Should we now move on from matte and bring back the shine? If you’ve been secretly craving something sleek, fresh, and ultra-feminine for your fingertips—this is your moment. Glossy gel nails for summer 2025 are coming in hot (and shiny!), with subtle shifts in color, shape, and tone that feel both effortless and elevated. What makes a glossy gel manicure special this summer? Which styles should you remember for your next time at the salon? Let’s take it nail by nail.
Soft Almond Pink for Everyday Elegance
A dusty pink gel manicure seems ageless, especially when it’s done in an almond shape. It’s not too flashy nor too plain, so it fits right in the middle between being romantic and being useful. The high-gloss finish gives it a fresh-out-of-the-salon glow that makes your fingers look instantly more polished (literally and figuratively). It goes well with brunch, office meetings and strolls on the beach.
I would use OPI’s “Baby Take a Vow” or Bio Seaweed Gel’s “Ballet” to get this clean, glossy effect. They are soft enough to look neutral, but they still have a bit of color, so they appear planned. A top coat that stays on well such as Essie Gel Couture, will keep your nails looking shiny. Before you start, use a soft buffer, then apply cuticle oil to make your nails look and feel extra nice.
To be honest, I reach for this when I just want something easy in the summer. It looks good with any outfit, from jeans to a dress and gives everything a calm, elegant feel. A classic, but never boring.
Glossed Pink with a Luxe Finish
The pink polish has a luxurious look to it; it looks as if it was created for a high-fashion runway. The tone is still gentle but has a slightly sharper feeling. And the shape? Here we have the almond shape, but this time its curve is a little rounder, making it look good on all your fingers.
I’ve had great success with this finish using Aprés Gel Couleur in “Lumière” and then covering it with their Signature Top Gelcoat for the mirror effect. The most important part is the base; make it very smooth and add a ridge-filler if your nails are uneven. This isn’t the kind of polish that forgives bumps.
I wore this style of manicure to a summer wedding last year and it got more attention than my dress did. People stopped me to ask about it. It’s a quiet way to show your style, being simple but extremely stylish.
Subtle Pink Sparkle with Summer Stardust
Okay, isn’t this experience like catching fireflies at night, but with nails? The light pink base and iridescent sparkle are making this lipstick glow softly and beautifully. It’s beautiful, light and evokes a feeling of nostalgia like a shimmer gloss from your favorite summer in the early 2000s.
Should I wish to copy this manicure, I’d apply a sheer pink shade like Gelish “Light Elegant” and finish it with a fine sparkle top coat, for example, Le Mini Macaron’s “Galaxy Glaze.” Try to make the sparkle gentle and spread out, just like stardust. Too dense, and it loses that airy quality.
I like that this style is both fun and fully grown-up. This is great if you want something subtle but still want to add a touch of magic. This would be great to wear on vacation because it makes the sunshine look so pretty.
Milky White Ombre That Feels Like a Breeze
This milky-white gradient reminds me of the clean girl aesthetic, except make it glossy. The transition from bright pink to soft white is very modern and gentle, like a cloud passing over a pale summer sky. The classic almond shape makes the style feminine and keeps it simple.
To get this, I’d use the “baby boomer” technique: start with a sheer pink gel base (I like CND’s “Be Demure”) and softly blend a white like “Studio White” by Gelish toward the tip using a sponge or airbrush. Blend, cure, blend again. Top it off with a high-gloss seal. Being patient helps a lot and it brings out the lovely softness in your work.
Putting on nails like these makes me feel organized and put-together. It’s simple, but not plain and the ombré detail gives it a touch of visual excitement. This is the one to get if you like neutrals, but want some extra texture and interest.
Sage Green for a Refreshing Pop
Let’s change the subject for a bit — this sage green is summer bold, but in a very soft way. It’s a fresh and different choice among all the rosé wines. It’s a fun, easy-to-wear look, even if you don’t usually like wearing nail polish.
This color reminds me of “Into the Trees” by Olive & June and “Can Dew Attitude” by Essie which both give you a subtle green that doesn’t stand out too much. It looks lovely worn with gold jewelry and natural materials such as linen, raffia, straw hats and woven bags.
The last time I wore a shade like this was on a weekend trip to Napa last July and it made all my outfits look more planned. It shows us that going beyond the usual pink and nude colors can give us a new sense of style. I find that glossy gel makes my nails look even better — they stay perfect and I don’t have to worry about chips.
Classic Red with a Modern Summer Shine
Red nails are always a good choice and this one makes that clear. The gloss makes the surface look juicy and lacquered and it reflects light beautifully. It’s a strong color, but it’s also elegant, so it looks great at parties, on dates or even with a matcha latte.
If I need a red that’s exactly like this, I tend to pick OPI’s “Big Apple Red” in gel or Lights Lacquer’s “A Game.” Both provide a rich, vivid color with a shiny topcoat that stays put. Its almond shape gives it a modern look instead of a retro one.
I put on this color for a beach dinner and it made my white linen outfit look much more polished. It’s giving old-Hollywood glam with a 2025 upgrade. Honestly, it’s one of those sets that makes you feel powerful the moment it’s done.
Champagne Chrome That Feels Like Jewelry
This color looks like a shimmering veil over your nails. The finish looks like a mirror, so it makes your hands appear highlighted, much like a highlighter. It is not flashy, has a feminine touch and looks wonderful on any skin color. It’s equally pretty during golden hour as it is in candlelight.
For a similar effect, I like to put chrome powder on top of a neutral gel like “Bare My Soul” by OPI or “Bare With Me” by The GelBottle. When the top coat is still sticky, add the chrome pigment, finish with a top coat and your nails will look just like they’ve been dipped in champagne.
I love this one because it looks fancy without me having to try hard. When I went to a girls’ brunch, I got more compliments on my nails than on my outfit which I had picked out a week in advance.
Whisper Pink with a Hint of Stardust
It is a whisper-soft baby pink that has a gentle shimmer in it, like fairy dust. The square shape gives it a mature feel, but the sparkle adds a cheerful and lighthearted touch which is great for summer days with icy drinks.
Honestly, this one is pretty simple to pull off. A layered application of “Pink Pursuit” by DND or “Pale Petal” from Essie gives a creamy look. A final coat of Zoya’s “Leia” gives a touch of sparkle without making it too glittery. It’s elegance with a wink.
I go for this manicure when I want my hands to look neat without being too noticeable. You could also use it for a wedding guest, a baby shower or a new season refresh.
Pink-Tipped Ombré That’s Made for Summer
This manicure feels like a clear sign that you are on holiday. The way the pink fades from light to bright on the tips is like having a fun poolside cocktail on your nails. The fade is smooth, as if the color was applied all at once.
To create this, I love using a sponge technique. First, apply a nude base like “Funny Bunny” from OPI and next, blend in some neon—“Pink Gellac’s Barbie Pink”—at the tips. Apply a high-gloss topcoat and allow it to cure completely to get the almost-wet effect.
When I visited Miami in July, I wore this gradient and it seemed to fit the city’s vibe which was warm, bright and playful. If you want a change but something you can still wear, this is the one.
Dusty Rose with Glitter Dusting
I’m ending this set with a gel base in dusty rose which has a sprinkling of soft champagne and silver glitter. It’s as romantic as it is ready for a party — you could say it’s a pink that got all dressed up. The shiny finish gives the whole outfit a planned, glamorous look, like a filter in real life.
The base can be duplicated using the color “Mauve Over” by Gelish and the top layer could be Kiara Sky’s “Starry Eyes” glitter gel. Apply the glitter from the middle of your eye outward to get an effect that looks like confetti falling. The idea is to have just a little sparkle, not too much.
The clothes are made for late summer – events, dining or just enjoying a rosé and the breeze on a balcony. It reflects light in a manner that makes your hands look like they are wearing jewelry. And isn’t that what we all want sometimes?
Soft Metallic Almond Glow
The first nail design is a soft pink metallic almond which looks instantly elegant, feminine and a bit ahead of its time. The nails look as if they have been coated in chrome, because the ultra-glossy finish reflects the light with every movement. It has a put-together appearance, but not in an overdone way. The shape? An almond-shaped nail is always flattering and makes the fingers appear longer. Thanks to that classy touch, a neutral can be perfect for the office and the perfect choice for a party.
This kind of finish is typically achieved with a magnetic or pearl chrome gel polish—think of shades like OPI’s “Glazed N’ Amused” or Gelish “Silver Sand.” A gel base will maintain the mirror effect and a no-wipe gloss top coat will seal the glassy look.
I have used metallics in summer before and they shine like little mirrors in the sunlight. Whenever I put on this color, I think I look luxurious but without all the effort. Celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec said that pearlescent manicures make the hands look brighter and more alive and this one definitely does that.
Classic Short Pink Elegance
A great example of summer beauty is a classic short pink gel manicure with a high shine finish. The nails are gently squared and have rounded edges and they are painted in a soft pastel pink that goes with anything. This style is neat, ladylike and perfect for people who like short nails but want them to look well-cared for. The gloss makes it more elegant but without making it too flashy.
These short glossy nails never go out of style and they’re also handy if you spend a lot of time using your hands. One of my go-to pinks for this look is Essie’s “Ballet Slippers,” or if you’re after something gel-based, try “Baby Pink” from The Gel Bottle Inc. Apply the color in two thin layers, then add a builder gel to make the hair look thicker and glossy.
Sometimes, less really is more. Just like Parisian women, this nail look is polished and refined and it gives off an expensive feel, even though it’s not flashy. And that’s exactly the energy this brings into summer.
Neutral Nude with Ultra Shine
The design is simple but is made summery with a shiny glossy finish. The shoes are shaped like almonds, are short and trendy and the color is a nude that goes with anything. It suits many occasions, whether you’re going to a job interview or out for brunch. What makes it pop? The shine. The glossy surface makes a simple nude shade look much more special.
I often suggest this style to friends who want a change from color but want to dress nicely. A jelly nude gel polish is the best choice such as Bio Seaweed’s “Peach Perfect” and DND’s “Barely Nude.” If you apply a glossy top coat while the polish is still a little tacky, it will make the nude color look deeper.
I like this style because it fits any mood or outfit; it doesn’t fight with what you’re wearing, but enhances it. It’s summer simplicity, but make it luxe.
Delicate Blush with Glass-Like Finish
There’s something irresistibly pretty about this one. The nails are gently oval and have a warm blush pink color, with a see-through, milky effect that makes them look like your own nails, but better. The finish is so shiny that it looks like liquid glass has been put on top. The current trend is all about soft-glam which is romantic, polished and looks great on all kinds of skin.
If you want a similar look, I’d pick a jelly-based blush pink gel such as “Sakura Jelly” from Aprés or “Pink Macaron” by Madam Glam. If you want a semi-sheer effect, using a clear builder gel base will help the look look more intentional.
I tried on a similar color while on vacation last year and I became completely obsessed with it for the rest of the season. I find that this appearance is very soothing, just like taking a deep breath in the summer wind. And who doesn’t want that?
Cotton Candy Pink with Almond Tips
A summer essential—soft, delicious and pink—this almond-formed polish shouts out “sunny days and ice cream.” The finish is a glossy shine that catches the light just like a new salon hairdo. It is a mix of fun and elegance, giving a touch of color without being too bright or bold. It’s youthful but still put-together.
If you want a very feminine look, pick gel colors such as “Strawberry Milk” by Beetles or “Pink Dream” by Kiara Sky. A good way to wear pink is to first use a sheer one, then add a second coat that is more pigmented to make the color stand out without losing its summer softness. To get the best shine, use a flexible no-wipe top coat at the end.
This style reminds me of my teen summers, with bike rides, shiny lip balm and pop music playing on the radio. But updated for 2025, it feels cleaner, more elevated. Like a grown-up pink, but always knows how to enjoy life.
Liquid Mirror Chrome Nails
There’s bold, and then there’s liquid chrome bold. The nails are done with ultra-reflective silver gel and tapered almond shapes, creating a bold, jewelry-like effect. It feels like liquid metal, smooth and cool, all over your hands. The sleekness is undeniable. It’s giving high fashion, mirrored sunglasses, and rooftop parties all at once.
For this mirror effect, use a chrome powder such as Daily Charme’s “Mirror Chrome,” over a no-wipe black gel base. A high-gloss top coat should be used at the end to keep the metal effect and shield the surface from scratches.
I like doing chrome in summer because it makes my skin look even warmer and more golden. It’s just like a metallic swimsuit for your nails—it stands out, looks sleek and is totally hot-girl.
Bubblegum Blush Perfection
The blush-pink color makes this gel mani soft, sweet and very summery. The nails are not too long or short and they have an oval shape, with a creamy pastel finish that looks like whipped cream. The high-gloss top coat makes the texture shine which gives the look a fun and youthful atmosphere. It’s a pink lip gloss for your hands, but better.
An alternative is to apply “Sugar Coat” from Bio Seaweed Gel or “Rosy Cheeks” from Luxa Polish. A builder gel layer applied under the foundation can really help your skin look plump and luxurious. A trick is to add the color in several thin coats and let each coat dry completely to avoid bubbling in the summer.
Whenever I put on a lipstick like this, people want to know the color. It suits both baby showers and beach trips and it’s one of the first things I think of when I don’t know what to choose but still want to be different.
Mauve Mocha Gloss
It’s a velvety mauve shade with warm undertones, all finished to a shiny glass look. The shade is found between dusty rose and chocolate, so it is rich and moody but still feels appropriate for a summer evening. The squared almond shape adds to the polish (pun fully intended), making this mani feel both grounded and elegant.
Consider using “Cocoa Mauve” from Gelish or “Stone Fox” by Apres Gel-X to get a similar result. A tinted base coat is recommended for this kind of shade, to avoid it fading or looking dull when exposed to strong summer UV.
This tone is ideal for those times in between such as June sunsets, stormy days at the beach or dinners on rooftops. It gives your device a mature look without making everything dark. Imagine it’s the feeling of a warm, humid breeze blowing in the golden hour.
Glossy Magenta Chrome Pop
Summer energy is alive and well in this vibrant magenta chrome which is fun, bold and a little daring. The gel’s finish is highly reflective and metallic and it appears almost fuchsia when seen from certain angles. The combination of short, rounded tips and this design shows that bold colors can still be elegant.
This kind of chrome usually starts with a gel base in a rich pink color such as Pop Rock Pink from The Gel Bottle which is then topped with Mirror Pink chrome powder from Born Pretty. Getting a crisp and even shine requires applying the chrome before the second coat dries completely.
Whenever I see nails like these, I imagine myself having a fun weekend, drinking cocktails, dancing and laughing a lot. They instantly make us happy which is all summer should be about.
Classic French with a Pearly Twist
The beloved French tip is made special here by adding a glossy, pearl-sheer base to it. The nail beds are see-through and have a hint of pink shine, while the tips are still white, straight and well-shaped. The almond length adds a delicate and polished touch to the whole style. It’s a classic, but it’s been updated to feel new.
Begin with a sheer blush builder gel such as “Milky Pearl” from Valentino Beauty Pure, to achieve this look. Apply white gel polish like “Bright White” from Gelish to the French tip area with a fine brush and then use a no-wipe gloss top coat to make the nails look glossy.
I like this style best for weddings, summer brunches and whenever I want to dress up a bit. It provides a “soft confidence” that will always be in fashion.
Soft Rosé Almonds
Milky blush nails on almond-shaped nails always look classic. The shade is a soft rosé, slightly warmer than nude and still very elegant. The shiny surface reflects light and makes the nails look very glossy and glassy which is both elegant and practical.
For this kind of gel look, I love using OPI’s GelColor in “Bare My Soul” or DND’s “Peony Pink.” They are thin enough to apply several times for more depth, but thick enough to cover the skin in just two coats. Finish your nails with a gloss topcoat, for example Gelish’s, to make your manicure shine through any summer or nighttime activity.
I usually prep with a gentle buffer, apply a rubber base coat to help with adhesion (especially in humid weather), and cure each layer under a 48W LED lamp. The almond shape gives fingers a lovely, elongated look that’s not too harsh which makes this style seem more romantic than trendy. Subtle, but so good.
I always repaint this mani every year. It looks expensive without being fussy. And honestly? It goes so well with a light linen dress or your favorite gold rings.
Champagne Pearl Squares
The gel manicure is square-shaped and glows with a champagne tone, adding a touch of shimmer, a lot of shine and a hint of pink for a candlelight-like look. It’s a way to have “your nails but better,” while also keeping it fun with a polished look.
Both “Birthday Suit” by The Gel Bottle and “Barely Blush” by Aprés are good alternatives to this finish. I often put on a layer of pearl chrome powder before the topcoat to make the paint shine more, especially when I want it to catch the sun’s rays.
To get it right at home, take your time, apply each layer evenly and flash-cure after every layer to avoid pooling. Make sure to use cuticle oil at the end to make your square shape look and feel more purposeful.
Just like that first iced coffee you have when June arrives, this manicure is cool, creamy and very satisfying.
Glossy Mocha Ombré
The way the pink-beige base fades into a mocha tip is very appealing. The style is modern and has a moody feel, but is easy to wear because of the subtle transition. It’s a nail that gets noticed even though it doesn’t try to stand out.
Creating that gradient at home is tricky but possible. I’ve applied Tan My Hide and Brown Eyed Girl from Gelish by dabbing them on with a makeup sponge. Before curing, blend the colors and cover any texture with thin builder gel before finishing with topcoat.
I think this style is especially suited to late-summer dinners or weddings in August. It captures a moody elegance, but it’s lighthearted enough for summer.
This isn’t a manicure I get every month—but whenever I do, it feels really nice. Like putting on a soft silk slip dress after spending the day at the beach.
French Shimmer Revival
Classic French, but with a 2025 shimmer twist. The base color is a soft pink with a hint of sparkle and the tips are slightly arched to give a modern touch. It’s nostalgic—but with a fresh coat of cool.
I prefer putting on a transparent pink gel called “Pink Bikini” by Kiara Sky and then adding a shimmer gel called “Moon Dust” from Beetles for a soft shimmer. A fine liner brush can be used to draw the French tip freehand or nail vinyls can be used to help achieve a clean and even look.
Julie Kandalec, a nail artist, has said, “A nice French manicure is timeless; it just keeps changing.” And I couldn’t agree more. The sparkle gives the dress a soft, romantic and beach-perfect look.
Daisy prints, minimal neutrals or all-black outfits will look great with this mani.
Dusty Rose Almond Glaze
It is a perfect balance between being neutral and adding a statement. The almond shape makes the lipstick look feminine and the gloss gives it a shiny, almost wet look. This isn’t just pink—it’s grown-up, rosy perfection.
I’ve made this look happen with Bio Seaweed Gel in “Tea Rose” and sealed it with “No-Wipe Glass Top.” Applying at home? Pay attention to cleanliness and use two thin layers for the best color result. It is an easy-to-use shade, so you don’t have to be a professional to get a good result.
When I wore this on my trip to Charleston, I was complimented at a coffee shop, a boutique and by my Airbnb host. It just has that effortlessly polished energy.
There are times when the perfect color, shape and gloss are all you need, without any extra art or glitter. This is one of those times.
Glitter-Tipped Blush Glow
If you’re someone who likes just a hint of sparkle—without going full-on glitter bomb—this delicate gel manicure is summer’s sweet spot. The base is a clear blush pink and the tips are covered in tiny glitter that sparkles like champagne bubbles in the sunlight. It’s subtle, yes—but it still winks.
I like to put on a sheer pink color like CND Shellac’s “Beau” and then sprinkle a fine iridescent glitter pigment on the tip before sealing it with a top coat. Dab the glitter onto your nails with a detail brush while the polish is still sticky and finish with a hard gloss coat. It creates a fairy-light gradient without overwhelming the nail.
I put this mani on when I just want to keep things simple. It works for beach trips, weddings, Zoom calls—anything. A look that goes with anything and makes your hands look like they belong to someone rich.
Muted Mauve Minimalist
The square nails in a soft mauve color look clean, stable and not too noticeable. No glitter, no ombré, no fuss. Just the pure, creamy color and the gel-like shine that help your hands look neat and polished, even if your week is messy.
I find that this color is especially versatile which is what I like best about it. A white tee and jeans look as good with it as a floral dress does. For people applying at home, I suggest trying “Muted Mulberry” by Madam Glam. Two layers, a nice topcoat and your nails look sophisticated in less than half an hour.
No lie, this is my “reset” manicure. Whenever I put it on, I feel like I’m starting the day over, even if I’m busy with iced matchas, deadlines and a long summer list of things to do.
Espresso Fade with Wild Detail
This one’s a wild card—and I love that for us. The nails are ombré from dark chocolate to beige, with a cheetah print accent nail for a touch of attitude. It looks bold, fashionable and is surprisingly comfortable to wear because of the matching colors.
I use two Gelish browns together—“Do I Look Buff” and “Last Call” work well for the job. The ombré is applied with a cosmetic wedge and the cheetah pattern is done the same way. Actually, using a dotting tool and a tiny liner brush makes it easier for beginners. A top coat is what gives your nails their glossy, gel-like finish for summer 2025.
Should you want nails that say, “Relaxed and daring, that’s me,” this combo nails it. It’s got personality, without feeling like a costume. Total power move.
Sparkled Rose Quartz
Because of the soft pink and subtle sparkles, this shade reminds me of rose quartz, with its gentle, feminine and light-hearted energy. Its shape is neat, but the glimmer makes it stand out and look wonderful in the soft light of dusk.
I used to believe that glitter made nail art look like something a child would wear, but this dust in a gel base looks amazing. It catches the light in a way that’s not too showy, but it still looks mature. I’ve picked Aprés’ “Pink Builder Base” and used a top coat of shimmer from Luminary Nail Systems for a soft radiant look.
When I want a cute style that doesn’t take much effort, I go for this. It looks great, doesn’t conflict with other things and helps me feel like myself. A little sparkly. A little sweet. A lot put-together.
Pink Chrome Illusion
Let’s talk chrome—but make it pink, soft, and silky. This rose color gives a buttery shine without being too bold. It has a futuristic look but also feels romantic which is not common for summer nails.
I use a clear gel in a baby pink color, called “Ballet Slippers” by Essie Gel Couture and then add a chrome powder in a soft rose shade from Born Pretty. Rub it into a top coat that doesn’t require wiping, seal it and you’ll see why it’s so easy to use and gives a salon-like finish.
I was wearing these on vacation last July and someone at the hotel bar asked me where I got the work done. We want that look all summer: soft, shiny and easy to achieve.
