10 Gorgeous Summer Nails You Have To Try
Summer is all about sunshine, freedom, and expressing yourself—and what better way to do that than with a fresh set of nails that scream summer vibes? Whether you’re lounging poolside, heading to a beach party, or just want something that makes you smile every time you look down, a bold, fun, or breezy summer manicure is the perfect accessory. In this blog post, I will show you 10 Gorgeous Summer Nails You Have To Try this summer!
This list of 10 gorgeous summer nail ideas covers everything from trendy patterns to bright pops of color, all curated to inspire your next salon visit or DIY nail session. Each idea brings something special to the table, whether it’s about making a statement, staying on-trend, or simply matching your mood. Let’s dive into the looks and talk about how to recreate them and why they’ll have everyone asking, “Where did you get your nails done?”
1. Daisy Delight
Soft pink base + white daisies + yellow tips = pure sunshine. This design feels fresh, feminine, and totally perfect for sunny days.
How to recreate these gorgeous summer nails:
Start with a milky pink base. Use a dotting tool or small nail brush to paint simple daisy petals with white polish and add a dot of yellow in the center. Finish with a French tip using that same sunny yellow.
Why you’ll love it:
This look channels major garden party vibes and works beautifully on both short and long nails.
2. Abstract Mix & Match Summer Nails
Geometric doodles, checkerboard patterns, squiggles, and smiley faces—this set is full-on Gen Z cool.
How to recreate:
Use a nude or clear base and add freehand designs using a striping brush and detail tools. Play with black, white, and muted pinks for a modern twist.
Why you’ll love these summer nails:
This is the mani equivalent of your Pinterest mood board—totally unique, full of personality, and impossible to ignore.
3. Ocean-Inspired Pearly Glam
These dreamy blue and pearl nails look like they were plucked straight from a mermaid’s treasure chest.
How to recreate:
Choose a sea-blue base for some nails, pearl shimmer polish for others, and decorate with 3D starfish charms, crystals, and pearl decals. Use nail glue or builder gel to secure the embellishments.
Why you’ll love it:
This design is elegant and dreamy—perfect for beach brides or ocean lovers.
4. Tropical Vacation Summer Nails
Neon ombré tips with palm trees and flowers? Sign us up for vacay.
How to recreate these summer nails:
Go for a clear or sheer base and add a gradient of neon pink, orange, and yellow on each tip using a sponge. Hand-paint or use stickers for the palm trees and tropical florals.
Why you’ll love it:
These nails scream fun in the sun and look amazing on a beach or paired with a fruity cocktail.
5. Aqua Dream
Cool, calming aqua nails with a mix of glossy and matte finishes? Yes please.
How to recreate:
Choose a palette of aqua shades from mint to teal. Alternate the shades on each finger and mix in matte and shiny top coats for a chic contrast.
Why you’ll love it:
These nails are subtle but stunning and perfect for poolside aesthetics.
6. Western Summer Nails
Solid turquoise meets a bold black and white animal print accent nail. Instant edge!
How to recreate:
Paint most of your nails in turquoise. For the accent nail, use white as a base, then freehand or stamp on cow or leopard spots with black polish.
Why you’ll love it:
It’s a playful twist on classic summer brights, giving you just the right pop of personality.
7. Neon Power
Highlighter yellow, hot pink, and electric orange nails that GLOW against darker skin tones? Obsessed.
How to recreate:
Pick your favorite high-voltage neons and apply one color per nail. Make them ultra-glossy for that extra shine.
Why you’ll love it:
These are summer’s boldest nails—made to be seen and admired.
8. 4th of July Summer Nails
Perfect for patriotic events, this look mixes stripes, stars, and bold blocks of color.
How to recreate:
Alternate red, white, and blue nails. Add stripes and stars using nail stickers or a tiny brush and nail tape for clean lines.
Why you’ll love it:
Rock these for the 4th of July or any summer barbecue—super cute and super festive.
9. Royal Blue Glam
Blue polish meets gold foil and abstract nail art for a classy yet artsy finish.
How to recreate:
Use a royal blue polish for half your nails and nude polish for the rest. Add foil, dots, or striping tape to create an abstract design.
Why you’ll love it:
This set is perfect for someone who wants a sophisticated yet playful vibe.
10. Pastel Ombré Summer Nails
A dreamy rainbow of pastel shades, each nail blending from one hue to the next.
How to recreate:
Use a sponge to blend pastel pink, lavender, mint, peach, and baby blue on each nail, or use separate colors per nail for a soft rainbow look. Finish with a pearly or glossy top coat.
Why you’ll love it:
This mani looks like cotton candy skies—sweet, serene, and oh-so-summer.
Final Thoughts: Gorgeous Summer Nails You Have To Try
Whether you’re booking a mani or trying your hand at DIY nails, these summer designs are guaranteed to turn heads and lift your mood. From soft florals to bold neons, there’s something for every style and skin tone in this list. So go ahead, screenshot your favorite and bring it to your nail tech or break out your polish and get creative!
Loved these looks? Share this article with your bestie and plan your next summer mani date! 