Top Summer Nail Trends & Designs to Try This Season

Metallic colors are making a comeback this summer in the nail world. Looking for the latest trends? You’re in the right spot. We’ve gathered many popular nail designs for you to pick from. Whether you want the top polish colors, need press-ons, or look for eco-friendly options, we’ve got you.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer. And what pairs perfectly with white jeans in the summer? Cute nails. This year, shades like mint green and lavender are big.¹ Watch for colors like bright watermelon green, glowing purple, and shimmery hues too. They’re sure to be noticed this summer.¹

Key Takeaways

Metallics, pastels, and bright colors are the hottest summer nail trends
Cherry designs, polka dots, and aqua nails are also predicted to be popular
Pastel and metallic combinations, as well as sheerer French tips, are trending
Clear polish with well-cared-for nails is a great summer manicure option
Neutral nail looks like frosted and tortoiseshell designs are also on-trend

The Hottest Summer Nail Trends for 2024

We’re all looking forward to the summer, especially in the nail world. Juli Russell, a DIY nail expert from Sally Beauty, highlights green nails as a top trend for summer 2024. She also says aura nails and multicolored chrome are worth looking out for. She adds that aura nails are a big hit now and will still shine in the summer.

Moreover, Russell mentions that colored-chrome nails, bringing to mind the Sugar Plum Fairy, are here to stay. These trends reflect a fusion of nature and fantasy.² They promise to make summer nails even more fun and beautiful.

Vibrant Greens and Aura Nails

This summer, expect styles that evoke mermaids and fairies, like seashell nails.³ The appeal of such whimsical looks shows our longing for magic and escape. These designs offer a daily dose of enchantment.

Multicolored Chrome Nails

The love for colored-chrome isn’t fading, and gold chrome nails will be everywhere this summer.² This trend adds a lively sparkle to your nails, perfect for any mood or event. It’s a hit for those who love to change it up.

Mermaid and Fairy-Inspired Designs

Warm summer days will see more of the mermaid- and fairy-inspired designs. Seashell nails will transport us to realms of magic and wonder.³ They’re ideal for those who dream of adding a magical twist to their summer look. With these, your nails become a canvas for creativity.

Sizzling Summer Nail Polish Colors

As it gets hotter, it’s time to bring out the bright summer colors. The spotlight is on bright neons and tropical shades for summer nail polish colors.¹ Expect to see lots of peachy oranges and vivid yellows shining through. They add a nice sun-kissed touch.¹

Bright Neons and Tropical Shades

Summer is for vibrant, fun colors. Think neon nail polish in hot pink, electric blue, and neon green. These colors stand out. For a more laid-back beachy feel, try tropical nail polish with coral, teal, and bright fuchsia.¹ You can either go with a bold solid color or mix it up with ombré designs. Either way, your nails will grab attention.¹

Peachy Oranges and Vivid Yellows

Looking for something less loud but still striking? Go for peachy orange and vivid yellow.¹ They match well with a tan and light summer clothes. This combo gives off a fresh, easy vibe.¹ A bright yellow or soft peach orange can make your nails pop with any summer look.¹

Nail Art Inspiration for Summer

When it gets warm and days are long, it’s fun to think about doing our nails.⁴ You can find cool nail designs for every taste and skill for summer.

Gradient and Ombre Nail Designs

Gradient and ombre nails look great in summer. They give a cool, eye-catching effect.⁵ About 35% of the top nail looks use these styles, making them a popular choice.

Checkered Nails and Bold Prints

If you want to stand out, try checkered nails or other bold designs this summer.⁴ Minimalist and abstract designs are also in, like the ones you see from @elsgels and @indiesbeautyroom.

Plus, mixing different designs is trendy. Check out @tabbydoesnails and @__emsgems for inspiration on this new style.

summer nails

This summer, dive into the world of summer nails with all its colors. Choose from bold neons to calm pastels to match your mood.⁶

Experts predict bright reds and hot pinks will be big, along with floral and cherry themes. They also say mermaid designs, and glitters are here to stay. And let’s not forget about swirl patterns.

The summer nail palette will include shiny chrome and the call of the sea. Expect ombré and leopard spots to add variety, as well as butterflies flying. Sea greens and bronzes will also be popular, mixing nature with glitz.

This season, expect to see daring color combos like orange and pink. Abstract and mixed-media nail art will flourish. From fun fruits to sleek chrome and simple yet stylish negative space, the choices are many.

Looking for a standout or understated look? The summer nail trends in 2024 cater to all tastes. The classic French manicure will get modern updates. Country-western designs will also be in, offering a wide range of styles.

Your summer nails can reflect your mood and style this season. Choose from bold to calm designs. The fun is in choosing what makes you feel carefree and sunny inside.

The Return of the Classic French Manicure

This summer, change is coming to the beloved french manicure.⁷ Instead of the usual bold white tips over a soft pink, we’re seeing a shift.⁷ Manicurists are going for a more muted, see-through look. Now, it’s all about a gentle, pale tip. This is often just the natural color of your nail peeking through.⁷

Sheer and Subtle French Tips

The new take on the french manicure is all about being light and understated.⁷ It goes well with any nail length and occasion.⁷ A soft, neutral base color meets a sheer white tip. The result is a simple yet elegant look for summer.⁸

Colorful Twists on the French Manicure

But that’s not all. This year, colorful french manicures will also shine.⁸ We’re seeing a range of colors on the tip, and not just the usual white.⁸ Shorter tips are also becoming more popular, adding fun to the classic style.⁸

Whether you love the old-school charm or the new, bright vibes, the french manicure is still a go-to.⁷ Its adaptability and long-lasting popularity make it a definitive choice for your nails this summer.⁷

Country Western-Inspired Nail Art

Beyoncé’s “cowgirl era” has really caught on. Now, country western style is huge in the nail art world.⁹ Bara Jarjour, a nail artist from Los Angeles, is at the heart of this trend. She’s known for her amazing cow print nails. They give off a rustic yet sleek vibe. To make the classic cow print, she uses white polish for a base and adds brown spots. Or, she might use gel polish in the same colors.¹⁰ For an even more country look, she recommends adding flat-back studs and textured designs. These touches really bring out the Wild West spirit in your nails.

¹⁰ People are loving patterns inspired by barn wood, too.¹⁰ Jarjour mentions you can use colors like rust, turquoise, and beige for these textured nail designs.¹⁰ She also suggests adding horseshoe patterns or cowboy hats. This way, your nails are both tough and chic.

⁹ There’s a lot more than just cow print nails in country western nail art.⁹ You can find everything, from cactus nails to pink and turquoise cow prints. Even cactus-themed acrylics are popular.⁹ There are themes like Serapi Nails, Western Bling, and Wild Wild West Nails. These cater to the demand for different, bold country western nail art.

⁹ Nail artists are showing off so many styles, like Barbie Cowgirl Chic.⁹ There are also Arizona Dreaming Nails and Moonlit Rodeo Nails. From Western Whimsy to Yee-Haw Palette, the options for country western nail designs are endless.

⁹ There are specific concepts too, like Western Blossom Nails.⁹ Designs with cowboy details or a Western twist are big.⁹ Things like Sunny Side Western Nails show the creativity in this trend. They highlight the art and love for country western nail art.

⁹ The trend extends to designs like Marble Western Nails.⁹ There are also Night in the Desert Nails.⁹ They all capture the Western spirit beautifully. From Texas Hold Em’ to Summer Western Sky, there are so many creative designs. From Cute Western Whimsy to Long Brown Cow Print Nails, the possibilities in this trend are truly endless.

Beach-Ready Nail Designs

The summer season is almost here, and beach nail designs are big news. This summer, 100% of nail art will be beach-themed. Waves are the top pick.¹¹ People are using blues, golds, whites, and corals to mirror the beach’s fun vibe.¹¹

Nail art goes further with seashells, anchors, mermaids, and tropical vibes.¹¹ Mermaid looks, especially, are getting more love. They bring the sea’s magic to nails.¹¹

This trend is everywhere. Worldwide, people are posting their beach nail designs.¹¹ Thanks to influencers, these designs are more popular than ever. Compared to last year, interest is up by 30%.¹¹ Plus, people are buying more beach nail stuff, up by 15% in vacation season.¹¹

Seashell and Wave Motifs

Seashells and waves are the top choices for nail art.¹¹ They make nails look and feel like summer.¹¹

Want your nails to scream beach? The second source suggests dip powder in neon or pastel. NE 16 Highlighter Neon Yellow and NE 15 Magenta for a bold look. PA 04 Light Coral Pink for something softer.¹² Sunset ombré with NE 18 Orchid Purple and NE 14 Bright Coral is beachy.¹² For a classic style, try NA 02 Light Peachy Sand. To shine, use GL 01 Glittery Coral.¹²

Vacation Nails for Summer Getaways

Summer is almost here, making it the perfect time to plan your vacation nails. If you’re traveling to the beach, a tropical spot, or a city, there are many nail designs perfect for your trip.¹³

Opting for something elegant? Try classic French tips with a summer twist. Use bold, bright colors and fun accents to update this favorite style.¹³ Those who love fashion might choose modern chrome accents and a bright Barbie pink. These choices are influenced by a recent movie. They’re designed to make you stand out.¹³

Want something dazzling? Consider nails with stars that look like the night sky or jade nails with gold foils. For fans of summer, ombré nails and nails that look like seashells are perfect. They’re inspired by warm beach getaways.¹³

Are you an artsy type? Geometric nails could be your thing. They’re bold and creative, perfect for travelers who love to experiment.¹³ There’s a vacation nail trend for every style and adventure.¹³

Want more ideas? Check out the source with almond-shaped nails and ocean-themed marble designs. You’ll find plenty of summer trends that will make a statement on your vacation.¹⁴

Looking for cutting-edge trends? The third source suggests 3D nails, neon colors, and wellness-theme nail art. They are ideal for summer trips.¹⁵

Whatever nail design you pick, your nails will be the perfect accessory for your sunny getaway. They’ll add flair to your summer outings.¹³¹⁴

Gel Nails vs. Regular Polish

The talk about gel nails versus regular nail polish is ongoing. Each has its own benefits. Your choice depends on what you like and need. Now, let’s dive into what’s good and not so good about each.

Pros and Cons of Each

Gel nail polish became popular in 2010¹⁶. It’s tough and can stay on for 2-3 weeks, even up to a month sometimes.¹⁶ It doesn’t easily chip or smudge, which is great if you’re always on the go. But, it does need a UV or LED light to dry, unlike regular polish.¹⁶ Taking off gel polish at home might hurt your nails, so pros suggest pro removal.¹⁶

On the flip side, regular nail polish is quick to put on and dries naturally in about 30 minutes.¹⁶ It might only stay looking fresh for up to a week, which is shorter than gel.¹⁷ Yet, it’s cheaper and you can remove it at home with polish remover. There are more color choices in regular polish, with over 100 options.¹⁶

Tips for Long-Lasting Manicures

Whether you pick gel nails or regular nail polish, you can keep your mani looking good. Start with clean, well-shaped nails. No oil or residue! Then, use a great base and top coat to keep your polish from chipping.¹⁷

Last but not least, take care of your hands. Nail polish, both gel and regular, can wear down. Watch out for too much wear and tear.

Deciding on gel nails or regular polish is all about what you like, how you live, and your budget. Think about the good and the bad of each. By doing so, and with proper care, you’ll enjoy your beautiful mani for as long as possible.

Nontoxic and Eco-Friendly Nail Polish Options

More people want beauty products that are safe for both them and the planet. This means the nail care world is changing.¹⁸ Market research shows that by 2030, the nail polish market might be worth even more.¹⁸ But, many old nail polish brands use bad chemicals. These can hurt the people who make our nails pretty, especially if they’re used a lot.¹⁸

Now, there are many nontoxic nail polish and eco-friendly brands for people who care. For example, you can get safe nail polish from brands like Sophi for $10 or more. Or try Dazzle Dry for $20 or more.¹⁹ These polishes are made without the bad stuff, so they’re safe and last a long time.

Olive & June is a great brand for both good products and useful info.¹⁹ They’re all about helping you make smart choices. Plus, they sell their eco-friendly nails at Target.¹⁹ Some brands even let you recycle the bottles, keeping the planet cleaner.

If you’re looking for eco-friendly nail polish, know what’s in it is key.¹⁸ Some things in old polishes, like guanine and carmine, aren’t good for the earth or animals.¹⁸ And even the polish removers can be dangerous, with bad stuff like acetone. These can cause skin problems.¹⁸

Choosing nontoxic nail polish or eco-friendly options is a good idea. You get a pretty manicure without worry.²⁰ Brands like Honeybee Gardens have water-based polish that’s good for everyone. It’s safe, smells nice, not tested on animals, and costs $12.99.²⁰ Customers love it, and it comes in many colors.

DIY Summer Nail Art Tutorials

Summertime is great for being creative and trying out bright, fun [DIY summer nail art]. Whether you’re just starting or you’re really good at nails, there’s something here for you. These DIY tutorials will take your summer manicure to the next level!

Easy Nail Designs for Beginners

If you’re new to [easy nail designs], try out simple but stunning styles. You only need a few tools to get started. Go for wavy patterns or bold color blocks. Soon, your nails will be ready for summer.⁴ Check out the flower smilies design by @truebeautybycarrie or the two-tone purple nails by @mynailgirlness for ideas.

Advanced Techniques for Skilled Nail Artists

Skilled with [advanced nail art techniques]? Then, it’s time for challenging summer nail designs. Add gradient ombres, soft flowers, or 3D effects.⁴ Get inspired by @thehotblend’s multi-colored design or @thegelhouse’s pastel and lines.²¹ Think about the 90s abstract nails or neon flowers for more creative ideas.

With these DIY tutorials, you can make amazing nail art for summer, no matter what your skill level. They offer the advice and inspiration you’ll need. You’ll be wowing your friends and catching everyone’s eye with your cool [DIY summer nail art]!

Conclusion

Summer is here, and the nail world is shining with new styles. We see everything from bright Neon Green Nails to bold Bright Pink Nails. It’s a season for bright and daring colors²².

Yet, there’s more. The Mermaid Vibes Nails and the mix-and-match Bright Summer Skittle Nails are winning over nail lovers. There’s also the charm of the sunny Orange Nails and the classic beauty of Milky Nails.

Going on a summer adventure? Let these nail trends guide your style. You can choose bold or understated looks. The summer is yours to own with the perfect nail style.

FAQ

What are the top summer nail trends for 2024?

The top trends, according to Juli Russell, are vibrant greens and aura nails. Multicolored chrome nails will also be a hit. Look out for designs like seashell nails. They are expected to stay popular all summer.

What are the hottest summer nail polish colors this season?

Neons and tropical shades will shine this season. Expect colors like peachy oranges and bright yellows to stand out.

What are some inspiring summer nail art ideas?

Eye-catching ideas include gradient and ombre designs. Checkered nails and bold prints are also in style.

How is the classic French manicure being reinvented for summer?

The French manicure gets a new look this summer. It’s going semi-sheer with soft, sheer layers and added colors.

What country western-inspired nail art is popular for summer?

Inspired by Beyoncé’s “cowgirl era,” cow print nails and textured designs are big this summer.

What beach-ready nail designs are perfect for summer?

For beach vibes, seashell and wave designs are the go-to this summer.

What are the pros and cons of gel nails versus regular nail polish?

Gel nails last longer but can damage your natural nails. On the other hand, regular polish is easier to remove but doesn’t last as long. I’ll provide tips for longer-lasting manicures with both options.

Where can I find nontoxic and eco-friendly nail polish options?

The demand for nontoxic and eco-friendly nail polishes is increasing. You can find recommendations for these products easily.

What DIY summer nail art tutorials are available for different skill levels?

DIY tutorials cover easy designs for beginners and advanced techniques for skilled artists alike.