Here are 43 stunning nail styles to keep your manicure fresh, trendy, and perfectly suited for the summer season.
Whether you’re into minimalistic details, bold colors, or intricate nail art, you’ll find a favorite in this curated collection.
1. Lavender-Milk Nails
Lavender-milk nails are a soft twist on the milk-bath trend. This version delivers a pastel lavender hue with a glossy finish, giving a clean yet colorful result.
The look is easy to wear and adds subtle vibrance without overpowering your outfit. It pairs well with short or almond-shaped nails for a polished summer vibe.
2. Strawberry Nails
Dainty strawberry nails offer a sweet, simplistic take on fruit-themed designs. These feature miniature strawberries on a neutral or pink base.
You can customize the look with floral accents, French tips, or chrome overlays. It’s perfect for adding charm without going overboard.
3. Animal Print
This design lets you play with leopard, zebra, or snakeskin prints across different nails. A mix-and-match approach gives it a bold, dynamic look.
Stick with neutral tones for subtle flair or go wild with colorful versions. Animal prints never go out of style in the summer.
4. Minimalist Ombré
This nail trend is all about subtle transitions from one shade to another. Perfect for nail art minimalists who still want a touch of elegance.
Pair any color with a nude base or blend similar shades. It also serves as a great canvas for layering more elaborate designs.
5. Colorful Polka Dots
Polka dot nails are whimsical and easy to recreate at home. Use a dotting tool to apply various colored dots over a neutral base.
For a minimalist version, use just one dot near the cuticle. It’s a quick way to make your nails look fun and seasonal.
6. Shimmering Cat-Eye
Cat-eye polish adds a 3D magnetic shimmer effect to your manicure. All you need is magnetic nail polish and a wand to get the look.
Move the magnet over wet polish to customize the lines and curves. Each nail turns out slightly different for a unique finish.
7. Butter Yellow
This creamy pastel yellow is a subtle alternative to neon shades. It flatters most skin tones and feels sophisticated yet fresh.
Butter yellow is great for both glossy and matte finishes. Pair with gold accents or minimal nail art for added style.
8. Jelly Nails
Jelly nails give a sheer, squishy appearance that feels fun and retro. The translucent polish adds depth and light reflection.
Pair them with French tips for a twist, or opt for monochrome jelly tones. DIY lovers can create the jelly effect by mixing clear topcoat with regular polish.
9. Mix & Match
Combine florals, checkers, clouds, and more in one set for a mixed media look. There are no rules—just a cohesive color palette to tie everything together.
This trend is ideal for creative expression. Choose complementary tones for a harmonious but playful design.
10. Green Accents
For a low-key pop of color, try lime or neon green accents on a nude or beige base. It’s bright but not overwhelming.
This style works well as French tips, thin stripes, or dots. Keep the rest of the nail minimal to highlight the green.
11. Aura Nails
Aura nails blend two colors in a circular gradient for a glowy, orb-like finish. The effect mimics energy auras or halos.
They’re best achieved using sponges or airbrush tools. Press-ons also offer quick and easy options.
12. Red Hot
Classic red nails never go out of fashion. Opt for a high-shine polish like Coca-Cola Red for a summer-ready look.
Keep it simple or add a glossy topcoat. Red complements everything from swimwear to evening outfits.
13. Snow White
White nails are versatile and clean. Alternate patterns or add minimalist art in neutrals to keep it interesting.
White also makes your summer tan pop. Stick to bright or off-white tones for the best contrast.
14. Olive Green
Earthy and unexpected, olive green serves as a stylish neutral. It’s bold without being overpowering.
Use it for solid color or combine with browns and golds for mix-and-match designs. It’s a chic way to wear green in summer.
15. Fairy Aura Nails
Take the aura trend into pastel territory with fairycore-inspired designs. Soft pinks and purples create an ethereal feel.
Sponge application or gel polish layering brings this look to life. Finish with shimmer for added magic.
16. Baby Blue Chrome
Chrome polish in baby blue is edgy yet wearable. It delivers a metallic sheen that feels futuristic and fun.
Use chrome powder over a blue base for a pro finish. Great for DIYers with gel setups at home.
17. Delicate Florals
Floral nail art adds bridal and soft vibes to your mani. Opt for white or pastel blossoms for a gentle, seasonal feel.
Apply with nail stickers or paint by hand using thin brushes. Keep the base nude for an airy look.
18. Seashell Nails
Inspired by mermaids, seashell nails combine iridescent polish with 3D shell-like textures.
Color-shifting pigments add depth from every angle. Chrome overlays complete the aquatic fantasy.
19. Emerald Aesthetic
Deep emerald green nails feel luxurious and fresh. Add checkers, peace signs, or other patterns for personality.
It’s ideal for both short and long nails. Use gloss or matte finish depending on your vibe.
20. Western Flare
Cow-print nails bring a playful western twist. Use dotting tools and black polish on a white base to mimic the pattern.
The look channels rodeo vibes and pairs well with denim. Easy to DIY with minimal tools.
21. Rainbow Angles
This version of the rainbow French manicure uses diagonal double lines to modernize the classic look. The design is simple but visually striking, offering a playful aesthetic without compromising on neatness.
To achieve this, you’ll need precision striping tape or a fine nail brush to paint two angled lines across the tip. Vary the color order on each nail to enhance the visual impact while keeping the base neutral.
22. Bejeweled Nails
These nails use press-on embellishments to add sparkle and dimension. The jewels are pre-applied to press-on nails, offering an easy way to upgrade your style.
No special tools are needed—just apply with nail glue or adhesive tabs. It’s a fast, fuss-free way to achieve a dressed-up manicure without visiting a salon.
23. Mermaid Chrome
This manicure blends teal and purple chrome for a metallic, iridescent effect. It supports the ongoing mermaidcore trend with its aquatic-inspired colors.
Chrome powders are applied over gel polish for maximum shine. Use a sponge applicator for even pigment distribution and finish with a high-gloss topcoat.
24. Bright Stars
Neon stars placed near the cuticle give this design a beach-ready look. It’s a bold yet simple motif that doesn’t require complex tools.
Use star-shaped nail sequins or decals for a clean result. Apply with tweezers and seal with a clear topcoat for lasting hold.
25. Mixed Checkerboards
This style uses a variety of checkerboard patterns in different colors across the nails. It creates a visually engaging and eclectic effect.
The design works best with bold contrast. Use a striping brush and alternating shades to ensure crisp, clean lines.
26. ’70s Swirls
Inspired by retro design, this look features flowing swirl patterns in earthy tones. The simplicity of the lines balances the boldness of the colors.
Use a nail art brush or dotting tool to create the swirls over a neutral base. A glossy topcoat enhances the design’s vibrancy.
27. Monotone Matte
This manicure features different shades of the same color family with a matte finish. The effect is unified and refined.
Apply your chosen hues and seal with a matte topcoat. Stick to 3–5 shades to avoid visual overload while maintaining interest.
28. Sunny Swiggles
Swirls in vibrant colors are layered over a white base to add movement and contrast. Each nail can feature a unique pattern for variation.
Choose bold primary or pastel shades to maximize impact. Allow the base to dry fully before layering to prevent smudging.
29. Slime Green
This bright green gel manicure channels a nostalgic, playful vibe. It’s a high-impact color ideal for summer.
Use a gel formula for intensity and long wear. Finish with a high-shine topcoat to emphasize the color’s vividness.
30. Rainbow French
This is a colorful spin on the French tip using press-on nails. Each tip features a different bright color, keeping the base clear or nude.
Choose high-quality press-ons for a natural fit. This look is easy to apply and perfect for those who want a bold manicure without polish.
31. Negative-Space Hearts
These nails incorporate yellow heart shapes with surrounding negative space. The use of transparency adds dimension without clutter.
Apply yellow polish in heart shapes using a stencil or fine brush. Leave surrounding space clear or sheer for the intended effect.
32. The New French
This updated French manicure includes variations like almond-shaped tips and softer curves. It revives the early 2000s style with a modern twist.
Stick to neutral tones or soft pinks for an understated finish. This look works on both natural and acrylic nails.
33. Dainty Florals
Small floral designs like daisies are dotted across a neutral base. The style is delicate and suitable for minimal nail art lovers.
Use a dotting tool or toothpick for precision. Stick to two or three colors to maintain a simple aesthetic.
34. Iridescent Ombré
This look blends shimmering pastel hues in a gradient. Iridescent polishes add a pearlescent effect that shifts in light.
Apply multiple sheer coats and use a sponge for the gradient. Finish with a gloss topcoat to amplify shine.
35. Drop of Gold
A minimal gold accent—such as a single stud—is added to a classic manicure. This detail elevates the look with minimal effort.
Position the gold element near the cuticle or center. Secure with nail glue and seal with a clear coat.