlight of the summer! A gorgeous manicure with the slices of the lemon can add that refreshing touch we look for. To describe this style, it has a pink base featuring bold slices of lemons and hints of green. This look is fun, refreshing, and slightly tropical. This is a great summer pick and one of the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.
For this design, you’ll need叶09~A soft pink base polish which is best matched with Essie’s Pink Perfection. Along with a bright yellow like Sally Hansen’s Mellow Yellow. Lastly, a green shade is perfect for the leaves. Lastly, you will need an art brush for the fine nail details.
Tropical Vacation may be a little out of reach, but you can easily bring it to you through your nails with some soft pink base polish topped with lemon accents. Snap a picture with your friends mid-sipping on some drinks and you definitely got yourself a Instagrammable Moment.
Goes great for heartfelt brunch moments out in the sun with your friends. Brunch looks could always use a pop of color and for sure nail art. “A Mellow drinks whether it is a cocktail or just classic sparkling lemonade” is a perfect way to describe the nails and surely green leaves and light polish will look heavenly on top.
Soft Pink Ombre: Subtle Elegance with a Touch of Shine
This soft pink ombre style is the definition of subtle elegance. It features an exquisite gradient that starts with a milky white base and morphs into a dainty pink. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s attending a wedding celebration, a friend’s birthday gathering, or even looking fresh and polished for spring.
For this look, you need milky white polish like OPI’s Funny Bunny, a soft pink shade such as Essie’s Ballet slippers, and a makeup sponge which will be your secret weapon for achieving the flawless gradient.
As always, start with a clear base coat and apply a white and pink base on the sponge with some overlap. Dab the sponge on your nails gently building color until the fade effect is achieved. Finish by sealing it with a glossy top coat for a smooth finish.
Soft Ombre’s my favorite when i want something elegant but low profile. It’s like the LBD of nail designs – simple yet versatile.
Juicy Watermelon Delight: A Splash of Summer
Are you in the mood for fruit? This watermelon-themed design is a delightful and easy way to embrace the summer season. The polish is bright red with crisp green accents, tiny black seeds which resemble a mini picnic on your nails. Perfect for anyone searching for fresh nail designs to try in the warm weather of May 2025.
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To recreate this juicy look, you will need red polish such as “OPI’s Big Apple Red,” white for the watermelons rind, green for the outer layer and a black nail art pen for watermelon seeds. Using a fine brush will ensure precision to all of the intricate details.
Start with a red base on most of your nails. For the accent nails, paint a half circle outline then fill it in as a watermelon slice, bordered with a green rim and centered with a white detailing. Using the black pen, draw tiny seeds on top. Finish it off with a glossy top coat to retouch the shine at the end.
I wore this design for a summer barbecue and it was an instant conversation starter. While we are at it, let’s not forget the vibrant splash of red and green, fresh and joyful.
Monochrome Minimalism: Timeless Black and White
For those who appreciate refinement and a polished aesthetic, this black and white look is an absolute must. It is sophisticated with a youthful twist, combining shiny black, crisp white, and nude with delicate little black hearts. It’s modern, it’s stylish, epitomizing Clean, White, and Simple Spring.
Achieving this design requires a high shine black polish, which can be found in Essie’s Licorice. For the white, Alpine Snow by OPI works well. Together with a fine nail art brush or sticker, you will be all set to create the hearts.
Begin with the french manicure of alternating colors, applying black polish to some nails and white polish to others. For the accent, apply a nude base and gently place the hearts on top before sealing with a glossy top coat.
I personally wore this style on a night out, and it’s striking yet sophisticated. The combination of colors is so classic, you’ll never have issues pairing outfits with them.
Delicate Floral Elegance: Spring Blossom Nails
The exquisite floral nail designs remind one of spring like no other. A soft, pastel blossoms along with the green leaves set against the milky white base is soft and fresh. It’s distinct, yet understated. A balance of elegance and refinement; indeed, artistry for your fingertips.
For Spring Blossom nails, one will need a polish with a milky white base (I recommend OPI’s Bubble Bath), soft pink polish for flower details, green polish for the leaves, along with a thin detailing brush.
To achieve this design, start with the white base and ensure it dries completely. With light touches of the pink polish and fine brush, create soft petal shapes, complemented with contrasting green leaves. A fancy touch of tiny gold accents in the flower centers can be added for added charm.
Imagine wearing petals and flowers; that’s how this design felt like during a picnic in the spring! This manicure is ideal for any nature lovers.
Galatic Chrome: Overwhelming Splendor In Blue And Purple
Galactic chrome is ideal for those looking to add a dash of wonder to their nails. It features an alluring, space-themed appearance with a bold undertone of deep blue and an iridescent purple shift, augmented with shimmering elements. It offers a splendid option for the *Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025* since it looks as if the aurora borealis is sitting right at your fingertips.
In order to achieve this look, you will need to have the Yoga-ta Get This Blue base with deep blue polish and chrome powder with a purple color shift to match on. Use a silicone applicator for that flawless polish finish and you are set.
Start with your bluer base and let it dry before applying the no-wipe gel top coat. This has to be cured under a UV lamp, after which use the applicator to buff on chrome powder on the nails. The final step should be adding a clear topcoat for that nail polish shine that is long-lasting.
My favorite part about this design is its versatility. It works well with light colored outfits, ensuring that all the eyes will get drawn to the bling you have on your nails, and as the light catches them, everyone will be curious to know where you got them done.
Fresh Citrus Wonder: Complementing Lemon and Orange Hues
This tropical citrus design perfectly exemplifies the vibrancy that summer brings. Bright orange polish serves as the base alternating with nude nails that have clear backgrounds. These are decorated with hand-painted lemon slices with lush green foliage. It’s perfect for those who are looking for sophisticated fun nail ideas to try this May 2025.
For this design, you will need a vivid orange polish, a lemongrass citrus skirt base, and a tangerine waist coat with essie’s tangerine tease spiral. As accent nails, use subdued orange polish. With a steady hand, paint lemon slices and leaves using a fine brush. Finish the look with a shine boosting top coat.
This tropical citrus design embodies effortless elegance, while still being playful. Perfect for summer vacations and an instant mood lift. No matter when or where you rock these nails, every glance will transport you to sipping a piña colada on the beach.
Retro Rainbow Waves: A Splash of Colorful Nostalgia
This rainbow wave design evokes a 70’s vibe and is joy in the form of nails. Multicolored wavy lines dip and ‘salsa’ across a nude base creating a playful fun pop that anyone who loves colors would go for. This look works best with the Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025, and is perfect not just for the festival season, but anytime you’re feeling bold.
To get this look, you will need a nude base polish like OPI’s Bubble Bath and some bright colors, pink, green, yellow, orange and blue. To achieve this look, a fine nail art brush will be best for the lid to get those curvy, neat lines.
Clear nail polish is applied to the bare nails to act as a base coat. Let it dry and then use the fine brush to overlay the bright wavy lines on top while slightly overlapping for that vintage feel. Finish with a high gloss top coat.
I used these for a summer picnic and they started so many conversations. It’s one of those designs that cheer you up no matter what.
French Tips In Soft Green With Golden Stars
French tips in soft green with golden stars are both minimalist and stylish. This look combines soft green tips with delicate golden stars which is both playful and sophisticated. It is not too over the top which makes it a great addition to your list of Fresh Nail Ideas to Try This May 2025.
To get this look you need a nude base, soft green for the tips (like OPI’s Stay Off the Lawn), and gold star stickers or gold nail art pens.
Begin with the base applied with Ballet Slippers by Essie, let it dry, add French tips using a fine brush with OPI’s Stay Off the Lawn, and finish with the golden stars for glam. Complete the look with a glossy top coat for shine.
Students, young professionals, and even guests attending spring weddings can lean towards these nails for effortless elegance.
