Hot weather. Cold drinks. A playlist on repeat. Summer’s officially here, so why not try out some new nail looks to match the season? But which acrylic nail styles are really worth looking at in 2025? Something bold? Something pastel? Maybe a little abstract art with a sunny vibe? In this post, we’re sharing some of the best summer acrylic nail ideas for 2025 that are actually easy to copy and look great. Just stylish, seasonal, Pinterest-worthy inspiration. Let’s dive in, shade by shade, swirl by swirl.
Soft Blue Wave Tips with Negative Space
There’s something about this look that reminds me of early mornings by the sea. The soft matte blue on alternating nails looks calm and relaxing, while the see-through base and wavy white lines give a nice little bit of movement. The mix of full color and see-through design gives this mani a modern look, while still feeling soft and easy to wear all summer long.
To recreate this, I always start by putting on a clear base or a nude-pink color. For the blue, go with “Skater Daze” from Lights Lacquer—it’s a nice, soft powdery blue that looks just like denim. A precision striping brush is your best friend here. Paint your wave shapes first in white, let them dry, and then go over them with your chosen nail polish color. Seal the look by putting on a matte topcoat to make your nails smooth and soft to the touch.
The key here is keeping your hands steady and looking for a way to make the design look a bit off-center. I’ve seen a lot of people getting this look at Olive & June salons in LA, especially with easy sundresses and light, white button-ups.
Personally? I’d wear this when I go on a weekend trip to Santa Barbara. It’s that kind of look—casual, put-together, and perfect for carrying around a cool and creamy iced oat milk latte.
Classic Almond in Sheer Blush
Minimal girls, this one’s for you. A high-gloss, soft blush pink in an almond shape looks natural and pretty, like nails you just got freshly done. Clean. Polished. Understated luxury. It looks good on every skin color and shines just right when the light hits it. It’s not really loud, but it does say “I’ve got everything under control.”
This color reminds me of Essie’s “Ballet Slippers,” but if you’re going acrylic, tell your nail tech to put on a layer of sheer gel over the top so it looks smooth and shiny. I skip the first thick coat of color and go right to putting on two thin layers of blush, then finishing it off with a shiny topcoat.
This one’s all about the prep: shaping, buffing, and smoothing out the nail beds. That’s where the glow comes from. According to celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann, nails like these really need to be kept hydrated, so make sure you use cuticle oil every day.
I always come back to this when I’m looking for something simple but still nice. It changes my mood, makes me feel better about myself, and goes well with everything I wear. Chic never has to shout.
Olive Green with White Leaf Detailing
If botanical prints got a manicure, this would be the result. The matte sage base gives the chair a down-to-earth and grounded look, and the white hand-painted leaves make it feel a bit more special and artisanal. It’s feminine, has a nature feel to it, and is definitely not your typical flowery nail design.
Try OPI’s “This Isn’t Greenland” for the green base. It’s soft without being washed out. For the leaves, I think it’s best to use gel paint and a small brush, making sure to take your time and not rush the strokes. You want that hand-drawn look, not perfection. Finish with a matte topcoat so the design really stands out and doesn’t get muddled by any shiny parts.
Creating these at home takes some time, but it’s a good way to get better at it. I use silicone nail art mats to try out my leaf shapes before putting them on my nails, so I can see which ones look best and then copy them onto my nails.
I wore this style last summer to a backyard wedding in Sonoma, and a few people actually thought I had gone to a nail salon in San Francisco. It’s that kind of mani: quietly artistic and totally compliments-ready.
Monochrome Mint in Almond Shape
This one is fresh. Like cucumber slices and sun hats. A glossy mint green nail polish with almond-shaped acrylics gives you a soft and summery look that’s not too over the top. There’s no added extra decorations or styling—just plain, bold colors everywhere. The simplicity is what makes it powerful.
The shade reminds me of the color of pistachio ice cream from Modelones. I love using gel polishes that are really opaque, so I only need to do two coats at most. Prep is everything: Almond nails look best when the edges are nice and sharp and the cuticles are clean. Finish with a UV topcoat to help keep the paint shiny and protected.
Sometimes, keeping your nails short is better, especially if you’re drinking cold drinks all day in July. If you want something quick and easy to wear, this is a great choice.
I wear this when I want to add some color to my outfit, but I don’t want to go all-out with a pattern or design. It makes me feel happy and looks great with gold jewelry, a tan, and light, airy white tops.
Rose Blush with Gold Foil Accents
Delicate but luxe, this rose blush manicure with fine gold detailing looks like a piece of jewelry right on your nails. The gold isn’t thick or flashy—it’s super thin and soft, just like woven gold stitches in a piece of fabric. Together, these pieces look great and give off a classic and romantic feel, with just enough sparkle to make them special.
For this one, I started with “Rose Gold Dust” by Beetles, and then added gold foil decals using a pair of tweezers. You can also use fine gold nail tape or stamping gel to get the same look as if you used thread. Lock it in with a clear builder gel to help make the surface smooth before putting on the topcoat.
It does take a steady hand, but the way this is put together looks really smooth and elegant. Celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik often talks about making nail art that looks nice and simple, and this look really shows that.
I really like to wear this for special occasions or when I go out on dates. It’s soft and feminine, but the gold gives it that little sparkle when you move your hands. Like a secret flex, but make it classy.
Neutral Ballet Pink in High Gloss
When I want to look put-together without trying too hard, I always go for this pretty soft pink color. It’s that barely-there nude-pink that doesn’t try to stand out, but somehow still ends up looking really good. The almond shape and shiny finish give off a clean and simple look that goes with any day, whether you’re meeting up for coffee or going out for dinner with friends.
This tone looks amazing with OPI’s “Put It in Neutral” or “Mimosas for Mr. & Mrs.” if you want a pretty, see-through petal finish. I put on two thin layers and let each one dry with the help of a UV light before adding the next one, so the nails last as long as possible. Pro tip: Buffing the acrylic base before you add color helps make the nails look really smooth and shiny, just like they do at fancy nail salons.
There’s something about this look that makes me feel instantly put together, like everything in my life is finally coming together, even if things have been pretty crazy lately. I wore this manicure to a job interview and a wedding, and it looked great for both.
Pastel Garden Florals with Pink and Sage
This one is pure summer fantasy. A stiletto shape, soft pastel pinks, flowers painted by hand, and a bit of gold—like cherry blossoms over top of matcha ice cream. The floral accents on the sage green base look like little works of art all on their own. It’s whimsical without being too cute. Artistic, but wearable.
To create this look, I started with Modelones’ “Misty Rose” and “Sage Whisper” as my main colors. The floral details need a very small brush and some patience to get them just right. I used a gold gel liner to trace veins into the petals, so don’t worry about making them perfect, just let the lines flow naturally. Make sure everything is completely dry and cured before you put on the velvet matte topcoat.
Celebrity nail artist Chaun Legend just shared a look that I immediately saved to my summer inspiration board. There’s something about mixing old-school style with a bit of modern flair that really looks great.
If you’re going to a picnic or party in the garden, this nail look will have people asking you where you got your nails done.
Milky Pink Almond Simplicity
Sometimes the best acrylic nails are ones that look natural and simple, but still feel nice and flattering. This soft milky pink shade has a subtle almond shape and feels gentle and caring on your skin. It makes your hands look healthy and well-taken care of, as if you get plenty of sleep and keep them moisturized every day.
You could use Kiara Sky’s “Pink Powder Dip” for this, but if I’m doing it at home, I just use Madame Glam’s “Bare Pink” in gel. It self-levels nicely and keeps a nice, shiny finish without leaving streaks.
I think of this like getting a manicure is the same as going to a spa for the day. No drama, no embellishments—just clean elegance that soothes your eyes (and your schedule). I wear this when I want to calm things down a bit but still want to feel good.
Cool-Toned Nude in Coffin Shape
Meet your new neutral obsession. This coffin-shaped acrylic nail design in a soft, creamy nude color really gives off the feeling of a wealthy girl hanging out in the Hamptons. It’s simple, looks great on everyone, and can go with just about anything you wear this summer, from linen outfits to white bikinis and big button-up shirts.
I usually start with a clear base acrylic, then put on either Essie’s “Topless & Barefoot” or “Bare With Me” gel on top. The key here is to keep your edges sharp and even, so use a small file and make sure to look at both sides regularly. I pick a shiny topcoat for this look because it makes the coffin nails look even smoother and shinier.
There’s a grown-woman confidence to this mani. It doesn’t need extras to feel expensive. Wear it when you’re getting off a plane and heading right to a cabana.
Bold Violet 3D Florals and French Tips
Okay, this one’s for the bold. Deep violet acrylics, fun 3D flowers, gradient colors, and tiny rhinestones—this design has a lot of different looks going on. It’s like summer nights, sipping drinks on the roof, and when you show your nails and everyone notices.
These need to be made with acrylic sheets and need to be cured for a long time in between each layer. The flowers are made by mixing acrylic powder and pressing it into petal molds. I used Valentino’s “Royal Violet” and Young Nails “Synergy” gel to make this manicure. It’s better to do with your usual nail technician because they know exactly how to do it best.
This style looks like the kind you see from famous nail artists like Mei Kawajiri, where they really pack on the details and go all out. It’s high-maintenance but unforgettable.
If you’re feeling extra this season, now is the time to show it! Wear it to a concert, a wedding, or even just out and about, because it looks great no matter where you go.
Stardust Charms on Blush Pink
If you want a manicure that looks soft and pretty, this design is perfect for you. A muted pink base mixed with a few tiny metallic stars and studs adds a bit of shine without looking too flashy. It’s a soft, delicate color that’s perfect for looking up at the stars on warm August nights.
For the base, I love using “Pink Peony” by DND—it’s milky but not too sheer. I use a dotting tool to put on the metallic decals and stick them down with a bit of glue, then finish it off by putting a clear topcoat over everything. The trick is to move things around a bit so it looks like you didn’t really plan it, but just put things where they looked good.
I wore something similar to this to one of my friend’s rooftop solstice party in June. Between the fairy lights, champagne glasses, and the city lights shining in the background, this manicure looked just perfect. It’s like jewelry for your nails—subtle, but magic.
Classic Cherry Red Coffin
There’s nothing like a shiny red coat to make any outfit look put-together and stylish. This deep cherry tone on coffin-shaped acrylics is rich, bold, and gives off a really dramatic look. It’s not the usual summer pastel, but that’s what makes it look so good. Think: retro convertible, red lipstick, and denim shorts. Hot.
This shade reminds me of either “Oxblood” by Apres Gel or “Red-y For Anything” from OPI. Two thick coats, a really shiny topcoat, and a steady hand to keep those edges neat. Shape-wise, coffin nails need balance—tapered but not too skinny.
It’s giving confidence, it’s giving edge. I’d wear this on a night out or even when I’m feeling extra on a Sunday brunch. And yes, it goes perfectly with black sunglasses and gold hoops.
Sunset Sorbet Ombre
This dreamy gradient slowly changes from pink to soft citrus yellow, just like how the sky turns at the end of a hot summer day. It’s soft, feminine, and has that sunset-after-the-storm energy. The colors change as the light moves and give off a feeling that’s both fun and relaxing. If summer had a signature look, it would definitely be this one.
I use makeup sponges for ombré blends like this. First, apply a pink base coat (I like “Bubble Trouble” by Essie), then dab on a pale lemon yellow using a sponge while the base is still tacky. Blend the color in gently, let it dry a bit, and add another layer if it’s not quite enough. Top it with a simple and clear explanation to make sure everyone gets it.
This mani is making me think of summer days, floating on a pool, eating orange popsicles, and watching the sun go down. It’s perfect for a beach trip—or just when your week needs a little soft color therapy.
Cool-Toned Taupe in Almond Shape
There’s something classic about a cool taupe color—it feels fresh and surprising for summer, but still looks really grown-up and chic. On almond acrylics, the surface gets even smoother and shiny, almost like looking at a polished stone. This shade is for the girls who want a neutral color that stands out and looks good on everything.
To recreate this, I’d go with either “Café Cream” from The GelBottle Inc. or “Mauvelous” by Beetles to get that creamy feeling. Almond nails need to be really even, so make sure you file them carefully and slowly before you paint.
This is what I use when I want my nails to look nice, but I don’t want anything too flashy. It looks great with a linen blazer or a gray hoodie, and goes well with an iced espresso too. Quietly powerful.
Frosted Chrome Sky Blue
And finally—icy, futuristic, and totally beach-party-approved. This shimmering sky blue has a soft chrome finish that changes from a pastel color to a bit of a metallic look, depending on how the light hits it. It’s like how the moonlight shines on the water, but in a way that looks really cool on your nails. Cool-toned girls, this is your summer fantasy.
To get that chrome effect, start with a baby blue gel base (try “Blue Iris” by Le Mini Macaron), then buff in a silver chrome powder while it’s still slightly tacky. Finish with a no-wipe topcoat to help keep the frost in place. Trust me, it’s mesmerizing.
This is the kind of mani I’d go for if I was heading out on a spur-of-the-moment trip to the beach. It looks great when the sun shines on it, and it also looks nice when you have some soft lighting at the table. Cool, but not cold. Extra, but not loud.
Glossy Wine Almonds for Summer Nights
Sometimes summer isn’t all about brights and pastels—sometimes it’s deep, rich, and dramatic. This glossy wine-colored almond set is something you’d totally want to wear when the weather gets hot, because it’s just so cute and eye-catching. It’s bold without being too dark, and it still looks sharp and stylish. I love how it makes even a simple outfit look a bit more special and romantic.
To get this look, I like to use “Malaga Wine” from OPI or “Scorpio Seduction” from The GelBottle Inc. For acrylics, I shape the piece first, then put on two thin layers with a bit of time to dry in between. A glassy topcoat is a must, because it’s what makes this look shiny and gives it that mirror-like effect.
I wore this to a late-night jazz show in June, and every time I held my cocktail, someone said something about it. It’s that kind of man who seems smart, attractive, and a bit mysterious.
Modern French with Soft White Waves
This isn’t your mom’s French manicure. It’s softer, has a nice smell, and looks a bit artistic with its white wave tips. There’s a really simple, up-to-date feel to this style that I just can’t get enough of. It’s put together but still feels fun and light, a bit like a white sundress with a little something extra.
I use “Silky Nude” by Aprés for the base, and then use a striping brush with white gel polish to draw the tips. It helps to start by drawing a light outline with the builder gel before you start to build. Finish by putting a sheer pink topcoat over the rest of your look to help everything come together nicely.
This mani has become my go-to choice when I want a look that’s put together but still feels young and fresh. It’s also really easy to wear with gold jewelry and linen clothes, so you can add it to your everyday look and still feel put together.
Floral Layered French with Petal Accents
Okay, if we’re talking about the best acrylics for summer 2025, these are the ones that look like they came from a magical garden party. The translucent base with white tips and small pink flowers makes this polish look just like cherry blossoms. It’s fresh, sweet, and surprisingly versatile for such a detailed design.
I use nail stickers for the flowers when I don’t have time to paint them by hand, and Born Pretty has some really nice flower stickers. For the French tips, having a stencil guide makes things a lot easier, especially if you want your almond shapes to look even. The pink centers are dotted on using a small ball tool or toothpick.
I wore this outfit to a midsummer brunch and felt like I should’ve been sipping a mimosa in a garden full of bougainvillea. It’s that level of extra—but so worth it.
Neutral Abstract with Gold Striping
This design is all about refined detail. It uses a mix of light pink and beige colors, with thin gold lines running across the nails to add some extra style. The overall look is stylish, well-designed, and right on-trend, making it a great choice for both office and wedding occasions.
I recommend starting with a nude base gel like “Barely There” by Madame Glam, and then adding some sheer blush and taupe colors on top. The gold lines can be made with either nail tape or a metallic liner, but it’s important to put a good topcoat over them so they don’t start to peel off.
This style is one that makes people do a double take when they see it. People might not be able to say exactly what’s changed, but they notice your nails look a bit nicer. I wore this with a cream linen set and it looked like I was ready to walk around in an art gallery.
Deep Red Negative Space Geometry
To finish strong, here’s a power move in red. This design uses deep red gloss and leaves out a lot of space to create a sharp, angled look. The geometry, the contrast, the drama—it’s all here. This isn’t a look you put on if you want to blend in with the crowd. This is for when you want to use your hands to talk to someone.
You’ll need some nail stencils or French tip guides to help you get those clean and sharp lines. I like Chanel’s “Rouge Noir” because it gives off a rich black-cherry scent. Negative space looks best when it’s really smooth and clean, so I usually start by putting on a builder gel to cover up any bumps or marks on my nails before I add color.
This one? I’d keep it in case I ever need to remind people of who I am. I’ve worn it on dates, at art shows, and even when I was meeting with clients. It’s bold and noticeable, but still looks elegant and stylish, just like wearing a red lip on your fingers.
Glossy Cocoa Almond Perfection
There’s just something about this creamy cocoa shade that looks classy and put-together, kind of like wearing all neutral colors on a nice night. The almond shape is soft yet commanding, giving off that “I have my life together” energy without saying a word. The rich, glossy finish gives the furniture a shiny, mirror-like look that really catches the light and looks sleek and high-end.
To get this same look, I’d go for OPI’s “Espresso Your Inner Self” or Essie’s “Clothing Optional” because they both have a nice brown color that feels rich and up-to-date. You’ll also want a high-gloss top coat (I swear by Seche Vite) to lock in that glassy finish. Don’t forget to use cuticle oil, because your nails will look much better if you keep the skin around them moisturized.
When I do a similar mani at home, I start by gently rubbing my nails with a file to get them nice and smooth. After applying a strong base coat (CND Stickey is a fave), I paint two thin layers of color, letting each dry fully before capping it off with top coat. Then I run my nails over some cool air to keep them looking shiny. Little trick, big difference.
To me, this look reminds me of putting on a really nice pair of linen trousers — simple but still makes a statement. It’s one of those shades that goes with any summer feeling, whether you’re having brunch with friends or just going away for the weekend. I’ve already worn it twice this month, and I still can’t get enough of it.
Molten Mocha Glaze
This rich, sultry mocha tastes deeper and more caramelized, almost like chocolate fondue on a warm summer day. It’s warm, but not too orange, brown but not too muddy, and looks like it just came out of a candy wrapper. The way the light moves across these almond tips is really mesmerizing — it looks just like sunset.
You’ll want a nail polish that gives you good color and coverage in just one coat, so try Sally Hansen’s “Mocha Me Crazy” or Zoya’s “Dea.” Don’t forget to put a gel base on your nails if you’re going to be spending your summer outside, doing things like touching sand, steering wheels, or glasses of sangria.
I’ve found that for these deeper tones, it’s important to put on a really thin layer of polish each time. Thick application can make your nails look dull and can sometimes cause bubbles to form. I cure each coat under a mini LED lamp to make sure the paint lasts as long as possible. Bonus tip from celeb nail tech Julie Kandalec: Apply the top coat twice to get the shiny look you see in the magazine.
If you want a nail look that feels perfect for summer but isn’t too autumnal, this one is just right. I wore this nail color to a jazz night, and a few people even stopped me to ask what it was called. That’s how you know.
Inky Midnight Navy
Dark nails in summer? Absolutely. There’s something really bold about wearing midnight blue when everyone else is wearing pastels, and I really like that kind of contrast. This navy shade looks almost black in the dark, but in the light, you can see it has a soft, ocean-like look to it. Sleek, glossy, slightly rebellious. It’s elegant with an edge.
Colors like Essie’s “After School Boy Blazer” or Olive & June’s “Naval Academy” are great matches. Go for gel or dip polish if you want your nails to look like they are wet and shiny. If you have olive or cool-toned skin, this color can make your fingers look longer and more glowy.
Personally, I always start with a ridge-filling base coat when working with dark colors to help the paint go on smoothly and look even. One thing I’ve learned? Keep your cuticles clean and your polish neat. With navy, there’s no room for error.
There’s something special about this color — it looks like a little black dress for your hands. I once wore this on a weekend trip to the beach, and people complimented my nails more than my swimsuit. Power move.
Peach Milk Dream
If summer mornings had a manicure, this would be the perfect one. Soft peach-pink with a milky, creamy undertone, almost like strawberry yogurt mixed with the soft light of a sunrise. It’s a dream for anyone who likes simple, clean design and prefers a more understated look. Gentle, feminine, and comfortable to wear even when it gets really hot outside.
Sometimes I just want something new and different, without all the extra stuff. This shade works well with just about anything, from jeans to flowers and linen, and never clashes with anything else. I use OPI’s “Baby Take a Vow” or Lights Lacquer “Milk & Honey” if I want a really light, barely-there nail color.
I did this nail design at home in just 20 minutes. The secret? A glossy builder gel is put on top to make the nails stronger and shinier. Finish with a cuticle oil that smells like summer (hello, coconut or orange blossom) and you’ve just bottled July.
This color makes me think of leisurely brunches with friends or chilling on the couch with a magazine on a Sunday. It’s easygoing, but she has taste.
Celestial French Glow
If you plan to enjoy summer nights by looking at the stars or dancing under some twinkly lights, this nail art is perfect for you. A sheer pink base turns into crisp white tips, with a soft fade in between, and tiny golden stars and sparkles make it look extra special. Delicate, ethereal, just the right touch of sparkle.
To get the same look, I’d suggest using Aprés Gel-X extensions, which give you that nice almond shape. Nail art pens or stamping kits can make it easier to add stars to your nails, and if you want tiny crystals, you can use some glitter nail polish. Swarovski is always a yes. Finish with a light pink-colored gloss on top to make your nails look extra pretty.
Creating the gradient tip takes a bit of skill — I use a sponge to dab the white color onto the sheer base and blend it in. You’ll need patience, but the payoff? Totally worth it. Pro tip: Celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein recommends using two coats of no-wipe gel top coat to protect and keep your nail art looking nice and fresh.
This set looks perfect for a rooftop wedding, a dinner on the beach, or just a relaxing picnic with some sparkling wine. I wore something like that last summer and I still miss it. It’s the kind of nail art that makes people want to talk about your nails.
Blush Whisper Almonds
Soft, romantic, and comfortable to wear — this blush-colored almond set looks great on anyone and will be your go-to for any occasion. It sits somewhere between dusty rose and sheer pink, and it’s just the right amount of see-through so it looks clean but never looks too powdery. The almond shape is simple and elegant, making it a great choice for both wedding cakes and a quick coffee break on a Friday.
For this kind of seamless color, I usually pick Gelish “You’re So Sweet You’re Giving Me a Toothache” or Bio Seaweed Gel in “First Love.” What matters most here is layering — put on the polish slowly and finish with a top coat to give your nails a shiny and jelly-like look.
This is one of those looks that really needs some prep before you start — just buff your nails lightly, clean up your cuticles, and put on a dehydrator before your base coat. That way, the polish goes on smoothly and stays looking good for longer during the summer.
To me, these nails feel like new sheets on a hot summer day. Clean, crisp, and calm — that’s the kind of manicure that just looks good without any extra words needed. Just quietly perfect.
Barbiecore Lava Swirls
The dopamine is real with this one! This is summer acrylic nail ideas 2025 turned up to full heat — hot pink and magenta waves splashed onto a nude base, making it look like a bright, neon lava lamp. The swirl trend isn’t going anywhere, and this high-gloss, ultra-bold version is giving Barbiecore meets ’90s rave, and somehow it totally works.
You’ll want two different shades — I like ORLY’s “Oh Cabana Boy” for the pink and China Glaze “Purple Panic” for that darker purple. Use a thin nail art brush to draw some curved lines, and make them just a little bit messy so it looks more natural. Finish with a thick, ultra-glossy top coat to give your nails a really shiny and wet look.
I find it helps to dot the curves first, then use a liner brush to connect them. Also, using a nude rubber base helps the pink shades look brighter and more vibrant without having to mix in another color first.
I wore these at my friend’s pool party and people kept asking where I got them done. It’s that kind of manicure — bold, bright, and really perfect for summer.
Berry Smoke Illusion
There’s something really interesting about this plum-toned marble effect — it looks like deep, dark berry swirling with soft, milky lilac and gives off a 3D look. It gives you glass stone, smoky quartz, and a bit of mysterious magic. The almond shape here is a little more pointed, which helps even out the softness of the colors.
Creating this look at home is a bit more difficult, but it can be done. You’ll need two or three jelly polishes (I like Cirque Colors “Dioptase” and “Rose Jelly”) and a silicone tool or small brush to gently swirl while wet. Layering is important because it helps make a design look more interesting and detailed without making it too busy.
I use a dotting technique where I put little dots of each color on my nails, then gently swirl them together with a brush before putting them under a lamp to dry. No two nails are exactly alike, which is what makes them look so unique and special.
This design reminds me of summer evenings when the sky turns pink-purple, and you can feel something special is going to happen. Moody girls, this one’s your summer moment.
Cosmic Navy Shift
Blue is really popular this summer, and this shiny midnight navy shows that it can look bold and put-together at the same time. Compared to the other navy set mentioned before, this one is a bit darker, a little cooler, and has tiny glitter that only shows up when the sun hits it. It’s giving astrology girl chic meets minimalist edge.
The best way to get this shiny look is with a gel system — I’ve tried The GelBottle Inc in “Royal Navy” with a sparkly top coat and it turned out great. Be sure to put on a thin layer and let it dry completely before adding another one. The depth builds slowly — like twilight.
I skip matte top coats here because I like the way the glossy finish adds to the look of the nails. I also like to wear gold rings with this color to make it even more eye-catching. There’s something classic about wearing navy and gold in the summer.
I wore this look while traveling, and it actually made all my outfits feel more put together. Even when I was wearing a T-shirt and jeans. It’s understated but unforgettable.
Surf Stripe Flame
And now for something fun and summery, this clear-base almond set with red and white stripes looks like a hot sauce bottle meets a Miami surfboard. It’s a bit old-school, has some graphics, and really caught me off guard in a good way. This design demands a rooftop margarita moment.
To achieve this, you’ll need a clear or sheer nude base (try Aprés Natural Base Gel) and ultra-pigmented white and red liners. I use Beetles Nail Art Gel Set because the colors are bright and the polish goes on really smoothly. Don’t worry about the waves — they can bend, flicker, or move in all sorts of ways — it’s what makes them look interesting.
I usually use a light pencil or a dotting tool to sketch out the design and then draw the curves by hand. Seal with a no-wipe gloss top coat and try adding a matte finish to one stripe if you want to give it a more interesting look.
This set is like a small firework for your hands. Loud, flirty, and pure fun. I wore it last year on the 4th of July, and now I’m bringing it out for every trip to the beach I have planned.
