There is a magic to late summer, too, with its golden light and warm evenings and that bitter sweet urgency to absorb it all. So why not let your manicure match the moment? Whether it is glossy reds, airy pastels and metallic finishes that reflect in the sun, August is the best time to experiment with new ideas before the fall season. Looking for cute, bold, or low-effort glam? These are the nail designs that I am obsessed with at the moment and I can assure you that they are not boring.
Bold Coral Pop with Golden Flickers
It is the nail art that I am desperate to have in late summer: juicy, unapologetic color and a little glam. The foundation is a juicy, shiny coral-red which is somewhere between a sunset and a watermelon. The two accent nails are what make this really pop- finished with finely scattered gold foil that catches the light and gives it a near molten shimmer. Its form is a casual short square, which makes it look natural and completely polished. This would be the manicure of the hot girl August.
I would use Essie Geranium, or OPI Cajun Shrimp to get that juicy coral base. As for the gold accent? Foil flakes (I love the ones from Born Pretty or Leafgel) are the way to go. Finish it all off with a top coat that has a high shine such as Seche Vite to give it that glass like salon fresh look.
At home, I begin by filing the nails short and square and then a dehydrator and base coat are applied. Once the color has been applied in two coats, I apply foil flakes with the help of a toothpick or silicone tool on slightly tacky polish. Press lightly—don’t smudge. Finish with a top coat that doesn’t dull metallics. (Pro tip I picked up from Allure: Use a peel-off base for the foil nails if you want an easy switch-up later.)
This is what I wore last August when I went to Palm Springs and I received compliments everywhere, even at the airport security and the baristas. It is not loud but bold and the gold adds the special touch to it. Coral is a summer lay up, but with gold? That’s a power move.
Sunbeam Yellow Meets Glitter Accent
In case you are after the sunshine in your beauty regime, this one is a dream. Most of the nails are covered with a cheerful, lemon-yellow, which is not neon-looking, but bright and creamy. The accent nails take it in a different direction: one has a sheer pinky-nude base with some yellow dots on it, and the other is a full glitter bomb of gold. This combo feels playful, artistic, and full of personality. And the almond shape makes it have a touch of class so that the entire look is more sophisticated.
To replicate this at home I would recommend Suns Up Top Down by China Glaze or Pineapple Punch by Lights Lacquer. On the nude base, a nude such as Essie in Ballet Slippers should be used and the yellow beads applied with a dotting tool. That full glitter nail? Try Zoya’s “Goldie” or press-on glitter powder if you’re feeling fancy.
I recommend starting with a good base coat, especially under the yellow (to prevent staining). Apply two coats of yellow paint and on the detail nail, apply a small dotting tool or even a bobby pin. With glitter you can apply it in full polish or apply loose glitter to a wet clear coat. Always seal with a top coat, especially if you’re working with multiple textures.
I must admit that I was long reluctant to get yellow nails. But they’re weirdly flattering—and they just radiate happiness. This combination is a small party in your hands. And honestly, August could use more of that energy.
Matte Noir Meets Soft Neutrals
Matte black and milky nudes are so cool to combine and this one hits the nail on the head. We are talking perfection in almond shape, with most of the fingers being matte black, and two accent nails being chic beige. One of the nude nails has a strong graphic leopard print in black and the other one has a small golden metallic frame. It is the type of manicure that speaks of fashion girl without being obnoxious.
To pull this off, you’ll need a matte black polish like “Licorice” from Essie topped with a matte top coat (Olive & June makes a great one). The nude base may be such a thing as OPI Samoan Sand. Gold nail charms can be found on Amazon or beauty supply websites easily but the effect is enormous with little effort.
First put on your base and colors and ensure that each dries fully. In the case of the matte finish, it is always advisable to wait until the color dries up before applying the top coat otherwise it will smear. Leopard spots use a detail brush and the gold embellishment is applied with tweezers to tacky polish.
I like most of all the contrast about this style it is soft and fierce simultaneously. It brings to mind a capsule wardrobe: it is versatile, bold and never out of fashion. It is an ideal choice when you are in need of something that you can wear, and yet it attracts attention.
Marble Magic with Red Power Accent
The texture and contrast are played with so mesmerizingly in this design. The majority of the nails are finished in a smooth white marble look with light black veins- not too much but effective. The ring finger, though? A single shot of bold, glossy red. It is providing drama, it is providing glamour, it is providing that girl. The form in this case is long square and this gives it a modern twist to the otherwise traditional combo.
In order to achieve the marble nails, choose a white gel base such as the OPI Alpine Snow. Apply a fine brush loaded with black gel polish to make veining and smudge with a sponge or nail art brush loaded with acetone. The red? “Big Apple Red” by OPI is a forever fave.
Begin by squaring your nails, and putting a base coat on, and curing your white base. On the marble effect, you can draw thin lines and slightly blur them to give dimension. It just has to be random, no two nails made out of marbles should be alike. End it off with a high-gloss top coat to have that sleek contrast.
I have personally worn this combination to a wedding and no one allowed me to leave without questioning me on where I got them done. The red just elevates everything. It is the type of design that does not require bright colors and rhinestones, it is all about that clean finish and surprise.
Holographic Dream in Chrome
The moment when the sun rays touch the holographic nails in the right way is a vibe. This set has short, softly shaped nails that are painted with a dreamy iridescent chrome finish which changes between lavender, silver and baby blue. It looks like a soap bubble… or a galaxy. You have that multidimensional shine that has no additional decoration, and this is what makes it look futuristic but also wearable.
You’ll need a silver chrome base or holographic polish (Cirque Colors makes one called “Drift” that’s magic). To get the complete glazed donut effect, apply a no-wipe gel top coat and then work holographic powder in with a sponge applicator. Always seal it off with another gel top coat to seal that glow.
Use your gel polish and cure it and then buff the powder in a circular motion. Be patient here—the payoff is in the finish. UV-filtering top coats should also be avoided because they flatten the iridescence. This is a tip by nail artist Betina Goldstein, whose clean but high-impact nail art is already a legend.
It is one of these manis I resort to when I need to feel polished and not very fussy. It mirrors anything that you put on- be it a sundress or a structured blazer. When I wear it in the natural light, I always get a second look. It’s simple, but never boring.
Whimsical Lavender Blooms
There’s something effortlessly romantic about this floral set. It is established on a foundation of shiny lavender, which is soft, pretty, but not too demure. The hand-painted bloom detailing in purple and white, with small rhinestone centers is what makes the look. The flowers are very delicate yet impressive, with some yellow and blue petals that remind of a garden in full late-summer blossom. The almond shape makes it seem very whimsical and almost story bookish and August evenings are ideal to be dreamy.
As a base, you will desire a polish such as Do You Lilac It? by OPI or Lilacism by Essie. In the flowers, a fine detail brush and very pigmented gel paints in white, yellow and deep periwinkle are important. A wax pencil or dotting tool may be used to place rhinestones or flat-back crystals and builder gel may be used to seal them in.
The base goes on first—two coats for full opacity. When cured I then paint the petals with a very small brush alternating the colors to give depth. I complete the flowers using small rhinestones in the middle and then I seal it with a glossy top coat. Nail artist Tom Bachik has said adding texture (like gems or beads) draws the eye to your nails without overwhelming them—and this proves it.
This is the one that I choose when I want something girly but not simple. The crystals are not too excessive as they only capture enough light to make them luxe. And they go so well with sundresses as well as soft knits. It’s floral nail art done right.
Rainbow French Ombré
Color-blocking, but make it soft. Each nail is painted with a delicate ombr in French tip in a different bright color: yellow, green, blue, and pink, making this long acrylic coffin shape. Gradient is smooth and airy, each color is blended into sheer nude base. It’s bold but not loud, playful but clean. I adore the fact that it is a mini summer palette, every finger has its own color story.
To recreate this, choose sheer nude builder gel or polish as your base—like “Milky Pink” by The GelBottle. Then for the tips, you’ll want vibrant shades with good blendability: I’m obsessed with Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Electric Collection” for this. To soften the color into the nude foundation use ombr sponge or small brush.
Apply your base and cure. Then dab or blend the selected tip color downwards on the free edge, and blend lightly to prevent hard lines. Top with a clear coat to smooth the gradient. I have actually seen this very blending technique on a Byrdie tutorial, they used a makeup sponge to fade, and it was amazing.
These are nails that do not beg to be noticed, they steal the attention. I took this outfit on a weekend getaway and I was actually stopped three times inquiring about which salon I visited. It is contemporary, it is light-hearted and it feels like confidence on your fingertips.
Cherry French with a Flirt
Classic French manicures get a sweet upgrade here. The almond tips are crisp and very bright white, but the most notable thing is the delicate cherry art on every nail. There are two shiny red cherries that are hanging on small green stems on a sheer nude base. It’s minimal, cute, and ridiculously photogenic. Think: retro 2000s meets modern TikTok-core.
For the cherries, use a dotting tool with a glossy red gel (DND’s “Red Carpet” is a stunner). The stems in leafy green will be assisted by a thin nail art brush. The base can be neutralized with a sheer pink such as the Essie color, Mademoiselle.
First apply the base and French tips using freehand or guide stickers. After this is done, dot the cherries and drag the stem of one of the dots up into a small Y-shape. Seal with a high-shine top coat. As NailPro once said, fruit nails are always the hardest in August- there is something about the ripe produce and the hot-girl farmer market vibe.
These nails? They are sexy, playful and taste like a summer popsicle. It is that sort of thing that you smile when you see it in the mirror.
Twilight Glimmer Gradient
This one is made for that golden hour glow. The dark plum ombr to translucent white is softly blended on the almond shaped nails, and a sprinkling of silver glitter is used to follow the fade line. It is the twilight on your fingertips: dreamy, silent, and unbelievably beautiful. This design is different in August, when it begins to get cooler in the evening, and you need a bit of sparkle to keep up with the atmosphere.
I would apply Grape Gatsby by Kiara Sky on the plum fade and milky white gel on the tips. To do the sparkle, take small holographic glitter or even silver shimmer polish such as Set in Stones by Essie.
Put on a base coat followed by a sponge or fluffy brush to blend the plum into white starting at the cuticle and moving up. Apply the press glitter along the fade line and top coat it. Nail artist Elle Gerstein once wrote that shimmer gradients add movement to the nail- this effect is a lesson in that.
I have dressed this style with casual tanks and silk slip dresses- it fits the mood you are in. It’s not loud, but it lingers. The sparkle just whispers “gorgeous.”
Baby Blue Flames on Nude
Subtly fierce and cool-toned, this design is a soft pink-nude base with baby blue flame tips added on. The flames are freehanded and flowing upwards like waves or heat flickers but in reverse cool-girl energy. This is completely wearable in everyday life but with a style punch because of its short square shape.
To achieve this effect, take a nude nail polish such as Fairy Tailor by Essie and a gel paint that is sky-blue. The flames require a thin liner brush. A glossy top coat brings everything to life.
Use two layers of nude, cure, and then slowly sketch flames beginning at the tip, and moving up in curvy lines. Fill them in and cure again. One of my tricks that I learned on Refinery29: draw the flames in pencil or white gel to get the shape first then fill it in with color.
This one’s a little rebellious, a little dreamy. It is a cool variation of hot summer days, yet cool. I would take this to a beach day or a night out- there is something about baby blue that is surprisingly cool girl.
Minimal Romance in Plum and Feather
This design is simple and just enough of story. Three nails are lacquered in a creamy plum which is bold but wearable. However, the highlight of the show occurs on the accent nails, which are nude-based. One has a fine black feather drawing, fine and almost boho. The other? A narrow black arrow having a little purple heart instead of a head. It is the type of detail that leaves you wondering, it is the type of detail that is a flirty inside joke that you have on your fingertips.
A base color such as OPI purple Palazzo pants or Bio Seaweed purple Haze will do the trick to achieve this look. I would choose CND sheer fantasy as the nude base. Use fine brushes or nail art pens (like those from The Detailer Brush line) for the feather and arrow work.
This pattern requires a good steady hand and a bit of patience. Apply base colors first and cure. Then lightly sketch the arrow and feather–do the outline first and then fill. A thin top coat seals everything in without smudging. I have been inspired to create this style by minimal tattoo design Pinterest boards, it is the same considered-yet-nonchalant style.
If you’re someone who likes a little symbolism in your style (guilty!), this is such a sweet option. It’s quiet but expressive. Artsy without being too loud. A mini love letter, maybe?
Cotton Candy Abstract Swirls
It is a sort of the last sips of a slushie in a hot August afternoons, it is cool, sweet, and a bit chaotic in the best possible manner. A sheer pink foundation is decorated with abstract swirls of blue and fuchsia to create lighthearted flame-like ends. The forms are not regular and accidental, which makes the appearance informal and playful. It’s giving early 2000s gloss meets TikTok remix.
In order to achieve the swirls, apply highly pigmented gel colors such as the Sky High and Hot Pink by Madam Glam. You will need a clean blush background like a base such as a Baby Take a Vow by OPI. You will also require a nail art brush that has a tapered tip so that you can do swirly precision.
I tend to do the base, cure, then I put blue first and scribble some soft flames or squiggles on the tip. Next add the pink and allow the two colors to overlap a little. Don’t overthink it—this look is about movement and fun. Blend and shine using a top coat of gloss.
I had something very similar on a girls brunch in late August and everyone was commenting on it. It is a sort of happy mess to this style that shouts end of summer freedom. In case your style is fun and yet polished, this is your style.
Neon Chevron Drama
Okay, this one is not for the shy. Bold chevron-shaped long coffin nails, which are sharp Vs of neon green and electric purple over a soft nude base. It is graphic, dramatic and best of all fashion-forward. Cogitate: geometric power nail that should be in the cover of a futuristic fashion mag.
On the colors, choose something with a lot of impact, such as Lights Lacquer in Amethyst, and Orly in Glowstick, to stop the traffic. To achieve that sharp angle use striping tape or French tip guides. An OPI nude builder gel or a nude builder gel called a Bubble Bath is perfect as a base.
After you apply and cure the nude, map your Vs with striping tape. Next add the purple and green one after the other, curing between. Carefully peel off tape and top off with glossy or velvet-matte top coat, it is your choice.
Honestly? This is to have those days when you would like your nails to do the first impression. I dressed up like a fashion show viewing party and felt that my nails were worth a runway. It’s chic, clean, and a bit rebellious. Perfect for a bold August statement.
Sunset Sorbet Ombré
This subtle fade is what I would think a rainbow sherbet sky would be like in case you scooped it into a mani. The slight nude foundation fades into three ethereal shades- rosy pink, cool blue and a hint of lilac. The gradient is so smooth, that it is more like watercolor than polish. It is ideal to the person who would like to experiment with color yet remain on the ethereal side.
Nothing better than a neutral base such as Cloud Nine by DND with a touch of color using a soft pastel palette- Beetles Gel spring set is a good choice. Apply a cosmetic sponge or ombr brush and blend each color at the tip to the middle and apply sheer coats to maximize fade.
Put on your base and then gently dab each pastel on the nail tip to bottom. Apply a soft brush to blend one tone to another. Cure and repeat layers until the gradient looks seamless. It takes forever but is so worth it and a tip I learned at a NailPro workshop is to lightly buff in between coats to have the smoothest fades.
I like the fact that this appears fragile but it feels strong. The almond shape makes it grown up and the soft colors are romantic. It is ice cream and editorial all in one: dreamy and slightly magic.
Chrome Siren Shift
These stiletto nails are very bold and unashamedly so, they are painted in blue-to-violet chrome finish, which resembles liquid metal. It is dark, enigmatic and has a true sci-fi glam. The long shape gives it an edge and the chrome effect reflects all the flickers of light. It’s not subtle—but that’s the point. These are your “main character” nails.
Use a black gel base to achieve depth and then use a no-wipe top coat and rub in a duochrome powder such as Daily Charme Lustrous Chrome. The oil-slick shimmer can also be achieved with the use of the chrome called Aurora by Madam Glam.
When the base is dry, apply chrome powder on the surface by rubbing it with a sponge or silicone instrument. Seal with another gel top to fix the shine. One fast trick by celebrity nail artist Eri Ishizu: Don t use hand lotion before putting on chrome it will make the payoff dull.
I grab this appearance when I would like my nails to be the accessory. They have this femme-fatale vibe that seems perfect when it comes to sultry August evenings, rooftop drinks, or when you want to feel a bit more confident and it shines under the city lights.
Modern Poppy Red with Hand-Painted Florals
A classic red nail never fails me, there is something about it in late summer when you are just enjoying the last golden rays of sunshine. But what gives this look a fresh 2025 spin? That delicate floral accent. The red on the majority of the nails is bold and luxurious, and the poppy detailing on the accent nail is minimalist and goes into the direction of quiet luxury we are seeing in nails and fashion. It’s romantic without being too sweet. A little artsy. A little grown.
To achieve this look just perfect, I suggest that you apply the OPI Big Apple Red to have that juicy crimson base. The flowers are best brought out with a fine liner brush, say, the Beetles Nail Art Brush Set, and black and white gel paints. Do not think too much about the flowers, the beauty lies in their natural, not perfect stroke. The entire thing will shine thanks to a good base coat and a super-glossy top coat that will not chip in the middle of the week.
I always begin with properly cut short square tips, they are simply fresh and convenient to wear every day. Once I prepare the nail plate, I use two layers of red and dried each layer with an LED lamp. On the floral nail, I sketch the petals and lastly fill in the centers to give depth. Top coat with no-wipe finish and you are ready.
I paired this combo with brunch and someone literally took my hand to ask where I got them done. These nails are the kind of statement that is soft yet effective. And honestly? It is like you have a summer sunset on your fingertips. Sweet, but not syrupy.
Graphic Red French with Subtle Marble Accent
Alright, French tips are back in style and I am not referring to the plain white ones that we all wore to prom. It is a negative space and precision design, a contemporary red French, which is crisp and high-flying. The marbled detail of the middle finger is what clinches it to me. It’s subtle but adds that artsy flair. Ideal when you want something striking but not at all over the top. The entire appearance is stylish and organized with the help of acrylic square nails.
I like using Madam Glam’s “Red Hot” gel polish for the tips and Modelones Nude Pink Builder Gel for the base. To achieve the marble effect, add a drop of red polish to clear top coat and mix using a needle or a small brush to achieve that fluid and watery feel. Think of it as watercolor, but for nails.
At home, I use striping tape to plot out the tips so that I can get clean lines, it is a little more work but well worth it. I put on red gel at the tips then I take off the tape and cure. In the case of marble accent, I put dots of red and swirl it with clear polish and seal everything with top coat.
This one is a little bit more high-maintenance but it is also very confidence-boosting. The last time I wore a red french mani like this, I wore it with a clean oversized button up and a red lip. And girl, I felt unstoppable.
Matte Bordeaux and Gold Heart Tips
This one’s for the maximalist at heart. Almond-shaped, matte bordeaux nails with golden heart detailing? Stop. I was obsessed the second I saw it. It is cool and classy, the mani that does not look overdone. The red is mellowed down by the matte finish, and the luxe energy is added by the gold. These are the nails you wear when you’re not just going to dinner — you’re making an entrance.
I’m all about Cirque Colors’ “Velvet Underground” for that deep wine base and Leafgel Premium Gold Liner Gel for the metallic detail. On a final note, seal it with a matte top coat to trap that velvety feel. The opposition is all the difference between soft matte and reflective metallic? A vibe.
No kidding, these nails are not as difficult as they appear. Paint your foundation, matte it and use a fine liner brush to draw the golden scalloped heart tip. You do not even have to be super symmetrical, but make sure that the shape suits your nail bed. Clean it up using acetone and a small brush to snatch those edges.
I had a pair of these last fall and wore them to a rooftop party and received more compliments on my hands than my clothes. I’m bringing them back this August because… why not? Hot girl end-of-summer deserves drama.
Classic Red Short Gel on Rounded Tips
Sometimes simple is the moment. This shiny red gel on natural and short round nails is an evidence. It is the sort of manicure that goes well with a glass of ice cold lemonade in one hand and a paperback novel in the other. Super wearable. Low-maintenance. But still effortlessly stylish. It shouts cool girl on her day off, especially in late August when everything is slowed down a bit.
You can never go wrong with Essie’s “Forever Yummy” or Olive & June’s “CV” if you want that clean, vibrant red. It is strong enough to last because of a builder gel base, and a high-gloss top coat provides you with a salon shine at home. Easy, durable, always in style.
If you’re doing this yourself, prep is key. Push: back cuticles; lightly buffed surface; applied a bonding base coat; and, two coats of red, cured between coats. And don not forget to cork the free end–that is what keeps the chips off. I never forget to swipe a bit of cuticle oil at the end as well. Makes your hands look instantly polished. Pun intended.
I use this one when I am between more specific sets or simply when I need something that goes with everything. And then there is the red nails and sneakers which is very off-duty model.
Lavender-White Lace with 3D Illusions
Fanciful, airy, and utterly romantic, this lavender and white lace acrylic design is what can be called as fairy wings made into nails. The lavender ombr is soft and fades into opaque white ovals which are finished with lace-like detail. And those subtle 3D effects? Totally dreamy. These are the nails of a person who wants to feel that he is the protagonist in a summer romance.
To create this kind of look, you’ll want soft pastel gels — Le Mini Macaron’s “Lilac Blossom” is a lovely shade — plus a strong white like Gelish “Arctic Freeze”. Nail stamping plates or a small detail brush to hand-paint will take you to the lace effect. You may apply builder gel to give that pillowy 3D effect.
This one definitely takes some time. Carving the ideal coffin shape, mixing the ombr, building the layers of details, it is better to do it on acrylic or hard gel. But if you’re patient (and have a steady hand or a skilled tech), the payoff is magical.
This is one of my personal favorites as a surprise summer bridal nail or a special August occasion such as a birthday trip or engagement shoot. It is not too delicate to be boring, it is soft girl and statement art. A little fantasy, a little finesse.
Rose Chrome Stiletto Nails That Steal the Scene
This manicure is what August would have been in case it had a mirrorball moment. These rose chrome nails are stiletto and razor sharp and they are not meant to be ignored. The finish is hyper-reflective, reflecting the light as a polished metal, but the color of rose gold has a certain softness to it, which prevents it being too aggressive. It’s glam, but make it sleek. Perfect for those balmy nights when you want your hands to do the talking (and maybe your cocktail glass, too).
For this ultra-reflective finish, a chrome pigment is key. Born Pretty Rose Gold Mirror Powder, with a no-wipe top coat on a gel-polished nail, has worked best on me. The shape? It is all about the structure, long stiletto acrylics, filed and tapered to the extreme. Everything is glued with the help of a rubber base gel and is made to last.
Chrome process is a bit of an addition, but it is worth it. After applying your gel base and color (nude or soft pink underneath works best), cure and top with a no-wipe top coat. Next, rub the powder on with an eyeshadow applicator, when it is still warm under the lamp. Seal with top coat again, cure, and you’re done. It’s satisfying in a weird ASMR way.
Would I wear this to work? Probably not. But for an August rooftop party or girls’ trip to Miami? Absolutely. These nails provide the main character with power, confident, bold, and unashamedly glossy.
Metallic Magenta Meets Sweetheart Charm
Here’s a manicure that’s equal parts playful and polished. It starts with the bold shimmer of magenta, which is rich, vibrant, and completely flattering on all skin tones, but it is that one soft pink nail with the 3D heart that turns the tables. It’s girly, but not childish. The combination is flirty and playful, as a rom-com dressing scene, but make it beauty.
In order to achieve this feel, use a magenta with micro-shimmer, Berry Yonc, Lights Lacquer, has that kick. For the soft blush pink, I used Zoya “Dot”. The charm? Visit Etsy or the beauty supply store and look up heart nail charms. Apply them using a dab of builder gel to ensure that they are held all week.
I tend to carve them on square acrylics to provide the color with a structure. You will want to begin with the shimmer nails first- two coats, cure and then top coat. In the case of the heart nail, use your pink, cure it and put the charm with the tweezers. Repeat the curing process under LED and seal the bottom with a transparent gel to have it locked in.
This one is cute in some way. Not performatively, rather in a more of this is me enjoying myself, no occasion required. It would be what I would wear to the Target on a Saturday and a surprise date night, in a single outfit.
Neon French Tips With a Barbiecore Glow
Pink lovers, this one’s for you. This variation on French manicure replaces the traditional white with a hot pink that is juicy but not too out there. The ombr base makes it soft and trendy and the square form balances the bright with a bit of class. It is providing the impression of I have just returned to the summer vacation and feel great. Barbie would definitely approve.
I like using The GelBottle Inc’s “Dollface” for the pink tips — it’s creamy but packs pigment. The gradient is enhanced by a soft nude base such as Apres Gel-X Mimi. To get that smooth pink melt, you will require a blending sponge or an ombr brush.
One of the pro tips I learned by celeb manicurist Tom Bachik? When applying a gradient French, begin at the free edge and blend upwards instead of attempting to blend down at the cuticle, this will create a better effect of natural length. Tape can help you map your lines, or just freehand if you’re confident.
This mani is perfect for end-of-summer energy. It’s playful but still sophisticated enough to wear daily. And there is no substitute to the dopamine rush of hot pink in your hands.
Pastel Blue Perfection for Late Summer Calm
That is why I always go back to pastel blue in August, because it is the color equivalent of the deep breath. This look is fresh, cool, and balanced. It has that clean and casual look with square short acrylics and the glossy gel finish makes it look clean and well taken care of. It’s simple, but in the best way.
In this case, I grab Olive & June, Angelfish or Lights Lacquer Blue Moon. Both provide that pop of dreamy pastel without making you turn out pale. A thick, self-leveling gel top coat brings it home.
It is one of the simplest styles to attempt in case you want to DIY. Simply make your nails into a clean square, buff, base coat, two color coats, top coat. That’s it. Use cuticle oil once it has been cured and you are straight-up polished with very little effort.
There are times, particularly at the tail end of summer, when I simply want something that is a little bit restful and pretty. This hits that note. Like a cloudless sky right before sunset.
Glossy Pistachio Almonds for a Bold Finish
This shade has been the surprise of the summer 2025 and it is green. I’m calling it pistachio-chic. It’s soft, not neon. Fresh, not earthy. The almond shape makes it feminine and elongating and the high-gloss gel makes the entire set a mood. Surprisingly beautiful – sort of how you thought that one sundress would not look good, but then you put it on and it is everything.
I have been adoring Cirque Colors Jade Jelly or Beetles Green Tea to get this shade just right. Put on hard gel or acrylic almond tips to give that smooth curve and added strength. The shine is sealed in a high-gloss top coat and it gives the shine that newly-done look.
This set looks polished but not fussy. Once the almond shape is filed and the nail has been prepared, apply two coats of color with a curing in between. Cap the tips, seal with top coat, and you’ve got a green that’s actually flattering (not Grinchy — promise).
More people have asked me about this color than any nude I ever wore. It’s fun, but still reads classy. Like sage, but sassier. It is certainly a late-summer choice in case you are willing to get out of the ordinary pink and red.
Iridescent Lilac Almonds for a Soft-Glow Finish
This is what I would term your it girl in chill mode manicure. The lilac ground is gentle and delicate, however, then the iridescent glaze catches the light and everything is transformed. It gleams. Reflects. Feels alive. These almond-shaped gel nails offer that pearlized effect we have been seeing on the runways and red carpets but in real life. It’s the kind of mani that glows without screaming.
To do this, I used the Essie Lilacism as the foundation, which is a cool-toned pastel that is slightly purple, slightly pink. After that I glazed it with OPI Chrome Effects in Tin Man Can to achieve that shifting pearl overlay. You will need to cure every layer in a powerful LED lamp to fix the glow. Here a non-wipe gel top coat is the key, it allows the chrome powder to adhere to it wonderfully.
This style doesn’t ask for anything loud. Simply form your tips into a tidy almond, smooth your surface with a buffer and apply two coats of the lilac tone. Cure, and then with an eyeshadow applicator lightly buff the chrome. Top coat with a gel top coat, and make it shine.
I spent a long weekend in wine country: white linen shirts, sandals, lavender lattes in the morning, not much talking. This mani fit perfectly in that delicate summer atmosphere. It’s not just about beauty. It’s about how it feels. Light, fresh, luminous. A total August dream.
