It’s hot outside, we’re back to ordering iced lattes and our nails? They’re ready for their moment. But what’s really slaying this summer? You might see lots of flashy claws on Instagram, but it’s actually the round summer nails that have become popular on TikTok and in salons everywhere in the States.
They’re clean, they’re effortless, and most importantly, they’re versatile. If you’re looking for something easy for your beach days or something bold for a night out, there’s a round nail style that will suit you.
If you’ve been eating the same shape of nuts, now is a good time to try something different. Below, I’ve rounded up (pun fully intended) some of my favorite looks for the season—each one a vibe in its own right. Ready to refresh your inspo board?
Classic French With a Crisp Summer Twist
A French manicure never seems to go out of style, but this version is unique. A short, rounded tip with a thick white edge looks neater and more considered than the style from the ’90s. It’s that extra short chic that screams effortless elegance. Whether you’re going to an interview or meeting friends for brunch, this style is always noticed without trying to stand out.
If you want to do this at home, I’d use OPI’s Funny Bunny or Essie’s Ballet Slippers as your base and add a thick white like Alpine Snow. A fine liner brush is necessary to ensure the edge is sharp, but a bit thicker than you’d normally use.
One of the manicurists I like on TikTok, @nailsbyalsn, always seals the tip by running top coat across the edge horizontally. Not only does it give a glossier finish, but it actually helps prevent chipping (yes, even if you’re a keyboard smasher like me).
I’ve worn this same thing through all kinds of weather, biking and coffee spills and it always helps me feel like I’m on top of things. Sometimes, simple really does win.
Lavender Dip Meets Sunset Fade
Let’s talk bright, let’s talk dreamy. This soft ombré melt from cool blue into pastel lavender is giving “sunset sky over the ocean” vibes. The way the gradient kisses each nail just so? It’s serene but playful. It’s not too long or too short and it looks great on medium-length hair.
You’ll need two polishes with similar opacity and undertones. Try Periwinkle Blue and Soft Lilac by Lights Lacquer. A sponge dab or airbrush tool will help you blend your makeup the best. If you’re spending time in the sun or at the pool, gel versions will keep the color depth better than other types.
Celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik (yep, J.Lo’s guy) says the key to blending these soft fades is using a milky base coat underneath. It helps everything melt without looking muddy.
When I put this together last July, I got more compliments on my nails from baristas than on my outfit. That’s the vibe. Who doesn’t want to wear a sunset?
Pearlized Elegance With a Whisper of Cool
This nail is giving white but make it dimensional. It’s a little pearly, looks great on any skin and gives a subtle chrome effect without being overly shiny. Minimalists will love these short round beauties; they’re icy, soft and completely in style.
If you want this look, use a polish like Pearlfection by Olive & June or Opal Flash from the FX series by Orly. The secret is to use a neutral nude or light grey to make sure the shift shows up and isn’t too frosty.
It’s an easy choice if you’re a fan of simple, cute manicures. I wore this at a friend’s engagement party and everyone seemed to think the pearls were genuine. Instant confidence boost.
Dewy Nude With Luxe Micro-Pearls
Okay, this one is for the glam minimalists. A glossy nude-pink base surrounded by mini pearl accents? It’s giving red carpet meets cozy cashmere. It is a design that is not too flashy, but still shows its luxury.
Most nail techs apply these pearls by using a dotting tool and gel adhesive. I’d suggest using OPI’s Put It In Neutral nude gel polish and adding mini flat-back pearls which are available on Amazon or at Sally Beauty.
As soon as I saw this on a girl’s Instagram with the caption “subtle bridal trial,” I saved it. You don’t need rings, because your nails have their own jewelry.
Soft Pink Meets Savage
Although this manicure looks pretty, it has a bite that you’ll love. This nude-pink base combines with leopard-style spots in pink and black, making a sweet-looking shoe that’s a little more interesting when you look again. It’s when you’re at work all day and then dance the night away. And yes, it’s one of the Round Summer Nails That Slay in 2025.
I use a small brush to color the spots with Licorice by Essie and Bubble Bath as the background. Feel free to make up your own design or use a dotting guide if you’re still learning—any way you go is fine.
According to celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein, it’s best to only use leopard print on one or two nails to keep everything balanced. I agree completely—it helps the design remain mature, not silly.
I remember my barista gasping the first time I tried this. Mission: slay, accomplished.
Botanical Brushstrokes With Lavender Grace
These nails are a peaceful thought—they’re soft, creative and a bit poetic. White nails are accented by lavender dust and have freehand floral art in light peach, soft plum and a little lime green. The art is painterly but gentle, similar to floral drawings on cotton paper. This is the kind of design that makes people pause and wonder, “Where did you get those done?”
I’d first use Essie’s Marshmallow gel for the white and OPI’s Do You Lilac It? for the solid lavender. A fine nail brush and polishes with strong pigment such as Olive & June’s Sweet & Gracious, are best for painting the florals. Don’t worry about being perfect; that’s what makes it look dreamy.
According to celebrity manicurist Miss Pop, hand-painted nail art is similar to jewelry for your hands, always unique, telling a story and full of personality. This exact set reminds me of that idea. I put on a similar polish one lazy August weekend and thought my nails looked like little works of art.
Cherry Swirl Tips That Bite Back
These short round nails are bold and breezy and the cherry red tip is not your usual French manicure. Red coloring moves playfully, making an abstract pattern and the black line around its edges helps to make it more bold. They remind me of summer, shiny lips and the classic feel of old soda shops. Cute with a side of attitude.
To create the swirl, dip a super thin liner brush in Big Apple Red by OPI and draw the outline around the nails. Black gel liners help you achieve the precise look you want and Beetles Nail Art Gel is a great choice for a perfect flick.
According to celebrity nail artist Gina Edwards, first use a light pencil to sketch the swirl on your nail and then trace it over with polish. She applies that for creating detailed patterns that look natural.
I like it because it’s both bold and easy to wear. It’s what I choose when I want to look great but don’t want to put in a lot of effort. Think white T-shirt, gold hoops, these nails—and done.
Soft Sculpted Lines in Whisper Tones
Minimalist? Yes. Boring? Never. The basic idea behind this look is to keep the designs understated. A sheer pink background is the base for the artist’s delicate wavy lines in white and gold. They swirl like sand dunes in golden hour light. They are a great example of soft movement—and can be worn for both casual beach days and fancy dinners.
You’ll need a detail striping brush and a gold metallic polish and Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Game of Chromes is perfect for this. I recommend layering a sheer nude or blush gel base underneath (something like Aprés Baby Pink Builder Gel), then sketching out the lines after curing.
The best part? It’s an easy length to wear every day, but it still looks a little more stylish. My boss and the girl at Pilates both told me I looked good in this. That’s range.
Dreamy Pastel Chrome for Galaxy Girls
This one is pure ethereal inspo. Soft pastel blue, pink and lavender painted over the nails, with a gentle chrome overlay. Imagine: cotton candy clouds, mermaid sparkles and the time before the sun goes down. If you’re all about soft glam, these Round Summer Nails will look great in 2025.
You can get this look by sponging on Zoya’s Leia, OPI’s Bubble Bath and Lights Lacquer’s Blue Moon. After that, sprinkle a little unicorn powder or chrome pigment on top and finish with a glossy topcoat that doesn’t require wiping.
According to nail expert Julie Kandalec, chrome pastels give nails depth without making them too noticeable. I agree completely—how the light reflects on your nails changes with the angle, so your nails become a constantly changing moodboard.
I wore a version of this at a beach wedding in Malibu and everyone kept stopping me to look at my hands. They looked like magic in candlelight.
Rose-Quartz Marble With Blush Serenity
Soft pink meets natural stone in this ultra-feminine look. Because it’s round, the manicure is easy and fresh and the marbling on just one nail gives it a little more style. You could call it wearable wellness—it’s zen and stylish, but you won’t notice the spiritual side unless you look closely. One of the easiest ideas but it still hits hard.
Creating the marble is easier than it looks. Essie’s Minimalistic is a good sheer pink base; apply it and while it is still tacky, dot some white and rose polish on top. Use a fine brush or needle to drag through the paint and make those lovely stone veins.
What I love about this look is how polished (pun intended) it makes you feel. It’s a style that looks great on any outfit, from a T-shirt to a slip dress and it suits nails of any length.
Mauve Mood With Sculpted Accents
This soft mauve look is an easy idea that looks especially elegant. Usually, nails are painted with a creamy, dusty-rose color, but one is made special by adding little white sculpted waves for a textured, artistic look. It gives a clean impression, but it doesn’t go unnoticed. It’s ideal for nails that are short and round but still want to stand out.
I really like Zoya’s Rue as a base because it’s a creamy mauve that looks great on every skin tone. You can create wave art by hand with a fine brush and gel liner, for example Madam Glam’s White Canvas. Add a matte topcoat to the sculpted nail and leave the rest shiny.
I chose this look for a weekend trip upstate and it went with everything I brought. It survived packing, unpacking and lots of iced oat lattes.
Blue French With a Twist of Depth
A traditional French is given a fresh look with deep blue tips added over natural pink. The reason this square looks so great is the dimension: tiny swirls of sheer navy give it movement and depth. It’s edgy but clean, and totally wearable for everyday. If you’re craving something simple short but not basic? This is it.
The base should be sheer pink, like OPI’s Bubble Bath and the tips can be made by blending Essie’s Butler Please with a drop of sheer navy jelly polish. You can use a French tip guide or just a thin nail brush to create your design.
According to Brittney Boyce, who works with celebrities, blue is a powerful and confident color that’s not as surprising as red. Even people I didn’t know at Trader Joe’s noticed this which tells me it’s a great piece.
Groovy Rainbow Matte Vibes
This design is a mood lifter. If you could nail sunshine, this would be the one to use. Red, yellow, orange, teal and turquoise colors in a matte finish turn every nail into a small work of art. It’s a daring way to present art that doesn’t look like a costume. The shape is comfortable and the colors make this a perfect fit for festivals, Pride Month or summer Fridays.
For polish, use highly pigmented colors like Lights Lacquer’s Sweet as Summer set or Cirque Colors’ Kaleidoscope line. Use matte gel topcoat on your nails for an attractive velvety look.
I wore these nails last July to a pool party and the attention was mostly on my nails, not the floaties. It’s giving joy, movement, and pure main-character energy.
Crystals and Chrome Lines That Gleam
Think glam, but make it extra short. This manicure adds a touch of pink, chrome lines and a few small rhinestones for a perfect look. It’s not too much, it’s not for brides—it’s a summer look with a little sparkle. This post is for the minimalist jewelry lovers who prefer linen in the summer.
Use a sheer pink like OPI’s Baby Take a Vow, silver chrome striping tape, and flat-backed rhinestones (check Daily Charme or Apres Nail). Use tweezers to apply the tape and then cover it with two layers of thick gel topcoat to hold it all together.
Gina Edwards believes using only a little sparkle will make your nails look elegant, not flashy. I couldn’t agree more. I wore it to a rooftop dinner and someone asked if they were press-ons—they aren’t, they’re just cute and smartly made.
Electric Pink Tips With a Glitter Fade
Here’s the nail style to use when you want your nails to take the lead in flirting. Hot pink tips can be seen on these short rounded nails, turning into silver glitter as the nail continues. There’s a bit of ‘00s nostalgia, but it’s updated, especially when seen on rounded shapes and very reflective surfaces.
Choose a bright neon pink such as China Glaze’s Pink Voltage and a thick silver glitter, like Essie’s Set in Stones. You can use a sponge or brush to apply the blend; gently tap until the glitter moves upward. Seal with a jelly-gloss topcoat for maximum shine.
It’s such a girls’ trip outfit that the TSA even noticed when I wore it in Miami. That’s when you know a design is popping.
Minimalist Waves With a Graphic Twist
Simple short nails are meant to suggest chic, not to shout it out. The base is a creamy nude which makes you feel confident and the blue lines add a little movement to the design. The shape? That comfy, short round looks good on everyone, whether you’re at brunch or in the office. It’s the cousin of minimalism, keeping a bit of edge to stay modern.
If you’d like a brighter contrast, I think OPI’s “Alpine Snow” would be a good base color. And for the wave? Russian Navy or Yoga-Ta Get This Blue from the same brand will give you a deep look without going too dark. It’s important to use a striping brush and I always point people to the Beetles Nail Art Liner Brush set on Amazon. Solid, beginner-friendly, and wallet-approved.
To nail (sorry) this at home, start with your go-to base coat and two sheer coats of your neutral shade. After your map has dried, mark your curves softly with a pencil or dotting tool and then trace them with your liner brush dipped in blue. A good topcoat at the end will ensure your nails don’t smudge or chip.
Whenever I’m looking for something understated but still interesting, I go for this kind of design. It doesn’t shout summer — but it does give summer a little wink. Clean, fresh, and just off-center enough to feel artsy.
Purple Punch Meets Modern Pop
I think purple looks particularly good in summer, especially when it’s combined with strong shapes and a shiny finish. These nails use a mix of solid color, nail art and a lot of shine to create a look that is both fun and planned. I enjoy the surprise of a cow print nail, especially when it’s paired with geometric shapes and dots. Think: editorial, but approachable.
Make sure you have a polish in lilac or violet such as “Do You Lilac It?” by OPI or Olive & June’s “GRL PWR.” If you’re working with cow print and lines, use a detail brush and strong black and white gel polishes to help you out. I’ve noticed that the colors from The GelBottle are easy to control for detailed art.
If you haven’t tried cow print before, here’s how: use a dotting tool or even a bobby pin with some polish. Don’t make them all the same; start with splotches and then make them different sizes. Painting some dots or diagonal lines with a striping brush gives your makeup that special runway effect.
I wore this last summer to a concert and got more attention at the bar than for my clothes — seriously. It’s not over-the-top, but still has a bit of sweet drama. Honestly? Nail dopamine.
Chrome Meets Neon: A French Remix
I didn’t even realize I wanted a neon revival until now. A modern French mani that replaces white tips with bold, yellow color on a soft chrome background? Sign me up. The squoval (short square) shape keeps it feeling everyday-wearable, while the iridescent undertone adds dimension that catches the light like sunshine in a bottle.
The look is made with a sheer chrome color like Cirque Colors “Dreamscape” or Holo Taco’s “Play Rosé,” and a bright gel like Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Lemonade.” For the best effect, your top coat should be glossy and protected from the sun — that’s what really makes the neon shine.
If you’re giving it a try, first put on your base coat, then add two coats of the chrome polish. After that, use French guides or a fine brush to mark the tips with tape. Mei Kawajiri, a nail artist, recommends brushing your nail polish in toward the center from each edge for sharper lines and it really does work. Finish the nail by applying a strong top coat and flash curing it.
After I do a version of this, someone often asks me, “Where did you have those done?” It’s a style that’s stylish without being about getting a lot of attention. Even when you’re just running a few errands, it helps you feel like the main character in your favorite summer shirt.
Daisy Chains and Delicate Lines
This one’s giving barefoot mornings, wildflowers, and matcha on the patio. This design is inspired by the ‘70s and shows white daisies and black vines that are all hand-drawn. Because of its round shape, the whole design seems relaxed and not too complicated.
You don’t need a ton of fancy tools — a nude base (like Essie “Topless & Barefoot”), a dotting tool, and black/white detail brushes will do the trick. To get the yellow center right, I use “Mellow Yellow” from Sally Hansen.
To DIY, apply your nude base first, then make petal dots in a starburst pattern. After you’ve completed everything else, add the centers and then draw thin lines for vines or stems. Betina Goldstein, a celebrity nail artist, says you should add little touches to a neutral base to make the design look light and summery, not like a cartoon.
This one feels like a deep breath. Something soft and storybook-like that makes you feel pulled together — even when the weather (and life) is anything but.
Citrus Pop and Play
These are extra short nails with major bright personality. Yellow and white blocks, along with fun dots, make it feel like freshly squeezed fruit. It’s cute, it’s punchy, and it’s totally the kind of look I’d wear to a rooftop party or a picnic — yes, even if I’m the only one bringing watermelon.
You’ll want a rich sunny yellow (try “Sunshine State of Mind” by Essie) and a stark opaque white like OPI’s “Funny Bunny.” For the dots? Try using the back of a paintbrush or a toothpick for your work.
You can easily make this design your own without a pattern. Paint every other nail a different color or choose just one hand for color and make the other hand fully white. The beauty is in the imbalance. To be honest, it’s the fun way the styles mix that makes it seem so 2025.
When I put on something like this, I feel like I’m sharing my own sunshine. Isn’t that what summer nails are supposed to do?
Jungle Fever With a Glossy Finish
A moment that makes you think you’re in Tulum, even though you’re still at work. The combination of these jungle-green layers and palm leaf designs creates a strong summer botanical look. The finish is super glossy — there’s no matte or dull look to it. Only the glow that makes you look like you’re on holiday, perfect with every sandal you’ve ever bought.
I think applying Essie’s “Mojito Madness” for the middle green and Zoya’s “Hunter” for the darker spot would look flawless with this polish combo. You can either stencil the palm or use a striping brush and a neon-lime gel pen to freehand it and Makartt and Beetles are good brands for these types of gels.
I recommend starting by putting different greens on each finger, so every nail is unique. Paint your canvas fingers in the lighter green and put your palm art in the center. When doing designs, patience helps — start at the bottom of the nail and use short, angled strokes to spread out your leaves.
There’s something special about this design when you’re drinking something chilled on a rooftop. It’s lively, full of life and just what you need to make your outfit stand out.
Neon Cheetah Queen
I’m saying it: animal print has returned and this neon cheetah pattern is its updated version for hot girls. I love that it’s bold, fun and perfect for wearing with a white tank, denim shorts and big sunglasses. The little round shape keeps the bag up-to-date and the bright pink makes it look like it’s straight from the catwalk.
You can find this color by using “Hotter Than You Pink” by OPI or Lights Lacquer’s “Skip It” as your base. You can use a gel pen or a super fine brush to make the black print. Just blotch and outline to keep the pattern looking real but not too neat.
If you’re recreating this, start with two coats of your neon base. Make sure the painting is finished, then add little dots of black to the shapes on the canvas. Use a fine liner to create those cheetah outlines. Seal with topcoat and cure again.
I go for these nails when I want to feel like the music and the event all at once. They’re giving hot-girl confidence, day or night.
Cactus Cutie Goes Soft Green
Something about simple short sage nails just radiates peace. I’m getting a simple Western vibe from this one and the cactus detail adds a personal touch and makes it earthy. It’s neat, refreshing and somehow has a soothing effect.
My favorite polishes for this are “Sage You Love Me” by Sally Hansen and Orly’s “Olive You Kelly.” The cactus nail can be created using a sheer nude polish as base (Zoya’s “Bella” is a fav), with green striping gel for the hand-drawn cactus. A little dot at the tip will give your nails a bloom effect.
If you’re doing it DIY, go slow. Paint two vertical lines with a liner brush and then draw the “arms.” Think cartoon cactus here — not botanical illustration. When it comes to this design, less really does mean more.
I wore this look before a trip through the desert in Arizona and I swear people I didn’t know kept stopping to praise my nails. It’s niche, but so unexpectedly cool.
Matte Floral Noir
The matte black background and white flowers make this a unique summer manicure — it’s just right for those who like to stand out. The symmetrical floral art reminds me of Scandinavian style and the round nail shape makes it easy to wear.
You’ll want a matte top coat (Essie’s “Matte About You” is a staple) and an ultra-pigmented black base — think “Licorice” by Essie or “Black Onyx” by OPI. The most important thing for the flowers is white gel liner or stamping polish. This isn’t the time for streaky formulas.
Start with two black coats and your matte topcoat to get this look. After everything is dry, go ahead and paint your white flowers one petal at a time with a detail brush. Think simple tulip shapes and slim leaves.
This one has grown on me. It’s not the usual summer colors, but they really stand out. It’s a bit like wearing a linen dress and leather boots — it looks strange but it’s perfect.
Green Marble Haze
If you want to know what’s trending in 2025, it’s swirled and marbled food and this green version is perfect. It’s glossy, playful, and just psychedelic enough to make people ask where you got them done. There’s something I really like about how solid nails stand out from the more decorative marble tips.
Try using “Green Scene” by ORLY as your starting nail color. For marble nails, put some green, white and clear polishes onto a palette and mix them together with a toothpick. Pat the pattern lightly on top of a nude or sheer makeup layer, using a flat brush. Mix the colors gently so the ribbons don’t blend together.
In a Refinery29 interview, nail artist Julie Kandalec explained that marbling makes nails look like they are hand-painted and very appealing — it’s art you can put on your nails. Totally agree. Perfect swirls won’t work, so make sure they are a little off to give it a modern look.
It gives you the look of luxury, but it’s still easy to care for. And when that sunlight hits? Magic.
