What does August feel like to you? To me it is the golden time of summer–the final flare of heat before all things begin to mellow into autumn. It’s a month filled with iced drinks sweating on café tables, spontaneous weekend escapes, and that urge to squeeze every drop of joy out of the season. And when you are wearing your sandals the most, it is also a good time to give your feet a little something new.
Personality is the theme of the august toe nails ideas 2025 scene this year. Toe nail designs have never been more expressive–and yet they still have that casual summer feel, whether it is playful cherries and delicate florals or chrome reflections and animal prints. Perhaps you are in the mood to be bold and flirty or perhaps this month is soft and refined. Anyway, I have gathered a range of styles that will glorify the whole palette of August moods.
My favourite thing about toe nail art this season is that it allows you to experiment without going too far. One tiny canvas at a time. It’s like wearing your favorite part of summer, literally at your feet. So whether you’re prepping for a getaway or just want a moment of self-care that makes you smile every time you look down, these ideas are worth exploring.
Here we go with this sun-kissed edit of toe nail inspiration, every look is styled with a purpose and created to fit the mood of August, with a pinch of adventure.
Modern Glam with a Touch of Gold
There is something so luxurious and simple about this smooth, nude-colored pedicure with sharp metallic nails. The foundation is a semi-transparent blush nude that is not lost in the skin tone, rather soft, yet not timid. What truly elevates the whole look is the precise strip of mirrored gold lining each nail’s free edge, almost like a whisper of jewelry on the nail itself. It is refined, it is composed and it says, I have arrived without ever having to scream. A subtle nod to minimalist elegance, this is one of those august toe nails ideas 2025 that bridges the world of summer polish and transitional style.
With this type of manicure I would use a sheer pink-beige gel base such as OPI Put It In Neutral, and finish it with a gold chrome powder or nail sticker strip to get that clean line of metallic at the tips. A no-wipe gel topcoat is a must to get the shine. This style is so flattering with dainty anklets and open-toe sandals, it is like fine jewelry to your feet.
It’s easier than it looks. Begin by filing your nails into a square or soft square and then use two coats of your nude base. When dry, paint the tips by using gold foil tape or a thin brush with metallic gel. I cure between each layer with a compact UV lamp (my travel-size one from Beetles is a lifesaver). Always top it off with a shiny gel topcoat to get that salon shine.
I wore this style to a wedding at the end of July, and I wore it throughout the month of August. It brought out my tan and went with literally everything I brought to a girls weekend in Malibu. I now wear it when I want something quiet luxury on my feet, no art on the feet, just chic.
Summer Coral with Serious Energy
This coral-orange color simply exudes the summer heat in the most desirable manner. It is daring, it is sunny and it is what comes to my mind when I think of poolside toes. The finish is creamy with a high-gloss pop that instantly makes your pedicure the star of the outfit—even if you’re just slipping into flip-flops. What makes it a key august toe nails ideas 2025 moment is the energy it carries: fun, a little flirty, and totally mood-lifting.
To achieve this bright appearance, use a lacquer, such as Essie, Tart Deco or Olive & June, Wild & Free. These tints are the right balance between orange and pink that suits almost every skin color. If you’re using gel, try “Corally Invited” from DND for that punchy payoff. I tend to do two coats and a clear jelly gloss top, nothing matte about it.
It is difficult to paint bright colors at home, particularly on toes. I never fail to put on a ridge-filling base coat to smooth it, and then one coat of color. When it dries, the second coat is applied to be opaque. The most important thing is cleanup – take a fine brush and dipped in acetone to clean up the edges. I do it slowly, as I tend to binge-watch something that does not need subtitles.
One of my best friends refers to this as her vacation color since she claims she cannot be in a bad mood when she has this color on. I tested it on a beach trip last year, and to be honest? She was right. It made all sundresses pop and it was stunning in golden hour selfies.
Soft Vanilla Cream for Everyday Luxe
The style is skewed toward the current trend of warm minimalism, which is all over the place: clean lines, neutral colors, and a feeling of laid back comfort. The beige cream polish is soft and lustrous like new linen or porcelain- not trying to be fancy. It is classic and looks gorgeous on tanned summer skin as well as the dull colors of transitional clothing. If you’re craving something quiet and classy in your lineup of august toe nails ideas 2025, this is the one.
I would suggest using a polish such as Zoya Jacqueline or OPI Bubble Bath, as an alternative to a more sheer finish. In the case of gel, use Vanilla Silk by Luxa Polish, it provides that creamy color and high-end appearance. Put a glossy or satin top coat on it, according to your mood. This one is chip-forgiving, so it is perfect when you have low-maintenance weeks.
I adore a simple foot soak and cuticle push and file nails short and straight. It only takes two thin coats of polish, with a curing in between, should it be gel. It is my favorite style when I have weeks when I simply want something polished and put-together with not too much sparkle or color care.
This appearance makes me think of a morning coffee on the patio with no hurry, no stress, just living. It goes so well with linen pants and nude slides, the type of pedicure that is a subtle signal that I have my life together, even when I do not.
Powder Blue Calm
This light blue is as cool as your favorite summer playlist and is fresh and easy to adore. It is one of those colors that are not only playful but grown-up too, particularly with the super glossy finish. It looks the prettiest on sun-kissed skin, like a little bit of sky of your own. This shade has a nostalgic vibe to it, yet it also feels completely up-to-date, so it is a must-have on my August polish mood board. Definitely a staple in my august toe nails ideas 2025 lineup.
My polish of choice with this look is Essie or The Gel Bottle in Saltwater Happy or Bluebell, respectively, which is more salon-level. These polishes possess that creamy, non-streaky polish that makes pastel colors wearable without the fuss. I prefer to add a glossy top coat with a touch of UV protection- prevents the blue fading in the direct sunlight.
When using light colors such as this, I use a blurring base coat to prevent ridges coming through. Two cautious coats and a broad, round brush does make a difference in smooth application. Nail artist Julie Kandalec will tell you: If it looks soft, it should feel soft, so I complement this look with a foot cream that has a lavender or mint scent. Trust me—it sets a whole mood.
This color brings me back to lazy mornings on the beach- with iced coffee in my hand and salt in the air. It is relaxed but put together, as though you have your life in order even when you are simply going out to get sunscreen.
Cherry Pop Whimsy
This one just makes you smile. That baby pink foundation and red cherry decals? It’s giving Y2K nostalgia in the chicest possible way. The design is not too sweet but sweet enough, youthful but can be worn at any age. It’s the perfect pick if you’re craving something that feels like summer fun bottled into polish—definitely one of the more creative august toe nails ideas 2025 if you’re in the mood to try something new.
You’ll want a pale pink base like “Ballet Slippers” by Essie or “Baby Pink” by Modelones (gel lovers, this one’s for you). To do the cherry accents you could use small nail stickers, or attempt a fine dotting tool with a red and green polish. Both have excellent choices in Beetles Nail Art Liner set.
The trick to getting this look clean is patience. I use two thin layers of pink, wait till it dries and then add the cherry accents using a dotting tool. The key is spacing—less is more. Put a thick clear gel-like topcoat on top to seal the art without smudging it. I prefer Orly Sec n Dry to a quick glassy finish.
This design reminds me of summer road trips and farmers’ market weekends. I have a friend who wore this very look on her Napa wine tasting tour and everyone kept on asking her where she got it done. It’s cute, but cool-cute. And sometimes, that’s exactly the energy you need.
Serenity in Lilac
Lilac possesses that dreamy vibe that does not overdo it. It’s cool, muted, a little mysterious—and somehow always flattering. This one is a little more on the periwinkle side, a dusky sophistication that is almost an August sunset just before night falls. The shiny effect is a bit more luxurious, and it feels like the color you would wear with airy maxi skirts or your favorite old denim jacket in the late summer. Absolutely a star among august toe nails ideas 2025.
It is a fantastic color in gel polish, i.e. Youre Such a Budapest by OPI, or Lilacism by Essie, in case you prefer traditional lacquers. I have been wearing Kiara Sky Dream Catcher, which is long-lasting, in case of hot-weather sandals and unexpected rainstorms.
Before I apply anything, I tend to begin with a soft buff and a moisturizing cuticle oil. This color is streaky so make sure you apply the nail polish in thin layers. A shiny topcoat is a necessity here, it adds to the ethereal glow. Nail artist Betina Goldstein suggests dropping a few drops of cuticle oil on polish once it has dried to moisturize the skin and finish the look–and I never skip it.
I had a color similar to this on a solo wellness weekend in upstate New York and I was unable to stop admiring my toes in every barefoot yoga session. It made me feel feminine and relaxed–a bit like aromatherapy in polish form.
Minted Minimalism
Refreshing, light and utterly unanticipated, mint green is the hue I pull out when I am in the mood to have a pedicure that is fun but still polished. It is not neon, not too pastel, it is a clean and modern wash of color that makes each step brighter. This is the type of look that will turn heads without saying a word when worn with white linen pants or a strappy tan sandal. It’s a surprising star among august toe nails ideas 2025 because it’s subtle but with a twist.
My favorite of this tone is Olive & June Minty or, preferring gel, The Gel Bottle Pastel Mint. It is creamy, pigmented, and not too blue. I tend to keep it shiny, but a velvet matte topcoat adds a cool twist as well, which is perfect on transitional days between summer and early fall.
I clean my nail beds well at home in order to achieve it, the lighter colors require a perfect base. I never fail to put on a ridge-filling base coat and often even buff the surface. When I am pressed on time, I will not do any nail art and the color will speak. This one is all about polish perfection.
When I did mint toes the first time, I received more compliments than I anticipated. It felt like a fresh breeze during a heatwave. Honestly, it’s a little addictive. Now I alternate it into my late-summer pedicure routine.
Orange Crush Energy
This shade doesn’t whisper—it shouts summer. Neon orange is a complete vacation mode, and whenever I put it on, I feel like I am on the rooftop in Miami or on my way to a spontaneous beach BBQ. It is loud, unapologetic and strangely versatile when your wardrobe is all about neutrals. Easily one of the boldest august toe nails ideas 2025, this color instantly upgrades your vibe.
Seek out colors such as Lights Lacquer Suns Out, Buns Out or DND Atomic Orange. When you are doing gel, I would strongly suggest using a white base under it- it makes the neon come out even more and stay in the sun longer.
I have a simple technique: two thin layers of white base gel and two layers of neon orange. I put the tips on a cap very carefully since chips in neon are much more conspicuous. Finish with a thick layer of topcoat. Celeb manicurist Tom Bachik pro tip: to prevent losing the neon intensity, float your topcoat over the color rather than dragging the brush.
I had this color on an outdoor concert in August and frankly, I did not require any accessories. My nails were the accessory. It gives “main character energy” in the best way.
Crisp Sky Blue
This blue nail polish is a breath of fresh air. Think cloudless skies, sun-bleached beaches, and soft cotton dresses. It is light-hearted without being childish, and it is the best colour to wear when the August mornings begin to suggest the approach of fall. It’s the calm between vacation chaos and the back-to-school/work routine. Honestly, one of my most essential august toe nails ideas 2025.
Try OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” or Lights Lacquer’s “Blue Moon.” I tend to use two coats directly on a strengthening base coat. This shade even works on cooler skin tones, there is just something about the combination of white and blue pigment that works.
This is one that I prefer to do in the morning with coffee and sunlight. It dries quickly and doesn’t need embellishment. Others will put cloud stickers or small daisies, but I prefer it simple and smooth.
This is what I usually go to when I was in San Diego last year. I was barefooted on the boardwalk and it seemed that my toes were the same color as the sky. It’s the kind of blue that instantly brightens your entire mood.
Merlot Mood
Dark, shiny, and unashamedly sexy, this deep wine-red pedicure is a good argument to break the rule of only wearing dark polish in fall. I put it on in late August when I am not quite ready to say goodbye to summer, but I am in the mood of something richer. It is refined and classic, but with a dark glamour that offsets airy dresses and in-between looks. A sultry standout among august toe nails ideas 2025.
Such shades as Essie Bordeaux or OPI Vampsterdam are never out of fashion. With gel, I would recommend Deep Burgundy by DND, it has that mirror finish and deep saturation. These hues look especially luxe on short, square toenails.
I use a nail dehydrator to avoid staining and I never miss a base coat when using reds. I use two coats carefully and float the topcoat to make it appear glassy. Manicurist Deborah Lippmann says that darker colors actually make the toes look longer-which I have found to be completely true.
This color always makes me feel powerful. As though I have a secret going on, even when it is brunch plans. It’s my late-summer signature.
Sunshine & Daisies
It is just that yellow is like happiness in a bottle of polish. This bright marigold is warm, bold, and incredibly wearable. However, the daisy accent is what takes the cake, it is fun and new, and it is just about right between retro and contemporary. Whether you’re soaking in the last rays of summer or dancing barefoot at a picnic, this pedicure radiates pure joy. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most cheerful august toe nails ideas 2025.
I prefer something such as the Mellow Yellow by Sally Hansen as a base and the accent, I swear by the Blossom Nail Art Brushes and a steady hand. You can also apply floral decals but freehand is not your thing but the daisy detail really makes this pop, especially when applied over nude.
To achieve this style, I apply yellow paint on all nails and then apply petal strokes on the big toe using a thin detail brush. I put the yellow dot in the middle last, and seal everything with a gel topcoat. Be patient while the flower dries—it’s worth the wait.
I wore this look to a friend’s baby shower in late August and got so many compliments, even from people who swore they weren’t “nail art people.” It is the type of manicure that simply makes people smile and to be honest, that is enough of a reason to give it a go.
Alabaster Chic
Rich, creamy, and confidently quiet, this ivory-toned pedicure adds the vibe of a relaxed sophistication. It is not stark white and not beige, which makes it very wearable. Think late-summer brunch, breezy dresses, and minimal jewelry. It is a sophisticated but not snobbish look and reminds of a small breeze of coolness in the August heat. It’s quietly powerful, making it a refined choice for august toe nails ideas 2025.
When I want to go this vibe, I adore applying Coconuts Over OPI or Alpine Snow diluted with a clear top coat. Gel users: Cream Puff by CND Shellac- that soft neutral that feels expensive but does not scream.
It is a super simple at home polish job, the key is prep. I exfoliate, hydrate, and apply a ridge-filler. The formula is creamy, and I use two coats and smooth it out with a wide brush so that there are no streaks. A high-shine top coat gives it that salon sheen.
I wore it when I was on the road in New England at the end of summer–combined it with chunky gold rings and tan leather slides. It’s clean-girl energy in pedicure form.
Rosewood Gloss
This rosy neutral is the ultimate transitional tone. Not too pink, not too brown—just right. The gloss finish makes it look luxurious and high-shine, and it is modern, but the star on one of the toes is a playful touch. It is office appropriate but adorable enough to flaunt during happy hour. A sweet and stylish pick for august toe nails ideas 2025 when you want your look to go the distance.
This shade is available in the form of the Eternal Optimist by Essie or Rosewater by Nailtopia. The star charm? They can be purchased as nail piercings or decals on Amazon or Etsy. Apply a gel topcoat to seal it in.
I smooth the nail down to a smooth base then two coats of color. After drying, I apply tweezers to fix the charm and glue it with a small drop of nail glue. It lasts surprisingly well—just avoid digging your toes into beach sand right after!
This one takes me back to Sunday afternoon running errands and a wine spritz on a rooftop. A little responsible, a little fun. And that’s my kind of balance.
Stormy Blue Mood
Moody blues for sunny days? Yes, please. This slate blue is a grayish tone that is collected, calm, and seriously photogenic. It has that after-rainstorm sort of feel–fresh, washed, a bit soulful. It looks fabulous on short nails and that flawless shiny finish makes it a stylish choice to those who are gradually letting go of summer brights. It’s one of my more unexpected favorites among august toe nails ideas 2025.
In this tone, I adore the Essie color Truth or Flare or Cirque Colors Stone Blue. They’re smooth, pigmented, and perfect for this elegant hue. Apply a base coat to prevent the blue staining, and apply a top coat super glossy.
I do the standard procedure, clean, base coat, two color coats, and top coat. Nothing complicated, just clean technique and a good formula. The payoff is major for minimal effort.
This color is what I wore when I was working remotely in an Airbnb by a lake. It somehow made me feel more grounded and focused. And it was the same slate-blue oversized hoodie I was wearing, and yes, that fact pleased me.
Power Pink Slides
This is fuchsia bright and it says summer is not over until you say so. It is not apologetic and it is lively and even though your entire appearance is muted, this color makes the statement. The glossy surface looks like candy coating-and you know what? Other times you need something loud on your feet to remind you that you are still in full bloom. That’s why it earns its spot in the most confident august toe nails ideas 2025.
Watermelon by Essie or Pink Voltage by China Glaze will give you a dose of electric pink. Gel polish enthusiasts- take a look at The Gel Bottle Hot Pink Barbie. It lasts forever and packs a serious punch.
Bright shades need patience. I use a white base coat underneath to get the most color payoff then two thin layers of pink. It is topped with Seche Vite or Essie Gel Setter to make it extra shiny. Toe rings optional, but highly recommended.
It is the color I choose when I want to feel better. It gives me a spring in my step whether I am rushing through errands or out on a spur of the moment drink. A little sass never hurt anyone.
Rosé Luxe Sparkle
There’s glam, and then there’s this. A light pink base is taken to the next level with a half-moon shape of iridescent rhinestones and a complete glitter look on the neighboring nail. The creamy polish, combined with the shimmer and sparkle, gives the effect of dimension that is not only lovely, but indulgent. If you’re planning a night out or just want your toes to reflect your inner glow, this is one of those august toe nails ideas 2025 that screams luxe with every step.
To achieve this, you will require a soft blush nail polish such as OPI Bare My Soul and rose gold glitter such as Essie Set in Stones or DND Sparkle All The Way. Apply rhinestones with a wax pencil and fix them with nail glue and a no-wipe topcoat to seal. I suggest a gel-based formula on the base to have the stones locked in longer.
I am slow about this one–putting the polish on in layers, and letting it dry thoroughly, and then putting each gem in its place. A nail dotting tool helps align the curve. It’s soothing in its own way—like building jewelry for your toes.
When I wore this to a summer wedding, people would stop me just to inquire about my pedicure. It is the design of that sort, memorable, ultra-feminine, and undoubtedly extra in the best sense.
Green Jungle Pop
This funky mix of mossy green polish and a striking leopard print accent toe is a modern safari, but make it pedicure. The juxtaposition of the clean, rich color and the detailed print makes the entire appearance intentional, edgy, and a bit wild. If you’re feeling fearless or need something unexpected to spice up your rotation of august toe nails ideas 2025, this one’s it.
Apply a strong olive lacquer such as Suzi – The First Lady of Nails, OPI or Central Park by Lights Lacquer. Leopard pattern can be done using nude base and a detail brush dipped in black and green. For a shortcut? There are leopard nail wraps and they look surprisingly real when topcoated well.
Paint all the nails green with the exception of the big toe which is painted in nude base and your print. Irregular spots and curves can be done with a toothpick or nail art pen and imitating natural leopard shapes. I cure the design between layers always so that it does not smudge.
I used this one at a rooftop dinner and it went well with my olive romper. It is funny, yet classy, and it makes you feel that your pedicure has something to tell, even when you are barefoot at home.
Chrome Rose Reflection
The future is mirror-like polish, and this rose gold chrome pedicure is living in 3025. It is shiny and smooth and it halts traffic with its perfect mirror surface. This appearance is daring but gentle, as high fashion and Barbiecore combined. If you’re craving a clean but commanding update to your august toe nails ideas 2025, chrome is the way to go.
To get this, one needs a rose gold chrome powder such as the Daily Charme Rose Chrome on a no-wipe gel top coat. The foundation must be a nude or light pink gel polish- this adds a soft tinge to the powder. Seal with another top coat and cure fully.
It is certainly a gel only look and you will require a sponge eyeshadow applicator to buff the powder on your face. This one I always do with gloves as the chrome powder goes everywhere.
This is my go-to when I’m wearing metallic sandals or heading to an event where my feet will be seen (and photographed). It gives robotic chic, but also—goddess.
Tangerine Sunrise Ombre
Gradient nails aren’t just for fingers. This orange-pink ombre is citrus-inspired and looks like a summer sorbet that is juicy and bright. The color change is so gradual it is as though a sunset is dissolving into your pedicure. It’s carefree, dreamy, and absolutely made for August. If you’re stuck between colors, this is one of the smartest august toe nails ideas 2025 to try.
You’ll want a neon orange (try “Hot & Spicy” by OPI) and a bright pink (like “Mod Square” from Essie). After applying a white base, mix the two with a sponge- this will make the colors come out. Use a topcoat that is glossy to soften any sharp edges.
Ombres are messy but worth it. I apply latex tape on my nails so that it is easier to clean up. Blend, tap, reapply, then topcoat—don’t worry if it’s imperfect. The gradient effect forgives a lot.
I did it on a beach trip and it was the most vacation my toes have ever seen. It almost requires sunshine, sandals and a drink with a mini umbrella.
Graphic Mustard Detail
The color mustard yellow is on fire in all areas of fashion, including nails and handbags, and this graphic clean toe is why. The bright under-tone color gives your skin a glow and the black dot-and-wave pattern gives it a little edge. It’s artsy but wearable, bold but not loud. For anyone looking to try something modern in their august toe nails ideas 2025, this is a fresh spin.
Good bases are polishes such as ORLY Check Your Baggage or DND Mango Margarita. To design, take a thin nail art brush or stamping tool and black gel polish. Between steps cure and topcoat to that high-gloss.
This is one I love to freestyle. I begin with dots and then proceed to develop around the dots depending on the flow of the design. There are no identical applications and that is what makes it fun.
I was wearing this on a weekend getaway in Santa Fe, and how it stood out against adobe colors and earth colors? Chef’s kiss. It is artistic yet pristine and it makes your toes talk.
Cherry Mood for Late Summer Days
The saturated reds combined with the light nude shades and small cherry drawings, this is the kind of pedicure that does not only speak summer, but also sings it. I adore how the deep crimson ground gives a punchy ground to the scene and the cherries on the big toes are like a fun addition to a picnic fantasy. It’s fun and flirty without being over-the-top. If August had a signature fruit, this would be it, and this look nails it (pun intended).
In order to replicate this, I would apply a deep cherry red like OPI Big Apple Red and a neutral sheer base like Essie Ballet Slippers to the background of the cherry design. The little cherry decals or freehand art may be done with a dotting tool and fine brush using a true red and green. I also add a bit of white to the red to make the cherries look three-dimensional.
The only thing that worked when I did something similar was to apply two coats of the red to achieve opacity and actually spend time drawing the stems and leaves on dry polish, it gave me so much more control. The top coat of glossy finish made the cherries candy pop. Totally worth the patience.
Playfully Pink and Proud
It is that pink that does not seek attention but it gets it. It is one of those simple summer options that can be worn with a light linen dress as well as with a pair of denim shorts. The best thing about it is that it is simple, it is adorable, it is elegant and can take you through weekend brunches and evening walks on the boardwalk.
It takes me back to Essie in the shade of “Mod About You” or Gelish in the shade of “Pink Smoothie” traditional bubble-gum with a grown-up softness. A decent cuticle prep here is a long way and a ridge-filling base coat makes the finish super sleek.
Honestly, there’s no rush with this one. I usually apply the polish in thinner coats (three instead of two), letting each layer dry completely. It results in that smooth, almost glassy finish. Just right in August when sandals reign and everything must be perfect.
Glossy Petal-Toned Minimalism
Sometimes, less really is more. The gradient of petal color, which slightly changes the blush to soft lilac on each toe, reminds a warm wind through the silk curtains. The polish is ultra-glossy as the reflection of an early evening sky on water. It is one of those august toe nails ideas 2025 that exude silent luxury.
I have combined Essie Fiji and Zoya Dot to achieve the same effect. The gradient can be gently blended using a sponge technique, but I personally like a dry brush technique to have better control over the transitions.
The atmosphere this design creates in me is calm- as I am lying in the warm sun with a glass of iced peach tea. It is relaxing to wear and even more relaxing to do. No pressure, no hard edges—just a creamy, dreamy finish.
Cow Print Chic and White Space Confidence
Who would have thought that cow print in black and white can be so elegant? The contrast of daring pattern and the stark sterility of white polish is a balance that is surprisingly beautiful. It is edgy, yet very wearable, particularly in August, when the loud statements tend to take the center stage.
The most appropriate foundation to this style is the OPI Alpine Snow, a clear, pure white. In the case of the cow spots, I would apply a black gel polish and a dotting tool or small brush to make those irregular shapes. The secret is not to think too much about the pattern, randomness is more natural.
I did this at a music festival once and people who did not know me actually stopped to inquire about it. It is not brash but is bold and it has a little story each time you move. It is that type of design that you never forget, even when the sandal season is over.
Blue Blossoms on Sky-Tipped Toes
Summer florals are not exactly new concept, but these blue daisies are fresh, cheeky, and simply fun. The blue background also brings a soft contrast that somehow makes the white petals even brighter. It’s like a bouquet laid gently across the toes, and I’m here for it.
I have been successful with ILNP Blue Lagoon as a base, which has that relaxing dusty blue. In the case of the flowers, a small dotting brush assists in the centers and I apply a detail brush in the petals. Finish it with a fast-dry top coat to seal everything together.
This design is somehow nostalgic, perhaps because of the touch of the 90s, or because it just looks so joyful when peeking out of white slides. It’s a great way to end summer on a high note, right before we all start pretending we’re excited for fall neutrals again.
Cherries and Crimson for Sweet Summer Mischief
Deep red with flirty cherry patterns is somehow flirtatious and nostalgic. This appearance is a contrast game, a combination of deep cherry red nail polish on the smaller nails and an artistic, creamy nude background with hand-painted cherries on the big toes. The stems and leaves are strategically positioned to add some realism to this design, and the combination of solid and patterned nails makes this design stand out without being overbearing. It is light-hearted and a bit saucy, as though a wink across the room at a summer picnic.
To recreate this look, I recommend using OPI’s “Big Apple Red” for the solid nails and “Bubble Bath” as a base for the cherries. To do the art, your best friends are a fine-tipped brush and gel paints in crimson, forest green and black. Before painting, a matte base is used to make the design easier to control and then a glossy top coat is used to complete the design. Personally, I like a semi-thick top coat as it is durable in hot weather.
When you are doing this freehand, it is useful to outline your cherry placement with a nail art pen first. If you’re nervous, cherry nail decals are surprisingly detailed and can be sealed under gel polish without compromising style. Allure pro tip: to ensure that your toenails last in the sand and surf, always seal the edges with polish.
Whenever I wear this style, it sparks conversations. Perhaps it is the nostalgic naivety of cherries, or simply how fresh and unusual it appears, in any case, it never fails to cheer up my sandals.
Cotton Candy Confidence in Pink Polish
It has a kind of casual self-assurance about it, to use only one strong color and to go all the way with it. It is a shamelessly sugary pink, glossy and full-bodied, but still mature in its cool undertone. It is a cotton candy that does not go overboard with kitschiness, ideal to wear with sundresses and weekend market walks. The consistency of the pink polish makes it look clean and salon-worthy, just like the type of confidence that does not require any introduction.
To achieve this soft-meets-sassy effect, you will require a saturated gel such as the Peony Parade by Essie Gel Couture or Pink Smoothie by Gelish. The top coat must be high-gloss and you should not miss the cuticle prep- a clean nail bed will make any bright polish stand out even more. I prefer to start with a cuticle eraser and end with a light oil.
It is a bit misleading to think that a solid color is easy to do at home, any streaks or bubbles are obvious. I have discovered that thin coats and curing under LED at least 60 seconds between coats creates that super-smooth plumped up finish. Trust me, patience pays off here. This is my fall-back when I want something easy to maintain yet still feminine and fresh.
Pink is the reason why it comes back every summer because it suits all skin tones and makes me feel like I am in a summer rom-com.
Rose Quartz Meets Natural Blush
The softness of milky beige is mixed with the bold splashes of bubblegum pink on the big toes. The alternating colors are plain, but dramatic, the sort of thing that makes more and more sense the longer you stare at it. It is like the adult version of the childhood friendship bracelets, free and intimate. This look has a playfulness and calmness to it which is very energetic.
The pink is Orly Confetti and the neutral is Zoya Dot, both of which are breathable and vegan, which is great in warm months. Toenails should be shaped with a glass file to avoid peeled edges and a soft buffer can be used to ensure that the polish sticks and lasts longer. Top everything with a UV-sealing top coat.
This look is incredibly easy to achieve at home. Apply two coats of paint to each alternate nail with the appropriate color in between. To make the process faster, a decent quick-dry top coat, such as Seche Vite, will be your best friend.
And two strangers have asked me where I got them done when I wore this design to brunch last Sunday. It’s the kind of minimalism that still draws attention. It is one of those minor flexes, such as, yes, I considered this.
Modern Cow Print With a Clean Edge
This is edgy as August does it, a black and white color scheme transformed into the whimsical cow print. White nails take the center stage, and they provide a clean background that shouts summer. Then the black spots which are organic and a bit asymmetrical are put only on the big toes to make it stand out. It is surprising and completely wearable, particularly in case you like chunky sandals or festival style.
You will need a creamy opaque white such as Blanc by Essie and a thick black polish to do the spots, Licorice by Essie is perfect. In the case of the cow spots, I applied the dotting tool and pulled out the figures using a fine brush. It does not have to be perfect, actually, the beauty is in the imperfection.
I suggest a complete white base and complete curing before you even consider the spots. Apply your spots in layers so that you can easily correct any that seem wrong. Add a shiny top coat and you have a design that would pass off as triple digit.
Animal prints are so fulfilling when they are done well. I feel confident in this design, it is the unpredictable pattern that seems to match with everything.
Blue Skies and Daisies Forever
Daisies on a periwinkle background? Yes, please. This design is basically summer bottled up. The blue is not too vivid–rather a sky turning to dusk–and the daisies are hand-painted in white with sunny yellow centers, and they give that whimsical, just-gathered touch. It’s innocent but not childish, sweet without being sugary. There’s charm in every petal.
This look does require a bit of patience. I applied Saltwater Happy by Essie as the base color and the white nail art paint by Born Pretty as the petals. The centers get a pop of the right color with a dot of the Sunshine State of Mind by OPI. A fine brush or a stamp dedicated to daisies will do miracles in case you are not good at drawing by hand.
This one is to the romantics, the people who look out of the window and dream as clouds pass by. I have put this design on to a picnic with friends and felt like I was walking in a field of compliments. Flowers and open-toe shoes in August, there is just something right about that.
