Round Summer Nails That Slay in 2025: Fresh Designs You’ll Want to Copy This Season

Summer 2025 is knocking, and you know what that means — it’s not just about switching up your sandals or hunting for the perfect flowy dress. The real point is: what do your nails tell you about the season? Minimalist? Bold? Somewhere deliciously in between? We’re going to explore round summer nails that are trending in 2025 and explain how to wear them in a simple way. Let’s get into it.

Soft Nude Whispers for Summer Mornings

There’s something timeless about this soft nude look that feels like that first iced coffee on a warm June morning — fresh, light, and totally effortless. Its oval shape makes it look feminine and easy to care for and the soft pinkish-nude color adds just the right amount of shine. You can wear this mani with a dress or with your favorite old tee and denim shorts. It’s a classic style, but not dull, much like the “quiet luxury” trend, but for your fingers.

To recreate this chic simplicity, I usually recommend starting with a neutral base like OPI’s Bubble Bath or Essie’s Ballet Slippers — both cult-favorites for good reason. They go on smoothly and leave a semi-sheer, milky finish. After all the other steps, use Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to give your nails a glassy and salon-fresh appearance that lasts for days.

Now, let’s talk technique. Lightly buff your nails before using polish, as it helps the color look even and not show any unevenness. After the first two layers of color, finish everything off with a top coat. Celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik (who works with J.Lo) often recommends wrapping the top coat around the tips of the nails to prevent early chipping — little detail, big payoff.

Whenever I want to look nice but don’t want to clash with my clothes, I go for this outfit. Also, my hair grows out so nicely that I don’t need to rush to the salon every time. Pure win.

Bubblegum Pink for Playful Afternoons

This candy-coated pink is where summer fun lives. Enjoy a picnic on the spur of the moment, wear big sunglasses and play your favorite music from the 2000s. Because of its rounded shape, the look remains fun but not too childish which makes it ideal for brunches on rooftops or casual dates. That shiny finish gives your nails an extra touch, just like a lip gloss would.

To nail this vibe (pun fully intended), you’ll want a creamy pink that isn’t too cool or too warm. My personal go-to for this shade is Olive & June’s Pink Sands — it’s universally flattering and has that high-shine gel look even without a lamp. If you’d like a bit more color, Lights Lacquer in Cherry Jelly gives it a bit more depth and keeps the bubblegum feeling.

The trick here is really in the prep. Make sure your nails are clean and dry and you can use some alcohol or acetone to help the base stick better. Apply the first coat, let it dry, then apply the second coat and let it dry as well. Finish your nails with a top coat for a glossy look that stays put and I recommend Glisten & Glow for the best results.

As soon as I put on this color, I feel like others are nicer to me — it just makes me feel more positive and flirty. It’s my personal “good mood” manicure.

Romantic Rosewood Elegance

Moving softly toward a dusty rose shade, this hue looks elegant but still keeps its sense of fun. The round shape makes the fingers look long and the creamy blush shade gives a luxurious summer vibe. It gives your lips the soft glow of springtime before a soft breeze.

For this specific hue, Zoya’s Avril is my holy grail — it’s soft, creamy, and utterly flattering on most skin tones. If you’re looking for a more salon-level gel option, Bio Seaweed Gel’s Blush gives that same romantic vibe with a little extra staying power.

I often follow celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein’s advice and keep my cuticles ultra-hydrated before applying lighter shades like this. Having dry cuticles can spoil the whole look, no matter how perfectly you painted your nails. A drop of CND Solar Oil does wonders.

Putting on this color makes me feel more organized, even though it’s not flashy. Like you’re not trying too hard, but still nailed it. Literally.

Deep Cherry Seduction

On those sultry evenings when your nails should match your red wine and favorite music, this cherry color will make you irresistible. The bold color choice adds a touch of elegance but still looks trendy and fresh. Deep, sultry tones are definitely part of the perfect summer nail look in 2025.

Whenever I want this color, I always go for OPI’s Malaga Wine because it’s just the right mix between dark and vibrant. Black Cherry Berry from Gelish gives gel lovers the same dramatic look and lasting results.

I always use very little polish per coat to make sure there are no streaks, since darker colors are not as forgiving. According to Miss Pop, a celebrity manicurist, use Deborah Lippmann’s Smooth Operator base coat to make the surface smooth before you paint on these dark colors.

Whenever I use this nail polish, I receive compliments that make it seem like we’re all sharing a secret. It’s moody, confident, and completely captivating.

Alabaster White Summer Purity

Pure white nails in summer are like having fresh linen sheets or a great cotton sundress — they look clean, fresh and are always stylish. The round shape keeps this stark shade feeling soft and wearable instead of harsh, which is key when you’re embracing this minimalist moment.

White nail polish can be hard to use, but I have always relied on Essie’s Blanc. It’s opaque, smooth, and avoids the dreaded streaky mess. DND White Bunny is a great gel for anyone looking for a salon-like finish on their nails when they have a tan.

Prep is crucial here. I make my nails look perfect, add a sticky base coat and add the color in thin layers, usually doing two or three coats. Celebrity nail tech Chaun Legend (famous for Kylie Jenner’s iconic claws) recommends sealing the edges of each nail to keep that crisp look as long as possible.

Whenever I wear white, I feel as if I’m in a coastal lifestyle campaign, looking natural, cool and ready for drinks in Malibu. Trust me, this one’s an instant mood.

Stardust Pink with Subtle Shimmer

I think of this blush-colored shimmer as “summer’s soft sparkle.” Even though it’s very light and delicate, the glitter in the pink base sparkles just the right amount to make it seem enchanting. The round shape makes it look friendly and stylish which is great for day parties and outdoor dinners that end up lasting all night.

When I want this vibe, I reach for Lights Lacquer’s Rosie as the base, layering a fine shimmer like ILNP’s Pink Mimosa over the top for that barely-there twinkle. The combo keeps things polished but never over-the-top. For an added boost of that micro-shimmer dimension, I’ll sometimes finish with Holo Taco’s Glossy Taco — the shine is next-level.

Getting this look right at home is surprisingly doable. I always use very light coats because shimmer polishes can clump if you use too much. Julie Kandalec, a well-known manicurist, recommends moving the brush over the nail which helps the glitter particles spread nicely. Small technique tweak — huge difference.

It always feels like I am wearing a Pinterest board whenever I put this on. It’s a subtle sparkle for adults and every time I see it sparkle in the sunlight, I just smile.

Rose Quartz Almond Glow

The pinky-mauve almond print brings a strong sense of “clean girl summer” to any outfit. It’s refined, yet still gentle enough for any occasion, be it at work, for brunch or at a garden wedding. The darker tone adds a bit of excitement, but the round shape is still there.

Lately, I’ve been loving Dior’s Vernis in 257 Incognito for this kind of vibe — it has that perfect hint of mauve without skewing too dusty. If you’re more into gels, Beetles Gel Polish in Nude Pink has an almost identical tone with a longer-lasting finish.

I like to use a nail dehydrator, put on a base coat and finish with two very thin layers of color. Just remember to give each layer time to dry so that you won’t have any bubbles. As nail educator Katie Masters says, “The slower you go, the longer it lasts.” Truth.

Whenever I put this color on, I feel confident enough to handle any situation, from a business meeting to a date. It’s well-finished, stylish and very easy to like.

Delicate Shell Pink Classic

Here we’re leaning fully into timeless. This soft pink would go perfectly with linen pants, big sunglasses and your hair tied back loosely. The round shape is elegant, purposeful and can be used in many ways which is why it never seems to go out of style.

I consider Essie’s Minimalistic to be a must-have for this kind of outfit. It goes on smoothly and gives a semi-sheer effect so your nails appear healthy and natural. If you prefer a stronger pink, OPI’s Bubble Bath is a classic for a good reason.

Sometimes, I just use a base coat and two layers of color for these shades. But if I’m feeling extra, I’ll add a swipe of CND Solar Oil after it’s fully dry to keep everything looking extra hydrated and glossy.

I always come back to this spot at least once every summer. It’s like the white tee of nail colors — dependable, flattering, and completely seasonless.

Champagne Glitter Ombre Luxe

Now we’re talking full-on summer glam. The pink-to-silver ombré glitter gives you a soft foundation for your nails, but it also has a lot of sparkle for special occasions, trips or whenever you want your nails to shine. The gradient looks stunning and reflects the light as you move.

I normally put on OPI’s Baby, Take A Vow as the base and then sponge on China Glaze’s Fairy Dust or Glitterbels Fine Silver Glitter at the tips to get the smooth ombré look. Sponging the glitter ensures it is spread evenly and does not look too clumpy.

Tom Bachik, a well-known nail tech, usually puts latex around the nails to make it simpler to clean up loose glitter or gradients. It’s an easy trick that helps you save a lot of time.

Whenever I put on these nails, people always ask me where I got them done which is exactly the look we wanted. It’s girly, luxe, but still totally wearable.

Milky Nude Elegance

This is the piece that stands out for its simplicity, even though it is meant to be that way. The milky pink nude matches the natural nail so well that it looks as if your nails were always this pretty.

When I’m in this mood, I turn to Bio Seaweed Gel in Milkshake or OPI’s Bubble Bath (yes, again — it’s that versatile). The semi-translucent effect covers up small issues and makes the nails look healthy and new.

I always start by smoothing my nails and moisturizing my cuticles before I begin. With minimal shades, the tiniest flaw can become magnified. A tip from celeb manicurist Elle Gerstein (known for Blake Lively’s nails): always push, never cut, your cuticles for a softer, salon-level prep.

This color is refreshing, with a calm and polished appearance that seems very expensive. Each time I put it on, I feel like I’m at my best.

Chrome-Edged Pink Modern Art

The pink color and chrome outline make this design seem like a fashion runway brought to your fingertips. The base is simple and light in color, but the silver edge makes the design more striking. It’s a mix of futuristic and feminine, so it’s one of the round summer nails that will be popular in 2025 since they are bold but not too much.

I rely on OPI’s Bare My Soul for the base, as it’s soft, creamy and just right. To get the best results with chrome, Born Pretty’s Mirror Chrome Gel is recommended and should be applied with a fine liner brush.

I always make sure to cure the base completely before painting the chrome parts. A little patience between steps keeps everything crisp. According to Brittney Boyce, a popular nail artist, adding a no-wipe top coat helps chrome powders stick and shine the most. Tiny tip, huge payoff.

Wearing this mani feels like having designer jewelry for your nails — it’s structured, sophisticated, and turns heads every time I reach for my iced matcha.

Hot Cherry Red Power Look

Nothing screams confidence like a fiery cherry red. With this finish, your watch becomes a noticeable and powerful accessory. The rounded shape softens the drama just enough, making it perfectly wearable whether you’re running errands or headed to rooftop cocktails.

For this iconic shade, I swear by Chanel Le Vernis in Pirate — the formula is rich, glossy, and looks expensive (because it is). For those who like gel, DND’s Red Carpet shade gives the same eye-catching color with longer-lasting wear.

I always use Orly Bonder as a base coat on top of the nails before applying bold colors to get a smooth and shiny result. As Miss Pop always says, “Bold colors reveal everything.” Apply the paint slowly, do many thin layers and seal the free edge to make it strong.

Whenever I have this color on, I feel like I’m in a summer movie, with huge sunglasses, the roof down and my nails getting more attention than usual.

Dusty Rose Almond Perfection

This color is like the soft breeze you feel on a late July night. The shape is almond enough to be long and the dusty color gives a neutral look with a touch of sadness. It’s elegant without being stiff — feminine but grounded.

For this color, I go with Essie’s Eternal Optimist because it looks good on everyone and makes hands seem more delicate. If you’re doing gel, The GelBottle’s Rose Gold Dust is perfect for achieving that creamy dusty finish.

From my experience, how well you prepare your nails is the key to a good manicure. I do what Chaun Legend recommends: push back the cuticles, lightly buff the nails, clean them and then put on a sticky base. This allows the polish to glide on perfectly smooth.

I usually wear this style when I want something that fits both business and leisure and it always feels just right. Just quietly beautiful.

Marble Pink With Gold Leaf Drama

Now we’re reaching the artistic part — this marbleized pink design with gold leaf is the perfect example of summer’s bold style. The swirls seem to come alive and the gold flakes make the piece look like it belongs at a beach club in Europe.

For this style, I apply Beetles Gel Pink Collection on the nails and make the marble effect by swirling a thin brush dipped in Modelones’ White Gel Polish. The gold leaf? The Foil Flakes from Whats Up Nails are very easy to place using a dotting tool.

As Betina Goldstein advises, I flake the foil when the layer is just a bit tacky and then I apply a second layer to secure it. This keeps everything perfectly sealed and smooth.

Whenever I use this design, I feel like I’m on a surprise vacation, no matter if I’m at Target or somewhere else.

Black Cherry Jelly Sophistication

We will finish this section by making an ultra-rich black cherry jelly. This deep and see-through color almost looks like you could eat it, like the sweetest juicy summer fruit. Because it is round and short, the dress looks neat and elegant, so it can be worn for any event.

To create this look, I usually choose OPI’s Black Cherry Chutney which is just right in terms of depth and shine. If you’re looking for that translucent jelly effect, Cirque Colors’ Wicked is an indie favorite that builds beautifully in layers.

With darker jellies, patience is everything. I put on two very thin layers, letting each coat dry completely and then finish it with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for maximum shine. Jelly manicures look best when you apply a smoothing base coat, according to celebrity manicurist Nailz Kat Kat.

Putting on this color makes me feel like I’m holding tiny bits of wine which makes me feel chic, moody and a little mysterious.

Celestial Confetti Chic

These nails would definitely be invited to any summer party. The base color is nude-pink which gives it a solid base and the colorful rhinestones and metallic starbursts add all the fun. It’s cosmic, fun, and feels like you’re carrying a little piece of a music festival with you — without ever having to leave your air-conditioned brunch spot.

For this look, I start with OPI’s Bubble Bath as a neutral base. The rhinestones? The Daily Charme Rainbow Crystal Set is perfect because it has a wide range of jewel tones. The metallic stars are included in the Whats Up Nails Starburst Charm Pack; they stick well and won’t move once you apply a strong top coat.

I follow Mimi D’s suggestion by placing rhinestones with a wax pencil when the polish is still sticky and I make sure to use two topcoats to keep them in place for a long time. The difference between cute and wow is often found in the little extra effort.

Whenever I put on these clothes, others often stop me to ask how I got them made. So I can say and smile — I made all of these. Total conversation starter.

Sharp French Noir

This version of the French is very appealing and stands out. Because of the black tips and milky pink base, this design stays both stylish and classic. It brings out a chic Parisian look, just right for those who wish to be elegant but also stand out.

I like to get this look by using CND Shellac Beau for a soft pinky-nude base. When it comes to tips, Gelish Black Shadow gives a true black color that goes on smoothly. I use a fine liner brush to get the sharpest possible French point.

According to Tom Bachik, using guide stickers can help you achieve perfect symmetry on your tips, mainly when you are using your non-dominant hand. Sealing the edges is important as it prevents your food from drying out or falling apart.

As soon as I put this on, I feel like my outfit has been given a boost, almost the same as adding a leather jacket to a silk slip dress. Effortless cool, every time.

Holographic Sunset Sugar

Now, this is the moment when round summer nails that are on-trend in 2025 become truly amazing. This combination of sparkles reflects light like a disco ball and still keeps its sweet pink color. The almond shape gives the piece a classy touch, so the glitter doesn’t look too young.

My go-to for this sparkle explosion is ILNP’s Pink Mimosa Ultra Holo layered over Lights Lacquer’s We’re Not Really Strangers. The combination creates that lovely blush effect that changes with every light source.

With holo polish, patience is your friend. I put on thin layers and wait for each to dry properly before adding another. According to Kelli Marissa, applying two layers of glossy top coat will make your nails both smooth and shiny.

It’s as if the sun, joy and hypnotic qualities of summer are right in my hands whenever I see this design.

Rosé Almond Luxury

Simple almond nails in blush shades have a subtle but strong look. The color is soft and creamy, the shape is long and the whole outfit gives off an air of classic elegance when you add a glass of rosé. It’s a form of luxury that is simple, planned and always looks perfect.

If you’re looking for this shade, Dior Vernis in 257 Incognito is always a good choice. It goes on smoothly and does not chip for several days. If you’re in the gel mood, Beetles Gel in Nude Pink 553 mirrors the exact creamy pink.

I always start by buffing the car with a light block to get a smooth finish, just as Betina Goldstein advises: “The color is important, but so is the surface of the car.” Well-prepped nails make these soft shades sing.

Whenever I put on this outfit, I feel confident, subtle and well-dressed. It looks as good as perfectly clean white sheets on a freshly made bed.

Blush Mocha Latte Vibes

This blush has a soft touch of mocha, making it feel like having an iced oat milk latte on a cool morning. The almond shape makes the cozy style more stylish and timeless. It’s stylish, but not too much — much like a neutral handbag that fits all your outfits.

My personal fave for this tone is Essie’s Eternal Optimist — still undefeated when it comes to soft blushes that work on every skin tone. When I use gel, Daisy from The GelBottle gives a similar look and lasts longer.

I find it great that this design is very forgiving. Quick file, smooth base, two even coats, and you’re out the door. To get a salon-quality finish, Elle Gerstein suggests applying CND Solar Oil on the nails after polishing.

Whenever I put this on, I feel like summer is a bit more peaceful, relaxed and just right for me.

Galactic Blue Chrome Drama

This design? Pure space-age glamour. The combination of the deep blue and the futuristic silver chrome makes it seem like you’ve just landed from a space trip. If you’re looking for show-stopping nails, these round summer nails will be perfect in 2025.

I use Madam Glam’s Blue Monday to get the rich cobalt base for this look. You can create the ombré look by applying Beetles White Gel Polish with a makeup sponge. I always use Born Pretty Platinum Silver Gel with a detail liner brush for my silver chrome outline.

Be patient when using gradients — according to Hang Nguyen, sponge the color on in thin layers and let each one dry before you blend the next. Topcoat twice to lock in that mirror-like effect.

Every time I wear these, people can’t stop staring. They attract you, look futuristic and make you feel like a true cosmic queen.

Blossom Fade Romance

Here’s a summer garden wrapped around your fingertips. The magenta tips blend smoothly into a nude base and pink flowers give the nails a hand-painted romantic look. It’s light, airy and seems to fit both weddings and lazy weekend brunches.

I start with DND Bare Pink for the base and then I blend CND Shellac Taffy Pink on top with a sponge. The petals are best done using The Gel Bottle Blossom Gel and a fine brush to make swirls. Add a rhinestone in the center of every flower to make them sparkle more.

According to celebrity manicurist Mimi D, a damp blending sponge gives you smoother gradients. It is what helps the cheese melt perfectly.

This makes me feel as if I’m in a romantic story, with its feminine and delicate style.

Minimalist Rosy Nude

This soft pink is the perfect choice for anyone wanting the “clean girl aesthetic” this summer. A round shape with a touch of shimmer will make your nails look healthy and expensive, even if it’s very simple.

OPI’s Mimosas for Mr. & Mrs. makes the blush color stand out perfectly. If you’d like a little more glamour, put Zoya Leia over your polish for a subtle shimmer that reflects light.

Katie Jane Hughes, a well-known manicurist, says that for this look, thin coats are best, since thick layers can make the shimmer less noticeable. Her rule? “More coats, less polish per coat.”

Wearing this color makes me believe my nails are always this perfect — neat, easy and ready for any situation, whether I’m at work or at the beach.

Playful Emoji Art Pop

This design captures the happiness of summer and puts it on small pieces of clothing. Every nail can make you feel better with its own rainbow, cherry, cloud or heart design. Because the set is hand-drawn, it looks both fun and trendy at the same moment.

I tend to begin by using OPI’s Put It In Neutral as a nude base to make my nails look clean. The mini art decals? You can get this fun look with Daily Charme’s Kawaii Sticker Set which doesn’t require any major hand-painting skills.

Betina Goldstein insists that two layers of topcoat are necessary on art nails to avoid peeling or catching on things. That extra protection keeps your designs crisp and smooth.

Whenever I put on these art nails, I notice that people around me, even those I don’t know, tend to smile. It’s impossible not to feel lighter.

Rose Chrome Mirror Magic

This rose gold chrome design gives the look of luxury on your nails. The shiny surface of the metal reflects light and the rose color makes it elegant. It’s the ultimate bridal-season or beach-vacation flex.

For the mirror-like effect, Daily Charme Rose Chrome Powder over Beetles Gel Nude Pink 579 gives you a lovely blush-metallic shine. As the chrome powder is heated by the topcoat, it turns into a shiny finish right away.

According to Chaun Legend, using a silicone applicator to apply the chrome powder gives you a mirror-like finish.

Whenever I put this on, I feel like I’m touching diamonds, because it is so elegant, luxurious and noticeable in the summer sun.

Matte Heartbeat Minimalism

I love how the red and beige matte colors, with a little red heart, instantly make this place feel cozy. It’s not too sweet or girly and it’s romantic in a subtle way — a nice summer version of minimalist nail art. These round summer nails that are on-trend in 2025 are like the unexpected crush you can’t help but keep.

For the matte finish, I always start with OPI’s Suzi Needs a Loch-Smith paired with Essie’s Wild Nude for the beige accent. The little heart can be painted red by hand using Classic Red and a dotting tool or brush. Finish your nails with OPI Matte Top Coat to get a soft velvet look.

Celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein points out that before doing matte nails, you should moisturize your cuticles well since dry nails can make the imperfections stand out.

Each time I put on this shirt, it feels just like wearing vintage Levi’s — it’s always casual, seems timeless and is always cool.

Romantic Bow & Crystal Sweetness

This look brings out the true soft girl style with blush pink, hearts, bows and crystal details. It feels like a modern fairytale moment for summer, whether you’re attending weddings or sipping champagne on a rooftop patio.

I first use DND Nude Pink 605 as my base and add cute 3D accessories from Daily Charme’s Kawaii Charm Collection. The micro crystals? The SS5-SS10 Swarovski Flatbacks are ideal for this spot since they provide just the right amount of sparkle.

Nailz Kat Kat suggests you use builder gel to attach 3D charms, so they stay secure and won’t lift.

Putting on this outfit makes me feel like I’m in Paris, looking polished, feminine and dreamy.

Caramel Swirl Glazed Ombré

The caramel ombré in this hairstyle gives off a strong iced latte vibe, mixing chocolate and amber for a rich summer style. It’s cozy, attractive and adds a touch of warmth to summer colors, just like golden hour in a bottle.

I use OPI’s Bare My Soul as the base and add Beetles Chocolate Brown Gel to it using a sponge blender to get the ombré effect. The smooth change helps the look stay chic and not blotchy.

Mimi D suggests using a tack-free top coat after applying an ombré blend, because it makes sponging and blending the colors much easier.

Whenever I put this on, I want iced coffee and large sunglasses which is just how I picture summer luxury.

Sky Blue Floral Mix

The design is inspired by the sea, with soft daisy-like flowers placed on the nude nails. It’s playful, flirty and you can wear it anywhere, much like a beach picnic turned into a fashion shoot.

If I want a cheerful look, I always pick Essie’s Saltwater Happy in sky blue. You can use Whats Up Nails Daisy Vinyls for the accent flowers or you can paint them with a dotting tool using Beetles White & Navy Blue Gels.

According to Hang Nguyen, adding a thin outline around floral art can improve your design and make it seem more professional.

This style always makes me feel relaxed, even when I’m doing regular errands in flip flops.

Ornate Blush and Gold Royalty

Now we’re talking full-on princess-core. This soft pink base decorated with golden lines and flowers makes your hands look like they are wearing precious jewels. It’s a type of luxury nail art that is soft, detailed and elegant.

My first step for this masterpiece is to use Bio Seaweed Gel Pink Milk as my creamy blush base. You can get the gold lining by applying Born Pretty Gold Nail Art Gel Paint with a fine liner brush for accurate results.

According to nail pro Chaun Legend, curing one section of gold detailing at a time with a flash lamp will help keep everything neat and prevent smudging.

Whenever I put on this outfit, I feel elegant, radiant and prepared for a glass of champagne at sunset.