Having summer nails done is one of the most exciting things for me. As the days get longer and sun-kissed weekends start filling our calendars, it’s officially time to refresh your manicure game. So many lovely styles are popular right now, so how should you begin your search? Should you go for bold neon tips? Dreamy soft pastels? Perhaps you like the looks of those sparkly, pearl-covered designs that feel like small pieces of jewelry on your fingers?
I’ve rounded up the best summer nail looks for 2025, including those for the beach, weddings and all the styles in between. With these manicures, your nails will be the center of attention at every brunch, pool party or sundowner event. So take your iced latte, relax and let’s explore the most tempting nail ideas for this season.
Minimalist White With a Twist of Marble
Let’s start with something that simply never fails to impress during the warm months: a clean, sharp, full-cover white with a sophisticated marble accent. The base is a pure, snow-white color — creamy but not chalky — which gives off that fresh, elevated vibe we all crave once the sun’s out in full force. The presence of marble on the accent nails gives the design a gentle artistic touch and a classy feel. It’s like having on your favorite summer linen dress, but on your hands — easy, light and very fashionable. This is definitely one of the **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** if you want your manicure to radiate understated luxury while staying seasonally appropriate.
For this kind of look, I always recommend starting with a high-quality white gel polish like “Alpine Snow” by OPI GelColor. To get the marble effect, use a fine brush and a light gray or beige polish. Top it off with a glossy sealing top coat to maintain that fresh-out-of-the-salon shine for weeks.
The secret to getting the marble effect is all about timing. I put down the base color, let it dry and then apply tiny amounts of the accent color while the second color is still damp. I take a thin nail art brush or a fine toothpick to gently swirl the colors. The result? That dreamy, semi-transparent marble look that makes people double-take.
Honestly, this design became my go-to last summer while I was vacationing in Miami. It’s suitable for all types of outfits, from spending the day at the pool to dining on rooftops at night. Plus, several nail artists like Tom Bachik (yes, J.Lo’s nail guru) have publicly praised simple white nails for their “always fresh, always elevated” feel.
Romantic Matte Pink With Crystal Hearts
Soft pinks are practically made for summer flings and weekend getaways, but this version takes it a notch higher with a matte finish and subtle crystal heart embellishments. The shape of the eye is almond which makes it feminine and the blush color keeps it looking innocent and appealing. Their small size and light-catching beauty make them ideal for brunches in the summer or weddings in the garden. There’s something so timeless, yet completely on-trend here—it’s like your favorite romantic comedy wrapped around your fingertips.
To nail this look, I usually opt for “Bubble Bath” by OPI for the perfect base color. The matte effect can be achieved using Essie’s Matte About You top coat, which gives that dreamy velvety finish without dulling the color. The 3D hearts are best decorated with either Swarovski mini crystals or resin ones you can find on Amazon. A tiny dab of nail glue holds them firmly in place.
What I love most is how easy it is to apply these tiny embellishments at home. When you’re done with the matte top coat, put a little strong nail adhesive at the spot for the crystals and gently place them with a wax pencil or tweezers. Once they’re in place, apply a thin layer of gel top coat around (not over) the hearts to lock them down without losing dimension.
I remember my friend wore a very similar style for her engagement party last summer, and every single person complimented her nails. Celebrity manicurist Betina Goldstein has often said that “subtle 3D elements add texture without overwhelming the design,” and honestly, she couldn’t be more right.
Molten Metallic Waves on Nude Canvas
This one’s a total conversation starter. The design uses negative space and white and silver waves that look like summer ocean foam on your nails. The openness of the transparency gives the table a light feeling and the chrome-like edges reflect the sunlight. It’s a balance of futuristic and natural, perfect for those steamy city nights or coastal escapes when you want something daring, but still wearable.
For the clear base, I use OPI GelColor’s “Put It In Neutral” — it gives just enough soft nude warmth without hiding the natural nail. You can add silver chrome accents using Daily Charme’s chrome powders or metallic gels which are very easy to use. The white waves can be achieved with any highly pigmented nail art gel or striping polish like those from The GelBottle Inc.
The key technique here is layering. First, the clear nude base is applied and cured. I then use a fine liner brush to draw the white and metallic curves one after another. It’s important to go slowly so that the swirls are evenly spaced and balanced. Finish with a thick glossy top coat to make every curve pop under the summer sun.
This design kind of reminds me of those elevated minimalist designs you see all over celebrity hands — Hailey Bieber’s nail artist Zola Ganzorigt often uses similar wave effects to create that modern luxe look. If you want something that screams “editorial summer glam,” this is it.
Bold Florals with French Tip Fusion
Floral nails are getting a seriously cool upgrade this season. Here, the nails are decorated with white French tips and colorful red flowers. Because of the clear negative space, the design is light and airy which is perfect for hot summer days. The floral detail adds just enough drama to elevate your look without crossing into cheesy territory.
For the base, I prefer using a soft pink gel like “Milky Pink” by Aprés Gel-X, which blends beautifully with natural nails. The French tip white can be achieved with OPI’s “Funny Bunny” — it’s bright but not harsh. The floral elements can be hand-painted using nail art brushes and a bright cherry red gel polish like “Scarlet Red” by Gelish.
Creating these flowers takes a steady hand. I begin by outlining the petal shape and after that, I add layers of color to make it look three-dimensional. This tool allows you to make the central petal cluster in the middle of the flower. Once all the floral work is done, a thin coat of builder gel can seal everything in place while giving that glassy, summer-perfect finish.
I first saw a similar design during NYFW’s spring preview, where nail artist Mei Kawajiri showcased florals mixed with sharp French tips. It’s fresh, playful, and basically screams picnic-ready glam.
Baroque Pearl Drama for Summer Evenings
Now let’s talk drama. The design goes all out with pink tips decorated with baroque pearls and gold accents. The long stiletto shape gives shoes a touch of extra glamour. It may be over the top, but it’s stylish enough for a party on a roof or a wedding in a tropical location. If you’re feeling bold, this is absolutely the **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** to bookmark immediately.
To recreate this, I’d reach for Aprés Gel-X’s stiletto extensions as the foundation. The translucent pink can be achieved with Gelish’s “Light Elegant.” For the embellishments, you’ll want flat-back pearls (Swarovski’s are unmatched, though Amazon dupes exist), paired with thin gold metallic nail chains or foil pieces from nail art suppliers like Daily Charme or Born Pretty.
Application is all about precision layering. First, use the sheer pink, let it cure and then use builder gel to secure your embellishments. Be patient — setting each pearl and chain can take time, but the result is worth every minute.
Personally, I wore a similar style to my friend’s sunset yacht party last July. Many people kept asking me where I went to get my tattoos. Nail artist Chaun Legend, known for Cardi B’s iconic nail looks, often talks about how layering pearls with gold creates a “red carpet richness” without tipping into gaudy territory — and I couldn’t agree more.
Blush Nude Elegance with Crystal Line Accent
There’s something almost calming about this perfect blush nude with its elegant glossy finish. The almond shape makes the hand look more feminine and the crystal line on the ring finger gives a little shine without overpowering the rest of the jewelry. This design is so elegant that it will make your hands look ready for any garden party, weekend get-together or Vogue editorial. Without a doubt, this belongs in the **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** lineup if you’re aiming for graceful yet modern vibes this season.
For this look, I swear by Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” layered with “Mademoiselle” for that sheer nude perfection. The crystal band can be created using Swarovski flatback crystals SS3 size, gently placed along the nail using a precise wax pencil tool and a dot of resin glue to keep them in place securely.
The trick is in the layering. Once the base shades are cured, put a thin layer of builder gel where you want the crystals to be. Set the crystals where you want them, cure the surface and then finish by sealing the edges with a no-wipe top coat. This simple technique elevates any nude manicure to something you’d happily wear to a rooftop soirée.
I once wore a nearly identical set to my best friend’s summer bridal shower. The compliments? Non-stop. Nail pro Julie Kandalec often says that “nudes with embellishments allow you to feel glam while still being appropriate for every occasion,” and honestly, she’s spot-on.
Soft Gradient Babyboomer Fade
This design is like sipping iced rosé at sunset — soft, flattering, and timeless. The Babyboomer fade mixes pink and white perfectly, resulting in a lovely milky gradient that looks good on all skin colors. With its almond shape, this style looks trendy and still works for both the beach and summer weddings. This gradient feels effortlessly luxurious — almost like your nails are glowing softly under the golden hour light.
To achieve this, I lean on OPI’s “Bubble Bath” for the pink base and “Alpine Snow” for the white tips. A good makeup sponge helps you blend colors more smoothly; tapping them before curing gives you a smooth finish. Finish with a high-shine top coat to give it that glossy, salon-quality glow.
Honestly, perfecting the Babyboomer at home takes a little practice. The secret is to use thin coats and cure the piece after every layer to prevent it from becoming thick. The final effect is worth every minute of patience because it’s so timeless and flattering.
This technique has been praised by manicurist Harriet Westmoreland, who’s known for creating flawless gradient nails for celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. She often emphasizes that “subtle gradients add an expensive-looking softness to the hands.” Couldn’t agree more.
Sharp French Fade for Modern Romance
Here’s a bold twist on the French manicure that completely transforms the vibe. The white tips are higher and seem to cut neatly into the pink color. It has a classic and a trendy vibe, reminding me of summer in Paris. The added length creates drama without being overpowering. It’s the kind of manicure that makes every hand gesture feel a little more graceful — whether you’re holding a chilled mimosa or adjusting your sunglasses at the beach.
For this one, Aprés Gel-X extensions in coffin shape give the perfect foundation. I recommend starting with OPI’s “Put It In Neutral” for the pink base and then painting in the precise white tips using The GelBottle Inc’s “Daisy” gel paint — it’s bright and perfectly opaque.
The crispness of this French design relies on clean lines. I outline the edge of the tip with a fine liner brush and then I fill it in. Once cured, a thick layer of glossy top coat seals everything into place, ensuring long-lasting wear through pool parties and date nights.
When I rocked a similar design on my trip to Santorini last year, I literally had strangers complimenting me at every corner café. Nail artist Tom Bachik frequently recommends bold French variations like this because “they elongate the fingers and always feel camera-ready.” And isn’t that what we all want on vacation?
Muted Taupe for Understated Summer Sophistication
Sometimes, the chicest summer nails aren’t the most colorful — they’re the ones that quietly elevate your whole look without screaming for attention. This muted taupe shade is exactly that. It’s that rare in-between color: not too brown, not too pink, just neutral perfection that works with literally every outfit in your closet, from white linen to silky slip dresses. This is exactly the kind of **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** if you gravitate towards minimalism with a touch of elegance.
I highly recommend Chanel’s Le Vernis in “Organdi” for this color — it delivers that rich creamy taupe in just two coats. Finish with their Gel Top Coat for an ultra-glossy, salon-perfect shine that lasts weeks without chipping.
The beauty of this design is how forgiving it is for at-home application. When the basic steps are done, add two layers of color, waiting for each to dry before applying your top coat. It’s the kind of manicure that looks high-maintenance but is actually super easy to maintain.
I love wearing this shade on vacation because it doesn’t clash with any look — it’s become my fail-safe choice for business trips and weddings alike. Editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choi calls neutral nails like this “the ultimate investment piece for your hands” — and honestly, she nailed it (pun intended).
Holographic Lava Swirls on Blush Base
Let’s end this set with a true showstopper. The base is a soft blush pink and the holographic swirls make the design look like a lava lamp. How the light plays on these shapes is mesmerizing — it turns from icy green to pink, depending on the angle, so every hand movement feels like a small show in the sun. If you want summer nails that guarantee compliments, this one is an absolute winner.
To create this, start with a sheer pink like The GelBottle Inc’s “Rose Gold Builder in a Bottle.” The holographic chrome effect can be achieved using Daily Charme’s “Aurora Unicorn Chrome Powder” applied with a sponge applicator for even coverage. The fluid swirl design is drawn on top using fine liner brushes and a clear gel mixed with holographic flakes for that dimensional effect.
The layering here is key. First, apply the blush base, cure it and then softly tap on the chrome powder. With the liner brush, draw your swirls and cure them with a flash-cure after each layer to ensure every line is clear. Seal it all with a high-shine gel top coat to maximize the holographic impact under both natural and artificial light.
Honestly, this design reminds me of something you’d see at Coachella or Miami Swim Week. Celebrity nail artist Chaun Legend has praised these types of reflective designs for “amplifying nail art into jewelry-like statement pieces.” Couldn’t have said it better myself — they’re absolutely mesmerizing.
Silky Blush Almonds for Luxe Simplicity
Sometimes, less really is more — especially when summer calls for that fresh, clean, polished vibe. This almond blush color has a silky look and the creamy nude-pink catches the light just like satin. The long almond shape is very feminine and the light color matches well with summer outfits, big sunglasses and wavy hair. It’s the kind of **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** when you’re aiming for understated luxury without too much fuss.
For this shade, I swear by Bio Sculpture’s “Rose” gel polish—it’s creamy, easy to apply, and gives that velvety finish. Pair it with a strong builder base for strength, especially if you’re rocking longer lengths during summer activities.
Application is refreshingly simple: after prepping the nails, apply two thin coats, curing each fully. Finish the job by adding a top coat that doesn’t require wiping. This look requires minimal upkeep while still feeling high-end — perfect for summer getaways where you don’t want to fuss over chips or fading.
Honestly, I rocked a very similar set on a Mediterranean cruise last summer — every time I held a cocktail, my hands felt like a mini accessory. According to Betina Goldstein, blush tones have the same effect on nails as nude heels have on your feet. And she’s absolutely right.
Vibrant Yellow Crackle Energy
Let’s bring the heat — literally. The neutral translucent base of this design is highlighted by yellow crackle veins that look like lightning bolts. It’s daring, playful, and seriously addictive to look at. Perfect for festival season, pool parties, or anytime you’re ready to make a summer statement. The electrifying contrast feels very 2025, blending artistry with that surge of warm-season energy.
To achieve this, I start with a sheer nude base like OPI’s “Bubble Bath.” For the yellow, The GelBottle Inc’s “Lemonade” is bright, creamy, and highly pigmented. A fine detail brush allows you to create those random crack-like streaks that give the design its electric vibe.
The secret to the crackle design is controlled spontaneity: after applying your base, lightly sketch out the yellow veins in irregular patterns, cure, and seal with a thick top coat. The end result is bold without being overwhelming — like wearable abstract art.
I first saw this crackle effect on Instagram during Coachella season, and it completely stole my heart. Nail artist Mei Kawajiri calls these types of designs “summer adrenaline” for your hands — and I couldn’t agree more.
Cherry Red & Blush Bow Charms
Who says bold colors can’t be playful? The combination of cherry red, blush and 3D bow charms brings together a touch of sweetness and confidence. The rich color of burgundy makes it look elegant and the bows and little stars keep the dress young and suitable for summer outings. It’s like mixing your favorite red wine with fresh strawberries — indulgent but fun.
I recommend The GelBottle Inc’s “Rouge” for that rich red tone and “Rose Petal” for the blush base. The 3D bows can be pre-made resin charms from nail art supply stores, while the stars can be applied with tiny stickers or stamped on with gel polish for precision.
Placement is everything with this design. Paint the blush and red base, let it cure well and finally add your 3D items with builder gel to keep them in place. Carefully seal everything in place without losing the texture of the charms.
When I wore this design for my cousin’s engagement party last August, it was an instant conversation starter. Nail stylist Britney Tokyo has often shared that “embellishments bring joy to nail art — they give it character and movement,” and this design embodies exactly that.
Peach Sorbet Perfection
Soft, delicate, and oh-so-summery — this peach sorbet shade feels like bottled sunshine. Because it’s so close to peach, this pink looks great at any warm-weather event. Whether you’re sipping iced lattes at your favorite café or hitting up a beach wedding, this is the kind of **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** when you’re aiming for soft glam.
For this shade, I love using Essie’s “Sugar Daddy” layered with “Vanity Fairest” — it gives that perfect balance of peachy-pink. Add a high-gloss top coat like Seche Vite for that glassy, almost wet look.
This design is perfect for both beginners and pros. Once your nails are ready, add two layers of color, cure them and apply your top coat. No complicated art needed — the shade itself does all the talking.
This shade always reminds me of Hailey Bieber’s “glazed donut nails,” but with a warmer, more summery twist. Zola Ganzorigt, a manicurist, often says that these peachy pastels look good on every hand. Honestly? She’s not wrong.
Caramel Rose Almonds for Sunset Evenings
Rounding out this collection is this rich caramel-rose hue — warm, slightly dusty, and completely addictive. The almond shape makes your nails look neat and the color changes a bit with the light, making them look extra beautiful at sunset. This one’s perfect for evening dates, summer weddings, or even just when you want your hands to feel like their own accessory.
For this exact tone, I lean on CND Shellac’s “Clay Canyon” — it delivers that rich warm hue with two even coats. Finish with CND’s Shellac Top Coat for a long-lasting glossy shine that survives even through hot summer nights and poolside parties.
Application is super straightforward: basic prep, two layers of color, full curing, and your top coat to lock everything in. It’s low-maintenance, chip-resistant, and absolutely summer-proof.
I recently wore this to a late-summer garden wedding, and people couldn’t stop asking where I got them done. According to editorial manicurist Alicia Torello, these colors are “grown-up pinks” that give you elegance and still let your personality shine. That sums it up perfectly.
Ocean-Inspired Blue French Abstracts
Now this is where summer truly comes alive. The mix of marine blues, abstract waves and soft empty space creates a strong vacation atmosphere. The artwork is so detailed that it looks like coral reefs under a crashing wave. It’s playful, highly detailed, and surprisingly wearable, perfect for anyone who wants their nails to become a true conversation piece while sipping iced coffee on a coastal boardwalk.
I suggest starting with Aprés Gel-X extensions in coffin shape for that dramatic length. Use a range of blues: OPI’s “My Pal Joey” for the mid-tones, The GelBottle Inc’s “Sky Blue” for the light shades, and “Midnight Blue” for depth. A fine detail brush allows you to create those oceanic swirl patterns, while tiny rhinestones add that shimmer, like droplets on the waves.
First, apply the nude base and cure fully. After that, draw abstract waves by hand and add different shades to create a sense of movement. End the process by using dotting tools for decorations and cover the whole piece with a glossy top coat. This one’s definitely not for rushed mornings — but it’s so worth the patience.
I actually saved a similar design from a post by nail artist Britney Tokyo — she calls marine nail art “mini sea sculptures.” When summer’s in full swing, I say: let your nails dive deep, too.
Blackberry Velvet Cat-Eye
There’s something hypnotic about this deep blackberry cat-eye design. The polish looks different as you move it in the light, giving it a soft and velvety appearance, just like silk catching moonlight. It’s sultry without feeling too heavy for summer nights. This is perfect for those rooftop evenings, jazz bars, or intimate dinners where you want your nails to feel rich and magnetic.
For this effect, I love Born Pretty’s Magnetic Gel in “Blackcurrant.” Apply over a black gel base for full depth. You’ll need a strong cat-eye magnet to manipulate the shimmer — hold it above the nail right after applying the magnetic coat but before curing.
The trick here is patience: move the magnet gently until you’re happy with the stripe’s positioning, then cure immediately. After setting the shimmer, seal with a high-gloss top coat to give it that almost mirror-like shine.
I rocked this look for an August outdoor concert last year and felt like my nails were little mood rings all evening. Manicurist Sarah Bland has described cat-eye designs as “the perfect mix of hypnotic glamour and subtle drama” — and yes, that’s exactly the vibe here.
Hand-Painted Pink Wildflowers
Floral designs never really go out of style, but this hand-painted wildflower art feels extra romantic. The mix of pink, deep purple and tiny yellow makes every nail a little canvas. It’s playful and perfectly balanced for summer vacations, bridal showers, or even backyard brunches with your girlfriends.
I always start with a nude-pink base like OPI’s “Bare My Soul” — it creates the perfect soft backdrop. Then I use nail art gel paints for the flowers: The GelBottle Inc’s “Pink Peony,” “Amethyst,” and a pop of “Sunny Yellow” for those cute flower centers.
The secret is layering: start with the lighter petal colors, cure, then build dimension with darker accents. By using a fine liner brush, you can draw petals exactly as you want and dotting tools make it easy to create the perfect center of each flower. Finish with a glossy top coat to make every bloom shine.
I actually discovered this design when my friend brought me back from a nail salon in Malibu — her tech said, “Wildflowers are 2025’s answer to French tips.” Honestly? They feel just as timeless, but way more playful.
Pink Diamond Dust Ombré
Here’s the glittery pink fantasy that absolutely glows under summer light. The transition from pale pink to sparkling diamond dust glitter is soft, yet it really stands out. Great for bridal showers, summer weddings or if you want your nails to look like jewelry. This belongs squarely in the **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** if you crave sparkle without going full disco ball.
For the base, I recommend using The GelBottle Inc’s “Dolly BIAB” for that sheer pink. The glitter comes from applying a thin layer of Daily Charme’s “Diamond Dust” loose glitter, gently patted into the still-tacky second coat.
The ombré is best done using a soft makeup sponge: gently dab the glitter starting from the tip, blending upward toward the center for a seamless gradient. Finish with a thick glossy top coat for maximum sparkle reflection.
I wore a similar style for a friend’s beach wedding, and the way they shimmered under sunset was unreal. Celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt calls this type of design “elevated sparkle — the grown-up way to wear glitter,” and honestly, she’s nailed it.
Mochaccino Neutral Luxe
Let’s close this round with a pure classic. Its glossy and rich finish gives this mochaccino brown a very sophisticated look. It’s that perfect “quiet luxury” vibe everyone’s been chasing lately. No sparkle, no embellishment — just flawless, chic simplicity that feels equally right for boardroom meetings and Sunday brunches.
For this rich tone, I love CND Shellac’s “Field Fox” — the balance between beige and mauve makes it universally flattering. Two coats give full, creamy coverage, sealed with CND’s Shellac Top Coat for that sleek, high-gloss finish.
Application couldn’t be simpler: apply, cure, repeat, top coat, done. This is one of those designs that always looks expensive without trying too hard, and it holds up beautifully for weeks.
I’ve found this shade to be my personal go-to for client meetings or city weekends. Jin Soon Choi calls these colors “wardrobe staples” because they are neutral but always look polished. She couldn’t have said it better.
Neon Summer French Pop
This one is for the girls who aren’t afraid to play. The bright neon yellow and pink accents give the French design a summery feel. The modern look of the coffin is balanced by the shiny, nude base. Beach parties, pool days or tropical trips are all wonderful times to enjoy this music. This design screams **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** — fun, daring, and totally on trend.
To get this look, I start with The GelBottle Inc’s “Nude BIAB” for a flawless base. For the neon, I go with “Electric Daisy” (yellow) and “Pink Punch” (hot pink), both from DND Gel. Their pigmentation makes achieving those sharp, vibrant tips much easier.
The technique is fairly simple with a bit of patience: after applying the base and curing, use a fine liner brush to paint your neon French tips, carefully tracing the smile lines before filling in. Cure each layer, and finish with a thick top coat for that glassy, vibrant finish that practically glows under summer sunlight.
I rocked a similar set at a beach club party last July and got compliments even from strangers passing by. Nail artist Tom Bachik once said, “Neon French tips are like summer in a bottle,” and honestly, he’s absolutely right.
Soft Baby Pink Classic Coffin
Some designs are simply timeless. This soft baby pink coffin shape delivers that fresh, polished feel perfect for any occasion — whether you’re attending a summer wedding, brunch, or just want something effortlessly pretty. The length makes it look dramatic and the cream color suits everyone. This is that **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** for anyone craving simplicity that still makes a statement.
My go-to for this shade is OPI’s “Let’s Be Friends” — it’s the perfect baby pink with full coverage in two coats. To get that super sleek shine, I always finish with Gelish’s Top It Off top coat.
Application is simple: two even coats, cure each layer, and seal with the top coat. It’s low-maintenance, long-lasting, and works beautifully even after weeks of wear — ideal for summer travels when you want worry-free nails.
I wore this exact color combo for a friend’s bridal shower last June, and my hands instantly felt so polished and ready for endless selfies. According to manicurist Julie Kandalec, baby pink is the perfect white tee of nail polish because it goes with any outfit. She’s right.
Blush Glitter French With Golden V-Tips
Here’s a design that blends softness with a hint of luxury. A nude pink base is combined with glittery blush tips which are defined by thin gold V-shaped lines. The almond shape makes the fingers look longer and more elegant. It’s romantic, chic, and just the right amount of extra for summer weddings or engagement parties.
For the base, I love Aprés Gel-X “Natural Almond” extensions paired with GelBottle Inc’s “Petal” for that soft pink tone. The glitter tips can be achieved with fine blush glitter powders from Daily Charme, while gold striping tape or metallic gel liners create that precise V-line border.
Start with your full pink base and cure. Brush or sprinkle glitter polish or powder on the tip and press it down for even application. Trace the V-tip with gold gel paint using a liner brush, cure it and finish the look with a thick glossy top coat. It’s a little detailed, but totally worth it.
I actually saw a similar version at Paris Fashion Week on the runway models — minimal but eye-catching. Nail artist Betina Goldstein calls these types of manicures “quiet drama” — perfectly said.
Bubblegum Pink Meets White Contrast
This design brings a fresh twist to classic pink with a pop of solid white for contrast. Because of the sweet pink and bright white, it has a modern and fun look without being too over the top. It’s an easy everyday option that still feels summer-fresh, ideal for coffee runs or sunset dinners on the patio.
For this combo, I love using Gelish’s “Pink Smoothie” paired with their bright white “Arctic Freeze.” Both give excellent full coverage in just two coats, and the formula self-levels for that salon-perfect finish even at home.
After prepping and shaping your nails, apply two coats of each color, alternating between the pink and white. Make sure the coats are fully cured and add a glossy top coat that does not need to be wiped. The result? Crisp, shiny, and totally wearable all summer long.
I wore this style during a weekend getaway to Napa Valley, and my nails matched every outfit I packed. Celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt often says that “adding a pop of white keeps pink nails feeling fresh and updated,” and I couldn’t agree more.
Green Mosaic Luxe with Gold Detailing
Finally, let’s talk elevated nail art. This design, with its beautiful mix of sage, mint and emerald colors, looks very luxurious thanks to the golden accents. Its almond shape gives it a feminine look and the metallic outlines placed uniquely show both old and new influences. This is definitely **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** for the girl who wants something unique and artsy yet refined.
I’d start with Aprés Gel-X almond extensions for length and flexibility. The base colors come from The GelBottle Inc’s “Eucalyptus,” “Green Olive,” and “Mint Condition.” The gold lines are created using metallic gel paint or fine gold foil striping tapes from Daily Charme.
The process involves carefully sectioning off each area, painting the green segments individually, and then outlining them with thin gold details. Flash curing between layers helps maintain crisp, clean lines. Seal with a heavy top coat for that ultra-glossy finish that makes every color pop under sunlight.
When I first tried this design, it instantly reminded me of those intricate tile patterns in upscale Mediterranean villas. Chaun Legend describes mosaic nails as pieces of art that are eye-catching, unique and sure to start conversations. Couldn’t have said it better myself.
Chocolate Almond Perfection
Let’s dive into the rich, cozy side of summer with this glossy chocolate almond design. Its rich brown color gives off a stylish yet light feel, making it ideal for evenings when the air is cool but the style is still hot. This is one of those **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** looks that transitions beautifully from poolside cocktails to candlelit dinners.
For this tone, I’m completely obsessed with CND Shellac’s “Fedora” — a rich, creamy chocolate that applies like butter. Apply two coats, cure, and top it off with a no-wipe gel top coat to bring out that rich glossy finish that practically reflects the sunlight.
What I love most about this shade is how easy it is to wear with neutrals, whites, and even brighter summer colors. It’s a secret weapon for when you want something classy that still feels a bit unexpected in summer.
I wore this during a long weekend in Napa last August, and my hands felt like little luxury accessories in every photo. Manicurist Jin Soon Choi often says, “Deep browns create an effortless wealth vibe,” and honestly? I couldn’t agree more.
Neon Lime Veins on Soft Pink
Talk about electric summer energy! The combination of soft pink and neon lime green veins in this design makes it look trendy, surprising and perfect for sharing on Instagram. It gives a touch of rebellion while still being elegant. The almond shape keeps it feminine while the acid-bright veins scream fun, perfect for festival weekends or poolside selfies.
I recommend GelBottle Inc’s “Dolly” for that perfect soft pink base. For the neon lime detailing, use LeChat’s “Neon Lights Collection” — specifically the lime shade — with a fine liner brush for precision.
Apply the pink base, cure fully, then paint your organic lime swirls freehand, allowing the shape to feel natural and wavy. Cure between layers to avoid smudging, and finish with a thick glossy top coat to make those neon accents glow even brighter in sunlight.
I saw a version of this design at last year’s Lollapalooza — it completely captured that summer electric vibe. According to Mei Kawajiri, adding neon to your nails makes you feel like you’re at a festival without needing a wristband. So true.
Soft Opal Chrome Glow
We’re heading into fairy-tale territory now. The soft opal chrome finish gives off a special glow, as if the light from morning sun is reflecting off seashells. Based on the lighting conditions, you can see pink, green and blue shimmers moving on the water’s surface. Delicate but far from boring, it’s absolutely perfect for weddings, honeymoons, or those ultra-glam summer nights.
I always begin with The GelBottle Inc’s “Marshmallow” for the milky pink base. The chrome shine comes from applying Daily Charme’s “Aurora Unicorn Chrome Powder” using a sponge applicator, gently buffing over the tacky layer before sealing with a no-wipe top coat.
Application is all about soft pressure and even buffing to avoid streaks. The more you buff, the stronger the opalescent shine glows, creating that subtle seashell glow perfect for any summer event.
I wore this design for a beach wedding last June, and every time my hands caught the sunlight, it felt magical. Nail artist Zola Ganzorigt always says, “Chrome finishes give your nails a jewelry-like reflection,” and this one proves it effortlessly.
Full Rainbow Chrome Fantasy
Now we’re stepping into full-on unicorn glam. The rainbow chrome design seems to shine with sunshine, showing different colors like lavender, gold and pink as the light hits it. It’s playful, bold, and screams vacation mood — ideal for tropical getaways, pool parties, or simply anytime you want your nails to steal the spotlight.
Start with The GelBottle Inc’s “Dolly BIAB” base, then buff in the Daily Charme “Rainbow Chrome Powder.” Depending on your light angle, you’ll catch the full pastel spectrum shimmering across the surface.
The key to this finish is even buffing and multiple light layers of chrome to build the shift. I like to seal it with two coats of top coat for an ultra-glossy, protective shell that holds up through summer adventures.
I actually wore this design on my trip to Tulum last summer and couldn’t stop staring at my nails during every sunset. According to Chaun Legend, rainbow chrome is not only a type of nail polish, but it also reflects your mood. And he’s absolutely right.
Cotton Candy Dream Ombre
We’re wrapping up this set with pure summer sweetness. Mixing lavender, pink and white in a soft way reminds me of enjoying a cotton candy slushie on a warm day. If you want something soft but noticeable, the pastel fade is ideal for summer, brunch or a wedding. Another **long summer nail inspo youll love 2025** you’ll want to screenshot ASAP.
I recommend starting with a neutral pink base like OPI’s “Put It In Neutral.” The gradient is created with The GelBottle Inc’s pastel gel polishes: “Orchid,” “Pastel Pink,” and “Porcelain White,” applied using a makeup sponge for seamless blending.
Layer and cure each blend gradually for that soft cloud-like fade. After your ombre is complete, seal with a high-gloss top coat to lock in the colors and give your nails that candy-like shine.
I saw this dreamy blend featured on Pinterest all summer long last year. According to Harriet Westmoreland, pastel gradients are the new trendy nude, as they suit everyone and make your nails look unique and attractive on social media. Nailed it, literally.
