Want to try something new for your nails this season? This year, try out basic summer nails ideas 2025 that are easy, pretty and cheerful, using soft shapes, bright colors and cute designs. If you prefer your nails short and simple, square, almond or decorated with tiny flowers, there’s a summer style for you at any nail salon. Scroll through for a roundup of basic nails ideas for summer that blend fun with functionality, and that you can absolutely recreate at home (or take straight to your nail tech).
Soft Daisy Blue Tips for a Sweet Summer Mood
The set features a simple blue French tip, a soft almond shape and some daisies that look like sunshine on a petal. Because the nude base is so understated, the floral details have more of an impact and the whole look feels easy to pull off. It’s making plain summer nails almond but adding a bit of sweetness and it feels like getting a manicure after walking through a flower field at sunset. Such a basic, short summer nail style doesn’t call for attention, but it sure gets it.
To get this look, you’ll need a sheer pink or nude gel base (try OPI’s “Bubble Bath”), sky-blue gel polish for the tips (like Essie’s “You Do Blue”), and a dotting tool for creating the daisy petals. Finish by applying a little yellow gel to the heart of the flowers with a micro brush. I always like to finish things off with a top coat like Seche Vite to give my nails that shiny, wet look.
These nails are easier to DIY than they look—use French tip guides to get the angles clean, or freehand if you’re confident. For the daisies, you only need five little dots arranged in a circle around a yellow center dot. For beginners, decals work just as well. Mazz Hanna, a nail artist, frequently suggests floral designs to spread joy on your nails and I think it’s a great idea, as they always seem positive.
I wore these once in Santa Barbara and two women stopped me at a café to find out where I got them done. The vibe? Quietly magical. It makes you smile whenever your hand touches your sunglasses.
Electric Green Blooms for Bold Vibes
If you’re daring, try this one—neon green and 3D floral art that reminds you of Coachella. These square tips, bold and unapologetic, scream summer confidence. The 3D daisies, with rhinestone centers, make the base look more interesting and fun, while the accent finger is left sheer so you can see your skin through the nail. It’s both pretty and ready for a fashion show—a fun twist on a basic summer nail style that stands out.
You can get the same look by using ORLY’s “Glowstick” as your neon color. If you have pre-made acrylic flowers and rhinestones, secure them with nail glue; or, if you want to make your own, use builder gel. For this trend, take a rubber-like or nude gel, so the nails appear bare.
Patience is key here. Add a little polish each time to keep the cuticle from being too wet and make sure it dries between layers. I usually use a silicone tool to arrange the petals in an even way. According to nail tech Brittney Boyce, adding several 3D nail details creates a “mini sculpture” look and this set does just that.
A friend of mine wore a similar outfit to a rooftop party in Brooklyn last July and every person there praised her hands. It’s not just about signs and swimsuits—wearing neon on your nails can make you feel better.
Golden Yellow Simplicity with a Glitter Pop
The mellow marigold set is made classic with a surprise gold-glittered ring finger. The simple way of writing catches the feeling of sunlight and lemonade easily. It’s the feeling you get when you have your first sangria outside. Because it’s easy to care for and looks great, the square short shape is an excellent choice for people who want simple, summer nails with a bit of style.
It looks similar to OPI’s “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants,” Zoya’s “Bee,” and Essie’s “Summit of Style,” with a bit of CND’s gold glitter gel on the accent nail. One nail with glitter adds a sparkle that makes the whole look stand out.
Sharpen your nails into a soft square, paint them with two layers of yellow and then put glitter on just your special finger, either all over or with a sponge for a lighter look. Make sure your top coat is thick to prevent glitter texture on the nail. Be sure to seal the tips to keep your nails looking nice for a long time.
I used this design on a weekend trip to Palm Springs and it looked great with my white sundress. It’s not loud, but it’s impossible to miss—like the soft light of golden hour.
Sunset Fade with Sharp Yellow Drama
Let’s talk about drama. The pink melting into yellow in this almond set is stunning and looks just like a popsicle melting in the sun. The shiny, pointed shape of this one is perfect for girls who enjoy attention. This look is a classic summer nails 2025 style, but it’s still based on orange, almond and bright summer colors.
Make sure the canvas you use is nice and even in case you want to add layers or detail to your painting. The fade can be achieved with gel polishes called “Strawberry Daiquiri” and “Electric Daisy” from The GelBottle. Mix the glass with a sponge or an ombré brush before you finish curing it. A shiny top coat will really make your nails stand out.
If you’re at home, first paint the lighter color and then blend in the brighter shade from the edge toward the center. Use light pressure to avoid harsh lines. According to Tom Bachik, this technique helps keep fades neon but clean.
I chose this one when I wanted to feel bold and it made me feel great. It’s bold, has a great volume and manages to feel like sunshine in a bottle.
Mixed Bold Hues with a Graphic Punch
This one? It’s a bit daring, has an artistic feel and is fully accepted by Gen Z. Pink, red and hot fuchsia combined with a simple art face on the ring finger—it’s definitely modern cool girl. Thanks to its glossy finish, almond shape and bright, dopamine-rich colors, this is a perfect summer nails pink with a hint of creative style.
The shades? My recommendation is to use Beetles Gel in “Scarlet Flame” and “Think Pink,” but draw the face lines with a fine-tip nail art pen. If drawing on your nails isn’t something you enjoy, you could use nail stickers instead.
Give each nail a single color and use the face design just on your ring finger for maximum impact. For your final step, add a layer of Top It Off from Gelish. It lasts and adds that mirror-like finish.
I use this when I want to feel a bit more confident. It’s artsy without being overworked. Like a great Instagram caption, it shares a lot of meaning in a few words.
Retro Psychedelic Swirls in Cool Hues
Adding a bit of vintage and a lot of groovy, this design gives simple summer nails blue a psychedelic twist. Cobalt is the base color and the accent nails have swirl art in pink, teal, mint and navy. The style is playful and reflects the 70s trend we’re seeing in everything from dresses to makeup this year. Because the square is without decoration, it complements the boldness of the colors and makes the result look well put together, but without being too strict.
You’ll get the best results with at least four different shades of dye. Among these, I’m partial to Gelish‘s “Rose-y Cheeks,” “Mint Condition,” “Ocean Blue,” and “Night Shimmer.” Paint overlapping curves with a fine liner brush, taking your time so you don’t lose the wave effect. Give your work a final high-gloss coat to brighten all the colors.
If you’re not confident in your line work, try using swirly nail decals or a stamping plate. But honestly? You’ll find that this design improves as you keep practicing it. You’ll develop your own way of making the swirls and the result is always stunning.
A vintage dealer at the market asked me if I’d altered the outfit to match my bell-bottoms when I wore this set. Happy accident, but I loved the compliment.
Zesty Lemon Vibes with a Tangy Twist
Is there anything more iconic for summer than lemons? The dial combines a bright yellow gel base with an amazing and genuine-looking, lemon on the ring finger. It’s juicy, feels fresh and is a bit playful—like having a Capri Sun on a rooftop. If you’re looking for a basic summer nail with a twist, this pointed acrylic shape is for you.
Apply the “Sunshine State” polish by Bio Seaweed and use a white liner to make the lemon pattern. If you don’t want to hand-paint the fruit, lemon nail stickers or full nail wraps will save you time (and nerves). Finish off with a builder gel layer to hold the detail and get shiny fruit-like finishes.
According to celebrity manicurist Mei Kawajiri, fruit nails are as fun and cheerful as jewelry in summer. I fully believe it. They are both playful and pointed and you’ll probably want a drink to go with them.
A beach vacation inspired by this is wonderful, but I also like this idea for a fun lemon-themed brunch. It’s not complicated, but it captures every summer mood.
Hot Pink Meets Leopard for a Bold Statement
This one is fire. The bold pink matte nails are the base, yet the animal print and nude with black stripes add the most excitement. It has an edge to it, but it’s also something you can wear every day. Its square shape helps it function, despite the fact that the style is very glamorous. It’s a nice surprise in the summer nails pink category.
You must have a matte top coat, a hot pink polish and a nude base to achieve this look. Use a small brush to make the black outlines and spots with black and brown gel polish; keep everything flowing and loose so it’s not stiff.
Paint your base nails a full pink and then carefully add the designs to your ring and middle fingers. Use striping tape if you want razor-sharp lines. When using leopard print, draw random shapes and fill them with a dot of brown or leave them empty.
I wore it at a bachelorette party in Miami and everyone loved it. If you’re looking for easy summer nails that still stand out, this design is perfect for you.
Neon Veins over Barbiecore Base
These nails are high-voltage and unmistakably 2025. A clear pink almond shape is decorated with shiny, straight yellow lightning-bolt lines that run across the nails like cracks in lava. It’s giving cyber-Barbie, it’s giving futuristic heatwave. These summer nails 2025 are so simple but make your hands look like they’re glowing from the inside.
You should use a gel system for this: pick the “Perfect Pink” base from Madame Glam and a neon yellow liner gel for the veining. To get those interesting, branch-like streaks, you need a liner brush with a fine tip.
After finishing your acrylic almond shape, add and cure your pink gel. Draw the lightning with a light touch and cure each finger separately if it’s necessary. A top coat with a high shine locks in everything and keeps the manicure looking shiny.
I used neon green for a similar design last year and I can’t help but think about it. People literally grabbed my hands to look closer—it’s that kind of mani. Sometimes it’s more, but summer is all about enjoying the extra fun.
Tangerine Energy with White Lightning Lines
If you’ve been wanting to try simple orange nails, now is the time. This basic summer nails almond design in bright tangerine looks like the sunshine, but with a little edge, thanks to the sharp white lightning-like lines on each nail. It’s striking, it’s daring and it’s surprisingly easy to wear, even if you don’t usually like orange. You’ll feel like you’re radiating heat.
Orange Flame from DND is my go-to base—it’s not transparent until two coats are applied and dries without any problems. I found that using Gelish “Arctic Freeze” with a striping brush gives the white lines a nice finish. These are technically simple, but the payoff is striking.
Draw the almond shape at the start and then paint your orange base. Don’t worry too much about the white lines; just let them move freely. That’s what gives it the modern feel. If you have time to adjust the lines, use flash curing.
I like how this style looks—it feels like it brings the assurance of a sunset. I’ve paired it with white linen shorts and gold hoops and I have to admit? I felt like an off-duty model in Tulum.
Molten Copper Chrome for a Bold Glow
These nails are on fire—sharp, shaped almond tips coated in shiny chrome copper that shines like the sun at dusk. Its shiny, polished look reminds me of liquid metal, but it’s not too complex. It adds a bit of futuristic flair, yet it’s still basic enough for summer nails. If you like your nails to stand out without any designs, this is the one for you.
First, use a foundation, making sure it’s in almond shape, then polish the base with copper and finish with chrome powder. I find that Daily Charme’s “Bronze Chrome Dust” goes on easily and gives a beautiful shine. Add a non-wipe gel top coat to keep the finish looking very glossy.
Using a sponge applicator, put on the chrome when the top coat is still slightly sticky. Buff gently for that liquid-metal finish. I witnessed celebrity nail tech Julie Kandalec do this look in a pink metallic at a Met Gala after-party—and this one is just as impressive. It’s that, but sun-kissed and beach-club ready.
When I put this on for a poolside dinner, someone thought my nails were jewelry. That’s the power of a perfect chrome.
Glitter Waves and Jelly Hues for a Y2K Vibe
This set is all about movement and contrast. Bold blue, glitter and pink and purple swirls across the nails, looking like candy ribbons. What you get is a playful combination of colors and materials that looks like Y2K, brings back memories and is still very much 2025. It goes well with the easy look of summer nails short, but adds some fun and shine.
To get the look, use a mix of opaque gel polish and sheer jelly tones—try Cirque Colors’ “Electric Daisy” for the bright blue and Holo Taco for the glitter detailing. The swirls require you to have a nail art brush and a firm grip. You can also use dotting tools for added control.
Paint the sheet with just the colors and cure them completely before adding the glitters. Insert a small brush into the glitter and wave it across your nail. Then tap some chunky glitter to add more depth. Eri Ishizu often mentions that a jelly base and glitter can instantly add rhythm to your look and this design is a great example of that.
I see this manicure as something I’d wear while enjoying sorbet by the sea in Venice Beach. It’s fun, flirty, and totally wearable art.
Juicy Pink and Green Color Blocking
Pink and lime green are such a fresh combination—it’s as if you’re eating watermelon slices on a Saturday picnic. The matte finish helps the colors stand out and the simple contrast between the rounded waves and the rest of the nail is achieved. The shape? Basic summer nails get a juicy twist with classic acrylic almond.
A matte top finish on OPI’s “Suzi Needs a Loch-Smith” gives you the perfect matte pink. I used Orly’s “Lime Twist” and drew it down the middle using a striping brush. The matte top coat is the secret to the finish—it makes everything look shiny and elegant.
When the base cures, make a curved line down the middle of the nail with the other color and fill it in. Finish by adding a matte top coat which gives the whole look a polished feel.
I wore this dress at a rooftop barbecue, teamed it with a green gingham crop top and my nails were the main attraction. Bright, cute, and high-impact.
Emerald Camo Chic with a Matte Finish
Both forest green and empty space are seen in this design, creating a pattern that looks much like camouflage art. Against a plain white background, the color-blocked spots make this almond shape look fashionable and polished. The matte finish makes the nails appear trendy and cool, so they’re perfect for anyone looking for a simple short manicure that still looks great.
I put on Zoya’s “Hunter” for the green and added freeform spots over a base of OPI’s “Alpine Snow.” Don’t make the shapes too perfect; that way, the art will feel more artsy. Topping your face with a matte formula smooths out the skin and adds a hazy effect.
Allowing your brush to glide the paint is the main idea behind this technique. You can make any shape you like; just try to keep it fun and different from real things. Betina Goldstein, a well-known manicurist, says negative space helps the eye relax and that’s exactly what this manicure achieves.
I put this on for a cloudy weekend in San Francisco and the green looked fantastic with my jeans and neutral colors. It’s a perfect fall or winter piece, but it still has a summer feel.
Neon Dots and Monochrome Stripes Mashup
The nails are all about fun—a yellow green base, random black dots and a graphic black and white accent nail. They are square, short and edgy, making them a perfect summer look that’s punk-pop inspired. If you’re the girl who likes a bit of drama but always stays lighthearted, this is for you.
My favorite neon shade comes from Lights Lacquer and it’s called “Slime Time.” Use a dotting tool for the black polka accents (Essie’s “Licorice” is perfect), and a striping brush for the zebra effect. Keep your lines fluid—imperfection adds character.
Paint the background with a single color and let it completely dry before deepening with the details in black. When doing the striped nail, pull the polish from the edge to the cuticle to keep the design balanced. Get a matte top coat to maintain your nails’ cool and fresh look.
I put them on at a 90s-themed birthday party and they were just right for the occasion. They’re unique, bold and it feels like you’re holding tiny pieces of art.
Speckled Yellow Minimalism with a Nature Touch
This short nail look shows that you don’t have to go overboard to keep things interesting. A soft neon yellow background is decorated with black splatter and one green leafy accent for a touch of nature. It has a gentle botanical feel that feels very refreshing. If you like simple summer nails but want them to look intentional, this one is ideal for you.
You can use the color “Glowstick” by Modelones for your base and then create the speckle look with a small black nail art pen or a dotting tool. You can draw the leaf detail yourself or use a stamping plate and Whaline has some lovely botanical designs that are easy to use.
Put on your yellow base, let it dry and next, use a stiff brush or sponge to add the black paint. You can either trace and color in the leaf or use a stencil. Cover the nails in a top coat to ensure they stay smooth and stylish.
I choose this design when I want a summery look that isn’t too bold. If you have an office job, it’s perfect for keeping your look just a little edgy.
Neon Ombre Splash with Black Ink Dots
If you’re looking for pool-party nails, this summer look features a bright pink and green ombré base, with black splatters all over. It feels like watermelon candy met street art. The elongated shape makes this nail really stand out and it’s the kind of nail that will get people noticing.
A basic kit should include hot pink and neon lime colors—the Beetles Gel Polish in “Lime Green” and “Fruit Punch” are perfect. Apply the ombré with a sponge and then use a fine brush to flick black polish on the nails.
Cover your eyebrows with one color and smoothly blend it in the center using a makeup sponge. First, cure, then apply black gel polish with a small round brush or toothbrush bristles. Don’t forget to use a gel top coat for a shiny and lustrous finish.
This one screams fun. I wore this mani to a rooftop DJ party and it worked well as I danced, got sweaty and took photos all night.
Lime Marble Magic with Glossy Finish
Bright citrus makes a contrast with the delicate marble in this design, making it stylish and easy to put on. The index and pinky nails are painted solid lemon and green gel and the middle nails are swirled with semi-translucent veins in the same colors. I really like this combination of solids and swirls and it’s one of my favorite simple summer nail designs for 2025.
Try gel shades such as “Matcha Latte” and “Limoncello” from The GelBottle. Mix colors on the marble using a nail art brush before you let the marble cure. Keep it wet and blendy—don’t overwork it. A shiny top coat will give it the appearance of a polished stone.
Put on a clear or milky base, add both colors and use a fine brush to swirl them together. If you need to, fix each nail individually and remember that each nail can be a different design.
It brings to mind lime popsicles and the colorful swirly bracelets we all had. Clean, fresh, and visually soothing.
Soft Lemon Fade for a Subtle Glow
Looking for basic summer nails simple short but elevated? This lemony fade is gentle, beautiful and makes your whole appearance brighter without being too obvious. The change from natural pink to buttery yellow reminds me of morning light and suits any vacation, wedding or your favorite linen dress.
Pick “Ballet Slippers,” a sheer pink gel and change to “Yellow Mellow” by Modelones as a second color. Lightly work the thin trim with a sponge or ombré brush and cure in several layers to prevent streaks in the finish.
This one’s super DIY-friendly. Just touch the two shades together and blend the color up. Adding a clear glossy coating at the end will brighten your sculpture. Miss Pop, a celebrity manicurist, believes ombré instantly makes any nail shape appear more polished and soft and this set proves it.
I wore this dress to a brunch in Charleston and it went great with lemon mimosas and a white sundress. Sometimes, less really is more.
Gold Chrome Luxe for Everyday Glam
Finishing off with a timeless choice—these summer nails almond in brushed chrome gold are full of summer luxury. The result is a mix between molten metal and polished jewelry, but it’s flexible enough for daily use. It’s creating a neutral look that goes well with everything and every mood.
You’ll need a background of gold gel such as DND’s “Golden Sahara,” a layer of chrome pigment and then finish with a non-wipe top coat. Use a sponge applicator to ensure a streak-free finish.
You don’t need art or accents here. Just let the shine do the talking. Whether I’m wearing it to a meeting, on a date or to the store, this set always looks polished and put-together.
Whenever I want to feel like my old self, I put these on, even if I’m only wearing leggings and big sunglasses.
Freeform Blue Waves for a Modern Minimalist Look
If you’re a fan of clean lines but still want your basic summer nails blue to feel fresh and artistic, this one’s for you. A short base in soft nude is turned into a work of art by adding freestyle blue lines in cobalt blue—like a fun summer breeze drawn on your nails. It’s a design that suggests confidence quietly which is ideal for a relaxed cool-girl look.
I suggest using a thin striping brush and a deep cobalt gel called “Butler Please” by Essie to accomplish this at home. You can go with a sheer or neutral base—CND’s “Bare Chemise” or OPI’s “Bubble Bath” will give you that clean-glass look.
Draw the squiggles randomly with your brush—don’t overthink them. Make sure the twists and curls are long and easy-going and finish by curing and sealing with a glossy top varnish. Hang Nguyen and other nail artists recommend this freeform line work to add movement and softness without making things complicated and that’s exactly what this look does.
It makes me think of drawing on a warm afternoon while sipping cold coffee. It’s a great way to start a conversation and it remains light and stylish, making it perfect for art galleries, dates or lazy Sundays.
Yellow Pop and Heartcore Contrast
This one pairs bold yellow nails with soft pink and black art hearts. It’s giving romance with bite. With its tucked-in shape and shine, this set looks stylish and brightens the place when light comes in. This is a simple summer nails idea that brings together fun and fierceness.
Use Bio Seaweed’s “Lemonade” for the yellow and a nude pink base called “Skinny Dip” by DND. I suggest using stamping plates for the hearts to get them exact or a dotting tool and brush to draw them on your own. After your manicure is finished, use Seche Vite to achieve the shine of glass.
Paint your base, cure and then place two dots beside each other where you want the heart—pull down the dots to form a point and smooth the edges with a detail brush. Cure and top coat. A different idea is to turn the heart upside down or fill it with chrome pigment.
I chose this outfit for a weekend away in San Diego and I felt like the main character the whole weekend. It has a romantic feel without being cloying and it’s bold but not overpowering—a style you should try yourself.
