Fashion + Beauty//May 16, 2024
The days are getting longer, our feeds are getting brighter, and we’re itching for a style refresh — starting with our summer nails! If you’re anything like us, then summer is your favorite time to experiment with different styles and try out all the trends. And your mani is the perfect canvas! To give you some inspo for your next salon appointment (or DIY sesh), we’ve rounded up THE best summer nail ideas and designs for 2024.
From vibrant hues that should come with an OOO message, to trendy designs that will brighten up any Monday, these nail ideas are the ultimate addition to your summer wardrobe. Plus, we’re sharing a few of our tips and tricks for ~nailing~ these looks at home. So clear out your camera roll, break out your favorite polish, and let’s get into it!
Green Wedding Shoe’s product selections are curated and/or tested by the editorial team and GWS community. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. Please consider shopping through our links if you would like to support GWS!
What type of nail designs and ideas are trending for summer 2024?
Want to level up your go-to mani? Here are the summer nail trends that are dominating our Pinterest boards in 2024!
- Chromatica: The glazed donut nails you know and love are getting a metallic summer makeover with iridescent chrome finishes and pearly topcoats. It’s the dreamy design of your mermaidcore dreams!
- Bright + Bold: After months of muted hues, we’re celebrating the sunshine with bright, dopamine-inducing nail designs. Think: rainbow color palettes, botanical nail art, and dreamy aura nails.
- Funky French: French tips are always in style, but this summer they’re leveling up with pastel hues, floral designs, and funky touches. Now’s your chance to experiment with this classic look!
- Clean Girl Nails: For the minimalists, prepare to fall in love with the clean girl summer nails trend. This style is all about natural, glossy, healthy-looking nails that glow from within — also known as lip gloss nails!
The Best Colors for Summer Nails
In 2024, the best colors for your summer nails are….all of them! Rainbow hues are taking over, and we are here for it. From pastel ombre designs to neon French tips, this trend is perfect for indecisive nail lovers who struggle to choose just one hue (we see you).
Another bright nail trend that’s on our radar for summer 2024? Dreamy blue hues. Inspired by cloudless skies and ocean waves, this color oozes summer vibes. And with so many different shades to choose from, there’s a perfect blue for every style. Tiffany blue? Blueberry milk? Mermaid-inspired turquoise? The options are truly endless!
And last, but certainly not least, we’re loving the lavender haze that has taken over our summer mood boards. It’s a soft and romantic alternative to pink, and it’s the ultimate color for your Eras Tour nail design!
How to Prep and Take Care of Your Nails for the Summer
If your summer bucket list looks anything like ours, then your nails are going to need some serious TLC throughout the season. From swimming to traveling, your favorite summer activities can quickly start to wear down your healthy nails.
To prep your mani for all these summer must-dos, we suggest using a strengthening topcoat over your polish. This will protect your nails from the elements and keep your summer design looking fresh for as long as possible.
Cuticle oil is also a lifesaver when it comes to protecting your nails from the summer heat and dry air. Apply a few drops to your nail beds every day along with your favorite sunscreen (which will also keep your bright polishes from fading!) and you’re pretty much golden.
Now that you’re prepped and ready to go, it’s time for some inspo! We’ve rounded up our favorite summer nail design ideas for all styles, from coffin shapes to gel manis to ombre hues.
Bright Summer Nails and Design Ideas
Clear out your camera roll, because we’ve rounded up the best bright and bold nail ideas for your next summer mani! This year, we’re boosting our summer serotonin with vibrant hues and fun color combos. You won’t find any neutrals here!
As we mentioned above, rainbow nails are all over our summer inspo boards — but we’re not stopping there. Keep scrolling for our favorite bright summer nail ideas for all styles and color palettes, from neon pinks to pastel greens to bold reds!
1. Bright Summer Nails with a Juicy Watermelon Design
photo: Hope Ivekich
Take a bite out of these juicy beauties! If your warm weather aesthetic could be summed up with the song “Watermelon Sugar,” then this is the perfect nail design to give you that sweet summer feeling.
These bright summer nails truly look good enough to eat, especially with the mini green French tip (get the look with this green gel liner set!) combined with the ombre pink hue. Best paired with a watermelon margarita and a beach getaway!
2. Watercolor Rainbow Bright Summer Nail Design
photo: Kim Truong
Like your dream summer sunset in nail form, this bright watercolor design is almost too good to be true. It blends soft pastel shades with vibrant hues to create an ethereal blend of summer-ready colors. Now your only goal for the summer will be getting your Insta feed to match this dreamy color palette!
For the DIY pros, you can try this look at home with the help of this airbrush kit. Hello, new favorite summer hobby!
3. Viva Magenta + Bright Orange Summer Nails
photo: Nails By Kimberlin
Feeling indecisive? Dip your fingers into alllll the summer nail trends with this bright design! With this idea, you can try out a different style on each finger — from a trendy checkerboard to a groovy swirl to a summer-appropriate floral print. Because this summer, the vibe is: more is more!
Just be sure to keep your nails to a single color palette to avoid a busy look. We’re loving this viva magenta and juicy orange combo!
4. Monarch Butterfly Bright Summer Nail Idea
photo: ManiMe
Summer is when butterflies get their MOMENT, and we love how this nail idea pays homage to these fluttery + bright beauties! Whimsical, playful, and super on-trend, this design is perfect for summer festival season — or for adding a pop of color to your day-to-day look.
And the best part? You don’t need to go to a nail salon to get this whimsical summer design! These nails are actually stick-on gels — just peel and stick them to your natural nails for a salon-level look in seconds.
5. Tie Dye Style Bright Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Gelcare
If your summer wouldn’t be complete without a DIY tie-dye sesh, then add this bright + bold nail idea to your summer bucket list! It combines neon colors to create a rad tie-dye effect on each nail. The result? A fun retro look that pairs great with your favorite pair of cut-off shorts.
Want to recreate this tie-dye look at home? Swap your rubber bands and fabric dyes for nail art brushes and rainbow gel polish!
Looking for the perfect outfit to go with your show-stopping summer nails? We’ve got you covered with this list of our favorite summer dresses for all styles!
6. Cute Floral Bright Summer Mani
photo: ManiMe
Floral summer nails may not be ~groundbreaking~, but they ARE super cute! Plus, there are so many variations of bright garden-inspired summer nail ideas, from dainty daisies to these colorful wildflowers. Because who doesn’t want a blossoming bouquet that comes with you everywhere you go?!
7. Matcha Green Checkered French Tip Bright Summer Nails
photo: @pop_polished
Is there anything better than sipping on an iced matcha latte as you run your summer errands? We think not — and that’s the inspo behind this bright summer nail design!
With trendy checkerboard designs and that soft green hue, these nails are the perfect addition to any lazy summer afternoon.
8. Taylor Swift Inspired Bright Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Valerie
Did you manifest your way to Taylor Swift tickets this summer? Then this Eras-inspired nail idea is a NEED, not a want!
When you can’t choose just one Era to represent, show your love for all of them with this bright multi-colored summer nail design. With 10 fingers, all the albums are covered, from Fearless (glittery gold) to Midnights (twinkling blue) to Red (self-explanatory!).
9. Trendy Pink + Green Bright Summer Nails
photo: Peachi Nails
And the coolest nail trend of the summer goes to: bright mix-and-match designs! Prepare to see this playful style everywhere this year — and in every design combo imaginable.
We’re digging this mismatched checkerboard + floral nail inspo for summer. It feels playful and fun, especially with the hot pink + forest green color palette!
10. Barbiecore Inspired Hot Pink Bright Summer Mani
photo: Peachi Nails
For summer nails that say “Come on Barbie, let’s go party!” look no further than this bright pink design! It’s the only version of French tips that we plan on rocking this summer — because Barbiecore isn’t just an aesthetic in 2024, it’s a lifestyle.
And yes, we found that pink heart ring to complete the look. Obsessed is an understatement.
11. Lemon-Inspired Bright Summer Nail Design
photo: Peachi Nails
When life gives you summer, make lemon nails! Nothing screams summer like sunny yellow hues and a cold glass of lemonade. And this summer nail inspo captures those bright citrus vibes perfectly!
Add some juice to your next mani with these cute lemon nail decals and this sunshine yellow nail polish.
12. Bright Cherry Red Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Caroline Moyes
One of our favorite trends for summer 2024? Pops of red — whether that’s with your fashion, your make-up, or your nails!
This look is timeless, bold, and SO glamorous, and we’re expecting to see it everywhere this year. All you need is the perfect cherry-inspired shade, and the rest is up to you!
Spice it up with French tips, add a trendy checkerboard design, or keep it classic with a solid red style.
13. Funky + Bright Summer Mani
photo: Aistė Haas
Fun fact: these bright nails were actually inspired by Glossier’s Balm Dotcom (a summer staple!). Each nail features a cute color combo that pays tribute to a different flavor of the cult lip balm. Our go-to? The rose-flavored pink + green tube!
Even if you’re not a Glossier girlie, this nail design will add a bright + funky touch to your look. Plus, it’s super easy to copy —just choose your fave colors to make it your own!
14. Blossoming Bright Chrome Summer Nails
photo: Aistė Haas
Chrome! Pastels! 3D florals! This bright nail inspo is checking off ALL the boxes for a trendy summer look.
We especially love how the pastel flowers appear to be blooming right off the nail. It’s such a whimsical + unique take on a classic floral nail design! Complete with vanilla chrome powder, these nails are about to be your new summer mainstay.
15. Bright Ombre Sparkle Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Aistė Haas
Can’t decide on the perfect color for your next statement mani? With this bright nail design, you don’t have to! Featuring a rad ombre effect, these nails ensure that no pastel hue is left behind.
And how rad is that negative space sparkle detail? Add that little somethin’ extra to your design by sticking these twinkling stickers to your nails before adding the polish. Remove them once your mani has dried for a unique graphic look!
Summer Ombre Nails and Design Ideas
There’s something about summer ombre nail designs that look both trendy and timeless. They’re bold, but soft. Unique, but super wearable. Plus, they’re currently trending for summer 2024!
To help you get the look, we’ve rounded up the most swoon-worthy ombre summer nail ideas that you’ll want to copy immediately. From monochrome pastels to the entire rainbow, there are so many ways to make this look your own!
16. Pastel Rainbow Inspired Ombre Summer Nails
photo: Peachi Nails
Shake up a co*cktail of bright colors for your next mani with this ombre summer nail design. We love how it blends two colors on each finger to create a vibrant gradient across your hand. It’s an instant mood booster AND outfit-maker!
And for the DIY pros, we found the ultimate pastel rainbow polish set for all your colorful ombre needs.
17. Blushing Pink Ombre Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Gelcare
“Blushing nails” are a trend that has taken over our summer mood boards, and we couldn’t be more obsessed! They channel a natural look, with just a hint of rosy pink in the middle. Kind of like your nails are blushing — or like they’ve spent all day in the sun. Pretty perfect for summer, if you ask us!
Plus, this ombre design works for any shape or length of nails. All you need is some jelly gel nail polish to give you that buildable blushing look.
18. Lavender Haze Ombre Summer Mani
photo: The Daily Nail
Alexa, play “Lavender Haze” by Taylor Swift! It’s the color (and song) that’s going to rule the summer, and we can’t wait to channel it with our nails, too.
Get that romantic hazy vibe with this ombre lavender nail idea. It’s kind of like a unique + colorful French tip, with the soft purple slowly fading into a natural nail color.
And if you really want to take it to the next level, we found this purple nail polish that’s also scented like lavender!! Obsessed.
19. Rainbow Ombre French Tip Summer Nail Design
photo: Peachi Nails
If you loved design #13 but don’t want to commit to a full rainbow set, meet: this ombre French tip summer nail inspo! We love how each tip blends from one bright hue to the next, creating a gorgeous vibrant rainbow across your fingers.
P.S. Still a French tip novice? You can’t go wrong with these half-moon guides! They’ll give you perfect rounded lines every time.
20. Pretty in Pink Ombre Summer Nails
photo: The Daily Nail
Add a little ~sparkle~ to your ombre summer nails! We’re big fans of the reverse French tip look, especially when there’s glitter involved. And this design adds that extra somethin’ somethin’ to the pretty pink summer nail idea!
The nail artist behind this look also shares a few expert tips for nailing the ombre design: use a nail gradient sponge, work with gel polish, and create gradual layers instead of adding all your color at once. Pro status activated!
21. Bright + Sparkly Ombre Summer Mani Idea
photo: @akorn_nails
As you may have noticed by now, we’re all about rainbow nails this summer. And this ombre design has to be one of our faves! We love how each finger channels a different color, so you have a bright ombre rainbow for both of your hands.
And as much as we LOVE the colorful hues, it’s the glittery finish that really stands out. Complete this rainbow nail idea with a layer of sparkly or holographic nail polish to get that jaw-dropping shimmer!
22. Starry Night Ombre Summer Nails
photo: Finger Suit
If your favorite part of summer is spending unforgettable nights under the stars, then this ombre summer nail inspo is right up your alley. It’s a glamorous alternative to all the bright colors we’re seeing this year, and the velvety finish is super on-trend!
Give yourself a DIY starry night this summer with this twinkling charcoal polish and these coffin-shaped acrylic nails.
23. Vanilla Cream Ombre Summer Nail Design
nails: Amazon
Another trend that we’re seeing this summer? Simple and timeless nails. The “clean girl” aesthetic is still going strong, and minimalist “vanilla cream” ombre nail ideas are the perfect style for everyday wear.
And as a bonus, you can buy these exact nails from Amazon! With over 1,000 raving reviews and several different styles to choose from (including these glittery ombre nails for something more bold), you really can’t go wrong.
Press on nails are a lifesaver for the busy summer season — and we’ve rounded up more of our favorite designs here!
24. Neon Orange Ombre Summer Mani
photo: Paintbucket Nails
And on the other end of the spectrum….go bright and bold with this orange ombre summer nail design! From the long pointed shape to the vibrant orange hue, these nails did not come to play. So gorgeous for your European escape, tropical beach getaway, or hot summer staycation!
And if you’re looking for the perfect orange polish to make this look your own, we love this natural, non-toxic gel option.
25. Pastel Purple and Blue Ombre Summer Nails
photo: Harasztia Viktória
Manifest blue skies all summer long with this bright ombre nail design! With a blend of pastel pink to baby blue, it’s a whimsical style that’s perfect for all those warm evenings spent outside. We also found the ultimate pastel gradient nail polish set to help you get the look!
26. Purple Gradient Ombre Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Essie
How rad is this unique ombre summer nail inspo?! Instead of the classic ombre look, it creates a gradient of on-trend purples from finger to finger. Mismatched, but cohesive — and SO chic!
And created by Essie (one of our favorite vegan nail polish brands), we know the exact shades that are being used in this design. From pinky finger to thumb, here are the purple polishes you need to recreate this idea at home: go ginza, lilacism, amethyst or that, play date, and set the tiki bar high.
27. Dreamy Watercolor Ombre Summer Mani
photo: Kimberlin
More rainbow-inspired ombre nail ideas? Say less! We’re digging the soft watercolor effect of these dreamy nails, perfect for adding some subtle brightness to your look.
And is it just us, or are you getting major “Lover” vibes from this summer nail design? For the Swifties, add some cute pink glitter details (like a French tip or a mini heart) to make these rainbow nails concert-ready!
28. Iridescent Chrome Ombre Summer Nails
summer nails inspo: Glamnetic
Want to dip your ~fingers~ into the chrome trend? Look no further than iridescent ombre summer nail ideas! These statement nails give you just the right amount of rainbow holographic shimmer, without going overboard.
And as reusable (and affordable!) press-ons, you’re going to want to add these ombre chrome nails to your cart ASAP!
29. Mesmerizing Sparkle Ombre Summer Mani
photo: Zola Ganzorigt
There’s no such thing as too much sparkle, especially when it comes to summer nail ideas. And this gorgeous ombre design is proof! Your nails will look like a magical galaxy with a glittery magenta + shimmery pearl nail polish combo, complete with ethereal stars.
Bonus: this look was designed by the nail artist behind some of Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner’s most iconic manis. Consider us influenced!
Summer Coffin Nails and Design Ideas
Also called the “ballerina” shape, coffin nails feature tapered sides that end with a flat, squared-off tip (kind of like a ballet slipper!). They’re long, feminine, and super on-trend for summer 2024.
Plus, coffin nail designs make more of a statement than short or rounded shapes — perfect if you’re fully embracing your main character energy this summer! Scroll on for our favorite coffin nail ideas and inspo to help you showcase your bold sartorial style and elevate any and every summer ‘fit.
30. Colorful Floral Coffin Summer Nails
nails: Amazon
Summer florals get a Y2K refresh with this colorful coffin nail design. It’s cute, charming, and will brighten up any outfit!
Plus, you can buy these floral beauties as press-ons from Amazon. They even come with adhesive tabs and a mini nail file to make applying them as easy as possible. Feel free to stock up for the season!
31. Pastel Rainbow French Tip Coffin Summer Nail Inspo
photo: @beautynailsclip
Screenshot! Bookmark! Save for later! These summer nails are so fun and festive, you’re definitely going to want to show your nail tech this design next time you go in. There’s just something about a French tip on a coffin nail that looks SO good — especially when it’s rainbow-hued!
And if you want these summer nails ASAP, we also found these similar coffin press-ons on Etsy!
32. Glazed Shimmer Coffin Summer Mani
By now, you’ve probably heard of, fallen in love with, and even tried Hailey Bieber’s glazed donut nail design. And this summer, it’s getting a bright and shimmery upgrade!
These summer nails have the glossy look of glazed donuts, but with a pink, chrome-like finish. They’re slightly more glam, and way more fun. Plus, they’re easier to DIY than you think! Just add some iridescent chrome powder to a pink gel base and you’re pretty much golden.
33. Milky White Coffin Summer Nail Design
photo: Luxe Nail Co
Simple, but SO effective! These summer nails look effortlessly elegant, with a milky white shade that’s quickly become a celebrity favorite. They’ll instantly elevate any outfit, without looking like they’re trying too hard. What more could you ask for?!
P.S. Getting married? With such a simple and timeless design, “milk manis” would look gorgeous for your wedding nail look.
Love these dreamy nails as much as we do? Then don’t miss our complete guide to the milky nails trend —plus our tips for DIYing the design this summer!
34. Pearlcore Pink Coffin Summer Nails
photo: Paintbucket Nails
If you love the pearlcore aesthetic as much as we do, we have some good news: it’s not going anywhere for summer 2024! From pearlescent polishes to pearl-adorned designs like this one, the iridescent style is about to take over our manicures, as well as our jewelry boxes.
Add a pearly touch to all of your favorite summer nail ideas with these half-pearl beads. So dreamy for a summer ceremony, an ocean getaway, or any old Monday!
35. Unique French Tip Coffin Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Finger Suit
If a French tip is your go-to, mix it up this summer with this unique coffin nail idea. We love the combo of classic white tips mixed with funky line-drawing designs. It’s subtle, unexpected, and super cool.
Plus, you can easily recreate this summer nail design with this black + white gel liner pen set. Perfect for anyone who loves to doodle and wants to turn their nails into their next canvas!
36. Dainty Blue + Green Daisy Coffin Summer Mani
photo: @gelsbybry
Channel secret garden vibes with this floral coffin summer nail idea. We’re totally smitten with the dainty blue daisies — they add a romantic touch to the bold nail shape that’s SO sweet for summer.
And while you could totally DIY this design with some nail art tools, these cute nail stickers are also perfect for recreating these summer nails at home!
37. Ethereal Pink Coffin Summer Nail Design
photo: Hope Ivekich
Can we just take a moment?! For nail ideas that will make you feel extra sparkly this summer, look no further than this ethereal coffin design. We don’t know which part is our favorite — the ombre rainbow hue, the glittery silver stars, or the little sequin confetti!
Because summer is not the time to dim your sparkle, and these beauties are made for standing out.
38. Velvet Chrome Coffin Summer Nails
photo: Finger Suit
Give your favorite velvet nail ideas a chic summer twist with these shimmery beauties! They channel the velvet nail trend we’ve been loving all year long, but with a bright and eye-catching design that’s perfect for summer.
Achieve this iridescent look with cat eye gel nail polish, a small magnet, and a TikTok tutorial or two!
39. Double Rainbow Ombre Coffin Summer Mani
photo: @gelsbybry
If you loved the ombre summer nail ideas from earlier in the list but are more of a coffin girlie, then prepare to fall head-over-heels for these rainbow sunset-hued designs! They perfectly capture that bright, post-summer-rainstorm feeling that we all know and love.
DIY this colorful design using this bright nail polish set and some metallic nail powder — perfect for sparking some serious joy this summer!
Gel Summer Nails and Design Ideas
As you may have noticed by now, we’re big fans of gel summer nail designs. And for good reason! Gel polish can help your summer nails last wayyy longer than a typical mani — plus, the gel adds a layer of protection that can help your natural nails grow stronger. And unlike acrylics, gel manicures still look super natural!
Plus, if you want to rock one of the ultra-glossy, high-shine styles that are trending right now, then gel polish is your new best friend. From lip gloss nails to chrome finishes to the classic glazed look, here are the best gel summer nail ideas to complete your summer style!
40. Mirror Chrome Gel Summer Nails
photo: @karolina.probeauty
If you’re a glazed donut loyalist (hi, it’s me!), then you’ll be happy to hear that chrome nails aren’t going anywhere this summer. Dreamy and versatile, this is the design we’ll be wearing alllllll season long!
To get this “clean girl” approved look, request a chrome finish to your usual mani or stock up on some dazzling chrome powder. And if you’re not a gel pro, we also found this glazed chrome-inspired polish set for a super easy DIY!
Looking for more glazed nail ideas to add to your summer mood board? We’ve got you covered with our complete chrome nail guide, including a tutorial to help you get the trendy look at home!
41. Cute Checkered Gel Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Caroline Moyes
Want to spark some joy this summer? Stop taking your mani so seriously and start having some fun with cute summer nail ideas like these! From the dopamine-inducing colors to the smiley face daisies, it’s impossible NOT to feel happy when you’re rocking this finger candy.
Get artsy with it this summer using this gel design starter kit, complete with all the pastel hues you could ever need for some seratonin-fueled nails!
42. Double Line French Tip Gel Summer Mani
photo: Peachi Nails
If bright colors aren’t your jam, show off your personal style this summer with this rad black + white gel nail design. Your classic French tips get a cool girl makeover with the chic color combo and double line style. It’s edgy and elegant at the same time!
Perfect your design with these nail art liner brushes — but be warned, your entire friend group will be requesting your services once they see your mani skills!
43. Cotton Candy Inspired Gold Foil Gel Summer Nails
photo: Studio by Elvira Safina
Cotton candy, clouds, ocean waves…no matter what these gel nails remind you of, there’s no denying that they’re perfect for summer!
While this marble effect can take a little finessing, this blooming gel polish will help you achieve the dreamy look at home. Combine blue and white colors, then complete the enchanting design with a few gold foil flakes for a glamorous touch!
44. Confetti Glitter Gel Summer Nail Design
photo: @karolina.probeauty
Where these nails go, the party follows! Celebrate the sun finally coming out with this confetti gel summer nail design, complete with an on-trend glazed finish. We love how the sparkly embellishments add a fun and festive touch to the natural nail look. Obsessed!
45. Green Dot Gel Summer Mani Idea
photo: Amy Burvill
Looking for easy gel summer nail ideas that pack a punch? This design may be simple, but it’ll have everyone complimenting your mani!
Get the look by adding a dainty dot to the bottom of your gel nails. It doesn’t get easier than that! And while we’re suckers for this watermelon-inspired lime green and blush pink combo, you can also recreate this look with any summery shades.
46. Peachy Keen Gel Summer Nails
photo: Gelcare
And speaking of fruit-inspired summer nail ideas, this inspo embodies our favorite juicy peach emoji — but with a shimmery, pearlescent finish! We love the iridescent sparkle combined with the peachy keen hue. It reminds us of a gorgeous summer sunset!
47. Leopard Print Gel Summer Nail Inspo
inspo: @phoebesummernails
Embrace your ~wild~ side this summer with these cute gel leopard print nails! Cheetah print is officially in its comeback era, and this is SUCH a cute way to rock the look. From the iconic brown spots to the chic matte top coat, this manicure is an instant classic.
Looking for more trendy animal print designs? Don’t miss these cow print nail ideas — so cute for summer!
Short Summer Nails and Design Ideas
Want to keep it short and sweet this summer? While long nails often take center stage when it comes to summer inspo, we’re seeing more and more people rock a cute mini this year. And it’s easy to see why!
Short nail designs won’t get in the way of all your adventures this summer, from navigating airports to gardening to typing on your computer. They also look and feel more natural, great for rocking day after day. And with all the fun and funky short summer nail ideas we found, you won’t even miss those extra-long French tips!
48. Black + White Daisy Short Summer Nails
photo: Peachi Nails
A black and white floral moment? Yes, please! While this short summer nail inspo features a gel finish, you can also get this look in half the time with (drumroll please)….daisy nail stickers!
When you don’t have the time to perfect every petal, just add some cute decals to your mani and seal them with a clear top coat. Perfect for those lazy days when you’d rather be lounging on a beach than at the salon!
If you’re currently planning your dream summer getaway, don’t miss our round-up of the best luxury vacation rentals! We’ve found the ultimate escapes in all our favorite US destinations.
49. Painted Floral Short Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Studio by Elvira Safina
Calling all artists (aspiring and professional)! Summer is the ultimate time to get creative, and we can’t think of a better way to hone your painting skills than with your nail art.
Instead of gel polish that blends in with the rest of your nail, this look can be recreated by building normal nail polish to get that painterly effect. Best paired with a day trip to the art museum (and an iconic photoshoot, obvi).
50. Rainbow French Tip Short Summer Mani
photo: Nail A La Mode
Because who says you need extra long claws to pull off a chic French tip?! With this short summer nail design, you get that classic, elongated look — without sacrificing your ability to type, text, or do any other daily essentials.
And while the summery rainbow hues aren’t required, they ARE recommended!
51. Colorful Polka Dot Short Summer Mani Design
photo: The Daily Nail
For cute short nail ideas that go with EVERY summer ‘fit, look no further than this rainbow polka-dot inspo!
As we’ve mentioned above, a rainbow color palette is a fool-proof choice for your summer of style. But if you really want to take this colorful look to the next level, pick out nail polish colors that match your summer wardrobe essentials. OOTD goals!
52. All Natural Nude Short Summer Mani
photo: Julia Diogo
If you’re all about the “no makeup” makeup look, then prepare to fall in love with this “barely there” short summer nail inspo! Simple, clean, and fresh, this nude design looks like your natural nails, but elevated. They’re totally timeless and great for all occasions, workplaces, and styles.
And all you need to get the look is a great nude gel polish that matches your natural nail bed!
53. Hot Girl Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Peachi Nails
Did someone say hot girl summer?! Bring the heat with this red hot chili pepper nail design. It’s simple, but so fun — plus we found the perfect chili nail stickers for you to recreate this look at home!
If you’re looking to add a little ~spice~ to your summer, it doesn’t get better than this.
54. Blue Micro French Tip Short Summer Nail Design
photo: Faye Louise Dennis
For the short nail babes, let us introduce you to your new favorite nail trend: micro French tips! Kind of like the micro miniskirt of nail ideas, this design is a must-have for a fresh, fashion-forward summer look. We don’t make the rules!
While you can rock any color with this trend, we’re suckers for this sky blue French tip. It’ll add the coolest touch to those hot summer days.
55. Coffee Creamer Short Summer Nail Inspo
photo: Glamnetic
Pay homage to your favorite summer staple (read: iced coffee) with this short nail inspo. The chic ombre effect is designed to look like creamer being poured into your daily brew, while also giving you a minimalist, clean girl look.
Paired with your favorite Starbucks order, these short press-ons will give you the boost you need to get through the summer workday slump!
56. Bright Neon Green + Hot Pink Short Summer Nail Ideas
inspo: @mel.loves.nails
Another one of our favorite French tip inspo ideas for short nails, these neon beauties scream summer!
Not only is the bright nail polish super on-trend for summer 2024, but the fun neon green and hot pink color palette also has us dreaming of juicy watermelon and afternoon picnics. Aka, the ultimate summer vibes!
57. Beautiful Botanical Short Summer Nail Inspo
inspo: @safinailstudio
We can’t stop, won’t stop talking about botanical nail ideas, and this is another dreamy design to add to your summer inspo board. We love the abstract look of the painted petals, especially contrasted with the minimalist clear base. SO DREAMY.
P.S. Looking for an easy way to DIY this summer nail design at home? We found the prettiest botanical nail stickers for the job!
58. Glitter Pink Swirl Short Summer Nails
photo: Peachi Nails
Last, but certainly not least, we’ll leave you with these swirly, glittery, pastel pink short nails. If we could describe our ideal summer vibes in one nail design, it would be this one. I mean, how could you possibly have a bad season when you’re rocking sparkly pink nail polish?!
The answer: you can’t.
Get Ready for Summer With Our Best Fashion Guides
The days are getting longer, our feeds are getting brighter, and that means it’s officially time to curate our summer look! And we have just the guides for the job.
No summer wardrobe is complete without the perfect dress to rock day after day — and these are the cute little numbers we’ll have on rotation all season long!
If your summer closet calls for something a little fancier, also check out our list of the best summer wedding guest gowns for every style. Because if you’re anything like us, your summer weekends are booked with “I do’s!”
And for the gals who are in the ceremonies, don’t miss these gorgeous summer bridesmaid gowns for every price point. We also rounded up the best bridesmaid shoes to help you complete the look!
How are you planning to style your next summer mani? Let us know in the comments below — or tag us in a pic on Instagram @greenweddingshoes!
Explore:
- Beauty + Hair
- Fashion + Beauty
- Nail Ideas
- summer nail designs
- summer nail ideas
- summer nail inspo
- summer nails
