This summer, you’ll see lots of acrylic nails with bold colors, fun designs and unusual textures that remind you of sunny days at the beach. Whether it’s a bright neon or a flirty red flower, the latest nail trends are meant to catch attention. Regardless of your plans, these summer nails will help you keep your look fashionable and fun all day or all night.
Bold Pink Petals for Summer Vibes
If you want summer nails, a pink design is sure to make your look more cheerful. The almond shape represents elegance, while the flower accent makes the ring look summery. It’s enjoyable, it’s adorable and everyone who wants to enjoy the beach should have it.
To recreate this look, you’ll need a couple of staple products. First, apply a base coat to your nails and then add a bold pink color such as OPI’s Strawberry Margarita or Essie’s Mod Square. Draw the petals with a fine detail brush and white acrylic paint. The top coat finishes the design and gives it a glossy look.
Feeling a bit unsure about trying this at home? According to celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein, a dotting tool is the best way to get those round petals. It is simpler than it looks and always gives you a professional-looking result.
Just looking at this pink design reminds me of spending long days at the beach in the sun. It’s casual enough to wear for brunch, yet stylish enough to wear by the pool. Could you see yourself in a hot pink like this? Are you someone who prefers soft pastels?
Lavender and Pink Ombré Stiletto Nails
A pink and purple ombré is the perfect way to express summer. This design of acrylic summer nails is enhanced by its stiletto shape and shiny finish. The color changes from a light pink to a dark lavender, making this outfit look both fun and stylish.
For a similar look, you’ll need two complementary shades. If you want a gradient look, choose Essie’s Splash of Grenadine and OPI’s Do You Lilac It? Use the lighter color as your base and gently blend the darker color onto the ends with a sponge.
According to Mei Kawajiri, a latex sponge is the best tool for achieving an even ombré look. “It’s all about light pressure and patience,” she says. “Don’t skip the top coat, as it will help your gradient stay perfect all season.”
Personally, I’m obsessed with this ombré combo. It has just enough dreaminess without becoming too dramatic. Also, the stiletto shape makes it look even more powerful. Would you choose this for sunbathing on the beach or for a night out?
Neon Lime and Pastel Pink Streaks
This summer, we’ll see bold and bright combinations of neon and pastel colors. These acrylic summer nails mix a delicate pastel pink base with vibrant lime green streaks, creating a design that’s both edgy and beach-ready. The sleek almond shape is stylish and the neon stripes ensure you won’t miss this beauty.
First, apply two layers of Zoya’s Dot as a base and then use a thin brush to paint the green lines from China Glaze’s Celtic Sun. Finish the painting by applying a top coat to seal the design and give it a shiny look.
Nail artist Miss Pop believes that to get perfect streaks, you need a striping brush and to keep your hands steady. “Less pressure means cleaner lines,” she advises. To achieve a quality result, wait until the previous layer is dry before applying another.
I enjoy that this style looks playful and a little daring. Whether you’re at a pool party or at a rooftop bar, this kind of design will catch your eye. Would you dare to go neon this summer?
Retro Pink Waves for Nostalgic Vibes
I can’t help but notice how cute and old-fashioned these pink wavy designs look. The elongated, square shape brings a touch of excitement, but the rounded lines make it seem summery and soft. These acrylic summer nails remind me of the ‘90s and early 2000s, but they look very fashionable.
The first step is to use a nude or sheer base coat. After that, pick out a soft pink nail polish such as Sally Hansen’s Pink Pong and use a fine detail brush to paint the wavy lines. Use Essie’s Blanc as an alternative to your regular color to make your nails stand out.
Bachik suggests that the best way to get those perfect waves is to let the brush do the painting. He suggests that you maintain a steady wrist and move your entire hand as a unit. This keeps the lines consistent and smooth.
For me, this design is pure nostalgia. I love that it’s fun, flirty and makes me think of spending time at the beach. And the best part? You can easily experiment with it at home without worrying about a big challenge.
Classic Red with Dainty White Florals
Pairing a red manicure with white flowers is always a good idea. These acrylic summer nails are simple yet fun at the same time. The shape of the ring is feminine and the flowers make it even sweeter.
For this style, choose OPI’s Big Apple Red and China Glaze’s White on White to achieve the same look. Paint two layers of red and then use a dotting tool or toothpick to place a flower design on only one nail for a classy look.
According to Rita Remark, using a dotting tool with different tip sizes is the main secret to clean floral designs. “First, make the petals and then add a dot in the middle for a perfect ending.”
I usually love a red manicure, but the touch of flowers makes it even more beautiful. It’s perfect for a 4th of July barbecue or for an evening out with your partner and it seems to never go out of style. Would you wear this type of floral design on your red nails?
Soft Pink Florals with Sparkle
Acrylic summer nails are being made dreamier with these pretty pink and white floral patterns. Thanks to its almond shape and a hint of glitter, the ring looks both feminine and sparkly. You can wear this when you want to be sweet and elegant in the summer.
You should start by applying a sheer pink shade such as Essie’s Ballet Slippers to the nails. You can either add floral decals or paint little flowers by hand using a fine brush and white paint. Choose a silver glitter that is not too strong such as OPI’s Be My Guest.
According to Nina Park, a thin nail art brush helps create the floral designs. She recommends making the strokes soft and gentle, just like you would with a pencil. The key is in the gentle, almost whimsical touch.
There’s something undeniably romantic about this design. It seems like summer weddings, rooftop brunches and the beautiful sunset are all part of a single manicure. Is this something you’d wear for a day out or would you keep it for a special occasion?
Pastel Daisy Dreams
Pastel florals are the biggest trend this summer. The playful set brings together soft pink, lavender and blue with daisy accents, so it’s perfect for your summer acrylic nails at the beach.
You can achieve this style with Zoya’s Bluebell, China Glaze’s Let’s Jam and OPI’s Getting Nadi On My Honeymoon. Apply the lightest color as your base and then use a dotting tool to make the petals. For a summery look, make the center of each flower white or put a yellow accent in it.
Betina Goldstein suggests that the key to making pastel florals look new is to keep the shapes as simple as possible. “Don’t overcrowd the nail,” she advises. When using pastel colors, less is always better.
I think this style is both adorable and has a vintage feel. This manicure is so beautiful that you’ll want to display it while sipping a glass of iced lemonade by the pool. Are you planning to wear pastels or would you prefer to use some bolder colors?
Bold Blue Hearts on Matte Finish
If you want your acrylic summer nails to be a little edgier, this blue matte set will definitely catch your eye. The modern square shape is matched by the playful white accent nail with blue hearts.
First, use Essie’s Butler Please for the base and finish with a matte top coat. For the accent nail, paint it white and use a fine brush to draw the heart shapes in blue. After everything is dry, apply a matte top coat.
According to Tammy Taylor, nail art with a matte finish requires special care. She says not to use any oils or lotions immediately after applying the product. “They may cause the matte finish to look blurry and irregular.”
I think this style is ideal for anyone who wants to be noticed. It’s exciting, a bit adventurous and not something you’d expect during summer. Should you leave the paint as is or add a shiny top coat?
Elegant Blue Florals with Gold Accents
These blue stiletto acrylics decorated with small white flowers and golden details are giving summer nail designs a touch of elegance. This style is inspired by beach blue, but adds a luxurious touch for those special summer nights.
The first step is to apply a sky-blue polish like OPI’s Gelato on My Mind. Paint the flowers with a fine brush and use a tiny detail brush to add the gold touches. Apply Sally Hansen’s Golden-I to your nails to add some extra shine.
Sarah Nguyen, a celebrity nail technician, believes that clean floral designs are achieved when petals are kept apart. “You don’t want them to blend together,” she explains. “Leave some negative space for a more polished look.”
There’s something so ethereal about these blue florals. It has a light touch and feels very beachy in its style. Do you think you would wear these on a weekend trip or keep them for a special event?
Soft Green French Tips
French tips have returned, but they are now different from before. For summer, soft green tips and a traditional pink base make a combination that is both surprising and appealing. This set is ideal for anyone looking for a simple design with just a hint of color.
If you want the same look, use Essie’s Skinny Dip as your base and top it with Zoya’s Tiana. Pick a fine liner brush and paint the ends of the eyelashes with green, making sure the lines are sharp and neat.
In Brittney Boyce’s opinion, using tape is the secret to getting perfect French tips. She advises to use tape along the edges of your nails to make the line look sharp. “Finish by applying a top coat to give your nails that shiny look.”
I appreciate how the French tip is updated with this look. It has a quiet style, yet it’s still noticeable which makes it perfect for any day or a trip to the beach. Should you pick a green color or opt for a neon one?
Neon Pink and Yellow Ombre
These acrylic summer nails are meant to catch attention and this neon pink and yellow ombre design achieves that. The coffin shape makes it stylish, while the gradient blends the two bright colors together, giving the nails a lively, attractive and summery look.
First, apply a base coat and then paint your nails with OPI’s Pink Flamenco. After your pink is dry, use a makeup sponge to apply China Glaze’s Sun-Kissed neon yellow and blend it with the pink. Add a top coat to the nails after the gradient to seal it and make them shine.
According to celebrity nail artist Chaun Legend, the ombre effect can be achieved by using a damp sponge. He recommends this method to avoid having harsh lines between the colors.
The outfit reminds me of a beautiful sunset at the beach. It is daring, fun and just right for making a statement without being too much. Is this gradient something you’d wear to the pool or out for a night of dancing?
Bubblegum Pink Half Moons
To get a new idea for acrylic summer nails, try painting half moons in bubblegum pink and adding neon yellow accents. The shiny look of the finish is balanced by the fun surprise of yellow.
To get the look, start by applying a base coat and Essie’s Mod Square polish. When your nails are dry, place a half-moon stencil on them and paint the crescents with Orly’s Glowstick. Add some rhinestones along the cuticle edge to make your nails look more glamorous.
Miss Pop says that the best way to achieve perfect half-moons is to use stencils and give the base coat plenty of time to dry. If the pink is still wet, the stencil may pull up the polish and destroy your design.
There’s something so fun and retro about this look. It has a ’90s feel, but is updated for today which makes it ideal for summer festivals or just hanging out with friends. Should you have a glossy or matte finish applied to your photos?
Classic Red Almonds
A set of almond-shaped red acrylic nails is always a good choice. Because of its glossy finish, it can be worn for any summer occasion, whether for a date or a party.
If you want to achieve this style, apply OPI’s Big Apple Red to your nails. After applying two coats, let them dry and finish with a top coat that adds a high shine.
Tom Bachik, a well-known nail artist, believes that achieving perfect red nails requires being careful and applying the polish in thin layers. He warns that adding too much polish can lead to an uneven color on the nails.
This look is a definite summer classic. If you’re looking for something bold and sexy, this is your choice. Would you choose these for a wedding in the summer or keep them for an evening out?
Soft Lilac French Twist
If you want something gentle but still trendy, a French twist in soft lilac is your best choice. The oval shape makes the look elegant and the soft lilac and nude colors help it remain chic.
The base for this style is Essie’s Bare With Me. When the nails are dry, apply Zoya’s Abby polish to achieve the French tip. A liner brush can help you draw precise and sharp lines.
According to Betina Goldstein, you can use tape to help you create French tips if you’re not sure how to do it yourself. She believes it makes it much easier to achieve those neat, sharp lines.
I find it so charming that this design is simple but still very feminine. It’s ideal for enjoying on a sunny Sunday morning or a casual evening with your partner. Should you go for soft and light colors or use bright neon ones?
Matte Magenta Coffin Nails
If you want something bold, these matte magenta coffin nails will do the trick. This color is very bright and intense and the matte finish gives it a modern and edgy look.
For this style, begin with a magenta shade such as OPI’s La Paz-Itively Hot. Paint two layers and apply a matte top coat to achieve the velvety look.
Mei Kawajiri, a nail tech famous for her graphic designs, suggests smoothing the nails with a buffer before applying the matte top coat.
Having matte nail polish in such a bright color as magenta makes you feel confident and brave. Should you wear them as you are or add some sparkle for a special occasion?
Soft Pink with Gold Foil Accents
If you mix minimalism with glamour, you get the soft pink and gold foil style. It’s a good choice for people who want to wear trendy acrylic nails during the day and at night.
Begin by applying a soft pink color such as Essie’s Ballet Slippers. After the base has dried, place the gold foil pieces on your work using tweezers. Apply a glossy top coat to make the paint shine.
According to Tom Bachik, a clear gel base is useful for sticking the foil pieces onto your nails. He explains that it allows you to control the foil and make it lay flat.
Even though this design is timeless, it still looks up-to-date for the year 2025. Is this something you’d wear for a summer wedding or would you simply add it to your regular outfits for some shine?
Pastel Blue and Pink with Gold Stripes
These soft blue and pink nails with gold glitter stripes are perfect for summer. The design is practical because it’s square and the gold makes it look more luxurious.
You can get the blue using Essie’s Bikini So Teeny and the pink using OPI’s Bubble Bath. Apply a gold glitter striping polish or use a fine liner brush to paint the lines on a diagonal.
Betina Goldstein suggests that a very thin brush will help you achieve precise lines. According to her, a thin brush allows you to create sharper lines.
The whole room has a light, breezy and elegant feel, just like a beach house. Should you go for a plain outfit or add a bit of glamour for a night out?
Sage and Pink Swirls
A more creative look can be achieved with these soft swirls of sage green and pink. The almond form ensures it looks feminine and the swirl gives it a fun and lively touch.
You can achieve this style by applying Essie’s Mademoiselle as a sheer pink base. Paint the swirls using a fine liner brush and a soft sage polish called OPI’s This Isn’t Greenland. Coat the nails with a top coat to make them shine.
Tammy Taylor believes that the secret to good swirls is using a light touch and not overloading your brush. “Let the brush flow naturally,” she advises. “You want the design to feel effortless.”
The way this look is styled makes me feel relaxed and refreshed, as if I’m enjoying a warm breeze. Would you rather have a soft or a bold mix of colors in your hair?
Beach Blue Speckles
Summer is best represented by beach blue nails with some fun speckles on them. Since it is both fun and informal, this design is excellent for time at the beach or any casual occasion.
For this style, use Zoya’s Bluebell as the base polish. When your nails are dry, paint the accent nails with a mixture of white polish and blue glitter.
Mei Kawajiri recommends using a makeup sponge to apply the spots. She says, “It adds a more natural and organic touch to the speckles.”
This design is cute, casual, and totally summer-ready. If you were to choose another color, what would it be?
Orange Crush with Black Speckles
The bright orange and black speckles on these nails are making me think of a beautiful beach sunset. The modern shape is balanced by the speckled texture on the tiles.
You can begin with OPI’s Can’t Afjord Not To for a bright orange nail color. After everything dries, paint the speckles with a fine brush and black polish. Apply a top coat to give your nails a shiny and wet-like appearance.
According to Rita Remark, using a toothpick makes it easier to control the speckles. She believes that the technique makes the speckles stand out more.
It looks so courageous and confident, much like a bright summer sunset. Would you leave everything in orange or introduce another color to change things a bit?
