With all the sun and excitement in the air, summer 2025 is the perfect time to try some new nail looks. However, there are so many summer nail and art ideas on Pinterest and Instagram, how do you choose the one that suits you best? Do you want to wear bright and bold outfits, or are you more interested in simple styles that catch the eye from breakfast to the beach? You can find the best nail inspiration for this season, as I explore the top trends in 2025, including florals, bold neons, and new French manicures for any nail shape.
Playful Ombre and Pink Dreams for Summer
There’s just something about cute summer nails in a palette of juicy pinks, soft corals, and dreamy nudes that screams, “I’m ready for the sunshine!” Recently, I’ve loved this look, and I think it’s the simplest way to update your mood without buying a new outfit. All the shades go from soft peach to vibrant pink—they are bold but still easy to wear, just like a July rooftop brunch or a long walk with friends at sunset. This color combination is very popular for 2025, and if you want simple designs with lots of character, you can’t miss with these shades. Whenever I want to update my look without making things too complicated, I pick a style like this. It just works, every single time.
I find it great that with practice and the right colors, you can do this manicure yourself. I usually choose Essie’s “Peach Side Babe,” OPI’s “Bubble Bath,” and Zoya’s “Gigi” for a pretty pink. Give each finger a different color to make the look more interesting and up-to-date. Whatever your nail length, this color palette will make you look fashionable.
For a mirror-like shine, put on a gel top coat and cure it under a UV lamp for best results. Betina Goldstein, Elle’s favorite nail artist, believes that using a sturdy nail base and buffing the tips makes your color look great and last much longer. I end with a small amount of cuticle oil, since keeping them hydrated makes my nails look cleaner and more attractive.
Honestly, every summer I’m drawn to this style once again. If you wish to see inspo square or cute summer nails pink, this is the perfect example. I get compliments every time I wear it. Have you ever made your nails the same color as your favorite summer dress? It really is a thing, and believe me, it makes getting dressed a lot more enjoyable.
Peachy Butterflies for a Lighthearted Vibe
There are days when you want your nails to be simple and pretty, so you can try peachy colors with a few cute white butterflies. I keep noticing how this design is as refreshing as a smoothie, making me feel happy instantly. The blend of a creamy peach and a crisp white butterfly illustration perfectly represents what is considered pretty art ideas aesthetic. Should you need something soft and not dull, this style is a good choice for both brunches and summer dates. It also makes a great square short or teen option, since it’s very wearable and looks good on nails of any length.
If you want to DIY, go for a pastel peach polish (Sally Hansen’s “Peach of Cake” is my affordable favorite), plus a white stamping polish or even butterfly stickers if you’re not an art whiz. It’s important to let every layer dry before you start the next part of your painting. Jin Soon Choi has also given me a tip—use a toothpick to clean up the small areas if you don’t have a fine nail brush at home.
The steps are straightforward: shape your nails (square or squoval is easiest), apply two coats of your peach base, and add your butterflies. If you want to finish the look, apply a top coat that dries fast. If you really want to glam up, add a tiny shimmer to finish your look like a fairy.
I feel close to this style since butterfly nails were the first nail art I ever did in high school. I didn’t do so well with them in the past, but now I’m happy to see this trend all over TikTok. It’s a bit of nostalgia, something teens can relate to and grownups will enjoy too.
Daisy Green Garden Party
It’s obvious that a glossy green nail color with white daisies is a joy to behold. Summer encourages us to use bold colors, and this outfit reminds me of parties in the garden, picnics on the grass, and sun hats. I like that the green is so rich and the daisy makes it cute, so you have summer nails that are both stylish and fun. They are perfect for those who want art that isn’t only pink or nude.
If you want to recreate this look, pick a rich green polish like Olive & June’s “Besties” or OPI’s “Stay Off the Lawn!”. Use a dotting tool (or a bobby pin in a pinch) to create the petals with white and the centers with a bold yellow. Daisies are a timeless motif, and Sarah Gibson Tuttle (founder of Olive & June) says “dot flowers never go out of style—they’re approachable for everyone.” I also agree, since I’ve done these when watching movies with my friends.
Wait for your base and color to dry before you add the flowers; being patient will really pay off. Finish off the painting by applying a top coat to seal everything and give it a shiny glossy finish.
You can feel free to wear nails that don’t coordinate with your clothes, but always match your mood. People often ask me if I got my eyebrows done at a salon whenever I use this look. Actually, you just need some time, a good playlist, and the proper tools.
Sunshine Yellow With Playful Black Dots
This yellow-and-black dotted design is like wearing your favorite sunglasses and a really colorful dress. I prefer summer nails acrylics with square and simple designs that look great, and this style is super easy to achieve. The yellow color brings a sense of joy and seems perfect for summer, while the black dots give everything an interesting twist. If you want a creative twist on simple pink or pretty art ideas aesthetic, try this version of bright colors.
Creating this at home is easier than you’d think. I highly recommend using Orly’s “Glowstick” or Essie’s “Hay There” for the yellow color, and use a detail brush or a dotting tool for the spots. Ask your tech to give you a short square or square shape for the best acrylic canvas. Wait until the yellow polish is dry before you add dots, or else it will smear easily.
At first, I thought this style could be too much, but now I see that it’s actually very easy to wear. If you want to avoid tricky nail art, this is a great summer idea. Are you brave enough to try it?
Swirly Yellow-White Almonds: Retro Vibes Only
These almond-shaped nails with yellow and white swirls make me think of the fun times in the ‘70s. If you’re a fan of almond simple pink, french tips almond, or even teens almond trends and want something different, this is the look for you. The abstract lines look very festive, and the almond shape is perfect for nails of medium length. I always go for this style when I want my nails to be the center of attention at every summer BBQ.
The trick is that you don’t need special skills to do swirls. Apply OPI’s “Don’t Tell a Sol” and a bright white nail polish, and use a striping brush or a toothpick to make the lines. What makes it special is not the perfection, but the way the lines are drawn by hand. According to Tom Bachik (J.Lo’s go-to manicurist), “let your brush do the work and don’t overthink it—imperfection is modern.”
I really enjoy that these summer nails almond look amazing on every person. Almond nails make the hand look longer, and the yellow color stands out nicely on a tan background. If you’d like to try something new, put a clear shimmer on top for a soft 3D effect.
Sometimes you want your clothes to be simple, and other times you want them to be eye-catching. You’ll need this look when you feel like standing out in a bright way. Which mood are you in?
Stellar Yellow Almonds: Summer’s Statement Nails
If you want summer nails that really make a statement, these yellow almond nails with black stars will be your favorite style for festivals. I’m captivated by the strong contrast of black stars against the bright yellow of the sun. Even though the dots are simple, they stand out and can serve as an accessory for your nails. They are meant for those who want to break free from the boring and prove that they are ready to enjoy themselves. The fact that this design is a little edgy yet still goes with anything denim or white in your summer clothes is what I like best.
You should use OPI’s “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants” for the yellow background and Sally Hansen’s “Blacky O” for the stars. If you want a white accent, Essie’s “Blanc” is a great choice. For the best stars, you need a detail brush that is thin. This is an excellent idea for those who want to add something bold but still possible to achieve at home.
Start by shaping your nails into almonds (my personal favorite for elongating the fingers). After basing your yellow and white, cure your gel if wanted; then draw over them with a stencil or freehand a perfect line. Make sure to finish your nails with a top coat that gives them a glossy look. According to Britney Tokyo, “Allow each coat to dry before moving on, because rushing can make your art look sloppy.”
I always find myself wearing this style during the summer months. It seems enchanting, whether because it reminds me of the past or because of all the compliments. Should you paint stars on each finger, or prefer to keep just one as an accent?
Blue Porcelain Florals: Art for Your Fingertips
Simply wearing classic blue on your nails is cool, but a hand-painted floral accent makes it even better. Cute summer nails blue in 2025 should be fresh, creative, and completely unique. The deep blue color is both exciting and soothing, and the flower adds a little bit of contrast to the design. Anyone looking for simple yet impressive design ideas can find them in this look. For those who want to try something different with their usual almond or medium-length manicure, this is the style to choose.
If you’re buying supplies, get a rich blue from CND called “Blue Eyeshadow” and a white cream gel to apply as the highlight. I suggest using a fine liner brush to draw the flowers, since it only takes a few strokes to finish them. If you are just starting with nail art, you can use water decals or nail stickers to help you out.
The process is surprisingly simple: shape your nails (almond works best here), lay down two coats of your blue, and let dry. Apply the white paint to your petals with a detail brush and add a little blue for the shading effect. After the art has dried, coat it with a glossy top layer. It truly boosts my mood, and it’s like I have my own art collection with me everywhere I go.
Every time I wear blue-and-white floral, I picture porcelain vases and summer vacation tile patterns, because it always exudes a classic feel. I’ve taken this to both relaxed picnics and summer weddings, and everyone always notices it. Are you the kind of person who would sport a whole floral manicure, or do you prefer to have just one or two nails decorated?
Palm Sunset Vibes: Vacation on Your Nails
A palm tree silhouette against a purple sunset? Yes, please. This is meant for anyone who wants to be inspired by images of sunsets and time spent with friends at the beach. The deep purple in the drink makes everything look brighter, and the sunset accent gives it the feeling of a real vacation. This is the perfect choice for those who want some summer nails short, a little bit of design, and pretty art without making them too fancy. This is a great choice for teens who want to express themselves and their love for summer.
You should choose a bright purple like “Play Date” from Essie and a strong orange for the sunset. For the black palm tree, a fine detail brush (or nail art pen) is your best friend. If you’re not comfortable painting freehand, nail stickers can help your palm and birds look nice.
The process? Once your nails are ready, use orange and yellow to make a sunset circle for a shining effect. Paint your palms with black nail polish and draw some bird shapes. Once you are done, cover your nails with a top coat. Tom Bachik, a well-known manicurist, says that putting a sheer top coat on nail art lengthens the wear and enhances the look of the colors.
This is the manicure I’ve been wishing for as soon as late spring comes and I start planning my summer trip. This outfit makes you feel like you’re on a short holiday, even if you’re just working at your desk. Would you choose the beach or the city rooftop as the first place to wear sunset nails?
Botanical Greens for Urban Nature Lovers
You can wear something other than neutrals when the weather is hot in the city. If you want your summer nails to look cute and a bit different, this leafy green set brings a touch of nature to every occasion. The combination of deep green and nude with fine leaf patterns makes the design look modern, yet still wild. This style is perfect for anyone who wants a 2025 and medium length look that looks mature and trendy. It’s great when I want to wear something neat and fashionable, but still want to be a little different.
For your own urban jungle, try Olive & June’s “WKF” (a classic green) and a nude shade for the accent. With a fine brush, paint some leaves in a light green and add a dot of neon yellow for more detail. When you are just starting with hand-painting, leaf stickers can help you out.
The routine is easy: base coat, color, dry. Use a little brush to paint the leaves one layer at a time, adding more details as you go. End by applying a top coat to give your nails a glossy look that stays even after many iced coffee runs. Editorial manicurist Mei Kawajiri believes that “adding a little space makes nail art look more stylish,” so you don’t have to cover every part of your nails.
It makes me feel like I’m in a botanical garden even in the city. It’s calm, lovely, and matches all the items in your wardrobe. Is your preference for summer designs more flowers or more leaves? Either way, it’s a win.
Minty Fresh With a Beach Shell Twist
Nothing shows “summer escape” better than summer nails coffin or square in minty blues and pale pink, with one nail featuring a three-dimensional seashell and rhinestone. For all those who wish they were by the sea, even when they’re just looking at Pinterest on their break, this design is for you. The soft and cool colors are a great change from the bright summery hues, and they are still fun and in line with the latest trends. The 3D details are what really captures my interest and make the watch look unique, almost like jewelry.
You can try OPI’s “Gelato on My Mind” and Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple” for the nails, and a creamy nude pink for the thumb and pinky. You can use nail molding gel or a ready-made nail charm, together with a tiny rhinestone to create the pearl detail. To make the shell in 3D, sculpt with builder gel and a thin brush, and then cure it under a lamp.
It’s very easy to use: paint, add the shell accent, place the rhinestone, and finish with a top coat. Nail artist Chaun Legend (Kylie Jenner’s go-to for statement nails) recommends using a dotting tool for precise rhinestone placement. It really makes a difference!
The delicate, summery style of this design reminds me of the beach. Could you ever use a 3D nail accent, or do you simply like two-dimensional patterns? No matter what, minty pastels are perfect for the season’s looks.
Heartfelt Rainbow: Summer’s Sweetest Mix
They look like pure happiness in a manicure, blending pastel green, lilac, candy yellow, French tips, and a single red heart that sparkles in the light. It gives off a summery vibe with every glance, so it’s perfect for teens and others who want a fresh nail idea. Every finger has something different: soft colors, some art, and a touch of 3D to make each one stand out. If you like simple and pretty designs but want your nails to stand out from everyone else’s, this is perfect for you.
To DIY, you’ll want pastel polishes (Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple” and “Lilacism” are tried-and-true), a buttery yellow, crisp white, and a dotting tool for the heart. If you feel like decorating your nails in a creative way, gel polish is the best choice for smooth color blends and a shiny, glass-like look. Don’t miss using the tiny detail brush for the French tip and multicolor stripe.
There isn’t a standard way to pile this nail polish on, so use your thumb and pinky as a base and gradually add color to the heart and rainbow aspects. Celebrity nail pro Julie Kandalec recommends using a toothpick to get sharp lines on the mini heart—her hack for anyone new to nail art!
I always get a little happier when I wear this colorful outfit, especially in the summer. Do you think pastels are the best fit, or should you go with different colors to create a different style? There’s so much freedom here—let your personality shine.
Red & White Florals: Classic Summer Romance
A combination of deep red, crisp white, and light floral branches is always timeless. These nails have a perfect blend of modern and vintage, with the perfect touch of 2025 designs. The style is both sultry and innocent, which makes it ideal for both a romantic dinner on the rooftop and a picnic in the park. If you’re looking for summer nails that are cute or even a more grown-up version of teens almond nails, this is the perfect option.
To get this at home, you’ll need a cherry red (think OPI’s “Big Apple Red”), a pure white, and a super fine brush for the branches. While gel polish helps you achieve the sharpest lines, regular polish can also do the job if you have time. Alternate your base colors and then add the vines and flowers with a small brush, as they should be simple and not too detailed.
Make sure your nails are clean and almond-shaped, and then go ahead and paint your base colors. When your base color is dry, sketch red and white branches on your accent nails and top them with a shiny top coat. Betina Goldstein, a manicurist, recommends that you let your brush just brush the nail, so you don’t press down too hard.
This style makes me feel as if I spent much more time getting ready than I really did. I like that it is both easy to use and impressive at the same time. Are you someone who dresses up in florals for unique occasions, or do you like to be extra every day?
Cherries & Cream: Playful and Juicy Summer Nails
If you’re looking for a sweet-looking manicure, cherry nail art on a white background with red accents is the perfect summer nails square style. It’s fun, has a retro feel, and matches the trend for fruity designs that’s so popular in 2025. The design mixes simple and pure summer nostalgia with pretty art ideas, so it is perfect for teens and anyone who likes vintage diner style.
Start with a high-quality white polish (OPI’s “Alpine Snow” is always a win), a true red, and a green detail brush or dotting tool. Give contrast to your nails by painting two white and the rest red, and finally use the detail brush to draw cherries and their stems. It’s not as hard as it appears, and cherry decals are great for those who want to avoid drawing by hand.
My favorite thing about this design? It works well on short, square nails as well as on longer ones. Madeline Poole, a nail artist, once remarked that “fruit nails instantly make you feel better,” and that’s exactly what I think too. Should you go for a colorful theme or stay with the classic red and white?
Lime Pop and Dots: Modern Neon Energy
If you hope for nails that almost appear to glow in the sun, this lime green set with black and white dots will give you plenty of bright colors. This look is not shy about being bold—it’s just like having a summer party in a bottle. The simple and fun pattern on these designs makes them look artistic and is ideal for those who enjoy having short summer nails. They aren’t just fashionable, but they help set the latest trends.
You’ll need a neon green (try Orly’s “Glowstick” or Sally Hansen’s “Lime Lights”), a bold white, and a black nail art pen or brush. Green should be the main color on most nails, and use white for your ring finger. After that, make random dots with the pen.
Before adding dots, make certain the base is dry, so you don’t make any smudges. When using neon, you must apply a top coat, and Sarah Gibson Tuttle suggests using a gel finish to make the color stand out even better.
I always smile when I come across this color during the summer. Should you go for lots of neon, or would a single neon nail be enough for you? Summer is definitely the season to experiment.
Colorblock Playground: Artistic Square Designs
Colorblock nails are so popular these days because they are the perfect choice for fashion-forward people who like to keep their looks simple. All the nails in the set have a special mix of pink, blue, orange, black, and green arranged in neat geometric shapes. If you want designs for 2025 that are lively and full of character, this is the right time. I appreciate that this look suits both teenagers and adults who don’t mind mixing different colors.
It’s a good idea to have several bottles of polish in every shade, and OPI, Essie, and Sally Hansen offer plenty of bright colors. Apply striping tape or a thin brush to get neat lines, and change the colors on your nails each time.
To get perfect lines, first put down a neutral base, and slowly add your colors one by one, letting each section dry before you continue. Hang Nguyen, a famous nail artist, says to use liquid latex around the nail bed for a really precise and salon-like look.
Putting on colorblock nails makes me feel more confident, since it’s like having a bit of modern art with you all the time. Would you paint all your nails or start out with a few accent nails to check how it looks? Feeling creative with your appearance is always a good idea.
Pastel Blossoms for Dreamy Summer Evenings
Soft pinks and delicate hand-painted florals? Yes, please. This set is a subtle way to show your love for romance, just like your favorite sundress. Two simple flowers are enough to make these nails cute, so they’re the perfect choice for anyone who wants a little floral touch, but not too much art. I think this style is the definition of “effortless pretty” in 2025, great for attending weddings or walking around at night under fairy lights.
If you want to achieve this at home, try painting your nails with “Fiji” from Essie or “Jordan” from Zoya. Paint the flower details with a thin brush and use white, yellow, and blue. Don’t worry about making everything perfect; let the brush guide you and each petal can have its own shape. If you haven’t tried nail art, stickers in small sizes can give you a similar look.
This style is always a hit, whether you put it together in a hurry or not. Paint the main color, put the blossoms on top, and seal the picture with a nice top coat when you’re done. Celebrity nail artist Miss Pop recommends practicing florals on paper first—then just go for it!
Putting on these nails makes me feel better—their delicate color and little designs seem to make every day more pleasant. Sometimes, I paint my nails to fit my mood, but other times, I go with the latest trends.
Chic Dalmatian Dots and Gold Touches
If you prefer simple squares but want something a little different, pick pink and white with Dalmatian spots and accents of gold foil. This collection looks very modern, as it blends soft and graphic elements for a futuristic style in 2025. You can wear it in a formal or casual way for any type of summer event. I find that this look is best on medium length nails—it looks great and is easy to wear.
If you are going DIY, let both “Pink Pong” by Sally Hansen and “Alpine Snow” by OPI help you. Use a dotting tool or a bobby pin with black paint for the spots, and buy gold foil from Amazon or any other beauty store. Once the polish is still a little sticky, use the foil and gently press it down.
Don’t overthink the placement—random is chic. As soon as everything is dry, apply a top coat gel to make your nails shine brightly. Editorial manicurist Betina Goldstein believes that adding dots on top of foil gives each manicure a unique look.
The little gold details catch the light so beautifully, I always find myself admiring my own nails (and yes, sometimes I get distracted during Zoom calls because of them). Are you a foil fan or a glitter fan? Both are summer classics.
Purple Heart Branches With a Hint of Sparkle
Who says florals have to be dainty? The set combines rich purple with blush pink, adds heart-shaped petals, and finishes it with a touch of crystal. The cute summer nails square and designs have a lot of pretty art ideas and energy. The combination of colors is strong, but you can still wear it anywhere, and the little sparkles are perfect for summer evenings.
You should choose a dark purple like OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” and a light pink for a nice contrast. Use a fine brush for the heart branches and tiny rhinestones (I like Kiss’s nail gems—they’re easy to apply).
To make a clean heart, use the tip of a dotting tool and draw it into a point. When your polish is still slightly sticky, put on the gems and finish with top coat. NYC nail artist Mei Kawajiri suggests using tweezers for gem placement—so much less stressful!
I enjoy that this mani has a bit of flirtiness, but it’s not too sweet. It can be enjoyable to update traditional ideas with something that’s a bit different. Should you use gems on all your nails, or just add them to one?
Retro Dots and Bright Blue Energy
Looking for teens short simple that still feels fresh? This combination of blue, green, and orange nails with a polka dot accent is the perfect way to show off a summery mood. The atmosphere is a mix of old-fashioned, creative, and totally enjoyable. It’s a design that features bold and unique colors. I always suggest trying this for anyone who wants to try cute summer nails blue with a twist.
To get the blue, use “Butler Please.” For the green, go with “Mojito Madness,” and a bold orange for the dots. The white foundation brings out the dots well, and using a brush helps you make them evenly.
Paint all your nails except the ring finger the same color, and then add orange dots on the white one. Cap it with a top coat made to shine and keep its brilliance. According to Alicia Torello, not making the dot perfect gives your nails a playful and relaxed appearance.
Every time I wear anything polka-dotted, people smile. It’s a micro-mood booster! Would you like to change the color, or would you prefer to keep the whole theme retro?
Blue Plaid and Burgundy: Cool Girl Energy
Plaid nails for summer? Absolutely. The combination of matte burgundy and blue plaid is unusual but very fashionable for the year 2025. It appears as if the outfit was thrown together, but it’s actually very well thought out. If you like almond simple pink or designs square but want a more editorial look, this is the inspiration for you.
You’ll need a matte burgundy (try Zoya’s “Brielle”), a pale blue, navy, and a detail brush for the plaid. For precise lines, use striping tape, but if you want an imperfect look, draw them by hand. Mix plaid nails with solid nails to help the design look even.
To get the best look, apply your solid colors first, and then add the plaid lines crossing each other. After the plaid is dry, add a matte top coat and keep the burgundy looking extra velvety. Tom Bachik, a nail artist, believes that matte top coats give any manicure a modern, fashionable look, and he is definitely right.
Plaid in the summer is a bit edgy, a bit traditional, and simply looks cool. Do you prefer to have a different pattern on every finger, or just use one as an accent?
Neon Polka Dot Party: Maximalist Summer Fun
If you’re aiming for attention and want to have fun this summer, this colorful pattern with big polka dots will inspire your almond nails. When you see orange, pink, and green colors full of life, scattered over a white base with big dots, it’s time to get ready for pool parties. These are meant for people who want to be noticed, stand tall, and enjoy every day in 2025. I think this teen almond shape is fun and never childish, because of the eye-catching color blocks and confident oval outline.
You should use OPI’s “No Stopping Me Now” for orange, Essie’s “Strike a Rose” for pink, Sally Hansen’s “Electric Pop” for green, and a white nail polish for your dot canvas to get this look at home. Use a dotting tool (or the end of a bobby pin) to make those perfect, chunky dots—each one should look intentional and full of personality. If you want your neon nails to shine for a long time, use gel polish.
First, make your nails almond-shaped and add the bright colors to your thumb, pinky, and ring finger. Start by placing white on your index and middle fingers, and then make the polka dots in a random but equal way. Make sure every layer is dry before proceeding, or you might end up smudging the dots and spoiling the whole thing. Pro tip from celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec: “Apply two coats of white to really make neon colors pop—it’s the secret for max brightness!”
Whenever I choose these dramatic nails, I always feel great. Others notice, random people comment, and the barista gives a big smile. Do you prefer to make your nails match your mood, or do you want them to make the summer mood? Either way, these are pure joy in a manicure.
