When the days are longer and there’s golden light for selfies and iced lattes clink in the heat, summer is here. Just as you change your wardrobe for summer, your nails should also get a seasonal upgrade. What is it about gel manicures that gives them a summer 2025 feel? Is it the colors, the finish, or the little details that feel like vacation even when you’re desk-bound?
This season, the focus is on art you can wear: swirls that look like moving heat waves, flowers that seem just picked and colors that move from vivid to almost invisible. We’ll examine some of the most eye-catching summer gel nail ideas for 2025—every one of them a little moodboard for your hands.
Glossy Garnet with Starburst Accents
I can’t help but be drawn to a deep garnet nail as summer sunsets stay out longer. This design highlights the allure of the collection — a burgundy base on most fingers, along with sheer pink on the ring fingers and dramatic starbursts in bold wine-red. It’s as if you’re holding a velvet sky with your fingers and I promise it sparkles in the most wonderful manner.
I use OPI’s “Malaga Wine” to get the same effect — it’s creamy, dreamy and glides on like a second skin. I always use Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” for a simple base on my star nails. And for the star art? I’m using a slim liner brush with “We’re Not Really Strangers” by Lights Lacquer — it’s a gorgeous merlot that goes well with the stars without creating any clashes.
You don’t need to be afraid to try this look at home. Shape the nails into a neat almond or a short oval first. Paint on a base coat and then add two layers of your desired garnet. Let that fully dry. Apply a sheer nude polish as your base and then use a thin nail art brush to draw the stars on your accent nails — it’s fine if they aren’t perfect. End by applying a clear super glossy gel topcoat on top of everything. Celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik believes that adding gloss to your nails is what makes them feel luxurious.
To be honest, I felt very polished in this look last 4th of July, even while I was just grilling veggie skewers outside. People asked me three times how I got them done and when I told them I did it myself, they were shocked. Putting burgundy and blush together gives a sense of elegance, rebellion and easy coolness. I reach for this design often in the summer — especially to add a touch of style to a basic look just with my hands.
Pastel Split: Baby Blue Meets Daisy Blush
As the temperature rises, I tend to choose softer colors, as they just seem to calm me down. The nails alternate between a soft, baby blue and a gentle peach-pink for a look that seems both fresh and easy on the eyes. The white daisies on the nails which match the blush color, are what bring the whole manicure together. It’s playful, cheerful and makes me think of lazy Sundays with iced lemonade.
I always go with Essie’s “Saltwater Happy” for the blue; it’s like a bottle of sea air. The peachy-pink is called “Peach Side Babe,” also from Essie and it looks great with the white details. You might use a dotting tool or a bobby pin for the flower centers and finally use a small brush to paint the petals. Finish your manicure by placing a thick or gel top coat such as Seche Vite, on top to keep the bloom secured.
I think anyone can pull off this look, especially if drawing abstract art or stars is a bit scary. Remember to do the flowers at the end, only after the base color has dried completely. I tend to place a small fan close by to help the process move faster. According to Betina Goldstein, “Leaving some space and using gentle patterns is the quickest way to achieve a chic style.”
I wore it for a brunch with my sister and she actually said it looked just like something you’d find on Pinterest. It’s a rare style that manages to feel both retro and modern and I’ll definitely want to try it again this summer. Seeing daisies always seems to brighten the day.
Midnight Streamlines in Gloss Black
Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean your nails have to be bright and cheery — sometimes, you want something with attitude. This black gel set has a cool-girl feel because of its shiny black color and light, flowing swirls. It’s bright, clear and allows your nails to speak for themselves.
I usually choose “Licorice” by Essie or “Tuxedo Mask” by Lights Lacquer for a super-black manicure. To create transparent swirl nails, put a nude builder gel on your nails and cover it with a layer of black gel liner. Pro tip: try The Gel Bottle’s “Jet Black” liner gel — it’s ultra precise and doesn’t bleed.
Nailing this design (pun totally intended) takes a steady hand. Apply your nude gel and cure it. After that, take a striping brush and dip it in black gel polish to make those wavy lines. It’s easier to lightly dot the design with a dotting tool before you begin. Choose between a matte or shiny top coat to match how you’re feeling. “High contrast is really popular right now — it’s simple yet stands out,” Miss Pop explained.
I’ve dressed up this piece for drinks on rooftops, walks on the beach at night and for dates when I wanted my nails to stand out. The look might not look very summery at first, but it reminds me of twilight. Like the cool side of the pillow. It’s a statement in a season filled with pastels and that’s what I like about it.
White Waves on a Rosy Base
There are days in summer when things are slow and gentle, just like sunlight through a thin cloth — and this manicure reflects that. The base is a soft, almost transparent pink and creamy-white lines flow from the base to the tip. It feels like movement, like a breeze. The contrast is subtle but stylish, modern but gentle — and it’s surprisingly wearable with just about everything.
You should try “Mademoiselle” by Essie for the soft blush-pink base in this style. I like the white gel liner from The Gel Bottle in the “Daisy” color best. It gives your skin a single, smooth layer and that makes the waves stand out against your tan. I recommend a striping brush that doesn’t bend and I use the fine liner from Beetles Gel to get the perfect curve.
The trick to this design is patience. Paint two layers of your pink base and let it dry under a UV lamp. After that, spend some time drawing your wave shapes — I like to begin with a few light marks to help me. Use confident motions and don’t overthink it. Seal it all in with a no-wipe top coat. Nail educator Julie Kandalec once explained, “Moving designs in nail art attract attention and feel lively.” It doesn’t have to be obnoxious — it just needs to keep going smoothly.
I find this design very soothing, as if it helps me breathe out. I wore this to a yoga retreat in Santa Barbara and I can’t remember getting so many quiet compliments before. Since it’s soft and artsy and not what I usually choose in summer, I loved it even more.
Muted Pink Meets Botanical Green
Let’s talk understated with a twist. This set brings together a soft blush-pink and a rich forest green which may sound odd but work perfectly together. It’s a mani that tells people you’re stylish without being too loud. Simple, natural and quietly stylish — much like putting on linen pants with an emerald silk scarf.
For the pink, it’s best to use a neutral and cool shade and I like Zoya’s “Dot” or Olive & June’s “GH.” The green, called “Hunter,” by Cirque Colors is very rich and elegant. It feels like dipping your nails in dark pine. I find that a square or oval shape looks most elegant on short nails when I use this color combination.
This design is very simple to do yourself this summer. Apply the base, color one nail, color the next nail and repeat, finishing with a top gel coat. You don’t have to use any design tools, so it’s ideal for anyone who needs to be fast but still wants a stylish result.
This look kind of became my “work trip” manicure. I wore the bag during a quick trip to NYC and the hotel concierge spotted it. It’s neat, stylish and shows a little bit of who you are. Sometimes, that’s all you need.
Cornflower Blues and Wildflower Florals
This design gives major wildflower meadow energy. A light blue base is followed by natural nails that are decorated with fine blue and white flowers. The way the simple solid color meets the detailed floral is so neat and the soft blues just calm me down. It’s like wearing your favorite sundress on your fingertips.
I like to use “Butler Please” by Essie or “Blue Iris” by Lights Lacquer for the blue because they are both rich and creamy. You’ll need a dotting tool and a very fine detail brush for the florals. The V Beauty Pure detail brush helped me make small petals with ease.
Layering is your best friend here. Do the first layer, let it cure and then add the center dot and all the petals one by one. You can add a thin green stem if you’re looking for something extra. Queenie Nguyen, a celebrity nail artist, said, “I think hand-drawn flowers look more expressive than stickers because you can see the artist’s touch.”
At the backyard baby shower for a friend, my outfit sparked many conversations. People described it as art, rather than just nails and that’s the feeling I want in my hands all summer.
Frosted French Fade
This is a traditional French technique, but let’s give it an airy feel. Rather than a strong white line, the color gradually shimmers from the base nude pink. It looks like a snow cone glow spreading over every nail. Clean, feminine and even more polished than French, especially when the light hits it perfectly.
I begin with “Bubble Bath” by OPI for the base because it’s the perfect clear neutral. After that, I apply “Fairy Dust” by China Glaze or the white shimmer from Beetles Gel’s ombré collection with a sponge or gel brush. It’s all about that blurred transition.
You can find this dish tricky at home, but it’s still worth a try. First, put on the base, then cure it and next, use a sponge to put shimmer polish on the tips, fading it halfway down. Cure again, repeat if needed, then topcoat. Mazz Hanna, a nail pro, once explained that ombré nails are all about softness and make your nails look elegant without trying to stand out too much.
I find this design perfect for weddings, brunches or any day I want a hint of magic but still have neutral nails. It may seem easy, but it’s never boring — much like the white sundress you always count on.
Branching Out in Taupe
Neutrals with personality? Yes, please. These nails are shaped like almonds and the taupe color is highlighted by simple black botanical designs. It’s got an earthy feel, is very grounded and adds a touch of artsy style, much like nails that look like pressed pages from a Moleskine journal.
I really like ILNP’s “Central Station” for its classic mid-toned taupe. For the branches, I find that a simple black gel liner such as “Ink” from Apres Gel-X, does the job perfectly. You’ll just need a steady hand or a super thin art brush (I recommend the ones from Modelones).
I first cure the taupe base and then add the branches with tiny strokes. Uneven nails are fine; that’s what makes them look natural. If you want a shiny finish, use a top coat or go matte to achieve the look of a botanical sketchbook.
I had this mani on for a museum date and I matched it with a thick cream sweater and gold hoop earrings. It’s very deliberate — it means “I value nature, but I like to look good doing it.” Whenever I want to relax but still look nice, this is one of my favorite lowkey summer gel nail ideas for 2025.
Cherry Blossom Garden in Pink
The look makes floral dreams real — pink, crimson and soft petal colors blended gently on a sheer nude base. Every flower is painted by hand, leaving enough room for the design to look airy and romantic. When you add high-gloss baby pink to the rest of your nails, it’s like being at a garden party during the golden hour.
I like to use the Essie shade “Fairy Tailor” for the base and “Mod About You” for the baby pink. All the florals are painted by hand with a very small brush and a dotting tool. Layering each flower with Leafgel or The Gel Bottle in berry or bubblegum colors looks wonderful.
First, mark the spots for the flowers with a pencil-thin dot and then draw the petals around them. Cure your nails in stages so they don’t smudge and finish with a gel gloss coat. Tom Bachik points out that adding small floral touches can turn a manicure from simple to elegant. Couldn’t agree more.
I wore the same outfit to a Sunday market, with my sunhat and iced matcha and it felt just right. I love the light, playful and lively look of summer nails, so I choose them for July.
Lemon-Lime Whisper on Matte Blush
Simple and fruity — this mani combines pastels like a splash of citrus in pink lemonade. The base is a soft blush and then thin, natural yellow and green lines are drawn in an easy curve on each nail. The style is not clear but still draws you in, just as summer wind does through the leaves of lemon trees.
I usually reach for “Romantique” by CND Shellac for the pink. I apply the lemon and green accents using nail art pens or gel liners and I especially like using the Bio Seaweed Gel liners for their color and control. Try a matte base coat to create a contrast against the glossy lines you’ll use. So satisfying.
This look is perfect for beginners. Two layers of blush gel, a gentle cure and then I draw wavy lines by hand. You don’t need symmetry — let it feel freeform. After you’re done, apply a top coat that will protect your highlights and leave the base velvety. According to celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec, this look is “modern nature,” and she’s absolutely right.
I chose this one for my trip to Charleston because it’s light, airy and doesn’t stand out too much. The yellow lines even matched my citrus bikini. I’m adding it to my list of ideas for summer gel nails in 2025 when I’m not feeling floral.
Rose Gold Pearl Glow
A chrome-tinted rose gold nail has a natural glamour that’s easy to love. It’s not too soft or too bold — just like the way sunset light shines on a champagne glass. The shine of this look comes from a creamy metallic finish, highlighting every part of your nails.
Choose a metallic gel polish and either “Penny Talk” by Essie or the OPI “Mauve-elous Memories” from their Chrome Powder collection are lovely options. Some makeup artists use a chrome mirror powder over pink gel to make the skin look pearlescent.
The technique? Paint two layers of your chosen color, cure them and then use a silicone tool to apply the chrome powder gently. Seal with a no-wipe top coat for max gloss. According to nail expert Zola Ganzorigt, a mirror manicure can make you feel like you’re in a salon, even if you do it yourself.
I felt like a goddess while enjoying dinner on the rooftop in this look. The nails were so beautiful, I didn’t need rings. You can use this design for brunch or for when you’re out for a night of champagne.
Plum Moons with Chrome Arcs
This design uses deep plum and adds chrome accents—arcs, outlines and small moons—to give your nails a sleek architectural look. The color is deep, sensual and sexy, but the silver chrome makes it feel modern and advanced. Think moonlight on velvet, with a high-shine finish.
If you want a plum base, I’d suggest either “Lincoln Park After Dark” from OPI or “Bourdeaux Babe” by Madam Glam. Paint the arcs with silver chrome gel polish and use a detailing brush. You might want to try chrome transfer foil or silver gel paint if you want your lines to be cleaner.
Draw collections of moon and arc shapes either with a half-circle stencil or by hand using a fine brush. You want to be precise, but with an individual touch, since you’re not making perfect shapes, you’re creating a cosmic poem. Finish the job with a good UV-cured top coat.
The night I wore this out for gallery hopping downtown, I was complimented by several people. It’s bold, sure of itself and just sets itself apart from the crowd. If you like vampy nails but want a summer gel nail design idea 2025 with color and style — this is perfect for you.
Classic Red with Glitter Pulse
Red nails never go out of style, but add some glitter and you’ll get a dramatic look. This nail look is centered on red and made more eye-catching with a little sparkle on just a few nails. It does not look like a holiday, it just looks like someone who knows exactly how to dress.
I prefer “Big Apple Red” by OPI or “Ruby” from Beetles Gel Polish for this deep red. You can add glitter to your nails with a red-based shimmer or a clear layer of glitter. Lights Lacquer’s “Cherry Bomb” is a wonderful way to add depth — it’s strong, but not thick.
You really don’t need much here. Use red on all your nails and add glitter to the ring finger and thumb. Keep the rest sleek. When you’re done, add a high-gloss gel top coat and you’ll have confidence in your hands.
I choose this when I’m getting married, eating by the beach or just want to feel my best. It may seem straightforward, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. It’s the small firework that keeps getting people to say nice things long after the sun has set.
Midnight Orchid Elegance
This design is a mood. Using midnight navy and soft pink gradients, along with delicate flower designs — the effect is romantic, dreamy and a little mysterious. The floral accent nail looks like a watercolor flower moving slowly in front of you. When done with glossy solid navy, this manicure catches people’s attention without being too loud.
I chose “After School Boy Blazer” by Essie to create that rich and dark blue color. The ombré pink is a transition between “Fiji” and “Romantique” from CND Shellac. The flowers are painted with care and a jelly-style plum gel makes the result look transparent — I like Beetles’ “Violet Vision” for this effect.
The results of this mani are worth the patience it takes to do it. Chef’s kiss. I put this on for a rooftop party and it looked fantastic with both satin and denim. It’s romantic summer, but elevated. One of the most luxurious summer gel nail design ideas of 2025, that’s for sure.
Desert Safari in Neutrals
Who says neutrals are boring? Instead, she looks amazing with warm taupes, caramel browns and a bit of leopard print that gives off a strong safari vibe. The look is created by using earthy colors, adding some playful texture and just a hint of sass from the way the print is placed. If you could only have one manicure in summer, this would be it.
“Sahara Sunset” by Bio Seaweed is my choice for the sandy base and I like “Burnt Umber” by Orly for its richer color. You can make the leopard’s spots by dotting on a golden beige background with black and dark brown.
Alternate the base colors first, then draw spots on a couple of your feature nails. You don’t want perfection — embrace that wild vibe. Top with high-shine gel to make it luxe. According to nail artist Mei Kawajiri, leopard print is always in style. You just have to know how to wear it.”
I finished the look by wearing tan sandals and a linen jumpsuit and it looked just right. It’s warm, wearable, and wild in the best way.
Powdered Pink with a Bow
With its soft pink, matte finish and a 3D bow, this set is just like candy in gel form. It brings romance, a sense of innocence and a bit of playful charm. A great choice for weddings, showers or any time you want your nails to look soft and pretty.
“Baby Girl” by Kiara Sky is my pink go-to — it’s gentle but never washed out. A bow can be formed from a 3D acrylic mold or by purchasing nail charms. I made this little addition using McCart’s 3D decor kit.
Put on the gel base, make it matte with the velvet top coat and use some builder gel to attach the bow to your ring finger. That’s it. And suddenly your nails feel like mini bridal accessories.
I dressed up in this way for a tea party and felt just like the lead character in a gentle indie film. It’s cute, yes — but it’s also polished. The kind of pretty that lingers in memory.
Crimson Hearts and French Tips
A classic red nail is always impressive, but if you add little heart accents and a French tip, it becomes the perfect summer look. It has a classic and modern feel, just like vintage Valentine’s with a new touch.
Both “Forever Yummy” from Essie line and “Satin Ribbon” by DND make a nice cherry color. You can use a brush or heart stencil to put dots in the center of the hearts. A V-shape gives French nails a more up-to-date look than the traditional arc.
This look is easy: paint your nails in full color and then use a nude base on your accent nail, with a red tip and a small heart either in the center or off to the side. Cure and gloss. Gina Edwards, a manicurist, says that red is the finishing touch for a summer look.
I wore this on a mini getaway to Miami. Red bikini, oversized white shirt, and these nails? It was giving love story.
Blue Starry Skies on Clear Base
This one is so much fun — blue stars and rhinestones are scattered on a see-through base. It’s playful, galactic, and a little Y2K throwback. The vibe is “midnight wishes meet 90s nostalgia,” and I am here for it.
Sheer pink or clear builder gel is the first step you should take. Stars can be made from stickers, foils or drawn with a small brush. If you want sparkle, choose little rhinestones which I usually get from the Saviland nail gem wheel.
First, put on your base, cure it and then carefully add the stars and gems. Press the flowers into the sticky layer and then cover them with a thick top coat. This ensures nothing lifts or shifts. It’s playful but surprisingly durable.
I put on this set for a summer concert held under the stars. As soon as I clapped or held my drink, the light hit the rhinestones and people couldn’t stop wanting to touch them. It’s the ultimate mood boost.
Retro Swirls with a Modern Edge
The swirl pattern in this design is so captivating, almost as if you’re watching a lava lamp, but it’s much chicer. This manicure brings together bright summer colors like deep cobalt, raspberry sorbet and milky beige using black lines to hold it all together. The almond shape makes the look mature, but the color choices? Totally playful.
I find that OPI’s GelColor in “Strawberry Margarita”, “Russian Navy” and “Alpine Snow” layered over a nude base gives me this look just how I want it. A good striping brush helps you make neat ripple lines, so your design doesn’t turn into a mess.
You should start with your base, then cure it and use a detailer brush with gel color to paint the lines—try not to rush the swirls. Cure after every two fingers to lock in precision. According to nail artist Betina Goldstein, bold designs are easier to create when you use negative space. That’s the vibe here.
Whenever I have this on, people ask if I got them done at the salon. I didn’t. I really enjoy seeing how those little waves reflect the light when I’m drinking my matcha.
Chocolate Streamlined Simplicity
Minimalism, but with dessert energy. Modern color-blocking is applied in this set with warm mocha and blush colors and the abstract cocoa lines give it a melted ganache effect. Its practical oval shape is great, but the colors keep it special.
I’ve found that using shades like Essie’s “Clothing Optional” and “Wicked Chocolate” creates this tonal contrast beautifully. A liner brush from Le Mini Macaron is ideal for making a thin line across the nail.
In this case, simplicity makes the design even stronger. I start by pressing the dotting tool to mark the line, then brush the paint on with one smooth motion. You don’t need steady hands—just slow breath and low pressure.
I choose it when I want to dress up without putting in too much effort. Think: museum date, not music festival.
Cherry Blossom Glow
A soft pink color blends into pretty white floral touches that look just like cherry blossoms. It’s romantic, calm and has a feminine charm, but not in a sugary way. The finish looks like it’s covered in dew drops.
The effect is made by applying Modelones Builder Gel in “Milky Pink” and Beetles White Liner Gel on the petals. Use a little gold foil or striping tape to give your tree a branch-like appearance. Matte top coat will make your nails flat, so keep them glossy instead.
The secret is to apply the pink base layer by layer and cure it in between to achieve a smooth gradient. A small petal brush and five-dot tapping will make the flowers easiest to draw.
I wore this to a friend’s engagement brunch, and my nails legit got more attention than my outfit. It’s got that gentle wow factor.
Daisy Sunshine Explosion
If you could capture the sun and apply it to your skin, it would look just like this. The combination of yellow, white and milky pink daisy decals brings a lot of joy. Gold foil flecks add a touch of sophistication to a look that is mainly whimsical.
I painted the petals with Beetles Gel Polish in “Soft Nude” and “Lemon Pop,” and added Gold Leaf Foil Flakes from Amazon. You don’t need to be an artist; just use pressed daisy nail stickers instead of painting them yourself.
Celeb nail artist Tom Bachik shares that you should always use builder gel on your foil, not only top coat. It keeps the gold from chipping or lifting.” I found out the hard way, so now I never miss out on this step.
This design reminds me of sipping lemonade in a hammock and imagining I am in the South of France. It’s just that kind of energy.
Mint Cream Swirls
One part gelato, one part watercolor fantasy. The soft mint swirl over a nude base is simple enough for a minimalist, but still catches people’s attention. The shape of the eyes makes them look elegant, but the color brings them down to earth.
I mix Bio Seaweed Gel in “Mint Condition” with Madam Glam’s “Builder Light Pink” to get a soft contrast. Stretching the swirl along the nail is made easier with a liner brush.
The move here is to cure between each swirl section so you don’t smudge the previous one. If you’re just starting to practice line work, this design is perfect since any messes can blend in with the style.
I felt like I had tiny scoops of pistachio gelato on my hands when I put this on at the farmer’s market last weekend. Summer, but make it chill.
Blue Bloom Gradient
Like a walk through a peaceful misty meadow, this design is fresh, assuring and gives a sense of lively detail. A sheer nude base blends into cobalt blue tips and pretty blue flowers are painted by hand across some nails, just like wild forget-me-nots on stone. It’s a romantic song, but its cool tones make it feel like a real taste of summer.
When I do this design myself, I use Beetles Gel Polish in “Milky Nude” and “Royal Sapphire.” A fan brush helps create a smooth ombré effect and I use a detail brush with Born Pretty’s Flower Art Gel Set for the little flowers. It’s like botanical painting on a tiny canvas.
For this at home, I apply a base coat and use a sponge to apply the gradient from the tips to the center. Keep curing and repeating until you achieve the depth you aim for. You can use a dotting tool and striping brush for your florals. Take it slow—there’s no rushing nature.
I was wearing this while in a coastal town and the color of my nails matched the sea perfectly that day. Pure therapy.
Pastel Picnic Daisies
They look like a basket of Easter eggs, with pastel pink, mint green and butter yellow colors all in glossy matte. Daisies in white are placed on a few fingers in a pattern that looks both lovely and original. This makes me want to sip lemonade through a paper straw.
The best pastels are those that aren’t too powdery or chalky. Peach Sorbet, Mint Macaron and Sunshine Baby are my favorite DND flavors. For the daisies, white gel liner and a dot of bright yellow in the center (I love Kokoist’s Mustard Drop) give the perfect contrast.
With this set, you can pick different base colors for your nails, cure them and use a dotting tool to add the daisy petals. It’s okay if they’re not perfect; the messier ones seem more genuine.
I put this on for a weekend picnic and had people I didn’t know stop to compliment it. Daisies just seem to make everything feel easy and cheerful, don’t they?
Mermaid Tail Texture
This design dives straight into under-the-sea energy. The designer applied gentle ocean blue shades to each nail and added an extra mermaid coating that glitters just like sun-lit water. It’s half fantasy and half fashion-forward—and I promise your hands feel cooler just by seeing them.
I usually combine Madam Glam’s “Blue is the One” with their cat-eye gel for shimmer. A stamping mat will give your nails the scale effect or you can also paint it on with a small detail brush and metallic liner.
It takes time to do this layer by layer: first base, then cure and finally draw scallop shapes with gel paint. Flash-cure each section to avoid smudging. Top coat with a no-wipe finish for ultra shine.
I had collected ideas for this set from a vacation moodboard I saved for a long time. I wore the dress at a rooftop pool party and it looked just like a mermaid outfit.
Blushed Petal Clusters
This look is soft, sweet, and wildly feminine. A pink-rose gel forms the base while white-pink nails are painted in a way that looks like spring flowers on early summer branches. The finish looks a bit like oil paint instead of traditional nail polish.
I choose Apres Gel-X “Rosewood” because of its soft mauve color and use a detailer brush from Daily Charme’s Blossom Gel Kit to paint the flowers. Using a touch of blue on the petals helps to avoid overly sweet-looking flowers.
Cover the base with gel petals while it’s not completely dry and then cure it gradually to keep the petals in shape. For the watercolor look, insert smaller petals inside the bigger ones.
These nails are like enjoying a glass of rosé in a linen dress. It’s a casual form of romance, but with a hint of whimsy.
Cherry Crush Ombre
These are not your average pinks. The almond point of this set moves from a sheer nude to a crushed cherry shade, making it look like sweet hard candy. Some nails have swirls or crystals added which makes them both playful and brave.
For this look, I mixed Luxa Polish “Rosé All Day” with Makartt’s “Bloody Mary.” That fade takes patience and a soft sponge applicator. The gems? Swarovski Flat Backs are the way to go if you want your jewelry to sparkle for a long time.
A tip I once got from celebrity manicurist Elle Gerstein is to rinse your sponge in isopropyl alcohol to make sharp color lines less noticeable. Game-changer for seamless gradients!
Wearing this set felt like a total mood switch. I walked taller. Smiled more. It’s amazing what a great set of summer nails can do.
