Summer is just on the horizon! As you gear up to pull out your beloved summer sundresses, breezy blouses, denim shorts, and comfortable flip-flops, it’s the perfect time to think about choosing a fun and fresh summer nail design that complements your warm-weather wardrobe. After all, why not let your nails match the sizzling heat of the season!
As the trees transition from soft pink blooms to lush green foliage, you’ll want your manicure to mirror that change, welcoming vibrant summer hues in place of pastel spring shades. Explore nail designs featuring bold reds, dazzling shimmers, and serene teals. And if you’re looking for more than a solid color, we’ve curated a collection of summer nail art inspired by the season, including whimsical mermaid themes, tropical florals, and playful fruit patterns. Whether your style is retro and vibrant or subtle and elegant, there’s a summer nail look for every occasion.
The best part? You don’t have to stick to just one design. Mix and match your favorite summer nail styles, combining solids and striking patterns, to keep your nails looking radiant all summer long!
Cherry Nails
Indulge in cherry-picking your summer nails—especially with this cherry-themed manicure! Whether you choose a contrasting French tip or a blank nail as your base, the charming cherry graphics painted on top add a sweet touch.
Fiery Red Nails
Creative designs are fun for experimentation, but a classic red manicure is always a winner in the summer! Choose a bright red hue with a touch of orange for a pop of color as you bask by the pool or soak up the sun on the beach.
Hot Pink French Tips
Elevate your standard French manicure with a burst of color! This playful and easy nail design replaces the neutral white tip with hot pink—or any bright shade you fancy. It’s the perfect way to embrace neon without going all-in on the color.
Chrome Nails
If you can’t let go of your signature dark mani, go for an edgy chrome shade that reflects various colors in the light! This purple chrome coat may appear dark from afar, but it shimmers green depending on the angle for a fun and versatile look.
Mermaid Nails
Embody the whimsy and beauty of a summer mermaid with an iridescent mermaid mani! Paint a light teal or green metallic shade on your nails, or layer it over a bright purple or blue for a dual-toned design.
Barbie Pink Glitter Nails
Barbie continues to trend, and we can’t get enough of all things Barbie pink! This adorable pink manicure features glittery French tips alternating with solid nails in the same hot pink shade for the perfect girly summer look.
White Swirl Nails
If you adore the neutral look of a classic French manicure but want to add a fun twist. This manicure boasts the same versatile light pink and white shades you know and love, but with a twist, thanks to the abstract swirls adorning each nail.
Cow Print Nails
If you resonate with Ree Drummond, cowgirl-chic style is a year-round staple. This adorable cow-print French tip nail design is a surefire way to turn heads.
Ombré Nails
This season is the perfect time to flaunt bold, fun colors like this stunning fuchsia shade! This pink ombré design fades from hot pink to a natural light pink base near the cuticle.
Rainbow Abstract Nails
Why chase summer rainbows when you can wear them on your nails? These rainbow squiggle nails feature overlapping, abstract shapes in an array of shades over a clear base for a perfect summer nail design.
Summer Sky Nails
If you cherish those breezy nights gazing at the night sky, why not capture that enchanting scene on your nails? Adorn your nails with iridescent moon and star stickers before sealing them with a clear coat for a manicure that rivals the beauty of a summer sky by night.
Leopard Nails
Animal prints are making a comeback, and what better way to jump on the trend than by sporting your favorite print on your nails? This eye-catching leopard-print nail design covers only half of the nail while leaving negative space on the other half for a perfect balance of fierce and fresh.
Butterfly Nails
Transform into a butterfly with these stunning blue butterfly-printed nails! Each light pink nail showcases part of a cobalt blue butterfly that seems to be fluttering from one nail to the next.
Tropical Nails
Take the tropical vibes beyond the beach with these vacation-inspired nails! Opt for a neutral shade or a bright color as the base of this manicure to contrast with the delicate flowers and plant accents.
Bronze Nails
A healthy bronze glow is the telltale sign of a summer well spent. Apply that concept to your nails with a shimmering, copper nail polish. It will match your fresh tan, and the dazzling flecks of glitter will reflect the sunlight for a breathtaking summer moment.
Wavy Nails
The ocean won’t be the only thing getting wavy if you sport this retro-inspired nail art this summer! It features monochromatic, abstract swirls that vary in shape and size on each nail.
Grass Green Iridescent Nails
Like a freshly mowed lawn, these glowing, grass-green nails scream summer. Add a chrome coat to your ring and pinky fingers for a shimmering summer accent!
Sea Foam Nails
Take inspiration from the ocean with a sea foam-inspired manicure. Each nail features a gradient shade of light green, transitioning from a foamy white to a vibrant teal. Add a gold shimmer top coat to elevate the mermaid-inspired look.
Rainbow Floral French
Tips If you’re torn between summer blooms and a rainbow palette, opt for both in this delightful and colorful take on the French manicure! Each nail showcases a different shade of the rainbow paired with delicate flowers for a unique twist on the classic French.