Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks: Classy and Creative Summer Designs to Try Now
Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 is all the rage now and I think it’s long overdue. Whether you’re into subtle florals, bold neons, or minimalist lines, this season’s nail designs are all about self-expression with a sun-soaked twist. So many ideas are on Pinterest and Instagram which one will suit your summer mood?
That’s where I come in. I’ve gathered some lovely, adorable and completely trendy nail designs that will make your hands feel confident for any occasion, big or small. Each look is shaped to perfection (literally, we’re talking oval), and built for real life: easy enough to DIY or bring to your tech for a salon-level finish.
So let’s find your match. Ready to fall in love with your next manicure?
Sunbeam Yellow Meets Minimalist Swirl
I find this yellow and nude swirl design to be so cheerful—it’s like a bottle of sunshine with a hint of sparkle. Having just a few nails with bold yellow and squiggly lines over a light nude makes the look both fun and classy. I like how the oval shape of the nails helps the swirl look as if it never really stops. Plus, the one-glitter accent nail? It’s giving shimmer-sophisticate without being loud. Here are the purest Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks: playful, a touch flirty and sure to make you stop scrolling.
I often start by using a sheer pink base and OPI’s “Bubble Bath” is the one I like best. Essie’s “Hay There” gives a soft, bright yellow that isn’t too neon. A single silver holographic topcoat on one nail will give you the sparkle you’re looking for. A good nail brush helps you draw the curves—you don’t need anything fancy, just good control.
I first make sure my nails are clean and filed, keeping them in an oval shape that’s neither too short nor too long. Paint two layers of your sheer base, then use a striping brush with yellow polish to draw curving lines on several fingers. Don’t stress perfection—it’s meant to be breezy. Seal it in with a glossy top coat. Celebrity nail artist Miss Pop suggests that this year’s trend is playful blocks of color and freehand curves and I think she’s right.
I always smile when I see this look on my hands. It’s a design that lets you feel summer, without being too loud or flashy. If you’re used to plain, neutral nails, this style could encourage you to try something more colorful, but still easy to wear. So, for me, that’s the perfect time to look forward to in 2025.
Sage Green for Quiet-Luxury Summer Vibes
Soft, natural, and quietly powerful, this sage green set taps into the whole “stealth wealth” energy that’s still trending all over my feeds. It’s shiny enough to catch the summer sun, but it remains in the relaxed, polished zone. There’s not much, but it’s not dull and it’s both elegant and modern. The oval shape just takes everything up a notch—it makes everything feel as luxurious as good skincare. This one’s a subtle statement.
You might like Olive & June’s “WKF” or Zoya’s “Sage” because they are both a lovely muted green that isn’t too minty or too grey. If you’d like to extend your nails, use a short rounded shape or a medium-length oval shape. I prefer Seche Vite for the top coat because it gives a shiny finish and doesn’t chip until day two.
I really like this look because you don’t need to be a pro to make it yourself. Be sure to buff and base your nails first to get a smooth polish finish. If you want to cheat a little, try Static Nails’ reusable pop-ons in similar tones—they’re a game-changer when I’m in a rush and still want my hands to look intentional.
I drink this all the time in July when I’m jumping from iced matchas, emails and beach sunsets. It’s perfect for wearing with linen shirts, loose waves and pictures taken at sunset. If you’re looking for a fashionable color that’s not too noticeable, this is the one for you. Bonus: it works beautifully against tanned skin.
Classic Red With a Graphic Twist
Red has always been that shade—bold, feminine, unapologetically timeless. When combined with a single nail covered in abstract lines and little gems? Chef’s kiss. The oval shape of the nail helps red become less intense and more suitable for every day. My favorite thing is how the look balances: one nail is shiny red, another is plain and striped and the last has a touch of shimmer. It’s elegant, but not trying too hard. Summer 2025 will definitely see Oval Nail Inspo that grabs everyone’s attention.
Since contrast is the point here, I like to use OPI’s “Big Apple Red” or Chanel Le Vernis in “Gitane” for the red. The accent art? Black striping tape or lines drawn with a nail art pen are great and you can finish the look with a few rhinestones. To start, a nude like Essie’s “Bare With Me” helps you avoid messy mistakes.
Because red can stain your nails, it’s important to use a strong base coat first. Paint two layers of red on all your nails, except the one you’ll use for the graphic art. With a thin brush or pen, paint on diagonal black stripes and then use tweezers to put the rhinestones on the still-tacky polish. A thick top coat applied after everything is dry will keep your design safe for days.
Putting this design on makes me feel like I’m ready for anything, even if I’m in a sloppy bun and flip-flops. There’s something about red nails—they bring confidence. Red nail polish makes your fingertips look and feel like you’re wearing lipstick, doesn’t it?
Soft Animal Prints and Matte Pastels
There’s a gentle self-assurance in how this simple, soft-pastel manicure looks. But the real twist? Those soft, matte leopard spots. It’s bringing the fun of brunching with friends, plus a bit of fashion-week attitude. Its oval shape and short length mean it’s not flashy—just a good choice for any home. The soft-touch feel that’s popular now comes from the matte finish and the animal print adds another texture to the bag. Definitely one of my favorite designs ideas this summer.
A matte top coat is necessary for this style and I like OPI’s Matte Top Coat because it doesn’t make the color below look dull. Base shades like Essie’s “Minimalistic” (for the blush pink) and Zoya’s “Dove” (for the muted gray) work beautifully here. I make the animal print by using a dotting tool and a light gray-silver polish for the random spots.
Application takes patience but not pro-level skill. As soon as your base colors have dried, use a detail brush or a bobby pin to paint your spots, making sure they’re not perfectly even. Apply a matte top coat once the design sets. If you aren’t confident in freehand, pick up stamping kits or decals to get the result you want. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec thinks matte patterns on pastel nails are the “unexpected chic” this season and I can see why.
I chose this look for a late summer picnic last year and got compliments all through my strawberry tart. It tends to be gentle, rather than loud and sometimes that’s exactly what it’s meant to do.
Oceanic Blue and Marble Moment
This one’s for the bold. A blue polish that almost shines on summer skin, along with a few marble accent nails—that’s what a luxury resort feels like. The oval outline makes the strong color look more elegant. I like that the blue background is strong while the marble design gives it a little contrast so it doesn’t look too much like a set. I’ve seen a lot of Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks, but this one is very strong.
To recreate this, I recommend Essie’s “Butler Please” for that true electric blue, and white polish + black detailing for the marble (Zoya’s “Purity” works well). A tiny nail art brush or a toothpick dipped slightly in grey will be good for the veining part. Adding a little acetone to your grey can give your nails that real marbled look.
Shape your nails into soft ovals and then paint most of them with the blue of your choice. Paint two layers of white on your accent nails and then use a detail brush to drag grey lines across—it’s not necessary to be precise. A glossy top coat will make the marble look like a polished stone. Marble nails are still trending in 2025, especially when you add a bold color, Elle Beauty says.
This design has me dreaming about a Mediterranean trip. When your outfit is simple, but you want to stand out, it’s the inspiration you’re looking for. I’m not always drawn to bold colors, yet when I am, this shade of blue always gets noticed.
Glossy Sky-Tip Elegance
I adore this look because it’s a modern French tip, but with a sky-blue flair. The gleaming nude base matches the bright blue tips and the extended oval shape adds a stylish, almost fashion magazine look to the nails. It’s a mani that looks great whether you’re wearing a beach wrap or a white linen blazer. What makes this one different is that it doesn’t use the typical pastel colors. Blue is the main color this season and it looks amazing for summer 2025.
If you’re aiming to recreate this, you’ll need a sheer nude base—OPI’s “Samoan Sand” gives that glossy, barely-there elegance. You can choose Essie’s “Butler Please” or Lights Lacquer’s “Clarity” for the tip, as they give a beautiful creamy blue. Using a precision French-tip guide will give you the right curve, especially when working with long acrylic nails.
For me, it’s a great way to get the perfect shape on press-ons without harming my real nails. But if you’re doing it yourself, I suggest applying a nude base coat, letting it dry and then placing a tip sticker or round Band-Aid over the tip to block it. After that, add your blue shade, finish it with a glossy coat and you’re ready for summer.
For a city rooftop party, I’d choose this look with a cool drink and my nails catching the golden hour. It’s a popular look that manages to stay elegant and I’m still not ready to let it go.
Blue Blossom Art with French Twist
There’s nothing basic about this floral-meets-French-twist combo. The blue tips stand out well against the painted flower on the ring finger, creating a manicure that combines simple lines with pretty small art. The shape of the oval lets you see the brushwork, but doesn’t make the look too glamorous. It’s helping me plan garden brunches, dream up vacation meals or simply feel confident while I work.
I always use Zoya’s “Blu” for a lighter French tip or China Glaze “Frostbite” for a deeper cobalt to get this style. The white base on the floral nail looks lovely when Essie’s “Blanc” is used. You can paint the petals with tiny brushes and combine lavender, periwinkle and soft blue nail polishes. To add a bit of sparkle, place a dot of silver or rhinestone in the middle.
It’s important to start with a smooth, shiny nail and then add the nude or sheer base coat. I rely on symmetry when using French tips, so I use a silicone guide and a thin brush for the arches. If you’re not sure about your floral painting, you can use press-on decals or water transfers to get the same look.
I wore a similar outfit last year on a trip to Napa over the weekend and both baristas and shop owners kept complimenting me. There’s something quietly powerful about a hand-painted flower. It’s simple, yet full of personality.
Neon Leopard Meets Soft Neutrals
This set is for the wild ones—but with taste. The spotted design on top of the nude base gives the look an instant sense of sophistication. But toss in that shocking neon coral accent nail? Game-changer. It’s cute, edgy, and summer-ready all at once. Because they’re oval and short, earrings won’t make you look over-the-top—you can wear them without claws. If you’re looking for designs summer with punch, this one’s leading the pack.
Use Essie’s “Topless & Barefoot” or OPI’s “Samoan Sand” for the base once more. To create the leopard print, you’ll need a dotting tool and two polishes: a medium brown (try Zoya “Louise”) and black. The neon? ORLY’s “Life’s A Beach” is an absolute scene-stealer. A matte top coat will help the print look like suede and will keep the coral color glossy.
Try doing the accent nail first to help you build your look. After that, cover the other nails with your base nude and let everything dry completely. Make the leopard spots by drawing “C” shapes and dots with brown and outline each with black using a nail pen or detail brush. Apply a matte or gloss finish on top according to the style you’re looking for.
I wore this to a concert outside and everyone kept telling me how much they liked my nails. It’s a look that makes people happy and sometimes that’s what you need to bring out.
Blush Chrome with a Heartbeat
This soft, pink chrome manicure is a romantic look in polish. The pearly shine on every nail is right on trend for 2025 and the heart on the ring finger gives the look a touch of sweetness. The oval shape helps the shine cover the nail bed and makes everything look very feminine. It’s flirty, soft, and so perfectly summer. I can’t stop staring at this one.
To get this look, I recommend using Aprés Gel Couleur in “Rosie Posie” as a base, and applying a pink chrome powder (try Born Pretty’s chrome pigments) on top while the gel is still tacky. A tiny silicone mold or a dotting tool can make the perfect heart for your cake. Seal it all with a high-gloss top coat.
I always use a gel base for this manicure, so I finish it off with a UV lamp after every layer. Apply chrome powder to the polish with a sponge and secure it with a top coat that doesn’t require wiping. Trust me—it’s worth the extra step.
I’d put this on for a date by the ocean or for any day when I want to feel more like a woman. It works so well with soft clothing, a little blush and a touch of shimmer on the collarbones.
Black Velvet French with Diamond Lining
This one is pure drama—in the best way. A thin diamond-like glitter band placed above deep black French tips that sparkles just right. Because it is nude, it remains elegant and the oval shape gives it a gentler look than usual almond or square lenses. It’s a fancy time for drinks, whether you’re celebrating or just want to feel important on any Tuesday. A real highlight among the dark and elegant styles for 2025.
Apply OPI’s “Put It In Neutral” on your nails and paint the tips with Zoya’s “Willa” for a true black. That glitter line? You can choose to stripe your nails with a brush and a silver-glitter polish from Nail Art Club called “Crystal Lights,” or else use micro nail tape. Seal with a hard-gloss finish.
You can get the right curve at home by following French guides or using vinyls on your nails. After the black polish, take your glitter strip and apply it right along the edge. After painting, finish with a top coat and seal the glitter around the top of your nails.
I usually choose this for formal wear, but I’ve paired it with jeans and a leather jacket and honestly, it works great. It worked both ways. The sparkle is just right for a little luxury and the round edge prevents it from being too rough.
Bold Tangerine with Floral Accent
If there was a nail color for sunshine, it would be this. I love the orange manicure, yet the daisy design on one nail truly makes the whole look special and on-trend for summer. It’s not complicated, but it has a summer design that looks modern and brings back a bit of nostalgia. Because of its oval shape, the bright color seems more feminine and balanced.
I always reach for Essie’s “Tangerine Tease” for orange nails, as it’s smooth, bright and won’t chip for days. You could use a white nail pen or a brush to add the daisy details and then add a small dot of yellow like OPI’s “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants” in the center. Daisy nail stickers are available and look lovely when you top them with a sealant.
The first step is to make your nails short and rounded or oval. Apply two coats of orange on most nails. Painting a nude or sheer layer is the first step for the floral accent. Dab a white dot in the center of the petal, then tap a yellow dot in the middle of the flower. Give your nails a shiny coat and you’ll feel like you’re wearing wildflowers.
Whether you’re at a weekend market, on the beach for a bonfire or just dancing around at home, this one is perfect. Orange always makes me think of something alive and cheerful.
Rosewood Ombré Realness
It’s a style that says cozy and professional, bringing together pink and mauve into one smooth blend. The same effect we’ve noticed in many places is here, but it looks deeper. What makes it so 2025? I like the rounded tips and the way the color changes from one end of the nail to the other. It’s totally wearable, totally elevated. It’s the manicure version of sipping tea in a silk robe.
I use a makeup sponge to blend Zoya’s “Brandi” with a light pink called OPI’s “Mod About You” for this look. The most important thing is to apply and blend your makeup while it’s still wet. You can add a chrome top coat or just a clear gloss to give your nails the amount of shine you want.
It takes a little getting used to—use a piece of latex under the nail so you don’t get the mess on your skin. Use the darker shade on the end and blend it up into the base with the lighter color. Use a gentle brush to make the edges of your paint smoother before your painting dries.
I think it’s perfect for occasions that need a bit of elegance such as a summer wedding. It’s classy, looks natural and leaves your hands looking glowing without taking away from the rest of your look.
Watermelon Dots with a Retro Vibe
This fun polka dot outfit brings together whimsy and something you can actually wear. The combination of bright pink, earthy green and cheerful red makes the table look like it’s from the 60s, but the glossy finish and oval shape show it’s very much a 2025 creation. It’s bold without being chaotic. Playful but not juvenile. Are you looking for something unique that’s not on trend? Then this is the list for you.
I used “Kelp Yourself” from Sally Hansen for the green base and Color Club’s “Peace Out Purple” for the accent pink. I used the round end of a bobby pin to put on the polka dots. Put your own spin on dots by picking Zoya’s “Micky” and Essie’s “Mojito Madness.” Protect everything with a top coat to prevent your nails from looking dull.
The first thing to do is add the base color, let it dry and then finish with the other colors. Then use your dot tool, changing colors and placing some dots close to one another to make the design thicker. A quick top coat locks it in.
Seeing this set makes me picture summer fairs, sparkling soda and bright bikinis. It’s trendy, yes, but not in a “seen-it-everywhere” way. It’s actually hard not to smile when you see these.
Black and White Flame Contrast
This one’s high fashion. A coat of glossy black polish is impressive, but add some white negative-space flames and you’ve got something that looks like it came from a magazine. The oval shape makes the look more wearable and still strong. It has a dark look, but it’s never too much. It’s the kind of mani I imagine someone wearing to an underground gallery show—or just for fun because why not?
I think OPI’s “Black Onyx” and Essie’s “Blanc” are the best choices for creating the flames. You can create that fire-inspired design by either using a flame stencil or a fine-liner brush. For a stronger difference, paint the black part with matte top coat and leave the flames glossy.
Application tip? At the beginning, use a thin brush to draw the flames’ shape and then fill the black around them. It’s simpler to shape the design that way and prevent the white from getting too thick. Patience = precision.
I wore something like this last fall and a barista thought I had them done in New York. (Spoiler: I did them at home.) You can tell it’s confident, clean and there’s a hint of mystery, but it’s not your typical elegant look.
Lavender Marble Fantasy
The lilac waves, sparkling white swirls and glitter in this set look like a cloud made of amethyst. The use of pastel colors with a marble effect gives the wall that “deliberately ethereal” look. It’s light, cheerful and seems perfect for a beach spa or evening garden party. The oval nail shape once again proves why it’s the ultimate canvas—it turns nail beds into miniature works of art. Another standout from these Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks.
You’ll need Essie’s “Lilacism”, a white detail brush to add swirls and Nailtopia’s “Diamond Dust” as a tiny glitter liner to get this look. Mix the polish colors by swirling them with a marbling tool or by softly running a dry toothpick through slightly wet polish.
Apply a nude base first and next, place small patches of lilac and white. Mix the colors on the nails with a detailed brush or dotting tool and finish by tracing over some lines with the silver glitter for more shine. Don’t overblend—it’s the contrast that makes marble pop.
This one has “Pinterest favorite” written all over it. It’s gentle, easy on the eyes and teaches us that you don’t need bold colors to leave a mark.
Soft Lavender Vibes with a Metallic Twist
This look is easy to love because it’s both elegant, fun and slightly futuristic. The oval design makes your fingertips feel soft and the colors are like a summer playlist: pearlescent lavender, creamy lilac and a pink chrome that looks like a sunset. All the elements are connected by the simple nail art—purple letters on a nearly transparent base. Even though it’s not something you’d expect, this is a fun way to add a bit of glitz to your nails without making them too flashy.
To recreate this combo, you’ll want a few things: a soft sheer nude like OPI’s “Bubble Bath,” a lavender gel polish (try Lights Lacquer “Lilac Wine”), and a metallic rose chrome powder—The GelBottle’s “Mirror Chrome” is insane for this effect. Lettering like this is best done with water decals or ultra-fine nail art pens (trust me, stencils can be your best friend here).
Shape your natural nails into a round-oval shape before anything else. First, put on your sheer base, let it cure and then apply the color-blocked accents. Paint the chrome powder over a no-wipe top coat and finish by sealing it all in. I prefer to lay the decals one at a time so I can move them with tweezers and coat them with a glossy finish. According to Tom Bachik, who works with celebrities, being precise matters most. Take your time—it pays off in polish.”
This one feels personal. It makes me think of the mani I’d choose for a rooftop brunch or a bridal shower. A little playful, a little polished, and totally Instagram-worthy. I’d put on this perfume to match a silky slip dress and some lavender spray.
Earthy Geometry in Sage and Ivory
This geometric print proves both clean and striking at the same time. The roundish shape makes everything feel calm, but the stripes and dots bring a bit of modern style. It’s almost like Scandinavian decor, but for your nails. I am impressed by how the design uses both negative space and precision, but doesn’t look fussy. It’s a gorgeous pick for someone who wants short nails that speak style fluently.
I always use Essie’s “Win Me Over” for the sage color I want. Apply Zoya’s “Snow White” as your creamy white and dot the design on your nails with a tool. A striping brush is essential here—fine-tip is best. A thick coat of matte top coat at the end will make your nails look like the ones models wear.
It’s best to apply a smooth base coat and then use either striping tape or your own hand to create the color sections. After your lines are dry, use your dotting tool to add the dots and a small palette and toothpick can help you shape them. Remember to finish your look with a matte sealant to make it look better.
For me, this design means I pick my outfit based on my nails. You’ll often be complimented on your tattoos in cafés and bookstores and they’re sophisticated without being dull. Low effort, high reward. That’s my kind of inspo.
Neon Matte with Gold Accents
Here’s where ideas summer explode into full bloom. The bright, matte green on this nail style is so vivid it reminds me of matcha and summer playlists. The gold squiggle accent gives your nails a gentle shine that matches the shape of the nail perfectly. If you’re looking for a strong statement of summer, this is the one.
To nail this look (pun 100% intended), you’ll need a true electric green polish like Cirque Colors “Hustle” or Holo Taco’s “Green Taffy,” plus a gold striping polish or foil. You need a matte top coat and Olive & June’s is a great choice for a finish that stays smooth and won’t chip easily.
It’s easy to do this kind of art yourself: begin with a full matte green set, then carefully draw a gold line across each nail with your striping brush. You don’t have to make everything the same—the design is best when it moves naturally. Manicurist Elle Gerstein said, “Imperfect lines are the new perfect,” and she was right.
Last July, I wore a similar outfit and people I didn’t know would stop to ask about my nails. One woman in Whole Foods literally grabbed my wrist (in a good way). If you’re taking a trip or just want something special, this is the one. Loud, lovely, and unapologetically bright.
Tropical Punch with Palm Leaf Art
Summer 2025 is ready for something like this. Tangerine orange and shocking pink look amazing together and the palm leaf art gives a real island feel. This look is bold, yes—but it’s also balanced. Because of its oval shape, the nail looks graceful and the colors and patterns make every nail unique. It’s giving “passport ready” energy.
Colors? You should pick up Orly’s “Life’s A Beach” and “Beach Cruiser,” and black nail polish or stickers for the leaves. If your hands aren’t very steady, using decals or stamping plates will help you make this project.
Make sure to plan which nails will have color and which will be your canvas first. Use your bright base colors, allow them to dry and then add your leaf accents. A detail brush works best for the fine lines. Top it off with a layer of shiny gel to protect and keep the nail polish looking great.
I feel like this look has main character energy. I’m already picturing it with a white linen dress, big sunglasses and a drink with an umbrella in it. It’s not just cute, it’s a whole summer vibe.
Floral Meets Fierce in Jungle-Inspired Glam
Here’s where natural beauty meets the wild side. A basic nude background prepares the way for lovely hibiscus-style flowers which are balanced by dark spots of leopard print. This look is soft and romantic because of the oval nails. It’s not overly sweet which makes its elegance perfect.
You’ll need a great nude polish like Essie’s “Topless & Barefoot,” a pink polish (Zoya’s “Sweet” works), and a leopard decal set or brush-on black and brown gel polish. You can also opt for pre-painted press-ons if you’re in a time crunch.
If you’re looking for a bold but practical style, this is it. It’s a way to dress for a date and a safari and I enjoy that it suits summer weddings and weekend trips alike. According to nail expert Betina Goldstein, a good nail design shares a message and this one has a lot to say.
Lavender Field Lines
This nail style lets you have a little bit of a Provençal garden on your hands. Delicate lavender sprigs are placed over a white base, resulting in a botanical look that seems both fresh, handmade and very elegant. Because it is oval, the painting has a softer look, resembling a little canvas. If short rounded nails are your favorite, this style is sure to impress you this summer.
For a good manicure at home, choose a white polish that covers well in two layers—OPI’s “Alpine Snow” is a favorite. For the floral detail, opt for a lilac shade like Olive & June’s “Lavender” and a fine nail art brush (or dotting tool, if you’re a little less steady-handed). Put on a layer of high-gloss top coat to give your paint that polished look you want.
I’ve tried making this before and people always stop me at the farmer’s market. There’s something timeless about florals that makes you feel a little more put together—even if you’re just in jeans and sandals. Floral nails are always popular, according to Julie Kandalec, because they suggest softness, femininity and joy.
Speckled Lilac with Negative Space
This one’s a perfect mix of minimal and playful—cool lilac with inky speckles, and a crisp nude accent nail sliced with modern lines. Adding the geometric art on the ring finger and leaving the rest full-colored gives it more depth and the round shape on top finishes it off nicely. If you’re looking for a trendy option that isn’t too flashy, this is a great option for 2025.
It’s simpler to do than it seems—just apply Cirque Colors “Speckled” over Zoya’s “Abby.” To get the negative space accent, use a nude sheer base and then place striping tape to create the sharp black and white lines. Precision is key here, so patience will pay off.
I really like that this design is not too plain and not too fancy. I’d choose this for a gallery opening or to make a white tee a bit more stylish. It’s a look that people notice without even noticing it.
Lime Pop Art Party
Okay—ideas summer don’t get more energetic than this. Bright lime greens, splattered paint and a polka-dot design that shows off early 2000s pop art. Because of the glossy solids, matte neon and layered dots, this one looks like a sweet treat for your nails. If you’re into short, bold looks that scream “vacation energy,” this oval mani should be on your radar immediately.
You can get the base with a neon polish like Orly’s “Glowstick” or Lights Lacquer’s “Limelight.” You might try making the speckle effect by dipping a nail art sponge in black polish or using a freckling gel pen. Apply black and green dots over your nails with dotting tools in different sizes for the dots.
This one’s pure fun. I attended a music festival last year in something like this and it fit the atmosphere perfectly—bright, bold and hard not to notice. If you’re feeling playful this season, give this one a go. Think of it as high-voltage happiness in nail form.
Sunshine French with Star Accents
This new version of the French tip is bright and full of sparkle. The classic white is now lemony yellow and small star shapes at the bottom give everything a touch of enchantment. Because the base is semi-transparent pink, everything remains clean and stylish and the oval shape adds a touch of elegance. This one’s an excellent natural-looking option for those who want something breezy yet refined.
First, use a sheer pink like “Mademoiselle” by Essie to get the look. To create the tips, paint them with a soft yellow polish called “Sunshine State of Mind” by OPI and add small studs from Daily Charme or Swarovski. Apply a high-shine top coat to make sure the stars don’t move.
I’ve chosen this style for summer weddings and brunches and it always makes me feel clean and put together. It’s playful, but also mature—great for any sunny day event.
Coral Garden with Ink Leaves
I really like the way this coral-to-nude gradient looks with the soft black botanical art in this whole Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks roundup. Moving to a warmer color makes everything feel cozy and the black vines look both sleek and exciting. It’s like watching a summer sunset in a private garden and it truly is beautiful.
The colors of Butter London’s “Hot Totty” and Zoya’s “Taylor” work wonderfully in this design. I make the ink-style vines by using a fine-tip brush and black stamping polish. If you’re new to this, you can use pre-made decals to get the same effect.
There’s a grace to this one. It seems like a great choice for the early summer—when you want a romantic drink that’s not too sweet. It’s got a touch of art, a bit of melancholy and is definitely inspiring.