Nail Inspiration for Sunny Days

As the temperature rises and layers come off, summer becomes the perfect time to experiment with bold, beautiful nails. Whether you're lounging by the pool, heading off on a beach getaway, or just enjoying sunny afternoons in the garden, a fresh set of summer nails can lift your whole look.

From juicy brights and tropical tones to soft pastels and playful nail art, there’s no shortage of inspiration this season. In this guide, we’re diving into the most stylish, trending nail looks to try this summer—whether you DIY your mani or book in with a professional.

1.Bright and Bold: Colour That Pops

Summer is the ultimate excuse to go bold with colour. Think neon pinks, electric oranges, lemon yellows, and turquoise blues. These vivid shades instantly add fun to any outfit and pair beautifully with sun-kissed skin.

Top Shades to Try:

• Hot pink – vibrant and classic for toes and fingers.
  
  
• Coral orange – flattering on all skin tones and perfect for beach days.
  
  
• Lime green or mint – great for those who love a playful pop.
  
  
• Neon yellow – daring and energetic, perfect for festivals or holidays.
  

2.Pastel Power: Soft but Striking

Not everyone loves a neon moment—and that’s where pastels come in. Soft, sorbet-inspired shades are effortlessly pretty and ideal for those who prefer a more subtle vibe.

Pastels We Love:

• Lilac – dreamy and delicate, with a hint of whimsy.
  
  
• Peach – a gentle, creamy option that screams summer chic.
  
  
• Sky blue – light and airy, perfect for a cloudless day.
  
  
• Buttercup yellow – soft but cheerful, ideal for a sunny weekend.
  

3.Fruity Fun: Summer Nail Art with a Twist

Why not let your nails do the talking this summer with some juicy, fruity art? Watermelons, strawberries, lemons, cherries—anything goes! These playful designs are great conversation starters and ideal for holidays, festivals or just a fun change from your usual manicure.

Easy Fruit-Inspired Looks:

• Tiny strawberry motifs on a soft pink base.
  
  
• A watermelon French tip with green, pink, and tiny black seeds.
  
  
• Lemon slices over a white or pale yellow background.
  
  
• Cherry nail stickers or hand-painted cherries with glossy red dots.
  

4.The French Twist: A Classic Reimagined

French manicures are back in a big way—but not how you remember them. This summer, we’re seeing fresh updates like coloured tips, glitter finishes, and reversed French designs.

Modern French Looks:

• Bright neon tips over a clear base.
  
  
• Rainbow French – each nail has a different coloured tip.
  
  
• Double French lines – two thin arcs for a more intricate look.
  
  
• Reverse French – colour at the cuticle rather than the tip.
  

5.Glazed and Glossy: The Clean Girl Look

If you’re more of a minimalist, don’t worry—summer nails don’t have to mean loud colours. The “clean girl” aesthetic is still going strong, and nails are no exception. Think soft, glossy, and barely-there hues that whisper sophistication.

Go-To Shades:

• Milky pinks or nude beiges for a clean, polished finish.
  
  
• Sheer whites that resemble a natural, fresh manicure.
  
  
• Pearly glazes or chrome powders for a subtle shimmer (the “Hailey Bieber nail” trend is a prime example).
  

6.Sunset Shades: Inspired by Golden Hour

Sunsets and summer go hand in hand—why not take that dreamy golden hour palette and apply it to your nails? Shades of burnt orange, dusky pink, gold, and soft lavender work beautifully blended.

Design Ideas:

• Ombre nails that fade from one sunset colour to the next.
  
  
• Swirled marble effect using pink, peach, and gold.
  
  
• Sun motifs or tiny palm tree silhouettes over warm gradients.
  

7.Nautical and Coastal Vibes

Take inspiration from the sea with coastal nail art and colour palettes. Whether it’s navy and white stripes, seafoam green, or shell-inspired designs, there’s something inherently calming and stylish about seaside nails.

Style Ideas:

• Anchor and rope designs over a white or blue base.
  
  
• Shell or pearl embellishments for a 3D effect.
  
  
• Wave patterns or swirling water designs using different shades of blue.

Floral Details: Always in Bloom

Florals are never out of season, but summer is the time to go bright, bold, and playful with your petal patterns. Whether hand-painted or using decals and stickers, floral nails are always a hit.

Floral Trends:

• Daisy nails on a nude or baby blue base.
  
  
• Tropical blooms like hibiscus or frangipani for a holiday feel.
  
  
• Tiny buds and vines for a more delicate, feminine style.
  

Nail Shapes That Shine in Summer

Not sure which shape to go for this season? Here are some on-trend options:

• Short & Square: Easy, practical, and perfect for bright block colours.
  
  
• Almond: Elegant and elongated, ideal for floral or French designs.
  
  
• Oval: A versatile shape that suits everything from minimal to detailed nail art.
  
  
• Squoval (square + oval): The best of both worlds—stylish yet functional.
  

Nails That Speak Summer

Summer nails are all about fun, creativity, and expression. Whether you’re a fan of bright neons, subtle nudes, or intricate nail art, there's something for everyone this season. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new—your nails are the perfect canvas.

So treat yourself to that mani, switch up your go-to shades, and let your fingertips do the talking all summer long.