Finally summer is here and so is that temptation to change your look. One of the easiest and most exciting ways to embrace the season’s vibe is through nail colors. If you are more of a soft pastel or a bold, vibrant colors kind of person, June offers a palette of endless options to make your nails the statement.
Vibrant Neon Ombre
Nothing says summer quite like a bold neon ombre. This look is all about a bold gradient that goes from vibrant lime green to a more pastel yellow to make an electric but wearable look. It’s the perfect choice for those who want their nails to be the center of attention.
To obtain this effect you’ll be needing neon green and pastel yellow polishes, a makeup sponge for blending and a high-shine top coat to finish off with that gradient. In search of an intense color payoff test O.P.I. Neon Collection or China Glaze Electric Nights. Want it to last longer? Opt for gel polish to keep the brightness intact.
Here’s how to do it at home: Start with a protective base coat. Hold the two colors on a makeup sponge and overlap them a little to blend. Squeeze the sponge onto your nails and repeat for a stronger look. Seal with a glossy top coat.
I’ve done this look more than once and let me tell you, it’s a mood lifter every time. It goes so well with beachwear or even a minimalist look that requires a dose of vibrant fun.
Let me know when you’re ready for the next design, and I’ll keep going!
Daisy-Inspired Floral Delight
Floral designs never get old and this daisy-themed manicure is a great way to pay tribute to June’s fresh and cheerful mood. The soft pink background makes a gentle palette whilst the white and yellow daisies bring a touch of flirting elegance. It’s a sweet yet stylish look – great for garden parties or weekend brunches.
If you would like to replicate this design you’re going to need a soft pink polish such as O.P.I. Bubble Bath or Essie Ballet Slippers for the base. For the daisy details fine tipped nail art brush and white and yellow polishes are a must. Don’t forget a top coat to fix the design and give it that glossy look.
It is easier than it may seem to create this look at home. Start with a couple of coats of pink polish. When dry, use the fine-tipped brush to paint simple daisy petals with white polish and small yellow dot in the center. Leave the flowers to dry, before applying top coat.
There is something about this floral look that simply shouts happy summer days. It’s playful, but polished — and it’s a guaranteed way to make your nails feel as fresh as a field of daisies.
Mint Green Metallics
For lovers of a subtle, yet striking look, mint green metallic nails are a classy option for June. This almond-shaped craft is all about all that soft, shimmery glow and that cool calming vibe your summer wardrobe needs.
To get this look go for a metallic mint polish such as Essie Mint Candy Apple or Zoya Seraphina. You can also use a chrome powder to give you a more reflective finish. A shiny top coat is equally Called for to seal that sleek- metally shine.
Want to do it at home? Start with a base coat to protect your nails. Apply on your toe two layers of the mint green polish and make sure each layer is dry. For a chrome effect, apply the powder by using your sponge applicator over the base. Just lightly rub it over. Sew with top coat for preserving the metallic glow.
There’s something undeniably chic about this look. It’s understated but attention-grabbing, and thus the ideal manicure for summer nights or even a weekend getaway.
Yellow Blossom Pop
Ready to brighten up your look? This is all about that sunny, cheerful vibe that is perfect for June. With a combination of strong yellow nails and a floral touch it’s a fun way to embrace the summer season without getting too carried away.
For this effect you’ll need a vibrant yellow such as Sally Hansen Mellow Yellow and a soft peach for the floral detail. A dotting tool or a fine nail art brush will assist you to create those intricate floral patterns.
Begin by applying most nails in the solid yellow color. Apply the base color on the accent nails, and leave it to dry. Then using fine brush small floral designs on the nails, outlining with white and black polish for that dainty flower look. End with a sharp top coat to lock the design and give it shine.
To be honest, there’s something so summery about yellow nails. It’s a mood lifter and it goes with everything from denim to summer dresses.
Electric Green French Tips
French tips are getting a bold update this June with shocking green shades. This style modernises and makes uniquely appealing the classic French manicure with a neon lime green tip. It’s a fun yet sophisticated look that shouts summer fun.
To master this look, go for neon green you get your hands on; for example, Orly Glowstick in a neon green, with a neutral nude or clear base. A fine nail brush will be your best friend to get that crisp French tip.
Start by applying a clear or nude base coat. When dry, use the fine brush to paint thin green tips over each nail. Clean and sharp lines will give a chic, modern look. Make sure the green has dried up before applying a top coat.
Green French tips are a little energy boost to your fingertips. They’re fun, they’re surprising, and a perfect way to make a statement without committing to neon.
Neon and Swirl Vibes
If you’re looking to make a bold, head-turning statement this June, neon yellow paired with a swirling white accent is the way to go. This is all about that electrifying pop of color, but with a chic, modern design on the ring finger. It’s a great combination of edgy and playful — a summer must-try.
To reshew this look be bold and use a high-pigment neon yellow like Orly Glowstick or China Glaze Yellow Polka Dot Bikini. For the swirl pattern, a crisp white such as Essie Blanc works also very well. You’ll also need a fine nail art brush to get those smooth, fluid lines.
Here’s how to do it: Put two coats of neon yellow polish, and let them dry completely. For the accent nail begin with a base of white and add wavy lines with thin brush to get the swirl effect. Top coat the whole set-up with a shiny finish and you’ll be left with that mirror-shine.
For me, I love the way this look says something without being too much. The swirl makes it chic and the neon adds that in your face summer feel.
Olive and Swirls
Olive green is trending big time and this elaborate swirl pattern takes it to the next level. This style is sophistic ed yet trendy good for those who want something that is attention catching but not too flashy. This combination of olive, black, and white makes a fashionable, and somewhat retro look.
To achieve this effect use a muted olive green such as OPI Olive for Green or Zoya Sage. For the swirls, a classic white and black combo will do just fine to keep it chic. A thin nail art brush is a necessity in order to achieve those fine lines.
How to do it: Use a base coat then two layers of olive green polish. When dry use a fine brush and paint curving in white and black to create a flowing, abstract design. Allow design to set completely before putting a top coast.
This is a combination I’m personally loving for a more elevated take on nail art. It’s trendy but not too much so as to feel sophisticated enough for any occasion from weekend brunches to evening dinners.
Pastel Wave Delight
Pastel colors are always a hit for summer and this colorful wave design is no different. Think soft lilac, peach, with hits of the neon green seamlessly working together in a wavy, almost a hypnotic pattern. It’s playful, it’s vibrant and it’s ideal for those lazy June days.
This style can be reproduced using a pastel purple such as Essie Lilacism, a warm peach such as China Glaze Peachy Keen and a contrast, neon green. A thin nail art brush will do you the trick to give you those smooth flowing lines.
Begin with painting all the nails with a different pastel base colour. When the base has dried, apply wavy lines on all nails using the brush using contrasting colors. Go over the lines again for more intensity. At the end, top coat the look to give it a little more shine and protection.
This design is like a summer festival in nail shape – bright, fun and completely unapologetic. It’s the type of look that automatically brightens up your mood and adds that touch of playfulness to your outfit.
Pink Metallic Almonds
Soft pink nails to an almond shape are the ultimate in feminine glamour. This design has a shiny almost iridescent finish that reflects the light wonderfully, and is ideal for June’s summer soirées.
For this look, opt for a pearlescent pink like OPI Princesses Rule! or Zoya Rory. A high-shine top coat will lock in that luminous finish, and keep the sparkle.
In order to do this at home, first, shape your nails into a soft almond shape. Spread two coats of the pink polish on the parts over which you have painted, each time letting the polish to dry before the next layer. For a little more shimmer, apply a chrome powder or glitter top coat.
I’m obsessed with how effortlessly chic this look is. It’s a perfect mix of feminine and glam — perfect for a summer wedding or a night with friends.
Cloud Nine Blues
Whimsical and oh-so-cute, this blue sky and cloud design is a June must-try. A playful look that is appropriate for sunny, everyday clothes.
For this look you will need a sky blue polish like Essie Bikini So Teeny and a crisp white like OPI Alpine Snow. A dotting tool or a small brush will assist you in creating those soft rounded shapes of clouds.
Here’s how to do it: Use two layers of blue polish, and allow them to dry. Use the dotting tool to add little cloud shapes with the white polish concentrating at top and bottom edges of the nails. Add a glossy finish on the top coat to give it a dreamy nice finish.
This design is like a breath of fresh air — light, airy and just right for those lazy June days. It’s fun, but not too loud, so it’s a great option for both casual and dressier events.
Blue and Yellow Ombre
When the sky and the sun come together – that’s the vibe of this blue and yellow ombre design. It’s the ideal summer look that is a vibrant tropical vacation in nail form. The almond shape gives an additional touch of elegance, but it maintains the look playful and fresh.
To get the same look you will need to select a bright sky blue (Essie- Aruba blue) and a zesty lemon yellow (Orly- Lemonade). A sponge applicator will be useful to achieving that seamless gradient effect.
Start by applying a base coat. Then on a makeup sponge, apply the blue and yellow polishes overlapping a little to blend. Faintly press the sponge onto the nails and repeat until the gradient is noticable and even. Top with a top coat for that glossy high shine finish.
I adore how the moment I put this look on, I am on a summer beach. It’s playful, but chic, and it goes great with silver or gold rings for the final touch of glam.
Soft Blue Fade
If you prefer a less busy but intriguing look, then this soft blue fade is the idea. The gradation from a gentle nude to a dreamy blue produces a relaxed, almost dreamlike look — what is needed for those lazy summer days.
To get this look, take a sheer nude such as OPI Bubble Bath and a powder blue such as China Glaze Sea Spray. You will also require a sponge for blending and top coat for that glass finish.
Apply the nude base on first followed by drying time completely. Then, on a sponge, apply the blue and nude polish overlapping a little. Dot on the nails, repeat until the gradient is smooth. Seal with a top coat.
There’s just something about this look that screams effortlessly chic. It’s not over the top but it’s eye-catching, great for a casual coffee date or a summer night out.
Classic Green Shine
If you are a fan of a bright, solid color, this glossy green manicure is a showstopper. The shiny finish gives the classic colour a contemporary twist and it’s appropriate for both casual and formal events.
To get this look, opt for a rich green like OPI Stay Off the Lawn! or Essie Mojito Madness. A gel top coat will preserve the shine and give extra protection.
Apply two coats of the green polish letting it dry between the layers. Last off with a glossy finish high shine top coat.
I love how simple yet striking this look is. It is that sort of daring, one-color manicure that doesn’t require any decorations to make a statement.
Lavender Dreams
Lavender is the ideal colour to take you from spring to summer and this solid, glossy finish is both soft and sophisticated. It’s a color that is suitable for both casual days and special occasions, so it is a must-have for June.
For this look experiment with a soft lavender like Essie Lilacism or OPI Do You Lilac It?. A shiny top coat will maintain the look fresh and sleek.
Apply two coats of lavender polish, ensuring even coverage. You can finish it off with a clear top coat (for perfect shine) when entirely dry.
Lavender nails are my default when I’m looking for something that is feminine but not too sugary. It’s classic yet modern — a perfect balance.
Wavy Raspberry Lines
These wavy raspberry lines over a nude base for a playful yet minimalistic look is a win. The gentle, neutral background allows the bold pink lines to take the center stage and brings us a trendy yet wearable design.
For such an effect use a nude base such as OPI Bare My Soul and a bold raspberry polish such as Essie Watermelon. A fine nail brush for art is most important to achieve those sharp, flowing lines.
Begin with the nude base and completely dry it;. Then, using the brush, spread wavy line on each nail varying their position to maintain interest. Finish with a glossy top coat.
This look is so cool and summer perfect. It’s subtle, but artsy, and the juxtaposition of the soft nude and bold raspberry makes it just pop.
Royal Purple Gloss
Shades of purple are the order of the day this June, especially if they come with a rich, glossy finish. This dark, royal purple is daring yet elegant, and therefore ideal for night time events or if you simply wish that your nails are the focal point in your look.
For this look a high-pigment purple, such as OPI Purple Palazzo Pants or Essie Flowerista, looks brilliant. A glossy gel top coat will give the shine and will make the color last for days.
Begin by doing a base coat then two coats of purple polish. When the polish is completely dry apply a top glossy coat to achieve that super smooth finish.
This shade gives me major summer night vibes. It’s bold, but not too flashy and goes perfectly with silver or gold jewelry.
Pink and Green Waves
If playful and quirky is your vibe then this pink and green wave design is for you. The pair of bubblegum pink and lime green is fresh and fun — what else do you need for the lazy days of June?
To re-create this look you’ll need a bright pink such as Orly Pink Chocolate and a zesty green such as China Glaze Lime After Lime. A fine nail art brush will give you those smooth wavy lines.
Apply a base coat and let it dry. Paint alternate areas with the pink and the green making wavy forms. Finish with top gloss coat to maintain the look smart and elegant.
I love the way this look is summer in nail form – bright, happy and a tad nostalgic. It’s that kind of design that makes you smile when you look at your hands.
Matte Confetti Dots
Why should nails be complicated to be fun? These matte confetti dots are just the right playful accent without being too much. It’s a party on your nails — but make it chic.
For this look, you’ll need a nude matte base such as OPI Pale to the Chief and other pastel and neon shades for the dots. A dotting tool or a bobby pin will do just fine to make the dots.
Apply the matte base and let it dry completely. Randomly dot colorful dots over each nail using the dotting tool. Change the size and spacing to maintain the look casual and easy.
This look is ideal if you want a splash of color without an all out design. It’s playful, chic, and totally unexpected.
Sunshine and Pink Blossoms
This sunny mix of bright yellow and bubblegum pink is all we love about summer – warm, fun, alive. The accent daisy nail supplies a soft, feminine flair, against the dramatic coloring.
To copy this plastered, patched look, use a bright yellow such as Orly Lemonade and a light pink like Essie Ballet Slippers. For the daisy accent, a white polish and a dotting tool will assist you in making those little flower petals.
Use the yellow and pink polishes alternating the color on each nail. On the accent one, using a dotting tool create dots, daisies on them using white polish and yellow dot at the center. Seal with a glossy top coat.
There’s something so effortlessly happy about this look. It’s bright, it’s happy and it’s definitely for those long sunny June days.
Pastel Geometric Art
This pastel geometric design will be perfect for you if you are a fan of modern art. The soft mint green, peach, and sky blue make up a cool, calming palette, but it’s still bright and fun for summer.
To achieve this look, pick pastel colors such as Essie Mint Candy Apple, OPI Sweet Heart and China Glaze At Vase Value. You will need a thin nail art brush to make those clean geometric lines.
Apply each color as a base on different nails. Once it dries out, paint it with the brush, making the intersecting lines and shapes of contrasting pastel shades. Finish with a matt top coat to give you a modern artistic feel.
This is one of my favorite looks because it is simple but striking. It’s a mini art gallery in your fingertips – what’s not to love?
Daisy Fields Forever
Soft, sweet and indisputably cute, this daisy-themed design adds a bit of nature to your nails. The delicately daisy accents with pastel blue, pink and yellow scream picnic-in-the-park.
For this look you’ll need a pastel blue – OPI Gelato on My Mind, soft pink – Essie Ballet Slippers, and bright yellow – Orly Lemonade. Daisy petals and centers use a dotting tool.
Start with the pastel base colors. On the accent nail take a dotting tool and work with white polish to create daisy petals and using a small yellow dot in the center. Coat with gloss to be shiny, smooth.
This look is so soft and pretty – it’s the best way to welcome the summer season without going overboard.
