Summer allows us to update our clothes, our thoughts, and even our nails. Nothing says a fresh start like a new manicure that matches the season. What are the nail trends that everyone is loving this year? Imagine cherries with a glossy finish, soft flowers in pastel colors, French twists with an edgy touch, and patterns that seem perfect for relaxing by the pool or going on a whim.
This year, nails are all about having fun and being unique, with some styles being soft and sweet, while others are bold and eye-catching. Whether you’re a die-hard almond nail girl or love a crisp square tip, there’s a dreamy design waiting for you. I have put together a collection of summer nail trends that are popular on Pinterest and can be worn in real life.
Ready to find your next favorite set? Let’s check out the designs that will be on your hands for the whole summer.
Cherry Mini Charms on Sheer Pink
As soon as I noticed these pretty cherry details on the sheer pink, I just knew. this is what summer feels like in a manicure. The semi-transparent blush base gives the look of a clean canvas that has been touched by the sun. Tiny cherry motifs, made up of two dots and two leaves, are repeated across all the nails. They are easy to spot, but not showy, and are good for running errands or a picnic with friends. The almond shape of the nails gives a soft look, making the fingers look longer but not over the top.
To get that cherry-like look, I’d use OPI Bubble Bath as the foundation. When dotting the cherries, a precision tool will give you the best results. You can use Essie’s Russian Roulette for the red and Orly’s Lucky Duck for the green. I’d seal the art in with a glossy gel topcoat to keep it from fading or looking dull. You can get this style with just a few tools and a bit of practice, even outside.
If I had to pick a summer manicure for the whole season, this one would be my go-to. It’s so versatile and cheerful, especially on shorter nails. Whenever I wear something with cherries, someone always asks me where I had it made. The answer? My kitchen table and a good playlist.
Cherry Ribbons and Sweetheart Tips
This set is the fun cousin of cherry minimalism, with a mix of sweetness and attitude. The layers are bright red and white, and they are finished with ribbons and hearts at the edges. My favorite part? The cherries here are mature and have a strong, shiny look. And those bows? They give such strong “gift wrap” energy, like your nails are the present. The long almond shape makes it easy to add details without making the look too busy.
You should use gel polish or a top coat with lots of shine to keep the wet look. You could use CND Shellac in Wildfire for red and Gelish’s Arctic Freeze for white. For the bows and hearts, use nail art brushes, as it will look better than a quick job. Nail stickers could work too if you’re doing it on yourself and want to save some time.
I really enjoy that this expression is both a statement and a flirt. It’s bold but not trying too hard. One of my girlfriends wore the same outfit on her birthday trip to Palm Springs, and she got compliments from everyone, even the barista. It just pops in every summer light.
Glossy Burgundy and a Blooming Accent
At first glance, burgundy may not seem like the perfect summer color, but it sure is. It has a vampy and romantic vibe, yet the floral accent on the ring finger makes it perfect for the summer. The contrast between the flower and the nude background is lovely. The shiny tips of the almonds make them look fashionable and timeless. Chef’s kiss.
Here, Essie’s Berry Naughty and OPI’s Samoan Sand make a difference. You can use a petal-detail brush or nail decal to create your flower, or you can try it with a fine liner if you’re good at it. To get that glassy look, I’d finish with a high-shine gel topcoat. You’d like your nails to appear as if they are wet cherries.
There is an old-fashioned and glamorous feel to this look. I once wore something similar to a summer wedding and it went perfectly with a satin slip dress. If you like darker styles but don’t want to go too bright for summer, this could be a great option for you.
Ombre Blossoms with Petal Perfection
This manicure combines soft pink and white, and the result is a romantic and feminine look that I picture as perfect for summer brides. What makes it special is the dimension: The sides of the nails are decorated with tiny flowers, each one painted in baby pink and white. It feels floral but polished, sweet but not sugary. The gradient effect makes the design look more elegant and hard to miss.
You’ll need a sponge for the ombré effect (start with a sheer pink like Essie’s Ballet Slippers and blend into white polish like OPI’s Alpine Snow). To get the 3D effect on the flowers, I suggest using acrylic powder or 3D gel. You can use dotting tools and a very fine brush to make this floral moment look real.
In my opinion, this design would be perfect for a vacation, especially if you’re going to Santorini or the Amalfi Coast. It has a gentle feel that goes well with breezy dresses, the wind off the ocean, and a tasty gelato.
3D Florals with Pearlescent Drama
This set is drama in the best way. The base color is blushed, and on top of it, 3D flowers, pearls, and sculpted details seem to bloom and float up from the nail. When you want to feel like a fashion statement, this manicure is the one to go for. I really like the way the flowers are carved and look so real. The little butterflies? Just enough whimsy to keep things playful.
You’ll need some nude-pink gel, builder gel or acrylic, and a few tiny pearls or rhinestones to make this. Nail artists usually use silicone tools or a flat sculpting brush to create this type of detail. You shouldn’t try DIYing until you have practiced on tips, as it is quite delicate.
I once used a set like this for a fashion shoot, and it was the set that turned all the heads. They’ll snag compliments—and maybe a few sleeves too. It really adds a fun touch when your hands are doing all the talking.
Whisper-White Waves on Soft Pink
The way this look is done, with white tips fading into pink and swirls, is timeless and elegant. It’s clean, yes, but not boring. These nails give you ballerina-core meets latte art. I enjoy how gently the movement happens, making me think of a breeze blowing through chiffon curtains. The almond shape is both chic and easy to care for, which is ideal for the girl who wants to look put-together without the hassle.
This design requires using an ombré sponge and a detail brush to make the swirls. Try using Gelish’s Light Elegant as a soft base and blend up to OPI’s Funny Bunny for that soft fade. I apply the white gel paint using a striper brush and then cover it with a glossy finish to keep the milky look.
This is my favorite manicure for summer, as it goes with any outfit. It’s versatile enough for weddings, errands, even beach days. I wore something similar to this during a weekend in Laguna Beach and it made me feel 30% more pulled together, even while I was living in linen.
Bow-Tied Glamour with Pearls and Stars
If you want your nails to look like couture princess, now is your chance. This set of French goods is not for those who like to keep things simple. The tips are chunky and white, the bows are pearly, the stars are sparkling, and the strands are of mini pearls. The square structure of the nails makes the design look even more impressive. It screams luxury but with a cheeky, dollhouse twist. I am fascinated by the way each nail has its own style within the same design.
You should definitely go for gel extensions or acrylics to create this style. You should use 3D bow charms, half pearls, and star rhinestones for the decorations. You should try Apres Extend Gel to help hold your heavier pieces in place. The formula keeps your nails safe from damage, without adding any burden to them.
I wore this design to a rooftop party once, and the nails were the star of the show. People were literally lifting my hand to take pictures. Are they practical? Not entirely. But for the right occasion? Pure magic.
Modern French with a Painted Blossom
The raised design of this mani is what makes it so unique. The white tips are not sharp, but flow smoothly into a nude background, except for one, small floral design. That soft bloom on the ring finger? It changes the whole vibe. All of a sudden, French sounds romantic, thoughtful, and a little nostalgic. The almond shape helps keep it modern and graceful.
I would use OPI’s Bubble Bath as the base and draw the white parts with a thin nail art brush using Gelish Snow Bunny. For the flower, you may use acrylic paint or gel with a fine brush. Applying thin layers, having a steady hand, and using a matte topcoat on the flower will make it stand out more.
I’d choose this manicure for a summer brunch or for a bridal shower. Its subtlety can be noticed by anyone, and it’s very hard to match.
Daisy Carnival in Neon Bloom
Now this one brings the energy! The nails are decorated with neon daisy decals in different colors: hot pink, tangerine, white, and even baby pink. The matte finish is what gives the whole thing a retro look, similar to old stickers on a diary. The rounded shape of the almond softens the strong colors and makes the look fun, not too wild.
If you want to make this look at home, use a matte gel topcoat and pigmented colors such as Orly’s Oh Snap and China Glaze’s White on White. You can decorate your nails with daisies using a dotting tool, or you can use nail stickers that won’t peel at the edges.
Honestly, this is my happy nail place. When I wore this on a trip down the California coast, each cashier and smoothie stand attendant had a comment or two. It’s fun, flirty, and radiates good vibes only.
Leopard Tips and Island Florals
This design caught my eye and made me realize I needed it. soft pink florals paired with leopard print French tips. It sounds like it shouldn’t work—but it totally does. The secret lies in the balance: The leopard is quiet and almost faded, yet the flowers are vivid but have soft edges. It’s a mix of wildness and femininity, similar to spending time in the jungle with an old-fashioned camera. The transparency in the base gives it a light and summery feeling.
A clear or nude base is the best thing to start with. For the leopard tips, dab on brown and black polish with a dotting tool (not a brush!) and let it blend a bit. After that, use a thin brush to add florals over the design. If you don’t feel confident with drawing freehand, use water decals instead.
I used a similar approach on a trip to Miami last August, and it really helped to start conversations. It’s a trendy take on safari, but with the twist of nail art.
Maroon Petal Tips with Golden Centers
This design reminds me of a warm and romantic evening in a vineyard at sunset. The tips of the hair are deep maroon and curve across a sheer pink background. The showstopper? The thumbs and pinkies are covered in large floral petals, and a gold detail is placed in the center. Its minimalist style has a touch of drama that makes it stand out without saying anything.
I’d suggest using a gel base color like Bio Seaweed’s “Bare Pink” and a maroon polish called “Wrapped in Rubies” by Essie. You can make the petals by brushing them round and drying them one layer at a time to achieve their fullness. You can use tiny gold studs or nail foil flakes for the centers, pressing them in before you apply the top coat.
I wore this outfit in a more casual way for a wine tasting weekend, and it was perfect for the occasion. If you don’t like bright corals and neons, this is your summer of muted tones.
Star-Studded Berry French
Here’s a new way to do patriotic nail art that is both unique and fashionable. Bold berry polish and sheer bases are used to create a tag pattern on almond-shaped nails, while crisp white French tips are decorated with little red stars. Nails can be deep berry-colored or let the star shine on its own. It has a trendy look, a sporty vibe, and is perfect for any summer party.
You’ll need a deep wine polish (I love “Bahama Mama” by Essie) and a sharp white gel for the tips. A stencil or nail sticker can make sure the lines are neat. I always add a shiny topcoat to the design to make the deep colors look more luscious.
If I wanted to make something a bit more special for the 4th of July, this would be my choice. No glitter explosions—just sleek, subtle Americana with fashion-week finesse.
Navy Stars and Crescent Tips
The starry sky design here looks like summer camp memories, but with a modern twist. Navy blue stars on a combination of clear and white-tipped nails look both fun and planned. By using matte and glossy finishes, the design stands out, and the stars are not all the same size to keep you interested. The palette can be flipped by one hand, creating a sense of symmetry in the set.
You can make this on your own if you are patient and have steady hands. Choose a sheer pink such as CND’s “Clearly Pink,” a navy color such as OPI’s “Russian Navy,” and add stars with a dotting tool or small brush. Alternate finishes—matte and gloss—add complexity without adding time.
It’s a bit cheeky and fun, much like poolside nails for someone who also has a vintage tee collection. I would love to wear this to a summer music festival.
White Bow Blossoms with Mini Pearl Strings
These nails are so bridal, so sculptural, and they still fit perfectly for the summer season. The base for the flowers is crisp white French tips, with each flower having a tiny pearl center and a half-string pearl arch. The nude base has a soft glow and adds depth and texture to the whole look. They seem like they would fit perfectly at a fashion runway or a wedding in Lake Como.
To create this, you should use builder gel or 3D gel paste. Use tweezers to apply half pearls and finish by sealing them with gel topcoat. I like to use Apres Sculpting Gel for my bows because it holds the shape and gives me a puffed-up look. You can either paint or build the French tips, depending on how skilled you are.
This is a great style for a honeymoon, a bridal shower, or for anyone who likes pretty things. I’m a little tempted to try out baby blue tips for a more playful look.
Classic Hearts with a French Twist
I think this set is like a Valentine’s Day letter that was delivered in July, and that’s what I love about it. The pink backdrop is highlighted by white French tips and random hearts. The different sizes of the hearts add to the impression that the design is made by hand. Its square shape with soft edges helps to make it wearable in summer without being overly sweet.
Here, you will want to use a dotting tool and a nail art brush. I’d take “Romper Room” by Essie as my base and “Blanc” for the tips and hearts. Apply a matte topcoat to achieve the soft, frosted-donut look.
This is a good choice if you want a flirty song without any inappropriate content. I’ve tried heart nail art on my beach trips, and it adds a cute touch to every photo of my rings.
Berry Mocha Swirl on a Nude Canvas
This design is the result of combining soft glam with the look of iced coffee. The base is a warm neutral color, while the swirls are in mauve, mocha, and creamy white. The lines on the nails are arranged in a way that looks like latte art, making you want to look from one nail to the next. The square shape and the Y2K look are brought back to life when paired with gold rings and denim.
A thin liner brush will help you create the swirl detail, so go slowly. Polishes can be done by starting with Essie’s “Mademoiselle” and adding swirls of “Clothing Optional,” “Bordeaux,” and “Blanc.” Cure each swirl layer to avoid bleeding. Give everything a final coating that makes it look as smooth as a glazed donut.
You can think of these nails as your favorite iced vanilla latte with a little twist. I wore this outfit while in NYC for a long weekend, and it gave every casual look a purpose. Bonus: the swirls hide tiny chips like a charm.
Sunset Sorbet Ombré
These nails are painted in a summer gradient, going from bubblegum pink to coral to creamsicle orange in the most seamless transitions. The ombré style adds a serious touch of sunset, and the almond shape makes it fun and elegant. I can imagine this mani going well with a white sundress and big sunglasses.
Apply the colors OPI “Pink Flamenco,” “Mod About You,” and “A Good Mandarin Is Hard to Find” by dabbing them on with a makeup sponge. Apply multiple thin layers for a seamless gradient. Try to blend upwards and dab the colors, rather than swiping them, to avoid mixing them.
This is one of the most wearable bold styles of the season. It’s colorful without being loud. If you’re going to a beach wedding or eating outside, these nails will fit right in with the surroundings.
Cherry Blossom Branches in Baby Pink
This nail design is poetry. The nails are painted with cherry blossoms on a see-through base, and every petal is carefully painted in soft pink and white. It looks like the flowers are gently moving and floating in the air. A couple of abstract pink swoops will help balance out the floral design and create an elegant yet youthful look.
This one definitely leans on artistry. With CND “Romantique” and a micro detail brush, paint the blossoms. You can use a dotting tool to make the flowers’ centers and a fine striping brush to add the branches.
When I had this design done last spring, I kept looking at my nails the whole day. It was as if I had little stories tattooed on each of my fingers, making me feel calm and powerful.
Spiced Terracotta Swirls
This set has a warm, spicy, and cozy feel, just like a golden summer dusk. Earthy swirls in burnt orange, cinnamon, and peach are seen on each matte nude nail, making for a colorful and free-spirited look. Its square shape is reminiscent of the 70s, but it remains simple and easy to wear. It’s like desert sand meets abstract art.
Begin with a coat of Zoya’s “Chantal,” and then add in the swirls with “Cinnamon Kiss,” “Rust Worthy,” and “Silken Cord.” Apply a topcoat in matte finish to maintain a soft and classy look. To get the best flowing pattern, use a long striping brush.
If you’re going to a music festival, wine tasting, or just want a set that matches with everything, this one’s ideal for you.
Pastel Sherbet Tips with Jelly Florals
This story is focused on sugary sorbets and eye-catching 3D flowers. The nails have alternating pink and lime pastel French tips, with each one adorned by a single jelly flower that has a gold center. It looks like something you’d wear to a 90s garden party, but it has a 2025 touch.
The best way to do these sculpted flowers is with builder gel that has been tinted with pigment. Apply pastel polish to the tips of the nails with Orly’s “Lemonade” or “Kiss the Bride,” and press out the petals with a rounded silicone tool. The center of the flower is held by a small crystal or gold bead.
This design feels like a happy memory. I’m sure these nails would go perfectly with a picnic dress, a hat, and my first ice cream of the year.
Blue Skies and Dotted Horizons
The dreamy set looks as if the sunrise on the beach has been flipped. A navy blue that is almost black fades to a soft pink in a vertical gradient, and there are tiny white dots above it. It gives off a calming feeling, like ocean waves and the first sunrays of the day.
Blend well between the colors OPI’s “Russian Navy” and “Put It In Neutral” for a clean gradient effect. Dip the dotting tool in “Alpine Snow” and add the white dots for more accuracy. A glossy finish on this design helps to capture that ocean-like look.
I wore something like this on a trip to Maine, and it really made my linen shirts and shell necklaces look even better.
Watermelon Pink Meets Gold Geometry
This one is juicy, playful, and sneakily sophisticated. It combines bold hot pink with different shades of ombré pink, and adds gold-lined geometric flowers to finish the look. The mix of bright colors and the fine gold detailing makes this style easy to wear and not too overpowering.
First, use “Sheer Fantasy” by Essie, and then apply “Watermelon” and “Peach Side Babe” with a small liner brush and gold foil polish or striping tape. Be sure to cure the gel in between each layer.
It gives me the feeling of bold tropical drinks, sunset scenes, and enjoying drinks on a rooftop. This is basically the style I want for my summer outfits.
Midnight Navy with Simple Starbursts
Deep navy polish is given a clean and modern look with white stars. It’s clean, impactful, and slightly edgy without being overdone. This is for the girl who loves summer but still wants her nails to have a dark, inky look. The shape is oval, keeping it sleek and grown-up.
To get this look, I used OPI’s “Lincoln Park After Dark” and stamped stars with a white stamping polish (try MoYou London for crisp details). You could use nail stickers if you need a quick fix.
These nails would be perfect for a night out, paired with a black silk dress and a few pieces of gold jewelry. Dreamy, right?
Glazed Nude Sparkle Fade
This summer bridal nail is pretty, light, and sparkling. The base is a light pink nude, and a bit of glitter is added to the top, mostly at the tips. It looks like sugar dust or pieces of crushed crystals. Elegant, not extra.
This look is so easy to do. You could use “Ballet Slippers” by Essie or “Bare My Soul” by OPI. Sponge the “Sugar Crushin’ It” glitter polish by China Glaze near the tips. Finish it off with a thick and shiny layer of Seche Vite.
Perfect for anyone who wants a low-effort, high-reward mani. I use this polish when I won’t be able to redo my nails for a while, so it doesn’t look bad as it grows.
Minty Swirl French
French tips are given a fresh look with the use of pastel green swirls. In contrast to the usual straight lines in French mints, these ones have curved and abstract designs on a pink base. It’s full of graphics, up-to-date, and gives off a garden party feel due to its bright colors.
Use a base like OPI “Bubble Bath” and then grab a fine liner brush to create swirls in a mint polish like “This Cost Me a Mint” (also OPI). Each swirl on your nails can be a little different, as they should look natural and unique.
If you don’t usually read the green text, this is your sign to do so. One time I wore mint nails to a picnic and three people wanted to know where I got them.
Cosmic Stars and Icy Tips
A touch of gold foil stars and dot accents makes white French tips out of this world. White and gold together in this mani look fancy but still fun. The stars sparkle in the light, making the overall design look magical. Like constellations scattered across a cloudless night.
You’ll want a good sheer base coat (try “Mademoiselle” by Essie), and a sharp white polish or gel for the tips. A fine detail brush with gold foil gel or a stamp can be used to create the stars. Be sure to include the tiny dots; they complete the whole look.
These are vacation nails. Honeymoon nails. Stargazing-from-a-hammock nails. And they belong on your summer moodboard, stat.
