Sun, Sand & Stunning Summer Nails

Ah, summer — the season when we trade sweaters for swimsuits, boots for sandals, and let our fingers and toes finally breathe. It’s also the perfect time to update your nail game with some of the season’s hottest trends. Whether you're heading to a beach getaway, lounging by the pool, or just vibing with iced coffee in hand, your nails deserve to look their best.

From bold colors and nostalgic patterns to minimalistic elegance and low-maintenance designs, Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a fun, expressive, and surprisingly wearable season for manicures and pedicures. Ready to get inspired? Here’s your ultimate guide to the standout nail trends to try this summer.

Juicy Brights and Y2K Colors 

Nothing says summer like bold, juicy colors — and this year, think sherbet and candy store vibes. Neon pinks, lime green, electric tangerine, and popsicle purple are dominating salon menus. These high-impact hues not only complement sun-kissed skin but also scream “fun in the sun.”

Trending tip: Mix and match colors on each nail for a "skittle manicure" look. Choose a theme like citrus tones or a gradient sunset for extra flair. If you’re feeling nostalgic, lean into Y2K-inspired hues like frosty blue, metallic lavender, or bubblegum pink for a throwback to early-2000s style.

Milky Neutrals & Soft Glazed Nails 

If your vibe is more “quiet luxury” than bold beach party, you’ll be happy to know soft neutrals are still trending strong. The clean girl aesthetic continues, with milky white, sheer pink, and light beige dominating minimalistic manicures and pedicures.

But the twist for Summer 2025? The “glazed” effect. Thanks to chrome powders and pearlized finishes, even a neutral nail can catch the light and shine with subtle elegance. Think Hailey Bieber’s glazed donut nails — but summer-fied.

Best for: Weddings, garden parties, and anyone who wants an elegant, low-maintenance look that pairs with everything.

Nail Art Goes Tropical 

This summer’s nail art is all about vacation energy. Palm leaves, hibiscus flowers, sea shells, pineapples, flamingos — if it belongs in a tropical postcard, it belongs on your nails.

Not into full-on nail art? Try an accent nail or minimalist version: a tiny palm tree on your ring finger or pastel-colored waves at the tips. You’ll get all the summery vibes without the salon time commitment.

Pro tip: Tropical nail stickers or press-on decals make it easy to DIY at home.

French Manicures With a Twist 

The French manicure never truly goes out of style — it just keeps evolving. For Summer 2025, it’s all about colorful or graphic tips.

Instead of classic white, try neon green tips, coral red, or turquoise. You can even get playful with geometric shapes, ombré blends, or reverse French styles (color at the base of the nail instead of the tip).

Pedicure twist: French tips on toes are having a revival — especially in white-on-pink combos or micro-French versions for shorter nails.

Short and Squoval is the Shape of the Season 

Over the past few years, extra-long nails have had their moment. But this summer, many are going shorter for ease, comfort, and that effortlessly chic vibe.

The top shape? Squoval — a blend of square and oval that flatters nearly every finger and toe shape. It’s practical, elegant, and low-maintenance, making it ideal for active summer days (and sand-proof!).

Why we love it: Shorter nails are less prone to breakage, easier to keep clean, and perfect for layering fun colors or nail art.

Nail Stickers and Press-Ons for Instant Style 

No time for a full manicure? No problem. The new generation of press-on nails and stickers are game-changers. With designer-worthy patterns, playful themes, and salon-level quality, they’re perfect for a quick refresh before a weekend trip or spontaneous rooftop party.

Look for reusable press-ons made with eco-friendly materials, or opt for breathable nail stickers that won’t damage your natural nails. Match your toes with minimalist decals or go wild with coordinating patterns for a festival-ready look.

Glow-in-the-Dark and UV-Activated Polishes 

Yes, you read that right — nails that glow. Glow-in-the-dark polish is having a summer moment, especially for beach bonfires, parties, and music festivals.

Even cooler: UV-activated polish that changes color in the sunlight. Indoors, your nails might be soft pink, but step outside and suddenly — they’re lavender or coral. It’s like mood rings, but for your nails.

Hot tip: Use these color-changing polishes on a feature nail (like your middle or ring finger) for a subtle but fun surprise.

Foot-Friendly Finishes and Summer-Proof Pedis 

Let’s not forget the toes — it is open-toe season, after all!

Pedicure trend alert: Bold red and cherry tones are classics for a reason, but soft whites, mint greens, and even lemon yellows are making their way onto summer toes. These look especially striking with a tan or a white sandal.

Foot care is key: A good pedicure starts with healthy skin. Summer 2025 is big on exfoliating foot peels, cuticle oils, and intensive heel balms. Think of it as skin care for your soles.

For longevity, try gel polish or long-wear lacquers to withstand sand, saltwater, and spontaneous dips in the pool.

Eco-Conscious, Toxin-Free Nail Products 

With clean beauty on the rise, more brands are offering non-toxic nail polish formulas free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. Many are also vegan and cruelty-free.

Summer 2025 is all about sustainable glamour — so why not match your stylish nails with a clear conscience?

Look for brands labeled “10-free” or higher and choose biodegradable polish removers that are gentler on both your nails and the planet.

The Matchy-Matchy Mani-Pedi Combo 

For those who like a coordinated look, the matchy-matchy mani-pedi is back — but with modern flair. Try matching colors in different finishes (matte on hands, glossy on feet) or pick two tones in the same color family for subtle coordination.

For a fun twist, go with matching art: tiny hearts, stars, or beachy icons that tie your look together from fingertips to toes.

Final Thoughts 

Whether you're a manicure minimalist or a full-on nail art enthusiast, summer is the perfect excuse to experiment with color, pattern, and texture. With playful options like UV polish and chrome tips or chic, understated milky tones and press-on hacks, there’s truly something for every style.

And remember: your summer manicure isn’t just about how it looks — it’s also a form of self-care. That quiet moment at the nail salon, the satisfaction of DIY-ing your perfect pedi, the confidence boost from freshly painted toes… it all counts.

So go ahead. Book that appointment. Try the neon. Wear the pineapple stickers. This summer, your nails are your best accessory.