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Summer 2025 is officially here, and you know what that means—sun, swimsuits, and a fresh mani to match!
Summer and fun nail ideas? Total besties! There’s just something about snapping a poolside pic or holding an iced coffee when your nails are perfectly polished, right? 💅
Hot pinks, pastel swirls, or gorgeous nail art—every year the trends shift, so if you want to keep your mani game strong this summer, you’re in the right place.
I’ve rounded up the hottest summer nail trends for you to try. Trust me, you’ll want these on your radar (and your nails)!
So here are all the hottest summer nail trends for 2025
1. Soap Nails
Imagine that fresh-out-of-the-shower, squeaky-clean feeling—but for your nails. That’s the vibe of soap nails! Think soft, sheer pinks that give your nails that effortlessly polished, “I woke up like this” glow.
It’s the go-to look for celebs who want to keep things chic, minimal, and oh-so-elegant without trying too hard.
Want to pull this off? Opt for a glossy, translucent pink shade or even a clear coat with the faintest blush tint. Look for nail polishes labeled “jelly” or “sheer” for that perfect gradient effect. Soap nails are perfect if you’re going for a low-maintenance yet luxe look.
2. Glass Velvet Nails
If high-shine, mirror-like nails are your thing, glass velvet nails are about to be your new obsession. They’re sleek, reflective, and look like they’ve been dipped in liquid gloss.
You’ll want to layer a jelly or sheer top coat over metallic nail polishes for the most jaw-dropping results.
The best part? You can rock them in any color, making them the perfect mix of luxe and minimal. Total main-character energy! And yes, they pair perfectly with bold summer accessories.
3. Milky Tones
Think soft lavender and blush pink, but make it dreamy. These milky tones give your nails that effortless, fairy-like glow—subtle, sophisticated, and perfect for literally any occasion. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, this trend is all about that soft, elegant magic.
Of course, they are not “in trend” for the first time because the second spring rolls out, pastel hues pop out like frogs, lol.
To get this look, choose creamy polishes with buildable coverage. A single coat can give you that barely-there transparency, or you can layer it up for a more opaque effect.
4. Cat eye effect
Okay, who needs jewelry when your nails are this dazzling? The cat eye effect is hands-down one of the coolest trends of the summer, using metallic polishes and magnetized pigments to create a cosmic swirl of light-reflecting lines. It’s like your nails have their own little galaxy!
My secret for this trend? Try a rich colors like emerald green or a deep purple polish with metallic shimmer—it amps up the feline-chic factor.
5. iridescent textures
Shimmer, sparkle, and shine—iridescent nails are basically fairy dust for your fingertips. Picture a glossy, pearlescent finish that shifts between dreamy pastels and soft metallics every time the light hits.
Whether you go full holographic or layer a sheer shimmer over a solid color, this trend gives your nails that unreal glow. It’s like unicorn magic, but make it chic!
6. jelly nails
Who doesn’t love a poolside popsicle on a hot day? Jelly nails capture that same playful, translucent vibe. These see-through, juicy shades in bold, fruity colors like tangerine, watermelon pink, or lime green will instantly put you in a summer mood.
Want to take it a step further? Add cute decals, like little flowers or hearts, to give your jelly nails even more character.
7. 3-D designs
Feeling bold and adventurous? Make your nails a mini work of art with 3-D accents! This summer, it’s all about gems, pearls, tiny bows, and even little metallic shapes that pop off your nails.
These nails are perfect for festivals, girls’ trips, or just turning heads wherever you go. Can’t commit to a full set? Try adding a single accent nail on each hand for a subtle yet stunning look.
8. Citrus-inspired nails
Let’s talk zest! Nothing screams summer more than fresh, juicy citrus nails. I’m talking lemon slices, tangy orange swirls, and lime-inspired accents that add a pop of brightness to your mani.
Feeling fancy? Go for a negative-space design or a fruit mix-and-match look. Either way, your nails will be fresh, fun, and totally Instagram-worthy.
9. ocean wave nails
Beach babe energy, activated! Ocean wave nails mimic the mesmerizing movement of the sea with swirly blues, foamy whites, and a high-shine finish.
Want that extra touch of magic? Add a bit of shimmer for a sun reflecting on water effect, or tiny seashell decals for the ultimate mermaid-core aesthetic. It’s like carrying a little piece of paradise on your fingertips!
10. aura nails
Good vibes only! Aura nails are like an energy boost for your manicure, featuring soft, airbrushed gradients that radiate a glowing effect. Imagine pastel pinks blending into dreamy oranges, or cosmic blues melting into purples—it’s all about that mystical, ethereal look. If nails could have a vibe, these would be pure magic.
11. mismatched frenchies
Say goodbye to the basic French tip—this summer, it’s all about mixing it up! Mismatched Frenchies feature different tip colors, funky designs, and even asymmetrical shapes on each nail.
Think neon yellow on one nail, baby pink on the next, and maybe a glitter accent just for fun. It’s playful, unpredictable, and the perfect excuse to try all the colors.
12. barbie core nails
Yes, Barbiecore is still ruling, and I’m not mad about it! Think hot pinks, sparkly rhinestones, and super-girly details like hearts and bows.
Whether you’re channeling full-on Malibu Barbie or just adding subtle pink accents, this trend is a total dream for anyone who loves a bold, ultra-feminine vibe.
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