Much like fashion trends, be it a jelly ballet flat or drop waist dresses, nail art also sees cyclical movements and crazes, and this summer, there’s a lot to choose from. Summer is the perfect excuse to ditch neutrals in favour of bold colours and patterns – think feel-good nails that basically scream sunshine.
As someone who gets their nails done every 4-5 weeks, and has done for the past six years, I’ve had my fair share of designs and have dug into the archives for some of my favourites – including seashell and aperol spritz-inspired manis. All of the following designs have been handpainted by my talented nail tech @nailartbychlo, who I’ve been seeing for the past three years.
Whether you’re drawn to chrome, brights or florals, these looks prove that there’s a summer mani for every mood, be it for a tropical getaway or more poolside vibes. Here are seven sets to save ahead of your next appointment – because there’s no better feeling than sipping on a picante in the sun with a fresh set of nails.
1. If aperol spritz, solero ice lollies and deck chairs were nail art, this would be it. This set is making me want to sit in the sun in a floaty dress with a chilled cocktail in my hand. ‘Humbug’ nails were a big trend around Christmas and this feels like a very summery take on the trend, with the chrome swirls adding a little je ne sais quoi.
2. This is the kind of set where the foundations – by which I mean the leopard print french and chrome stars – work year-round. However, the little pop of baby pink and blue gives it a spring/summer feel. There’s even a little dot of glitter in the centre of the bursts, too – very festival-ready.
3. For those of you who love a mix and match set, this manicure will leave you feeling anything but blue. I really love the use of negative space in this set, while the oceanic shades of blue are ideal for a poolside trip. And who said tortoise shell had to be reserved for Autumn, anyway?
4. These were actually my holiday nails last year. They’re another leopard print french tip but with an entirely different vibe, swapping chrome stars for a fun and colourful set. Starfish, bananas, cherries and a palm tree adorn each nail for a playful pick and mix, European market vibe. Cue the photos in front of a fruit stall with a string shopper.
5. Chrome flames are an understated yet edgy summer manicure. They’ve got a bit of a cool-girl vibe about them and I love that they’re a neutral so go with any outfit. However, go into this one with your next appointment prebooked because chrome french doesn’t last brilliantly, no matter how good your nail tech is or how lighthanded you are. They do look great while they last, though.
6. A little half and half moment. These floral and leopard nails I wore for my 2023 summer holiday and bagged so many compliments on them. The beige of the animal print with the lilac and orange contrast is just *chefs kiss*. I’ll definitely be recreating these again at some point soon.
7. Seashells are very much trending for 2025, particularly in jewellery but in nail art, too. This set uses acrylic powder to create a 3D design perfect for a beach getaway. Gold accents really set off the manicure, giving that golden hour feel and the texture of these is insanely addictive.
