5 Sunny Nail Designs That Are Perfect for Summer
From bright hibiscus motifs to “Ariel nails,” find inspiration for your next manicure.
Great news for all sun-seekers: these last few weeks of the summer are set to be sunny and bright, which means there’s really no better time to embrace something that’s equally vibrant, lighthearted, and fun (yet no less refined) for your summer manicure.
The Best Nail Designs for the Summer Heatwave
Sunny nail designs with pops of yellow and orange are still incredibly popular for the warmer months, while polka dots and French manicures prove to be the celebrity favorite, as spotted on Dua Lipa and Kylie Jenner. Elsewhere, whimsical fruit designs are an eclectic and charming way to lean into the laid-back mood of summer.
But if you’re looking for something fresher and unexpected, consider the “Ariel manicure,” the modern, grown-up take on sea-life motifs and oceanic colorways that will no doubt please the sea princess. For fans of aura nails, the zodiac manicure is equally enigmatic and brings a sense of magic to your look.
This is a great time to make the most of punchy hues, too. Whether done in stripes or as a single-tone manicure, opt for summer’s trendiest nail colors such as butter yellow and hot pinks.
Modern art designs are also incredibly smart yet no less eye-catching. Consider leaning into your artistic side with a Warholian use of contrasting color combinations or Kusama-esque dotty designs. Or, why not lean into Riviera nails with bold stripes and the use of coastal, beachy hues such as blue, white, orange, and yellow?
“Coastal minimalism is the perfect summer nail trend for those who love a fresh, understated look with a touch of seaside charm,” agrees manicurist Ami Streets. “Think crisp white bases, soft sand-toned nudes, and delicate accents like fine navy stripes, single seashell charms, or tiny pearls. The palette stays light and airy, evoking sun-bleached beaches and ocean breezes,” she tells ELLE, name-checking Kure Bazaar Milk and Navy as go-to hues.
Hannah Taylor, an ambassador at TheGelBottle adds, “Washes of neutral bases with tiny starfish, hibiscus flowers, and beach-inspired minimalism have been popular among clients wanting something wearable and versatile.”
All of these maximalist trends can easily be adapted onto an understated “soap nail” base for a more discreet interpretation. There truly is something for everyone. Keep reading for the five best heat-inspired nail designs to save right now.
1. Ariel Nails
Go all out with tactile 3D motifs, shimmery metallic periwinkle, and a glorious starfish design.
Minimalists, we see you. Go discreet and understated with a barely there base and opt for a low-key, tiny design on each nail.
A neutral base brings softness to the eye-catching gold starfish and floral details.
2. Riviera Nails
Whether you’ve got a last-minute vacation booked or not, this holiday-themed set will transport you to bustling farmers’ markets and seaside cafés.
Dial up the baby-blue manicure with impactful turquoise for sunnier days.
Soft lemonade yellow and glossy aquamarine make for an impossibly fresh color combination.
3. Modern Art
Get playful with varying textures and cool colorways, such as retro blue and earthy pistachio green.
Trust manicurist Betina Goldstein to elevate unexpected color combinations in the most elegant way possible.
Polka dots are here to stay. Go all out with a punchy, high-visibility color palette that’s guaranteed to stop traffic.
4. Zodiac Nails
A natural progression from the aura nails, a zodiac-coded design in a moody hue is perfect for those who embrace a deeper color palette all year-round.
This magical violet set is made for Cancer season but can easily be tailored to your zodiac sign.
Fiery and dramatic, perfect for the Leos.
5. Sunny Florals
It’s not one for the faint-hearted, but in these last few weeks of summer, it’s worth going the extra mile.
A blossoming, colorful bouquet promises to instantly lift your spirits.
The cool-girl take on flowers? Not shying away from richer cocoa hues and a mix-and-match set.
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