Ombre Nail Designs to Try Summer 2025: Trendy Colors, Shapes & Styles You’ll Love

Looking to refresh your manicure for the new season? These Ombre Nail Designs to Try Summer 2025 blend bold shades, soft pastels, and artistic finishes to match every vibe—whether you’re into chrome, French, or gel looks. You’ll find everything from sunny yellow fades to pretty pink almond shapes on this list for your next salon visit or DIY nail day.

Subtle Pink Fade with a Glossy Almond Finish

There’s a natural elegance to pink ombré on nails that are shaped like almonds. Moving from a light nude to a bright pink, this color gives a perfect hint of color without being too bold. The silhouette feels sleek, slightly pointed, and totally 2025. It’s about giving: a romantic, feminine and refined look, as soft as a summer breeze at golden hour. If you’re a fan of neutral colors but want to add a pop of color, this style is perfect for weddings, trips or enjoying rosé on the patio.

A good way to get this look is by applying a sheer nude gel first, for example OPI’s “Bubble Bath” or Essie’s “Ballet Slippers.” You’ll need a sponge and a pigmented gel polish such as Gelish’s “Make You Blink Pink,” for the pink fade. The topcoat keeps the gradient smooth and adds a wonderful glassy finish. Oh, and almond tips? They flatter literally every hand shape. No lie.

Creating this ombré at home is surprisingly doable. Shape your nails into the almond shape, put on a base coat and finish with a nude polish. Let it cure under an LED lamp. Working with the pink ombré, put some of the polish on a makeup sponge and press it onto your nails a little at a time. According to nail artist Elle Gerstein, using patience and applying many thin layers helps you avoid harsh lines. Always add a clear gel topcoat to get the same look as a salon manicure. Think slow build, not bold swipe.

I put this design on for a weekend trip to Santa Barbara in June. It went well with my linen outfits and seemed like a subtle way to dress for fall — it wasn’t loud, but still looked polished. If you love a fresh French manicure but want something less classic and more current, this one’s a top contender for Ombre Nail Designs to Try Summer 2025.

Pink Glitter Ombré with a Sea-Swept Sparkle

Okay, this one’s pure mermaid-core. A change from creamy nude to pink, with glitter specks looking like summer stars against a cotton candy background. If you ever spent time collecting seashells or drinking coconut water by the shore as a kid, this is for you as an adult. The almond shape makes it feel fancy and the glitter gives it a festive look that’s not too much. It’s a romantic-meets-fun twist on the trendy French manicure.

For this, you’ll need a soft nude base like Zoya’s “Dot,” a bold pink gel polish (I love Kiara Sky’s “Pink Passport”), and loose glitter or a micro-glitter gel topcoat. Take another sponge to apply the gradient, followed by sprinkling glitter and placing it mostly at the top with less near the base. Try to sprinkle the ingredients over your cake the same way you would dust sugar on a pastry.

I learned from Sarah Gibson Tuttle, founder of Olive & June, that you should use a fan brush with loose glitter and tap it on your nail once you’ve applied a sticky layer of polish. Applying glitter with a brush or toothpick doesn’t give the same even sparkle as using glitter glue. Just make sure to use your gel topcoat — it keeps your nails looking glossy.

Seeing this design makes me wish I could book a beach rental and wear light sarongs all the time. If you’re looking for a summer look that lets you play, this is it. Bonus point: glitter can hide little chips and scratches if you’re outside.

Short and Sweet: French Pink Ombré with a Blush Glow

Some people don’t prefer long claws and I really enjoy the neat look of short, round nails that get noticed. This light pink ombré looks soft, modern and a bit playful. It blends nicely from a light beige base to a gentle fuchsia, so it’s neither too plain nor too bold. Think: effortless French vibes with a twist. These nails don’t scream for attention — they hum.

This is where French manicures short really shine. For materials, you could try Beetles Gel Polish Set (they do the best ombré kits), especially the “Dreamy Pinks” pack. If you type all day or have a busy summer, short nails are much easier to keep up with.

To get this style, file your nails, use a bonding base coat and cure them. After that, use the light nude shade and let it cure. To do the ombré, put your mid-tone pink on a sponge and start from the tip, moving toward the center. Keep layers thin. A few coats will give that smooth gradient. Topcoat = non-negotiable.

This was my “I’m back to work, but I still wanted to look cute” nail design in August. Even when I was running on iced coffee and dry shampoo, I felt like I looked good. If you’re trying out Ombre Nail Designs to Try Summer 2025 for the first time, this is the perfect low-commitment look with high payoff.

Sunset Sorbet: Bold Color Combos with a Tropical Twist

Now this? This is where color combos come to life. It’s a mix of red, orange and fuchsia — much like the sunset as it falls into the sea. The almond shape is smooth and striking and the gradient? It’s everything. If you’re having a beach party, enjoying cocktails on a roof or going on vacation, this design is perfect for you.

You’ll need high-intensity gel colors such as “Margarita Mayhem” by ORLY and “Hot Paprika” by Essie to get this look. The key is a seamless transition between warm shades. You’ll find that a silicone sponge gives your makeup a more noticeable finish than a regular one.

If you try this nail style, don’t be afraid to go bold too. According to Julie Kandalec, try to change up the way you place the colors. Apply lightest color at the cuticle and move the color deeper toward the tip to get the lifted look. Don’t forget a gel topcoat for staying power.

This one gives me serious dopamine vibes. I chose it for a poolside birthday and people I didn’t know told me how much they liked it. If you’re bold with your fashion, this is the design for you this summer.

Minty Fresh: Cool Green Ombré with a Soft Almond Edge

If there was a color for summer, this would be it. Green fading into a natural nude, this pattern looks as fresh as a morning breeze coming through the windows. It’s light, simple and just a bit different to catch your eye. The almond shape makes the look gentle, but not too shy and it’s a great alternative to the usual pinks and corals we see in summer. It’s stylish at breakfast and it’s just as stylish at a wedding.

To recreate this mint-toned ombre nail design, I suggest starting with a sheer beige base like Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Be Calm.” A good tip gradient color is “Mint Candy Apple” by Essie or “Cucumber Cooler” by ILNP if you want a bit of shimmer. A subtle chrome topper can also bring a glassy finish if you’re feeling fancy. Shaping your nails into an almond shape will give you a nail trend that’s perfect for 2025.

Building the ombré effect in layers gives it the best results in your hair. Paint the nude base on your nails twice, let it cure and then use a sponge to add the mint color from the tip to the base. According to nail artist Betina Goldstein, who spoke to Allure, using less color can be more effective than using a lot of bright color—it’s all about being restrained and elegant. Couldn’t agree more.

I chose this manicure for a trip to the Catskills and it reminded me of my linen jumpsuit: quick to do but looks good. If you’re looking for a low-key new design, this one fits all the requirements on the Ombre Nail Designs to Try Summer 2025 list. Bonus? It looks killer with a summer tan.

Neon Wave Art Meets Ombre Geometry

It’s a summery look all in one manicure, with bold swirls, black edges and color combos that show how creative you can be. By using vivid blue, pastel pink and vibrant yellow in the ombré technique, each nail looks like it’s in the sun. The square shape of the French manicure holds everything together and makes the design both interesting and stylish. Choose something that looks like it’s from a magazine, but is still comfortable for a casual brunch.

Because it’s so sharp, the colors should be bold and cover the whole area. The GelBottle’s “Daisy,” “Bluebell,” and “Lemonade” are my picks for summer shades. The combination of a thin striping brush and “Licorice” gel paint from Lights Lacquer can make your art lines look the cleanest. Finish the whole look with a smooth gel top coat.

These designs for 2025 are centered around using creative layers. First, do your ombré with a sponge and when it’s dry, use a fine liner brush to draw the waves. Paint each layer by itself, let it dry and then apply the next color to keep everything from mixing. Nail techs like Natalie Minerva (yes, the artist behind Euphoria nails!) often say, “The more control you have with thin brushes, the more confident your creativity becomes.”

This one reminds me of that feeling when you’re standing in the middle of a street mural in Miami — bold, sun-soaked, and full of possibilities. This design’s not for everyone, but for anyone feeling daring this summer, it’s an absolute yes.

Velvet Gradient Almonds in Orchid & Papaya

A matte almond set in sunset colors is the perfect way to show you’re stylish and tasteful. It goes from purple to coral to neon papaya, with each nail showing a different version of a summer sunset. The gradient isn’t just color — it’s mood. The velvety finish makes it look like it’s straight out of an editorial, without the shiny finish we usually see today. If you’re looking for a break from all the shiny chrome, this color scheme is just what you didn’t know you wanted.

Choose richly colored gel polishes that are smooth on the nails — try using “Amethyst Orchid” by Bio Seaweed Gel and “Neon Persimmon” by Modelones. Use a velvet matte top coat such as the one from OPI’s Infinite Shine line, for that soft and powdery effect. In this style, the colors are placed in order, so you don’t have to blend them together.

Honestly, matte gradients take a steady hand. After your base coat, use a sponge to blend the gradient, but don’t worry if it’s not perfect, the matte topcoat will fix it. If you’re applying matte finishes at home, cure your nails first to prevent an uneven finish.

This one reminds me of eating on a rooftop and seeing the orange sky. Last July, I visited Austin and wore a similar color and people stopped me five times to ask where I had it done. Spoiler alert: I did it myself.

Tutti Frutti Ombre Pop

If you’ve ever wished your nails looked like a scoop of sherbet, you’ll love this. Even though this mix of pink, orange and yellow reminds me of childhood popsicles, I still think it’s trendy. The shape is what makes it elegant, but the colors? Pure fun. I’m fond of the ombré because it makes each nail seem cheerful, bold and very summery. If you’re looking for a mani to show you’re booking the pool cabana, here it is.

You’ll want bright tones here, but with sheer buildability. Le Mini Macaron offers “Rose Buttercream,” “Sunshine Yellow,” and “Tangerine Crush” that you should try. First, use your base coat and then sponge from the tip to the cuticle — the opposite direction to what you usually do. It looks like the light is moving up and it’s especially lively on nails that are short or shaped like almonds.

When I’m in need of a little pick-me-up or getting ready for a sunny trip, I use this look. Turquoise bikinis, big sunglasses and every fruity drink just seem to match these colors. You’re not just choosing a color, you’re picking the whole season.

Pastel Cloud Fade on Squared Acrylics

This is something that looks like it came from a Pinterest board — soft pastel colors melting together on acrylic French manicures with square tips. The colors move from lavender to soft blue, green and muted yellow and are all finished with a high-shine glaze. It’s romantic, nostalgic, and oh-so Instagrammable. This is what a nail look would look like if cloudcore had one.

To get the same look, use builder gel extensions or press-ons that are square. Lavender Sky, Butter Mint and Blue Frost are good pastel choices and you can find them in buildable form at Cirque Colors or Lights Lacquer. If you want your piece to look more interesting, apply a chrome glaze at the end.

These transitions are best done wet-on-wet. Mix each shade into the one next to it before you cure and use a flat brush to smooth the edges. According to Brittney Boyce, if your nails are oily, you should always use a primer before applying gel pastels — it stops the color from chipping too soon.

These nails seem like a lovely message from spring to summer. I put on something similar for a friend’s baby shower and I felt just as sweet as the cupcakes.

Twilight to Midnight: The Power of Blue & Purple Gradients

This one’s for anyone who appreciates a little mystery. This look which blends electric blue into deep dark blue and plum purple, is sure to turn heads. Because of its glossy finish, almond shape and dark colors, it seems like a luxurious swim in a velvet ocean at night. If black and red are your usual favorites, this color story will give your look a modern update.

Choose from “Violet Night” and “Arctic Wave” for intense color from the Gelish Soak-Off Gel collection. The secret to a flawless ombré in dark tones? Rough the nail beds to make them sticky, paint the nails with several thin layers and use a sponge to apply the color—you don’t need much of these highly pigmented polishes.

I spotted this exact gradient in an editorial from Nailpro Magazine and I knew right away I wanted to try it. It may be dramatic, but it’s easy to wear, especially at night or for darker summer weddings.

It’s giving grown-up mermaid. It’s giving drama. It’s saying, “I did these myself, so don’t copy me until you ask.”

Rosy Mauve Meets Blue Skies: A Dreamy Dual-Tone Ombre

There’s an easy feel to this design, as if you’re touching a sunrise — the pink is soft and blends into a light blue, with a little shine and an almond shape. It’s a light, clean shade that helps make early summer mornings and neutral outfits a little more interesting. This ombré isn’t loud — it whispers calm sophistication.

A nice way to achieve this style is to apply Essie’s “Perennial Chic” as the base and then blend it with a dusty sky blue called “Saltwater Happy.” Blend the fade with a sponge and finish the design by adding a little thin white or iridescent polish over the edges. Keep the finish glossy for maximum depth.

I go for this when I want something that’s not too heavy but still fun. I wore it over a long weekend in Charleston and it looked great with denim, florals and my favorite iced lavender lattes. If you’re new to ombré this year, this style is both easy to wear and will never go out of style.

Turquoise Galaxy: Oceanic Blue With a Hint of Glitter

If deep-sea mermaids did manicures, they’d choose this. If you look closely, this style looks just like a bioluminescent bay. The roundness helps to soften the bright colors and the sparkle gives the coat a starry look. It’s a bit of a mystery, a bit daring — and still practical enough for everyday.

Start with a rich teal like “Stay Off The Lawn!” by OPI, and blend upward with a navy gel like “Arctic Depth” from DND. Press the glitter onto your nails with foil or sponge and then seal it with a topcoat. If you’re looking for a little more sparkle, add chrome flakes to the ends of your nails.

It’s perfect for summer dinners at night or when you’re on the beach. Mei Kawajiri, a nail artist, once observed that a bit of sparkle can change the whole mood and this manicure shows why. I wore this once at a rooftop DJ party and the lights from the city made my nails look amazing.

Barbiecore Glow: French Square Ombré in Cotton Candy Tones

Barbiecore is still going strong and this square French manicures set is its more mature sibling. Pink fading to blue, formed with acrylic tips that have a glossy finish. It’s enjoyable, looks good and brings back memories — just like bubblegum ice cream on a runway. Every finger looks dipped in joy.

Apply CND Shellac’s “Tutti Frutti” for the pink and use Lights Lacquer’s “Skyline” for the blue. The look is best when applied to a square gel or acrylic extension. Brush the color outward from the tip with a flat nail brush, then seal it with a topcoat that plumps your nails.

I tried this look for my best friend’s bachelorette party — we got the same set and felt like queens as we walked into the beach bar. It’s lively, looks great in photos and is perfect if you love trendy outfits right now.

Berry to Midnight: Magnetic Ombré Drama

At times, you want your nails to look like a little extra and this gradient shade gives you that. The light from the shimmer makes it look more like silk when lit by candles. This nail style is perfect for summer nights when you want to change from bright sun to a starry sky.

Apply “Velvet Ribbon” by Holo Taco, a metallic red and top it with “After School Boy Blazer” by Essie, a midnight navy. Use the magnetic wand over each layer to get a little extra shimmer. It’s important to blend slowly, as thin layers will give you the best results.

According to celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, metallic nails that move are like pieces of jewelry on your hands. That rings true with this one. It’s glam, sleek, and makes you feel like you’re holding secrets with every gesture.

Citrus Sunrise: Red & Orange with a Sorbet Spin

This ombre nail look is bright, lively and really says “summertime,” as it mixes red, coral and tangy orange. It’s got that gradient sunshine effect that lights up every gesture. Its almond shape and shiny finish make it look impressive, even though it’s not hard to keep up. Wear your nails and you might find people asking you for your nail tech’s contact information at brunch.

You should use “Hot Tamale” and “Tangerine Tango” from Gelish for a lively effect on your nails. Start applying “Peach Babe” from OPI’s Nature Strong line at the cuticle and work your way upwards. Keep your car’s topcoat shiny so the colors can stand out.

I did this look for a girls’ weekend in Palm Springs and honestly? It felt like a mood booster. Everyone noticed. Seeing this design, I realize that summer is not about being quiet — it’s about enjoying every sunny moment.

Electric Jungle: Neon Ombre with an Edge

This design is much like a tropical cocktail—it’s strong, surprising and a little bit daring. The nail polish starts out as a dark purple at the base, becomes a neon green at the tips and has a smoky teal middle, giving the nails lots of depth. It’s the type of ombre that makes everyone think summer, even from the rooftop bar. Because the shape is almond, the strong color is not too intense. A silver ring, a cropped denim jacket and your favorite iced latte would make these earrings stand out.

If you’re eyeing this for your next mani, here’s what I’d bring to the table: CND Shellac in “Rock Royalty” for the base, “Palm Deco” from Lights Lacquer for that electric green, and a blending sponge to create that perfect fade. A high-gloss gel topcoat seals the deal.

I apply two coats of the base color and once it’s slightly tacky, I add the mid-tone and bright tip with a wedge sponge. Apply a top coat, let it cure if you have gel and you’re good to go. Tip from celeb nail artist Tom Bachik? Always use a dehydrator and put on a base coat—“It’s important for both sticking and lasting.”

This is what I choose when I want to feel like I can’t be stopped. It’s bold, sure—but when that sunlight hits the green, and it flickers over to that moody purple, it’s like wearing confidence on your fingertips. Don’t be surprised if people ask you where you got them done (and yes, it’s okay to say “myself”).

Sunrise Surf: Beachy Pastels That Melt Like Gelato

It’s hard to deny how satisfying a blue-to-yellow ombre that includes lilac and soft turquoise can be—that’s the set that reminds me of Malibu sunsets. The transitions are seamless, dreamy, and feel almost airbrushed. The colors are gentle but noticeable and the gloss makes them seem luxurious. If I had to describe what’s trending for Summer 2025, this is it. There’s movement, contrast and no need for attention—it just attracts it.

To nail this look (pun intended), I’d go for OPI’s “Don’t Tell a Sol” (yellow), “Can’t CTRL Me” (blue), and “Do You Lilac It?” (purple). Apply with a fine sponge in layers, blending each shade into the next, then cure under a UV lamp if you’re using gel. I prefer to apply a top coat that makes the nails super shiny and add a bit of cuticle oil to keep them looking well taken care of.

I made this for the first time at a beach wedding for a friend and was complimented all weekend. It makes a fun meal for brunch, but it’s also perfect for a dressy occasion. A neutral dress and these nails? Instant style upgrade.

Citrus Heat: Gradient Gloss in Sunset Colors

I think of the end of a hot day when the sky turns from coral to orange and finally becomes a glittering burnished gold. What I like about this set is the symmetry, with the matte green holding the look together and the coppery chrome middle finger really catching your eye. If you love art that is also beautiful, this is the set for you. It’s tropical, it’s glam, and it’s pure heat.

No need to overcomplicate the supply list—get your hands on Bio Seaweed Gel in “Tropicana” (green), “Sunkissed Coral” by DND, and any quality chrome pigment (I love Daily Charme’s “Molten Gold”). Blend the coral and orange with a sponge, brush on the chrome powder, top coat and then cure your nails. That shimmer? Chef’s kiss.

I put this on when I feel like I’m at a beach party during the golden hour. I once noticed my drink matched the color of the drink in the movie and I wondered if that was by accident or design. You decide.

Confetti Sorbet: Playful Speckled Pastels with a Twist

This set is similar to a summer carnival, but everything moves slowly and is colored with pastel pink, yellow, lilac and blue, while inky-black flecks add a bit of excitement. Even though the almond shape is soft and elegant, the speckles make it look a bit unique. These nails will make you shine and smile at the same time. I love this look because it’s both fun and still looks polished.

I use the Pastel Macaron Collection by Modelones to achieve the gel look and it doesn’t break the bank. The speckles? I applied a black polish with a micro-dotting brush, making sure it was diluted. You can’t skip the top coat; you want the colors to stay vibrant.

The way you blend is up to you; the more uneven, the better it will be. Start your highlights at the base and then work your way to darker colors as you reach the ends of your hair. Cure after each layer and tap on the speckles while it’s still tacky for that soft-set look. One thing I remember is what Julie Kandalec said: “Don’t aim for perfection; aim for a nicely balanced design.”

I actually wore this while driving through the Pacific Northwest last July and it made me feel like anything could happen and I’d still be cute. It’s easygoing, sweet and full of enjoyable chaos.

Rosé Fade: Glossy Ombre in Berry-Toned Neutrals

Soft pink blends into plum-tinged purple and the final shade is a dusty rose that’s as cool, elegant and tasty as a glass of summer wine. This collection is perfect for those who love minimalism, but there’s a surprise. Its romantic shape comes from being almond-like and the high-gloss finish means it looks sleek. If you want ombre that’s not too flashy but still attractive, this is your best bet.

I find that the Essie Expressie collection works perfectly for this—I use “Second Hand, First Love” with “IRL” and “Word on the Street.” Dry time for these is so short that you can blend your polish fast before it hardens. When you’re using acrylic or gel, place the darker shades at the foundation and brush them outwards for a smooth fade.

It’s also one of the simplest styles you can try at home. Start by filing into a clean almond shape. Dab a sponge with two colors—one on the tips, one at the cuticle—and mix the colors together. Apply a thick self-leveling gel topcoat to join all the pieces into a smooth finish. Quick tip from Paintbox founder Eleanor Langston? “Lightly tap the center with a brush filled with acetone to get a smoother blend.”

I chose this outfit for a vineyard picnic last August and my friend messaged me afterwards to ask about the colors. You feel like you’re wearing something you’d put on with linen and lip balm, not much else.

Lime Rush: Gradient Greens for a Juicy Pop

I’m loving this green ombré look and the pop of citrus makes it even better. The neon yellow on these nails turns into a forest green tip, so they’re like a green smoothie for your hands. Because of their ultra-glossy finish, they appear glassy in the sun and their almond shape keeps them always looking neat and tidy. It’s sporty, it’s spicy, it’s the kind of mani that gives main character energy with minimal effort.

I get this effect by using The GelBottle Inc’s “Lime Punch” and “Eucalyptus” together. Their high-pigment formula is amazing for smooth gradients. You’ll also need a latex barrier (trust me) and a firm blending brush for the fade.

It’s best to apply this design with a sponge or airbrush. First, yellow, then cure and after that, sponge on the green from the tip to the base. Blend until the transition is seamless. Finish with a no-wipe glossy topcoat. Nail pro Jenny Bui says using a clear jelly green helps blend the colors together even better.

I turn to this when I’m looking to cheer myself up. Yellow and green look different in July and it’s especially noticeable when the sun reflects off the bright surface like a disco ball.

Tangerine Flame: Spicy Sunset Ombre with Flecks

This one is truly hot—picture a golden-hour sunset, but you are holding it. The color starts out as a juicy yellow and ends in a nearly coral-red, with small black specks that make it stand out. The short, oval shape makes this design totally wearable, even for those of us who type all day or open a lot of seltzer cans (guilty). This is like having a hot summer crush when it comes to nails—it’s bright, surprising and you can’t miss it.

Use ILNP’s “Sun Kissed” and “Bloodline” for vibrant coverage, then top with a speckled topcoat like Holo Taco’s “Everything Taco” (yes, really). This gives the look a trendy, artsy spin.

Sponge the red onto the hair, beginning at the tip after you have put on the yellow down. Work in layers and don’t rush the blend. If you’d like to make your own pattern, add the specks with a micro-splatter brush. Betina Goldstein, a well-known manicurist, once told Vogue: “Texture gives polish more character,” and that’s what’s happening here.

When I eat this set, I feel like I’m in the sun, eating mango with tajín at the beach. If you’re looking for a way to have fun but stay refined, this is your best bet.

Twilight Frost: Matte Blue Fade for Cool Evenings

Just a few colors, but never dull, this blue to white square fade is a real treat. The color is light ivory at the bottom and fades to a cool dark blue at the ends. It’s giving soft clouds, iced lattes, and rooftop lounges at dusk. If you like neutral colors but want to try ombre, this set will let you do just that. Plus, matte nails in the heat? Underrated.

If you like an icy gradient, I recommend using Beetles “Baby Blue” with “Pure White.” A velvet matte topcoat from Essie will help you achieve that lovely soft-touch effect. If you need an extra strong manicure, gel or acrylic overlays go well with this combo.

Try using a sponge gradient or brush on your color with a dry brush. Guides will help you keep the square shape of the French manicure while you file. After applying the matte top coat, clean the surface to achieve a very soft feel.

I choose this outfit when I’m feeling like less is better. It’s both clean and chic, but it still stands out—just like a white shirt and jeans. Subtle but powerful.

Lemon Sherbet Tips: Soft Color Pop with French Vibes

Lavender, white, and electric yellow—yes, yes, and yes. The new version of French manicures is a soft pastel look with a twist. The pale purple melts into white and then the white fades into a bright citrus tip that’s almost perfect. The length? Ultra glam. The vibe? A place that’s halfway between a field of daisies and a summer rave.

You can use Nails Inc’s “Lilac Grove” and “Bright Side” from Lights Lacquer on the tip of your nails. You can get a fluid transition by using either a sponge or a brush blending method. Since longer nails are prone to bending, it’s best to do them in gel.

Begin with a neutral lilac base and blend it down into white, making sure the sponge doesn’t touch the yellow tips much. Clean out the area with a fine detail brush to outline your shape. A French fade never felt so futuristic.

Whenever I put this on, people I don’t know often tell me how great it looks in the coffee shop. It’s gentle, easy to wear and just a little bit wild to give you that cool factor.

Cotton Candy Chrome: Glossy Ombre for the Glam Squad

This one’s pure eye candy. Pink fades into electric blue, but the chrome finish makes it look as if the paint came straight from a unicorn’s bottle. Thanks to its almond shape and high shine, it still looks flirty. This is the kind of design 2025 is meant for—it’s inspired by fantasy, but not too over-the-top. It’s the sort of mani that encourages you to wave at everyone.

Apply gel in the colors “Barbie Pink” and “Ocean Sky” and finish with chrome powder—Daily Charme’s “Prism FX” in Sapphire looks amazing. After it has cured, press on the design and finish with a no-wipe topcoat.

It’s important to use a silicone tool to buff the chrome effect after the base has cured. Always finish with cuticle oil for max reflection. Zola Ganzorigt says that adding chrome over a sheer color gives your nails a richer look.

I feel like I’m in a beauty shoot, even if I’m only buying matcha. It’s vibrant, it’s enjoyable and it gives the whole summer glow a stylish feel.

Bubblegum Gradient: Glossy Pink with Classic Appeal

This look is all about being bold, bright and pink and it’s a celebration of everything glamorous. The square shape makes the design look French, but the gradient from bubblegum to baby pink adds something new and fun. I think a shiny pink ombre says summer romance, drinks on your balcony and a favorite playlist that you can’t stop listening to.

I get the ultra-juicy finish by using Valentino Beauty Pure’s “Pink Panther” and “Rosebud.” The texture of both is great for creating a gel fade because it’s smooth and easy to blend. A top coat will give your nails a shiny look that’s just as good as what you’d get at a salon.

First, apply the lightest pink at the front of your lips and then use a brush or sponge to blend it down into the darker pink. Cure each layer individually to preserve the crispness. If you’re using acrylic, blend the two colors first before painting the bead.

For weddings or when I’m on a date, I choose these because they look soft and polished. They’re not loud, but they’re definitely not forgettable. I usually advise: if you can’t decide between something trendy and something classic, choose pink.

Cloud Dancer: Soft Blue Tips with Barely-There Base

It’s a gentle and clear blue to translucent mix that feels as fresh as mountain air. The base is clear, so natural nail color can be seen and the color fades to a lovely pastel blue at the tips. The almond shape gives this style a fun touch, so it’s perfect for those who like a simple, light and easy look. I call this one “barely-there but totally intentional.”

I usually use OPI’s “Baby, Take a Vow” for the base and “It’s a Boy!” for the tips. You can use a sponge for a soft color and a semi-sheer gel formula if you just want a hint of color. The result? A clean look that still feels elevated.

This one’s super easy to create at home. Buff and shape the nails, put on a base coat and use a sponge to add blue from the center to the tips. Work a sheer nude from the cuticle down to the middle of your nail to blend it. When you are done, add a final layer with the lacquer coating you like best.

This nail is perfect for me all summer, whether I’m running errands, at the beach or have a job interview and want to look polished but not too fancy. It’s giving “cool girl with good taste”—and honestly, who doesn’t want that?