Cute Summer Nail Inspo for 2025: Fresh Ideas and Trendy Designs for the Perfect Manicure

Summer 2025 is here, and you know what that means — it’s time to swap out those neutral winter shades and go full-on main character energy with your nails. But where do you even start? Are you a vintage girl or do you venture out in something fun and surprising? Which colors, shapes and designs are truly in fashion this season? Well, I’ve got you covered. So, what say we jump into the adorable summer nail inspo of 2025 everyone is talking about -– on Pinterest boards and in salon chairs alike.

Romantic Whites Meet Classic French

The design adds a feminine, romantic touch on the classic French manicure. Almond-shaped nails are buffed with a nude sheer base color, and the tips are lightly painted with clean white. What makes this even better, however, is the small white hearts that are placed playfully on one accent nail – simple, sweet, and somewhat daring in its silence. It is minimalism that has a flirtatious vibe to it, and it is ideal for summer weddings, brunches, or when you simply want to feel a bit more extra on your iced latte errand.

To achieve this design I would use OPI Bubble Bath as a base – it provides that ideal translucent pink. OPI Alpine Snow is my white of choice on the crisp tips and hearts. A small nail art brush or a dotting tool is essential to making those little hearts nice and round. And of course top it all off with a high-gloss top coat because what says I have my life together quite like a salon-quality shine.

The most difficult bit is these little hearts -they need a steady hand. Nail artist Betina Goldstein (who you’ve definitely seen all over Instagram) always recommends practicing on a plastic tip first before free-handing on your nails. It is not that it is about perfection, she says, it is about rhythm and breathing. And honestly? She’s right. Once you relax, the hearts almost paint themselves.

I personally adore the balance between the elegance and playfulness that this design has. It is fancy enough to wear to work yet romantic enough to go on a date night. And because it works with any outfit, it’s a no-brainer for summer 2025.

Sage Green and Summer Playfulness

This one immediately gives the impression of a stroll through a botanical garden, with a cold matcha in your hand. The muted sage green is the dominant color on the majority of nails, but then, as a surprise, we receive two playful details: a checkered nail, alternating white and sage, and another one with tiny abstract florals in pastel pink and teal. It’s giving Pinterest-core with a twist of sophistication.

To replicate this I would begin with Can Dew Attitude by Essie to get that ideal sage base. Nail striping tape may be used to construct the checkered pattern and maintain lines clean. And the abstract florals? Then small detail brushes are a must. I’d recommend using The GelBottle Inc.’s Pastel Vibes collection for those muted pinks and teals — they’re seriously buttery to work with.

Getting that checkered look might feel intimidating, but it’s actually super doable at home. Brittney Boyce, celebrity manicurist, recommends doing one square at a time and flash-curing between each one -this will avoid smudging and will keep your lines clean. “Just imagine you are painting little walls – patience is rewarded,” she says.

I tried this one for a friend’s rooftop bridal shower and honestly? The compliments just kept coming. It’s fresh, playful, and somehow manages to feel both trendy and timeless. Total vibe for summer.

Tropical French With Floral Pops

Summer 2025 is all about elevated nostalgia, and this design nails it (pun intended). Imagine the classic French manicure, only with a dose of tropical flowers in it – pink and yellow flowers blossoming right at the tip. The French edges are crisp white and provide some structure, whereas the florals are hand-painted and will bring you the vacation vibes right to your fingertips.

I would begin with a nude base, such as Essie Mademoiselle, apply the OPI Alpine Snow tips, and then do the florals with gel paints, I would use colors within the LeChat Perfect Match line because the pigment is so rich. A detail brush with a fine tip is a must have to achieve those petal strokes which need to appear delicate yet defined.

The biggest tip I’ve learned? Cured layers – before you begin florals, cure the French tips so that they do not get smudged accidentally. Nail educator Julie Kandalec frequently includes the advice that taking your design one mini-step at a time will leave everything clean: “Patience is your best nail art tool.”

Frankly speaking, this design is like packing to a tropical vacation – even when you are only going to work. I had something like this last August and every time I went to get an iced coffee it was like I was in Maui for a few minutes. Isn’t that the energy we all need?

Delicate Daisies on Blush

Delicate blush pink turns into the most flawless base to a bunch of white daisies that are sprinkled over the nails like petals that are scattered by a warm summer wind. The flowery patterns are not too delicate or too precious and have the air of casual, feminine beauty. This ensemble is a subtle reference to the natural simplicity – and, literally, it will suit any summer event.

And in case you too are a fan of the great pink base like I am, then OPI Bare My Soul or OPI Bubble Bath are both favorites. With the daisies, you will need a dotting tool – it will create perfect little petals practically by itself. The leaves? It will work with a small striping brush and some Olive & June EC Green gel polish.

The easiest way I’ve found to nail the daisy design (literally) is to start with the petals first, let them set for a moment, and then dot the center afterwards. Nail artist Sarah Bland (frequently featured in Allure) suggests using a toothpick for the centers if you don’t have a dotting tool handy. She says, “Simple tools sometimes make the most accurate design.”

Something very similar to this was what I wore last year to a weekend wine tasting. The compliments I got? Endless. It’s one of those designs that people notice without feeling like you’re trying too hard — which is basically my life motto.

Pastel Skittle Perfection

The design embraces the entirely of the playful, mix-and-match trend that is taking over nail inspo boards this summer. The nails are painted in varying shades of soft pastels: mint green, baby blue, sunshine yellow, cotton candy pink, and soft lavender, which makes a rainbow effect both cheerful and chic. It’s giving “main character on vacation” energy.

When it comes to colors, I would recommend Olive & June The Sweet & Simple Set, they basically have all the shades you will ever need in a single box. My favorite thing about this look is that it is so easy to achieve at home. No tape, no stencils, no pressure. Only a couple of good coats, a firm hand and a shiny topcoat.

Celebrity manicurist Mazz Hanna ensures her clients never forget to prep their nails before applying pastels as lighter shades have the ability to showcase any imperfections. Her secret to buttery pastel finishes? “Buff, prime, and apply a smoothing base coat first, she says. “That’s the real secret to buttery pastel finishes.”

This look is pure dopamine. I did it on vacation, on baby showers, on random Tuesdays, it works anywhere. The color combination is youthful without being childish, which is, frankly speaking, the holy grail of nail art.

Botanical Whisper

The pale nude nails are then the perfect canvas to these dainty leafy vines that curl gracefully on every fingertip. Black stems are thin adding movement, and small dark and light green leaves add depth and contrast. The mini white flowers in between give it a soft pop giving it a very peaceful and garden-inspired aesthetic that is both chic and natural. This is subtle nail art taken to the next level the nail art that speaks in a low voice rather than screams.

To achieve this appearance, you begin with a nude sheer polish; I suggest OPI Bubble Bath or Essie Ballet Slippers. On the leaves and stems, a highly pigmented gel liner such as Beetles Nail Art Gel Liner will give you the best control. You will need a micro-detailing brush to paint those little black stems and those small green leaves and the small blossoms are most conveniently created with a dotting tool loaded with a bright white gel.

Celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik (who’s behind J.Lo’s flawless manicures) always stresses the importance of layers in intricate designs like this. “Thin layers keep the design crisp and refined. Cure often. Build slowly,” he advises. I say his words like a little mantra whenever I am doing designs such as these. They’re a lifesaver.

The best thing about this design is that it is so versatile – it can be used on vacation, at a wedding, or on a normal Tuesday when your nails deserve to feel fancy. It is somehow relaxing to the eyes, like having a piece of nature in your pocket.

Soft Pink 3D Romance

The design is all romance and a bit of Y2K nostalgia-loving playfulness – think blush-toned base with 3D details. Little hearts, a smaller bow, dainty dots and just right crystals add dimension, but not too much of it. The shiny finishing makes it all even more refined and sophisticated. It is girlie, yet mature – pretty without being too delicate.

On this set I would use CND Shellac in Satin Pajamas as a base. Hearts and bow can be modeled using builder gel – Apres Gel-X Extend Gel is a wonderful gel to use when you want to make 3D shapes. The final touch is provided by small flatback rhinestones which can be purchased at Swarovski or Daily Charme. And a top coat as ever, a no-wipe gel, to seal everything in like glass.

When you are at home trying to create 3D elements it can be very intimidating, the trick is to take your time. Manicurist to the stars Mei Kawajiri frequently posts videos of her work process, and it is possible to see how she constructs each 3D accent layer by layer, curing partially between applications to keep the process under control.

I had something like that on when I attended a summer engagement party and quite frankly felt like I had jewelry on my nails. All the time people were taking my hand and looking more closely. This is one of those designs that feels like a conversation starter — and who doesn’t love that?

Vintage Cottagecore Vibes

This would be the fairytale nail set of summer 2025. Nails are painted in soft blush and ivory, with small hand-painted roses sprinkled over. The pearl details and 3D bows include a touch of old-fashioned charm that is pure Bridgerton-meets-cottagecore. It is girlie, elegant, and reminds like something you would put on to have a cup of tea in a flowering garden.

OPI Lisbon Wants Moor OPI is that ideal soft ivory-pink for the base. You can paint the roses with gel art paints, I prefer the Florist Collection by Madam Glam because of their creamy texture. As for the 3D bows and pearls? Swarovski or Born Pretty builder gel and mini flatback pearls are just the ticket to do the job with the greatest charm.

Nail artist Zola Ganzorigt (known for Hailey Bieber’s iconic “glazed donut” nails) has said that “balance is everything” when mixing textures. What I have discovered is that it is useful to group the pearls and bows in an considered manner, and to provide sufficient negative space around the nail art so that it does not appear crowded and busy.

I have made a variation of this to a baby shower of a friend and believe me, the compliments did not stop. It’s girly, but in a timeless way. As you would be equally on-point wearing it to a picnic or a bridal shower.

Abstract Pastel Swirls

Here’s where things get a bit more artsy. A dreamy abstract design is made on each nail by swirls of pastel pink, baby blue, sunshine yellow, and soft white. Thin black lines provide that contrasting touch which does not allow the design to seem too sweet. The atmosphere is all summer gallery opening-rooftop cocktails.

I would begin with a neutral base coat and build up pastel gel eyeliner such as Beetles Pastel Gel Liner Set. Fine liner brush is a must have tool to achieve those extra smooth swirls and crisp black details. And don t forget to seal it all with a high gloss gel top coat to make it all pop.

Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec has frequently stressed the importance of abstract designs not to be overthought. Curves, curves, curve your brush, Let your hand go freely. No two nails need to be the same – it actually looks better when it is organic and cool.”

When I tried something similar last spring, I got so many DMs asking if they were press-ons (they weren’t!). It has a sense of play but is not overpowering and is new and summery but will also go with everything in your wardrobe.

Deep Cherry Summer Drama

Summer manicures do not all need to be soft and pastel-colored, sometimes you just need all-out drama and this deep cherry red provides that. Most nails are covered in rich glossy crimson, with accent nails featuring a geometric cutout in the center with a small heart detail that flirts just a bit. It is daring, yet not too daring – your favorite red lipstick, but on your nails.

To achieve that sexy cherry color, I would apply OPI Malaga Wine, it is dark, deep and remains glossy even after weeks. The cutouts can either be mapped out with French tip guides or freehanded with a super-fine brush such as the Winstonia Nail Art Liner. It is possible to dot on the mini heart using a small detail brush or dotting tool.

Nail artist Elle Gerstein (who’s worked with Blake Lively) always recommends pairing bold colors like this with a slightly rounded almond shape to keep it chic instead of harsh. It is all in the silhouette, she explains: you want drama, not aggression. I totally agree.

I have personally worn this design on late summer date nights, and I must say it is a self-esteem builder. Red nails just make you feel powerful. And is not that what summer energy is all about?

Pastel Garden Party

Sunny, sweet, and absolutely girly – this design combines blush pink grounds with whimsical hand-painted flowers in white, yellow, and hot pink. The alternating French tips in soft lilac make the look so well balanced between traditional and playful. Its flower petals are thick and a bit exaggerated, making the nails look fresh and full of energy, ideal to wear on sunny days and during those unexpected weekend trips.

I would use OPI Bubble Bath as a base of this type of bright bloom, and Gelish Sheek White, Pink Smoothie, and Yellow Submarine as the florals. The ideal petals and flower centers are created with the assistance of a fine detailing brush and a medium-sized dotting tool. On the lilac tips, I used Lilacism by Essie which adds that ethereal purple color without dominating the pattern.

Nail educator Sarah Bland suggests applying each color in a layer and flash-curing between layers of flower. “Rushing florals is a no-no, according to her, as they blossom better, one layer at a time. Such a little tip has rescued me numerous times when dealing with detailed flower designs.

I was very close to this the last Fourth of July weekend, and it was mood-lifting magic. Each time I looked at my hands, I thought I was walking with a small bouquet.

Minimal Daisy Gradient

It is one of those designs that say pretty without even trying. The gradient is soft and goes through blush pink into creamy white, and small, minimalistic daisies are scattered lightly over the nails. Its petals are small yet prominent and its yellow centers add just a sufficient amount of brightness that is not overbearing. It is modest yet playful at the same time – ideal for anyone who adores floral energy but is not into excessive fuss.

I usually use OPI Put It In Neutral and gradient into OPI Alpine Snow with the help of a sponge technique. I apply a small dotting tool and Gelish Arctic Freeze on the daisies, placing a small dot of China Glaze Happy Go Lucky in the center. The secret is light pressure -that is what makes the flowers small and clean.

Celebrity nail artist Elle (who regularly works with Blake Lively) suggests building gradients slowly. “It is all about thin layers to achieve that perfect blend, heavy coats will make ombr e appear harsh,” she says. I totally live by that advice now.

I adore putting on designs such as this when I am in the mood to have something sweet and yet elegant. It can easily be worn with summer clothes, be it in sundresses or linen sets.

Color Pop Hearts

There is nothing more festive than a bunch of hearts of different colors dancing on your nails. It is shaped over a blush base with small, outlined hearts in pastel yellow, mint, lilac, and teal – all filled with matching hues. The subtle comic-esque design makes it feel trendy and youthful but also adult enough to be worn outside of the festival season.

On the base, CND Romantique or OPI Bare My Soul gives that just right semi-sheer pink. The hearts can be freehanded with Beetles Gel Liner Set which is highly pigmented on those clean pastel shades. To achieve the clean black lines a liner brush with a fine tip is a must.

As nail tech to the celebs Hang Nguyen always says: “Thin, even pressure is your friend when outlining — don I personally have discovered that doing the outlines on a practice wheel first is really useful before going straight to the nail.

I had something very similar last summer on a girls weekend in Palm Springs and it was a conversation piece by far. It is that kind of design which is both nostalgic and modern.

Soft Barbiecore Simplicity

There are cases when less is definitely more, and this blush pink almond manicure is the best example ever. Creamy, even and mega-glossy, the soft pink color suits all skin tones and makes the nails appear well-groomed and feminine. No additional art or ornamentation, simply a clear, shiny finish that provides a sheer sophistication ideal in any summer locale.

This one, I can vouch by Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor or OPI Bubble Bath – they both have that creamy soft pink that appears to be your own nails but enhanced. Use 2-3 thin coats to be completely opaque then top with a glossy gel top coat such as Seche Vite to achieve insanity levels of shine.

As celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik likes to declare, “the prep is everything when it comes to a nude manicure.” To achieve that glass-like, perfect finish I always buff very lightly, push back cuticles, and apply a ridge-filling base coat under color.

This look is one that I continue to revert to whenever I am looking to have a low-maintenance mani, but still feel put together. It is the little black dress of summer nails, it simply never fails.

Neon Sunset Fade

And now — full summer drama! This neon ombr effect goes perfectly through hot pink, bright orange and then to soft blush at the base. Its elongated almond form does nothing but enhance the colorful gradient, major sunset-on-the-beach energy. It’s bold, vibrant, and basically screams, “Let’s book that tropical getaway.”

To achieve this vibrant fade, I’d use Madam Glam’s Neon Collection in Miami Beach (pink) and Orange Flare, blending them with a sponge for that perfect airbrush look. The secret weapon? Makeup sponge lightly dampened so that when blending there are no harsh lines. Seal it up with a super gloss top coat to give it the wet-look shine.

According to nail educator Julie Ventura, when creating neon gradients, two thin coats of sponge-applied color are recommended: “You are not going to be able to get full coverage in one application. Neons are finicky -thinner layers will give a smoother transition. This tip totally changed my game.

Last summer, I had a beach bachelorette weekend with a similar look, and it was pure happiness. Each time I clapped my hands it was as though I was wearing a sunset, the ideal summer 2025 mood enhancer.

Oversized Daisy Playfulness

Large, dramatic, and unashamedly happy – this design features large white daisies as the main centerpiece on a light pink ground. The nails are like little sunshine explosions and the bright yellow centers provide that joyful pop. Two of the nails snap off with the entire yellow tips, just a bit of asymmetry that makes the entire look more contemporary than your typical floral nail art.

I would reach out to OPI Mod About You as the ultimate pale pink base. The daisies can be painted by hand using Gelish Arctic Freeze and dotted with China Glaze Happy Go Lucky on those sunny yellow centers. In case of the accent yellow tips, Essie Atelier at the Bay provides a creamy pastel yellow that is popping but not neon.

Miss Pop, celebrity manicurist, will never tire of saying, “The beauty of big flowers is that they do not have to be perfect, allow your hand to move freely.” I tell myself that whenever I make big blooms such as these. They’re meant to feel playful, not mechanical.

I had something incredibly similar to this to a backyard summer wedding of a friend, and it was the most appropriate dress: girly, light, and with only good energy. Total sunshine in nail form.

Blueberry Fields Forever

An utterly original interpretation of summer fruit vibes – small hand-painted blueberries are flying all over these semi-transparent nails, accompanied by small white flowers and clean white French tips. The translucent nude, lush navy berries, and green leaves combination is unexpectedly elegant and yet still falls squarely into the camp of the playful summer vibe.

Semi-transparent base could be reached by using OPI Bubble Bath or CND Romantique. On the blueberries, The GelBottle Inc Midnight, which is a layering color over Royal Blue, makes the ideal depth. A mini detail brush can be used to add dimension shading to the berries and the white flowers can be simply dotted on with Beetles Gel White and a fine dotting tool.

Celebrity nail artist Hang Nguyen loves fruit designs for summer, reminding: “Fruit art feels whimsical and elevated when you scale the elements small and layer them with negative space.” This is exactly why this look works so well.

When I tried out a similar design in a garden party that I was throwing for a friend, it was an immediate success. It stands out, but in a not overly done way – literally, people could not take their eyes off my hands.

Soft Pink Crystal Embellishment

This is the sort of look that takes your standard issue soft pink mani and silently transforms it into something really glamorous. The blush base remains pure and basic, with tiny crystals sprinkled like tiny stars over the nails. That flirtatious, all-feminine touch is provided by the barely noticeable 3D bow and heart on two accent nails, not too flashy.

OPI Bare My Soul is the best neutral pink to use as the base. The small bows and hearts may be modeled with Apres 3D Gel or ready-made 3D charms, and fixed with builder gel. The crystals? Always Swarovski Flatbacks for maximum sparkle and long wear.

Tom Bachik (yes, J.Lo’s manicurist again!) always says: “3D elements should sit like jewelry on the nail — intentional, balanced, not crowded.” That is a trick that has kept me out of the overboard situation whenever I decide to add embellishments.

I wore this look to a nice summer brunch and felt like I was wearing jewelry on my hands even when I was not wearing any. It’s delicate, but definitely attention-grabbing.

Neon Floral French Twist

This colourful take on the French manicure combines neon pink trim, diagonal sweeps and pretty 3D floral decorations. The design would not look too overwhelming due to soft blush base tones, and the whole set is livened up by bright pink French tips. It’s like your favorite sundress — sweet, bright, and ready for summer fun.

My favourite neon pop is with Madam Glam Barbie Pink. As a base, I still go to Essie Ballet Slippers as my holy grail. The small 3D flowers may be modelled out of builder gel or stuck on with ready-made floral charms such as Daily Charme. Rhinestones finish the look with subtle sparkle.

Julie Ventura always reminds that when it comes to neon accents, “less is more — let the bold color be the star.” I have made this a rule of thumb when doing any neon work, particularly when combining with 3D florals.

I recently went on vacation with a style like this one, and I was shocked by the number of strangers who complimented me poolside. This one truly screams summer getaway.

Cherry Swirl Drama

This is a jacked up abstract design with bold swirls of cherry red and pink twisting across the nails in an edgy modern design. The swirls are made even more fluid by the almond shape and a single, simple crystal is enough to balance the daring pattern. It’s dramatic, eye-catching, and gives pure art-gallery-meets-cocktail-party vibes.

I use CND Romantic as a base and then apply OPI Malaga Wine, OPI Big Apple Red and OPI Aloha from OPI as the swirls. The trick to that fluid, smooth movement is an ultra-fine liner brush. One Swarovski crystal adds the perfect touch of glitz and does not overpower the swirl pattern.

Queenie Nguyen, celebrity nail artist, recommends that when doing fluid swirl patterns, you should “anchor your wrist and allow your brush to move freely -it’s calligraphy.” Since I adopted her method my swirls have been a great deal more restrained and graceful.

The first time I wore this design out at night, I felt a lot of confidence vibes. It is contemporary, artistic and a bit risque – just the kind of place you would want to take your date on one of those summer evenings that begin with drinks on the roof and end who-knows-where.

Soft Blush Classic

Simple. Clean. Elegant. This light blush nail art makes it very fresh and wearable. The light pink color is directly in the middle of nude and pastel, so it adds a hint of color to your natural nails, but it does not seek center stage. Almond shape and shiny finishing make it an eternal choice for every single moment of summer.

To achieve the ultimate soft pink, I can vouch to OPI Put It In Neutral or Essie Ballet Slippers. The thin coats are two to three coats to get that nice creamy opacity. And, as usual, the shine is made possible by a glassy top coat, such as Seche Vite or CND Vinylux Gel Top Coat.

When it comes to soft colors, nail artist Tom Bachik will never skip on nail prep: “The lighter the polish, the more any flaw will show up, so buffed nails are a must.” I also buff and hydrate my nails every time I apply them to achieve that perfect finish.

This is my go-to design when I need something that will match everything, meetings, beach days, weddings. It’s low-maintenance chic at its best.

Strawberry Picnic

There is nothing that screams summertime more than strawberries and daisies on a pink background. To balance out this ultra-fresh design, bright red berries are combined with sweet white flowers, although alternating nails remain crimson solid. It is flirtatious, sunny, and has strong outdoor brunch with the girlfriends energy.

As a base I use CND Romantique or OPI Bubble Bath. OPI Big Apple Red and OPI Alpine Snow can be used to paint the strawberries with. Using a fine-tipped liner brush, you can add layers to the tiny leaves to create that juicy green Essie Mojito Madness.

Nail artist Hang Nguyen always suggests building strawberry details in layers: “Do a berry, then cure, then do the leaves and dots on top of that–that way nothing will bleed.” This technique makes the fruit look sharp and dimensional.

I rocked a similar version for a summer farmers’ market trip — and not one person failed to comment on them. Honestly? Total attention grabber in the best way.

Pink Abstract Elegance

Minimal, geometric, and incredibly Pinterest-able – abstract pink and white waves are combined with a single white floral element in this design. Soft curves mixed with sharp lines and crisp color blocking are equally artistic and surprisingly wearable. The entire design remains current and graphic with square tips.

I begin by applying Essie Minimalistic as a base pale pink, and continue with the white details, applying Beetles White Gel Liner. The most important tool is a super-fine nail art brush to achieve those sharp edges and clean flower petals.

As celebrity nail educator Sarah Bland is fond of saying: “Negative space can cause even dramatic designs to feel airy -it is all about balance.” I attempt to keep a lot of open spaces to allow the design to breathe.

I had an iteration of this to a rooftop networking event and felt so put together without trying too hard. Abstract designs really are summer’s secret weapon.

Neutral Almond Perfection

This design proves that sometimes simplicity wins everything. Almond-shaped nails painted in a soft nude make the figure look long and elegant, which is universally flattering. The neutral, creamy shade suits all skin tones and all clothes – an actual summer capsule wardrobe in your fingertips.

I reach to OPI Samoan Sand or Essie Topless & Barefoot. And whenever applying, make sure to apply in thin coats to prevent any streaking, and seal it off with a smoothing top coat such as CND Vinylux Long Wear to give it that salon quality shine.

Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann always says: “Nude polish is all about undertone. If you want a cooler nude, go with a beige-pink; if you want a warmer nude, go with a sandier shade.” This small trick allowed me to finally get my match made in heaven.

Every time I put on a set like this one, I feel as though my entire aesthetic immediately becomes refined – it is minimal, chic, and entirely effortless.

Pink Chrome Mirror

Let’s end with some serious futuristic glam. This pink chrome appearance is a high-shine mirror-reflection with a metallic twist. The undertone is soft pink, which makes the chrome look summer-wearable but still allows it to reflect every sunbeam -or every disco ball ray.

On the chrome, you will want to begin with OPI Suzi Nails New Orleans or any light pink gel base. After curing, buff a pink chrome powder such as Daily Charme Rose Chrome into the curing silicone with a silicone applicator. Top coat it with a no-wipe gel to seal and give it maximum mirror effect.

As nail artist to the stars Julie Ventura points out, “chrome needs a smooth as possible base coat to appear perfect.” My nail beds are always doubly buffed and smooth before I begin any chrome look.

I attended a summer concert wearing this, and I am telling you, these nails were almost glowing in the stage lights. It’s bold but surprisingly wearable, and the compliments? Non-stop.

Muted Floral Minimalism

Delicate yet purposeful – this design combines a creamy light pink base with small almost see-through brownish florals carefully arranged close to the nail beds and corners. The placement gives a sophisticated “floating” effect while keeping the nails clean and modern. It’s perfect for those who want their nail art to feel a little artsy but still office-friendly.

On the base, CND Shellac Beau provides that creamy blush look. The flower details may be made by using very fine liner brush and muted brown colors of The GelBottle Inc. micro-art collection. I never forget to seal the shine with Glossify Top Coat.

As celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein likes to say, “Minimal designs feel expensive when done with negative space.” I strictly abide by this when dealing with small minimalistic pieces.

I once attended something quite close to this at a summer wedding in Napa, and people, I swear, were constantly commenting on my “elevated yet simple” nails. Sometimes, less really is more.

Rose Quartz Marble Glam

Had crystals been converted into nails this would be the outcome. The entire set has a spa-luxe effect with the soft rose quartz marble effect on the accent nail, laced with fine gold veins. The remaining nails remain in a dusty pink cream, which makes the marbled finger look like a statement nail.

I use OPI Bare My Soul as the base. The marble pattern is completed using layered strokes of Gelish Light Elegant Pink, Madam Glam Marshmallow, and small details of Gelish Art Form Gold Leaf Gel. Here your best friend is a detail brush to make those fine swirling lines.

Celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt always emphasizes that marbles should have movement: “Don’t overblend — leave some clear streaks to create depth.” I’ve found this helps avoid that muddy, overworked look.

Wearing something similar to an anniversary dinner made me feel as if I had a gemstone on my hands. Luxe without being loud.

Ocean Breeze Ombré

This design is the sensation of sticking your fingers in cool ocean water. It has a beautiful gradient, going nude on the base and deep teal blue on the tips, embodying the spirit of an ideal day at the beach. Almond shape contributes to that liquid, soothing energy that makes this set simply summer-appropriate.

I begin with OPI Bubble Bath and paint up into The GelBottle Inc Marine Blue to achieve this ombr in effect. Applying it in thin layers with the help of a makeup sponge will make the gradient melt together. Finish it off with CND No Wipe Top Coat to give it a shiny ocean like finish.

Nail educator Julie Kandalec suggests “applying multiple thin layers with a dry sponge” for the smoothest gradient. That little trick has totally upgraded my ombré game.

I was on a beach holiday when I sported this look, and whenever I would look down at my nails by the pool, they would make me feel instantly more on vacation – almost as though they were in a summer travel advertisement.

Cherry Season French

The summer fruit prints are here to stay and this sweet cherry one is as adorable as they get. Little red cherries on leafy green highlights sprinkle over two nails, the others sport a sharp glossy red French tip. It’s fun, flirty, and perfect for picnic season.

I apply CND Romantique as a base and make the cherries using OPI Big Apple Red and Essie Mojito Madness as the stems. Perfect little cherries are made with a dotting tool, and the stems and leaves are formed with a fine liner brush. Red French tip may be applied freehand or using a guide sticker.

Hang Nguyen recommends: “To pop tiny fruits, she keeps her scale uniform among nails.” I prefer to pre-arrange my fruit positioning to make things appear balanced.

I did a version of this for a summer backyard party and people literally asked me if I got them done at a salon (I didn’t — total DIY). That’s when you know a design is a winner.

Sunset Swirl Energy

The design is very serious with its colorful abstract swirls of orange, coral, and pink on a nude ground. The flowing of the swirls has the touch of a moving summer sunset. This set is bold and wearable, making it suitable both during the day over brunch or at night on a rooftop.

I begin with OPI Put It In Neutral as the base. The smoky colors are by Beetles Gel Liner Set, which just has the right coral, orange, and fuchsia colors. The tool that is essential to this is a fine liner brush to achieve fluid, dynamic curves. Always seal with a shiny top coat to make the colors shining through.

Nail artist Queenie Nguyen says, “Keep your wrist loose when doing abstract swirls — rigidity ruins the organic flow.” Genuinely, when I loosened my hand, my swirls appeared so much professional.

This collection shouts summer rooftop cocktails and when I wore a similar outfit last summer, it instantly drew stares every time I picked up my margarita. Pure summer vibe in motion.