Oval Nail Inspo for Summer 2025 Looks That Feel Fresh, Chic & Totally You
Does summer make anyone else want to get a new manicure? When your skin is warm from the sun, you have a cool drink and you’re feeling happy, your nails seem to shine on their own. Now, the trend is to look elegant with a hint of simplicity, not just to have any manicure. And nothing fits that brief quite like oval nails. What are the most adorable, eye-catching and Pinterest-worthy oval nail ideas for the summer? Ready to go? You’ll want to keep more than one of these for your own reference.
Glossy Petal Pink for Soft Summer Days
There’s something special and easy about the way this glossy petal pink manicure looks. The nails are given a classic oval shape, so there isn’t any sharpness in the design. Its base is milky and the color is warm pink which creates a soft and almost see-through candy-like effect. It’s the tone that’s not too light or too bright — it’s like a little bit of summer in your skin. The surface is very shiny, reflecting light just as a dewy cheek does. If brunch on a breezy patio had a bottle, it would look like this.
Use a base coat, like OPI Infinite Shine Primer and then apply two coats of Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” mixed with a drop of Orly’s “Pink Diamond” for a brighter finish. Top it with a gel-gloss top coat (I swear by Seche Vite or Dior Gel Coat). The trick? Smooth the nail down with a buffer before applying shine, as the shine effect will be much better.
I’ve gone for this shade of pink when I wanted to look safe, but not dull. It makes me feel like my hands are cleaner, soft and more delicate. This shade shows me that you don’t have to make a big statement to be noticed. I like to wear this color when I want people to notice me and not just my fingernails.
Almond Nude with a Runway Edge
This almond-shaped nude manicure is where chic meets sharp. The shape is longer than a regular oval, so it acts as a hybrid between classic and edgy and it makes your fingers look both slimmer and longer. The color? A soft dusty rose-nude which has cool undertones and makes the color appear slightly mysterious and elegant. Think “I’m fresh off the runway in Milan” but I didn’t even make an effort. The polished look of the finish enhances the basic design of the piece. It’s giving clean-girl aesthetic with attitude.
For this look at home, try using Olive & June’s “CCT” or Zoya’s “Joss” nail polish which has a touch of mauve in its nude shade. Use a 180-grit buffer to shape your nails into ovals and if you want a salon-style curve, paint the polish on in three steps: first the center, then the sides and always finish by capping the edge. Apply a topcoat that lasts all day and I prefer Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro.
This is a manicure that you can wear with any outfit. I’ve put it on for a wedding as well as for a trip to the store. It holds space in both worlds. And if I’m being honest? I grab for this color when I want to dress up but not make it obvious. It’s timeless, but never boring.
Creamy Porcelain White for High-Contrast Minimalism
White nails for summer? Always. However, this color — soft, creamy and a little warm — seems especially high-end. This is not like correction fluid with its sharp white color; it has no chalky feel. It is not pure white; it is a milky porcelain that shines like a pearl. The oval shape is short to medium which makes it look tidy and never too loud. This is the kind of manicure that whispers confidence. It’s got a bit of a clean look, a touch of retro and is very much by design.
I have tried many off-white polishes and OPI’s “Funny Bunny” always gets it right. It is thin enough to put on top of other colors, but it still gives a soft and opaque finish with just two coats. A drop of sheer pink is sometimes added to the first coat to make the manicure warmer. Always use a thin brush with acetone to clean the cuticle area — it gives the nails a polished look.
This color always gives me a sense of being more together. Maybe it’s the simplicity. It might be that it looks good with any outfit you wear. The nails become the focus, so I don’t need to worry about what to wear.
Latte Beige with a Hint of Blush
If neutral could have a summer romance, this would be the one. This oval-shaped manicure is a barely-there latte beige which makes it look soft and pinky-nude, like a coffee with just a hint of cream. The elongation of the nail is just right and the sheer shade keeps it looking natural. It’s not one of those “your-nails-but-better” looks. It’s more “your-nails-but-make-it-designer.” This color is found in the middle of pink, beige and peach — it looks good on every skin tone.
I swear by Sundays’ “L01” for this tone, though Hermès Nail Enamel in “Rose Porcelaine” also gets pretty close if you’re going luxe. A thin first layer and a thicker second one create the rich, creamy look of the paint. The trick to making neutrals pop? Go heavy on hydration. A fresh layer of cuticle oil (I love CND SolarOil) makes the whole thing feel expensive.
This is what I choose when I can’t decide what to wear or when I don’t want my nails to match my mood each day. It looks like a new, light and expensive style, but without the worry of color. Sometimes less really is more.
Pink Opal Shine That Catches the Light
I’m in love with this version of white: a glowing opalescent pink-white nail color. The shape is gently curved, the size is easy to wear, but the finish is really impressive. The color changes slightly from pink to white to silvery shimmer as you move the stone. It’s like the nail version of a seashell’s inner glow. If summer could put its light into a bottle, this would be it — gentle, bright and always changing a little based on the sun’s position.
It takes some skill to put together this look at home. I normally apply Essie’s “Marshmallow” first, then add a glaze of Zoya’s “Leia” or ILNP’s “Birthday Suit”. Try to paint with smooth, thin layers so the iridescence has space to shine. End with a high-gloss topcoat to preserve the beautiful shine.
I’ve taken this to the beach and also worn it to a bridal shower for a friend. It works dressed up or down. Whenever I see it, it reminds me of a bit of sunlight caught in glass and that feels so nice to have.
Pastel Peony for Classic Femininity
This manicure is all about timeless charm. The combination of a soft peony pink and an oval shape gives a romantic summer novel feel. There is no loudness here; only elegance, softness and a polish that speaks softly. With its length and the light-colored fabric, it can be worn at picnics or for quick chores. It provides “clean and intentional” power and the baby pink looks great with both warm and cool undertones.
When I want a finish that is not very sheer, I usually go for OPI’s “Mod About You” to achieve this look. You can enhance the pastel just a bit by adding a tiny amount of Zoya’s “Dot” without changing the feminine effect.
Wearing a color like this just feels very comforting. It feels familiar — in the best way. It makes me think of the springtime polish my mom would wear, but it always seems like a brand new experience for me.
Rosy Nude for Low-Key Luxe
This nail style looks like my own, but even better and in a very elegant way. This color is a mix of dusty rose and beige and it shines like glass because of the sheer jelly-like gloss. It’s subtle, sure, but it’s also deliberate. The kind of polish you’d choose for a job interview or a meeting with your ex — where you want to seem cool and put-together. Because the length is short and oval, it feels natural and not too casual.
The reason it’s such a wearable color is that it’s easy to blend — I prefer Butter London’s “Mum’s the Word” or Essie’s “Topless & Barefoot” for a rosy-beige finish. Before anything else, use a nail strengthener to make the foundation shine and then apply two very thin layers. Seal the look with a quick-dry top coat.
This color helps me get through busy times because it doesn’t chip, it looks great with a tan and it always fits in. It’s quiet luxury in nail form.
Wine Red Drama for Sunset Evenings
This deep wine red is pure confidence. It’s a strong color, it’s elegant and it seems like the type of shade you’d wear with red lipstick and gold hoops. The oval shape and sharp edge make the bold color look modern and elegant. Such a manicure can make people notice your hands even when you’re wearing a simple outfit. Rather than just wearing it in the winter, this color on a short-to-mid oval nail in summer brings out a rich tone that looks great with bronzed skin.
My go-to shade for this kind of depth? OPI’s “Malaga Wine”. It’s creamy, it’s moody, and it never streaks. Each time you use a dark polish, be sure to push the cuticles back and allow for a clean edge — this makes your manicure more professional.
I chose this color for a beach trip last year which surprised me. But paired with white linen and gold jewelry? The contrast was next-level. Summer reds don’t always have to be coral. At times, a bit of drama is just what makes the season special.
Soft Vanilla Cream with a Hint of Pink
It fits in with the “barely there” manicure trend this year, but it has a little pink added to make it more noticeable. The long oval shape makes the hand look elegant and because the color is so neutral, it matches most things. This is your “French vanilla milkshake meets clean girl summer” kind of nail polish. It’s subtle, cozy, and a bit nostalgic. When you hope your nails look new yet go easy on the effort, nail polish is your best friend.
Mixing “Bubble Bath” from OPI with a single layer of “Vanity Fairest” from Essie gives me the creamy translucent look I like. The basic step is to use a primer that fills all the ridges to prevent any texture from showing up. A high-gloss gel topcoat really makes the nails stand out.
I choose mustard as my favorite color when I am wearing white cozy clothes or going early in the morning. It makes everything look put-together without much work which is what we all secretly want.
Pink Milk Tea for a Cozy-Summer Mood
The color is between neutral and nostalgic. The oval shape, brief length and creamy pinkish-beige color give off a warm and easygoing Sunday feeling. It is simple, cozy and understated, yet still looks elegant. The way the color shines in the light is just like satin. It’s a nice place between nude and pastel, with a gentle elegance. Ideal for slow days and soft outfits.
It reminds me of Zoya’s “Erika” with a sheer beige base like Essie’s “Mademoiselle”. You should add each layer of polish slowly and let it dry which helps create the creamy finish without any streaks.
When I’m in between feeling bold and feeling bare, this is the color I like best. Just cozy, casual, and softly radiant. It’s low-maintenance in the best possible way.
Soft French With a Rounded Edge
Even though a French manicure is always lovely, adding a soft oval shape and thin white tip to it makes it feel brand new for summer 2025. It keeps the classic beauty and adds a hint of modern style. The base color is a soft pink that smoothly moves into the white tips which makes your nails look neat and polished, even if you’ve had a hectic week.
I usually begin with a sheer pink gel such as OPI’s Bubble Bath or Essie’s Mademoiselle, to achieve the right look without making the nails too dark. Tips require a super-fine brush and a clear white gel such as Gelish Arctic Freeze. The oval shape itself isn’t just aesthetic—it’s practical too. It makes the fingers longer and is less likely to chip than square or coffin-shaped nails.
A steady hand is the most important tool when doing a French tip. If I’m short on time, I stick on curved French tip stickers, but on calm Sunday nights, I like to do my nails without the stickers which I find quite soothing. For top coat, go for something glossy but quick-drying. I always pick Seche Vite when I want my nails to shine like they’ve been done at the salon but I’m in a hurry.
It’s amazing how easy things can make us feel so pampered. This manicure reminds me of drinking chilled rosé, wearing open-backed dresses and feeling the first soft breezes on my skin with freckles. I think it’s the ideal way to move into the longer, sunnier days. Isn’t that the whole point of this summer 2025 nail trend—a moment of relief?
Milky Ombré for a Whispery Glow
Having an ombré fade on your nails is almost like your hands have been touched by clouds. The design uses both transparency and softness, making it very wearable and still stylish. The color starts as a translucent blush pink close to the cuticle and becomes a hazy white at the tip. It’s like a barely-there French, reimagined for dreamers.
To build this look, I typically blend two polishes with a sponge—starting with a soft pink base (try The GelBottle Inc’s “Petal” or CND’s “Beau”) and dabbing a sheer white like “Coconut Milk” from DND over the top third. After that, I smoothly use the makeup sponge to blend the white about halfway down. It’s like creating a watercolor wash on your nails.
This one does take a little patience. Add several layers of paint, giving each a little time to dry before you add the next. Finally, apply a glossy gel top coat to get the shine where the colors blend. If you’ve ever loved Kourtney Kardashian’s simple summer nail colors, this is a great way to get that effect.
When I step out in this style, people ask to see it up close and it’s especially noticeable in the sun, where the ombré highlights look like a shimmer filter in real life. There’s a peaceful feeling to it and when everything else is busy, that calm is very special.
Classic Rose Pink Done Right
Some of the best summer nail designs are the plainest ones. The soft rose-pink color of this polish looks good with almost any outfit. Wearing denim shorts or a linen jumpsuit, the necklace gives the overall outfit this gentle, romantic touch. And when it’s paired with an oval nail? It’s like quiet luxury made visible.
When I want this tone, I usually go for Zoya’s “Mara” or Olive & June’s “RG.” They’re the perfect mix: they’re not too pale, not too bright and they last a long time. It also suits every skin tone wonderfully which is not common for such a pink color.
It’s simple to use at home, no need to use gradient or layering techniques. Just two coats, a clean topcoat, and done. You don’t even need nail art or embellishment here. The glossy finish alone gives it that glassy, healthy nail effect that screams “I drink water and get 8 hours of sleep” (even if I don’t always).
Last year on my trip to Napa, the only polish that didn’t chip during wine tastings and cheese platters was this one. After that, I often turn to it when I’m stuck for ideas. What I like best is that it doesn’t try too hard, but still helps you feel confident. That’s what I think nails should look like for summer 2025.
Celestial Gold Stars and Side-Tipped French
If soft glam had a cousin who was into astrology and champagne, this would be her. The base is a soft nude color and the tips are white and curved like crescent moons. But the real magic? Small gold stars and dots are scattered over the top, making the nails look like a cute constellation.
You will need nail foil or metallic studs and a very fine brush for the curved French tips. I started with Sally Hansen’s “Sheer Blush” as the base and I finished with OPI’s Alpine Snow on the tips. The stars are from a small nail decal set I bought on Amazon and I’ve had it for a very long time. Just be sure to seal everything in with a thick gel top coat or you’ll lose the shine (and the stars) by day three.
I like that this look is both gentle and bold at the same time. You have the basics for balance, but the details add a little surprise. It’s giving dreamy evening rooftop, but also golden-hour brunch. Ideal for weddings, vacations or any time you want to feel a bit special.
I wore this design last summer to a backyard engagement party and people complimented my nails more than my dress. That never happens. If what you want is a summery fairytale, this is a film you won’t want to miss.
Blushed Nude Elegance
Sometimes the quietest statement can speak the loudest. This barely pink shade is glossed to perfection which makes your nails seem very elegant. On oval nails, the elegance is dialed all the way up—perfect for the kind of summer where you’re all about breezy sophistication instead of anything bold.
I choose Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” or DND’s “Rose Petal” when I want this type of polish. They both have just enough color to be noticeable but not too much. For a glossy finish, I start with a rubber base coat, add the polish and finish with a glass top coat. You’ll see that your food keeps for a much longer time like this.
This design is low-fuss but high-reward. It’s great for people who travel a lot or have many events in a row, since it won’t conflict with anything. You don’t need to be concerned about regrowth, because these colors are very forgiving even as your nails become longer.
Whenever I want to escape from everything, this is the style I go for. It’s peaceful, clean, and just a little romantic. So, isn’t that the very mood we’re hoping to achieve with oval nail trends for summer 2025? Calm, but not boring. Chic, but not loud. Timeless, always.
Glossy Nude With a Stiletto Twist
Let’s make the shape a bit more interesting by widening it a little. It gives a touch of almond and stiletto, but the main shape is still a soft oval. The real highlight is the super glossy nude pink color. It’s a stylish neutral that shows confidence without having to speak loudly.
This clean look isn’t possible without doing the right preparation first. To make my nails look better and strong, I use a rub around base before coating them. The color? Sweet Candy Breath from Think Bio Sculpture and Put It in Neutral from OPI are some examples. Both products leave you looking like you have a creamy, natural pink lip with full coverage after two coats.
Taking care of your cuticles is very important if you’re doing this at home. Before shaping the nails, I first use cuticle oil to soften the cuticles. Follow with a base coat, two layers of polish and finish with a no-wipe gel topcoat to achieve a mirror shine. Trust me, don’t skip the topcoat—especially in summer sun.
This is how I do my nails when I want to look stylish and strong, but not too bold. It’s a bit like a fashionable trench coat for your nails, sleek, classy and a little bit mysterious.
Soft Yellow French for a Sunny Pop
Let’s focus on color, but let it be gentle, fun and something you can wear all day. This yellow-tipped French mani is pure joy. The tips are shaped like soft pastel lemons which fit the oval shape nicely. It’s like your nails are smiling. A blush-colored base will make your nails look both cute and cool in the summer.
For this look, use a good pastel yellow and you can try “Lemonade Stand” by Lights Lacquer or “Banana Cream” by Cirque Colors. Paint the curve with a striping brush and put a sheer pink or milky beige base underneath. Because of its unique warmth and softness, I believe “Fairy Floss” by DND is perfect for this.
This mani is more forgiving than you’d think. You can eyeball the curve (don’t stress), and clean up any slips with a fine angled brush dipped in acetone. Seal the yellow-tipped nails with another layer of topcoat to make sure the color does not fade in the sunlight.
Whenever I put on this outfit, someone always asks me where I had it done. It’s playful without being loud. Isn’t that the mood everyone wants to have this summer?
Dusty Mauve Minimalism
Dusty mauve is found somewhere between pink and grey and it looks effortlessly cool. Depending on the lighting, it can appear warm, cool or just chic. For softly tapered oval nails, less really is more. No frills, just vibe.
I usually pick “Mauve Maverick” from Olive & June or “Eiffel for You” by OPI when I’m looking for this style. I especially like that this color looks great with every material, including denim, gold, silver and linen. It’s a quiet workhorse with polish.
The application is as easy as it looks. Apply two thin coats with time for drying in between and then finish with a glossy topcoat. I like to push back my cuticles and put on a ridge-filling base so the surface is smooth before I start.
Putting this on always makes me feel low-key, stress-free and a little bit secretive. It’s like having a manicure that fits you just like a well-worn denim jacket.
Glossy Wine for Bold Evenings
Deep wine shades in the summer? Yes, please. There’s something so unexpected and sultry about going dark in a season ruled by brights. This polish with its berry color and high shine is a strong choice. Even on oval nails, the look is more polished and less punk.
I always choose “Malaga Wine” by OPI or “Desire” from CND’s Shellac line to get this look. They both have pigment that maintains its depth when exposed to light. The gloss? I use a glass-finish gel top coat, called “Top It Off,” from Gelish.
File your nails into a clean oval shape first, because this color highlights all the edges. Polishing the nails twice and being careful with your hand are necessary. And if you’re going all out? After everything is dry, use cuticle oil to make your nails stand out.
I chose this color for a beach dinner date in July and I loved it. The warm breeze, candlelight and silk dress were all nice, but these nails were the real stars. This summer, we should have energy that is confident, surprising and impossible to forget. This is one of the styles I like best from the summer 2025 oval nail inspo line.
Rose Chrome Dream
And now for the drama! This pink chrome is just like mirror sunglasses for nails—it’s reflective, stands out and you can’t help but notice it. It’s a rose color, but it has a shiny, modern look that makes it feel edgy. Almond-oval nails give a polished and modern look, but they are still gentle and suitable for summer.
This isn’t your average polish job. To achieve it, you’ll need a pink base (something like DND’s “Peony Blush”), topped with chrome powder in rose or blush pink. Apply the topcoat with a sponge applicator once your no-wipe gel topcoat has set a little. The magic happens fast—and wow, does it pop.
Chrome nails are a bit more difficult, but they make a big difference. They are more durable than regular nail polish and your nails stay shiny. If your nails tend to stain, put on two coats of base coat before painting.
This mani is a total mood. I wore it at a summer music festival and it shone with every hand gesture and dance step. Honestly, it felt like having jewelry on my fingertips. Should you want to take a thrilling shot, this is the one to go for.
Soft Petal Pink for Everyday Chic
The classic pink oval nails have a gentle look that makes them feel perfect for summer. The color is not too far from a cool-toned rose which gives it a natural and polished effect that resembles a simple, elegant outfit on your nails. Because of its oval shape, the sandal makes our feet look longer and adds a gentle touch that suits the spring and summer seasons.
You might try doing this again using OPI’s “Let’s Be Friends” or Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” — both are well-known for a good reason. The glossy topcoat such as Seche Vite or Essie Gel Couture, makes the look stand out and look refined.
If you’re going DIY, the key is prepping the cuticles and filing gently into a natural oval (not too sharp, not too round). A base coat, a color coat and a topcoat with shine and you’re ready for brunch or the beach. Nail techs like @betina_goldstein often preach the importance of nail hydration before any polish, and she’s right — oil those cuticles!
I go for this manicure when I want to be quietly chic — like, “I didn’t overdo it, but I did get the best table.” It goes well with breezy linen or a sleek ponytail. It’s simple, but in the best way.
Sunset Chrome Fade
This ombré chrome coloring, from sheer to peach, looks like summer sunsets. The color starts with a neutral pink and fades into a shimmery golden orange, just like the light at golden hour. The shimmer is not very strong but adds depth and it looks best when the sun hits your skin.
You’ll want a neutral sheer base (like Essie’s “Mademoiselle”) and a chrome pigment in peach or rose gold. Daily Charme and Holo Taco are brands that sell chrome powders that apply very smoothly. A sponge or brush makes it easier to blend the pigment so it fades at the end.
Begin with the base shade, make sure it dries and then press the chrome from the middle of the nail to the tip with a sponge applicator. Add a gel or non-wipe top coat and let it dry before curing again if the instructions say so. Nail artist Zola Ganzorigt (yes, Hailey Bieber’s manicurist) recommends using chrome over sheer polish for that ethereal glazed effect — and she invented the donut glaze trend, so we trust her.
It appears both fun and elegant, as if you’re naturally glowing without any highlighter. I wore the same style on a weekend in Charleston and people complimented my nails more than my clothes. Not mad about it.
Pastel Lilac Pop
This lilac color is bold, shiny and makes nails feel extra happy. The round shape gives the bag a soft feel and the color makes it stand out. It’s the kind of polish that makes you want to get a lavender iced latte to fit your mood.
If you want this style, choose polishes like “Lilacism” by Essie or “Don’t Be Shy” by Lights Lacquer. Because these are creamy, not sheer, you usually need two coats to reach full coverage. The finish stays juicy and plush because of the gel-like topcoat used.
Lilac shades may sometimes leave streaks which is why it’s a good idea to use a ridge-filling base coat, especially if your nails are uneven. Use a small angled brush and remover to clean up the edges for a professional result.
This color just makes me happy. It’s like vacation in a bottle. I’ve worn it for drinks on rooftops and for shopping at Target and it fits in every situation. It helps you remember that every day is a good day to have fun.
Glossy Merlot Mood
Moody colors like deep red can be worn any time, as this short, squared-off oval manicure shows. The difference in colors looks great on tanned skin and the glossy finish makes it look fresh and trendy.
If I want a deeper, cooler color, I usually choose “Bordeaux” from Essie or “Wicked” for that purpose. If you are looking for gel that lasts longer, go for CND’s Shellac in “Dark Dahlia.” It’s timeless and dramatic in the best way.
When everyone else is wearing light colors, putting on a dark polish is unexpected, classy and a little bit daring. Go for a shorter nail style with this shade, so you don’t get a too-strong or darker look.
I tried this makeup before a dinner date and I felt like I was the star of my own movie. It’s sultry but not screaming. Like a silk slip dress in nail form. Unexpected? Yes. But absolutely worth it.
Gold-Lined Soft Blush
Its combination of blush pink and gold foil at the tips makes it a delicate, luxurious and summery choice for a soirée. The gold is not perfect, but it’s a bit dreamy and cosmic which gives it a hand-made feel. The mix of pale pink and gold trim gives a lovely, subtle touch of glamour.
Pick Chanel’s “Ballerina” or Zoya’s “Dot” to get the sheer blush polish look. You may use transfer foil sheets or gold leaf flakes for the gold foil. Static Nails can be used on both bare nails and nails with polish.
This is more about feeling it than mastering a certain technique. Don’t worry about making the foil symmetrical; let the tips of the leaves have different shapes. A thick top coat at the end will protect the texture and give it a glassy effect.
I’m obsessed with this one. That’s what I’d put on for a wedding in the yard, with a glass of champagne and my hair loose. A touch of romance, some creativity and completely charming without making an effort.
Modern Bubblegum Minimalism
This bubblegum pink is fun but still quite polished. The oval shape brings out the softness in the bold color, making it feel modern for 2025. It’s straightforward, has a nice creamy finish and looks like a classic white t-shirt on your nails.
This kind of polish requires the perfect shade. You might like “Mod About You” from OPI or “Pink Happy” from Static Nails for that gentle and cheerful effect. Always apply a ridge-filling base coat, since the high-gloss finish is only possible with a very smooth surface.
I believe applying two thin layers of polish, not thick ones, helps pink look light and not heavy. Pro tip? Add a UV topcoat on top of your regular polish to make your nails look professionally sealed.
I chose this color for a relaxed brunch on the roof with some big sunnies and linen pants. A friend of mine actually told me, “Wait, your nails are what really catches my eye,” and I think they’re right. I couldn’t have planned it better.
Cotton Candy Oval Romance
The pink ovals look longer and are shaped like cotton candy that has been twisted into form. Its tone is really light, so it looks soft and dreamy, whether you’re out for coffee or relaxing at home.
Use a high-coverage gel or hybrid polish for this such as CND Shellac in “Be Demure” or Madam Glam’s “Love Me Tender.” It’s all about opacity and a light-reflecting topcoat.
To shape nails this way, always round the edges by filing from the side, not by filing straight across. This is why the nails look so elegant and not pointy.
This is my go-to summer look when I want to be feminine but not spend too much time on my nails. You can have this mani no matter how your week actually goes.
High-Shine Porcelain Pink
It gives the surface a glossy look, as if it were porcelain under a glass cover. The color is light pink, with just a hint of lilac and it is ideal for people with cool skin or those who like something classy that stands out. The oval shape gives it the perfect polish.
You can get this mirror effect by using a gel polish such as “Bare With Me” from The GelBottle Inc. or “Love Is In The Bare” from DND. The reason this look is so noticeable is the fully wrapped tip, so don’t leave that out if you want it to look professional.
Go over the surface with a medium-grit buffer to remove any ridges before applying the base coat. After that, paint on two layers of color and finish with a thick, even-leveling gel topcoat. A fine brush should be used to seal the edges which helps the shine last for a few days.
There’s something about this set that screams clean-girl luxury. I put on a big trench and ballet flats and I thought I looked like I should be in a street style picture. Simple, elevated, and low-key addictive.
Classic Burgundy Reboot
Deep, vampy burgundy is the latest way for trendy ladies to wear red this season. The tone is both sultry and confident, but it doesn’t shout its presence. The oval design helps the color look intense, but still soft enough to be worn in hot weather.
This is one tone you need to get right and “Dress to Kilt” from Essie or Olive & June’s “SC” are good choices. To maintain the wet-finish effect, put on a topcoat like Zoya’s Naked Manicure Glossy Seal.
Choose a single-color outfit to make this manicure the main point of your look. I also like that shorter ovals still give a modern look with this color.
I’m choosing deeper shades more often in summer because they look different and feel luxurious. Just as red wine tastes good on a rooftop, even when everyone else is drinking rosé. You know what I mean?
Peach Milk Oval Freshness
It is a light pink, almost like strawberry milk with a touch of sunshine. Because of its oval shape, it feels slightly longer but not claw-like, so it’s a great summer color for any outfit.
If you’d like polishes like these, options are “Peach Please” from Lights Lacquer or “Talk to the Sand” by Essie. This kind of pastel will look better with a gel finish, but remember to let each coat dry before applying another one.
The oval shape of the nails goes perfectly with this peach color — it looks like soft-serve peach sorbet on your nails. Smooth, chill, and totally fresh.
This song makes me think of calm mornings, open shoulders and coffee by the window. It’s dreamy, but grounded. I always turn to this when I want a gentle and refreshing look.