The Prettiest Summer Nail Designs For 2024

When I think of summer, what comes to mind is sunshine, flowers, and bright colors. One way to match that uplifting energy is by adding summer nail designs to your beauty routine.

Here, you can find no shortage of inspirational photos you can take with you to the salon or try them at home. This season’s biggest summer nail designs I’m seeing are floral prints, colored French tips, and green nails.

In addition, celebrity manicurist, and KISS Products brand ambassador Gina Edwards noted in our recent story, “Nail trends I’m seeing now are chrome and aura nails.”

Whether you’re into bold prints or toned-down styles, there’s a summer nail look for you. Scroll on and bookmark this page so you’ll always have it on hand!

The Best Summer Nail Designs to Brighten Your Mood in 2024

Polka Dot Power

You can always count on nail artist Natalie Kirk to share a cool set on her Instagram @nailperfectionbynatalie, and these are just perfect for summer. The shades of coral, pink, and yellow look like a sunset dream mixed with an unexpected pop of polka dots.

Pastel Nails

“It’s giving Ibiza vibes,” says Abi Markey of @naileditbeauty who created these pastel nails. With light colorful shades, this mani couldn’t be more refreshing to go with European summer outfits. Plus, the rainbow gem embellishments adds a fun twist. To finish the look, Markey used essie cuticle oil to nourish nails and cuticles.

Orange Creamsicle

Add a fun twist to summer nails like Bellacures does here. One of the nails has an ice cream design with rainbow sprinkles that just scream summer. The rest is solid orange that complements the design without competing for attention. Overall, it strikes the perfect balance.

Lavender Fields Forever

Lavender-colored nails have been everywhere this spring, and the trend is going strong into summer. Here, nail artist and educator Katie Dutra added metallic lines along the purple flowers for a unique spin. Save this photo for summer short nail designs if you’re, like me, always looking for shorter-length options for practicality!

Coquette Nails

This one’s for the girly girls who love all things coquette-themed. With pink tips, pearl details, and a bow (of course), these coquette nails by Markey are pretty perfect.

Garden Daydream

Green nails are another prominent 2024 nail trend. Kirk added her take on it with pretty petals and mossy green shades for a fresh look. Plus, the pointed tip on these medium-length nails adds to the illusion of a longer-looking set.

Purple Dots Summer Nail Designs

These purple dots done by Bellacures have a playful element that’s still toned down. If you’re looking for something with a subtle color, this one’s for you. It’s also easy to do your own version of this look at home.

4th of July Nails

How perfect is this red and blue combo for 4th of July nails? Dutra designed this look with eye-catching periwinkle flowers that stand out on the poppy background. Curious how she created these? Check out her online class on hand-painted floral nail art here.

Summer Swirls

These hypnotic nails will make you do a double take! With orange and purple shades, it’s bright, fun, and can serve as a conversation starter at your next outing. Kirk created these and paired them with gold rings which level up the look.

Dainty Little Flowers

These intricate flowers along with the pop of baby blue and glass-like shine look like porcelain tableware. Created by Dutra, this set is perfect for summer parties, al fresco dining, or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up.

Espresso Nails

The song of summer 2024 now has espresso nails to match, thanks to Markey. The combo of swirls and dark brown shades blend into an eye-catching design that will make you crave an iced espresso! Here, she used products including essie nail polish in shade Rich Brown.

Purple Tips

For more inspo on summer French tip nail designs, look to this one by Bellacures. The design of these tips has a slight geometric feel that makes it extra special. Treat lavender like a neutral and wear this look with all your European summer outfits this season.

Strawberry Nails

There are so many variations of strawberry nails, and these may just be the most literal take on the fruit-inspired design. From the shape to the colors, this fresh set by Markey is perfection.

Cat Eye Chrome Summer Nail Designs

If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require the salon, try these press on nails ($12) from colorFX by imPRESS. These are an easy option that I love — just press them on and go! This dark green color combines the trends of chrome and aura nails and stays on for up to seven days with superior hold.

Seashell Nails

Is summer really summer without a trip to the beach? Markey went all in on the aesthetic nail photo and created this seashell-inspired set paired with bubbles to match. From the clam shells to starfish and pearl nail art, these neutral nails will go with all your warm weather outfits.

Shop the Story: Create Your Own Summer Nail Designs

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What Summer Nail Color Goes With Everything?

Sure, neutrals are classic and go with everything, but it’s fun to switch it up for summer. One summer nail color that goes with everything is lavender. This shade pairs nicely with everything, and is eye-catching yet understated at the same time.

Another option is to go with a neutral color with an unconventional design. Seashell nails, like the ones above, pair with everything yet has a beach-inspired design that’s fitting for summer days.

What Is The Summer Nail Trend In Nail Polish 2024?

This season, all eyes are on bright colors. Think vivid shades of greens, pinks, oranges, purples, and reds. Other nail polish colors that are trending in 2024 include pastel shades and aura nails.

What Is a Popular Nail Color For Summer?

Year after year, pink nails have been a summertime beauty trend. From pastel pink to dusty rose to hot pink, this color just fits the cheerful mood of summer. It has consistently remained one of the most popular nail polish colors for good reason.

For more stories, check out…

• Lavender Nails: The Dreamiest Designs For Inspiration
• What Are the Benefits of a Color Analysis?
• ​​These Raffia Bags and Straw Bags Are Perfect For 2024