Summer Nails

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025: Trendy Design Inspiration for Every Season

In 2025, pretty nails will be more than a fashion statement; they’ll show your joy, confidence and creativity. This year’s art designs combine fun details with clothes that are easy to wear. Whether you’re into simple but chic styles or bold designs acrylics, there’s something in this lineup that’ll make you smile every time you glance at your hands. Ready to find your new favorite look? Let’s get into it.

Cherry Pop Charm with a Glossy White Twist

Red gets playful here, but not without a little polish (pun intended). The combination of cherry nail art and a shiny finish gives the fruit a 3D effect. The combination of a soft white background and bright red colors makes the whole outfit stand out and gives it a playful summer vibe, but it also looks great in spring or early fall. It reminds me of a picnic with cherry soda in the sun and that’s really charming.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Cherry Pop Charm with a Glossy White Twist
To recreate this design at home, you’d want to go with a bold red gel like OPI’s Big Apple Red for the full-color nails and a true opaque white like Alpine Snow for the accent ones. You can use a detail brush or cherry-themed decals to create the crisp cherry motif, so you don’t have to worry about shaky hands.

Brittney Boyce, a celebrity nail artist, once mentioned that fruit prints on nails are a fun way to bring summer into your manicure without being too over the top and I think she’s right. I’d say this is perfect if you’re into art designs that are simple but flirty.

This one always brings compliments. Once, a girl at Whole Foods saw me and asked where I got my nails done. It’s that vibe — low-effort but total conversation starter. Sometimes, just a couple of cherries can make your whole week better.

Neon Daydream in Pastel Drips

Is there a word for when something is soft and electric at the same time? This set might just invent it. The colors blue, orange, lime and pink mix together just like cotton candy and sidewalk chalk would if they had a child. These nails are so bright and summery, but they’re still stylish enough to wear every day in the future.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Neon Daydream in Pastel Drips
You can get this effect by applying gel polish with a sponge. I recommend trying out The GelBottle’s neons or Lights Lacquer’s summer kit. Apply a top coat to the nails to add shine and make them look light-reflective.

According to Sarah Gibson Tuttle, using a latex cuticle guard helps you clean up easily after using sponge blends. I’ve used it and it really does make a difference for your cuticles. It takes a little patience to get the colors right, but the final look is amazing.

This set brings back memories of my trip down Route 1, with its colorful skies and many beach stops. It’s not only a design, it also serves as a mood board for July. When in doubt? Just add more color.

Colorblock Meets Minimalist Chic

There’s something so satisfying about geometric lines done right. Tomato red, muted lilac and a single black line are combined in these short squared nails to give them a modern feel. I call this a “clean girl” style of art because it’s free of clutter and is very intentional. You might find this manicure at a tech pitch or at a coffee shop.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Colorblock Meets Minimalist Chic
Acrylic fans will find this idea easy to achieve using gel or dip polish. For the best contrast, you’ll need a striping brush, Essie’s Lilacism as your base and OPI Cajun Shrimp as your red. You need a steady hand for the thin black lines or, if you’re like me and always tired, nail tape will do the job.

I prefer to wear this design when I want my nails to look nice without drawing too much attention. It’s the elevated essential — perfect for when you’re packing for work trips or weddings and don’t want to fuss with changing nail looks.

Daisy Vibes, but Make It Graphic

Black and yellow together are very strong — they add a bit of edge to any outfit but still feel fun. I really like how the matte black looks with the polka-dot design in this nail art. It’s a classic, it’s striking, it’s perfect for fall, but also looks great in winter. The dots are the real show-stealer here — like a chic twist on ’60s mod style.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Daisy Vibes but Make It Graphic
I’d start with Essie’s Licorice on my nails and finish with a matte topcoat, then use Orly’s Glowstick as a neon yellow gel. You can use a dotting tool for the white spots or you can try the rounded end of a bobby pin — I’ve done it and it works great.

I wore the same style of nails to an art show last October and someone actually wondered if they were part of the display. That’s the energy. If you don’t mind a bit of notice, this design is sure to impress.

High-Gloss Barbiecore Pink

If any pink could be said to have a PR team, it’s this one. The glossy, bold and almost reflective finish of this set makes it feel very confident. The rounded shape makes the look less harsh and matches the intense Barbie style. This nail will reflect light in any room or on a Zoom call.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 High-Gloss Barbiecore Pink
You should use a bright gel polish like Beetles Gel in Flamingo Pink or NCLA’s Barbie collection. The mirror shine comes from the top coat — I prefer Seche Vite or a no-wipe top gel that is cured under LED.

I often turn to it when I’m on vacation or having a big brunch. If your clothes are simple and your nails are the focus? That’s power. These nails are for when you want to make a statement, but don’t need to say anything.

White Luxe with a Rhinestone Curve

Classy short nails are a great choice — you don’t always need long tips to look elegant. A simple white gel manicure is made elegant with a row of rhinestones that looks like jewelry at the cuticle. It’s giving bride, but also boardroom. White has never looked so strong — or so attractive.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 White Luxe with a Rhinestone Curve
I would apply Bio Seaweed Gel’s Snowflake or CND’s Cream Puff first and then add Swarovski crystals or use a rhinestone nail kit. A little bit of nail glue and a small applicator make it easy to do at home, even if your cat tries to get involved while you’re working. (Relatable.)

According to celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, adding crystals to your nails is like putting on a diamond bracelet for your hands. He’s not wrong.

I wore something similar to what I have on now for a winter wedding and people asked me three times if I had it done by a professional. Plot twist: I didn’t. It survived the dancing and the two rounds of champagne toasts.

Sprinkle Drips on Almond Candy Base

This set is the definition of playful polish. A natural, matte pink base gets topped with glossy pastel “icing drips” and candy-colored sprinkles that feel straight out of a donut shop. The almond shape ensures your look is elegant and the rainbow flecks add the fun and playfulness you need for summer. It’s both a creative process and a lot of fun and yes, it’s perfect for grown-up girls who still love sweets.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Sprinkle Drips on Almond Candy Base
If you’re a DIY-er like me, you’ll want a nude base like Beetles Gel Nude Pink and pastel liner gels from Modelones for the drips. The sprinkles are easier to spread out using a dotting tool instead of your fingers.

Start by applying and matte-topping your base and then use the glossy pastel gels to drip from the tip downward. Cure each color separately if needed. I finish this design by applying a no-wipe top coat just over the art to keep its texture.

I wore this outfit to a rooftop brunch for a friend’s birthday last spring and both the barista and the birthday girl told me how much they liked it. That’s what I call a success.

Cherry Glass French with a Twist

The gel-glazed finish on this red French tip gives it a modern feel. They have a see-through base and red jelly curves that curve just off the tip and some also have rhinestones for a gentle glamorous effect. I think it’s a new take on the 2025 manicure style and I love how it blends art with elegance.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Cherry Glass French with a Twist
To create this look, I use Apres Nail’s jelly red or a glass-tint gel from Daily Charme. The rhinestones? Even if you use Amazon packs, you can seal them with a thick gel to keep everything in place.

According to nail artist Tom Bachik, the key is to accent, not overload. I keep that in mind when adding gems. When the shine is the main attraction, less is better.

I’ve worn this outfit for Valentine’s Day, date nights and even when I want to feel a little more dressed up at the grocery store.

Cool Tone Cross Lines on Sky Blue

This is a simple yet smart idea that you can wear all through the season. A blue flat matte is combined with a white accent, divided by neat cross lines. It’s not overly bold, but still has a preppy and futuristic feel. Because of the square tip, this nail style is still considered a short nail.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Cool Tone Cross Lines on Sky Blue
You’ll want a solid matte blue like Olive & June’s Blue Jean Baby and a pure white polish or nail tape for those thin lines. A matte topcoat will give your nails that soft, velvety finish, so avoid using a glossy one.

To make the cross pattern, mark off the quadrants or draw them freehand with a striping brush. I find it helps to rest my pinky on the table so the lines stay sharp and yes, practice is important.

The first time I wore it was during a cold winter weekend in Aspen and it suited me perfectly — it looked like a modern snowflake.

Glossy Mauve with Wild Accent

Here’s a great mix of classy and fun: shiny pink and lilac nails with a cute leopard print design. This manicure is a mix of playful and laid-back — it’s the kind you’d wear if you had a meeting later. The inspiration for the design is early 2000s prints, but they’re made softer for the present.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Glossy Mauve with Wild Accent
I’d use OPI’s Lucky Lucky Lavender and add a few cheetah spots with a dotting tool and a slightly darker pink. Seal everything with a jelly gloss top coat.

Many people consider leopard nail art to be a lasting design since it looks great in fall, winter and summer when the right colors are used. It’s practically a neutral — with attitude.

I wore this set to a work retreat once and a coworker told me I was braver than they were. Translation? It’s bolder than beige, but not risky. Just right.

Checker Chic in Racing Blue and Mint

If 2025 is about anything, it’s bold combos — and this short, checker-accented set proves it. Black and white checks are paired with soft blue and electric mint to make a design that’s both enjoyable and practical. The soft form gives it a relaxed look, but the colors are what? Pure trend-forward aesthetic.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Checker Chic in Racing Blue and Mint
For the look, use Essie’s Mint Candy Apple, a few sky and royal blue gels and black/white polish to create the checkerboard. If painting your nails by hand is too much, try using nail vinyls or stamping plates instead.

It fits perfectly with the Art designs summer 2025 easy look — you can change it to match your style or outfit. I’ve tried it with pastels and I’ve tried it neon. Both work.

It’s a great feeling to have a manicure that’s not perfectly matched but still looks good together. If you’re feeling stuck in a neutral place, this will help you get out quickly.

Retro Stripe Revival in Primary Pop

Stripes, but make them fashion. The design is bold and clear — it uses straight lines over bright colors like mustard yellow, coral and teal. It has a classic racing feel, but the art is now more refined and elegant. There’s a sense of spring to summer in this song.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Retro Stripe Revival in Primary Pop
You should use gels that are very pigmented and Bio Seaweed Gel or Lights Lacquer are great for bright colors. Use striping tape or a liner brush to make your lines neat and finish with a glassy top coat.

Celebrity nail tech Zola Ganzorigt swears by color blocking to “balance bold colors with structure,” and this design follows that exact principle. It’s the perfect balance between playful and put-together.

This one’s my go-to for music festivals or even just grocery-store glam. It doesn’t hide from being different and neither should you.

Mint Drips with a Melon-Twist Edge

This minty drip manicure is like a watermelon slushie with a fun twist—it’s perfect for summer. The clear base allows the nail to look natural, but the glossy green drips really stand out. Those small, abstract black flecks? Total game changer. The playful texture helps this almond-shaped nail set stand out with its cool look without being too much.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Mint Drips with a Melon-Twist Edge
I suggest starting with a gel base of OPI Bubble Bath and adding Essie’s Mint Candy Apple for the drips. It’s important to use a detail brush and a black liner or dotting tool for the abstract flakes. Try to make the drips uneven, since aiming for perfection is not what we want.

Nail artists at Paintbox Studios have stated that graphic micro-textures are back in style for summer 2025 and this design proves it. It feels fun, forward, and honestly… kind of juicy?

I wore this when I went strawberry picking last July and it fit the occasion perfectly. If you’re not in the mood for flowers, you can always count on this to bring the fruit-core craziness.

Strawberry Patch Picnic Vibes

Strawberries are the fruit that can pull off a red lip and polka dots better than anyone. The design features crisp red, white and soft blush bases, along with scattered berry art, leafy details and soft colors that remind us of vintage spring. There’s a lot going on, but it all ties together like a gingham dress and a sunny afternoon.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Strawberry Patch Picnic Vibes
Beetles Apple Gel, a white base coat and small strawberry decals or hand-painted art with a fine brush are what you’ll need. A matte finish will soften the color, but glossy makes it look fresh and juicy.

Since it can be hard to place stickers or flowers just right, I use tweezers and a dotting tool to help. The trick is to balance boldness with blank space.

I like this idea in acrylic when you want a piece that’s both eye-catching and cute. I’ve taken it to summer farmer’s markets and received more compliments than I did strawberries.

Striped Sorbet in Orange and Sky

This nail design is a fun summer look that doesn’t make you feel like a kid. Using orange and blue stripes in alternating colors adds a new element to minimalism. The vertical lines make the nails look longer and the color combination is just right to feel modern in 2025.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Striped Sorbet in Orange and Sky
To get that clean stripe effect, I use striping tape or a liner brush with shades like Olive & June’s Bright & Focused (orange) and Chill Tips Blue Crush. The base coat should be thick and dry fast, as it’s very upsetting to smudge your stripes.

I’ve done these on a rushed Sunday night and they held up through a week of iced coffees and typing marathons. It’s a simple design that seems much more complicated than it actually is.

Bonus: The stripes look great in natural light, so your hands will be the center of attention in your group chat.

Hot Pink Pop and Party Dots

This nail style is all about fun—pink squares and white polka dots that look like colorful confetti on a birthday cake. It’s lively, colorful and just a bit hectic which helps it stand out without being too loud. If you’re in a playful mood, celebrating or just want your nails to lift your spirits, this is perfect.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Hot Pink Pop and Party Dots
A hot pink gel like Kiara Sky’s Flamingo Float and white polish like Essie Blanc do the job. You can use a dotting tool to create the same-sized dots in different colors, but don’t forget to apply two layers of topcoat for a shiny look.

Celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec believes “nails are your easiest accessory,” and this look proves it. With jeans and a white tee, you can still look very stylish.

I often reach for this design when I’m on vacation. It adds a cheerful touch to any drink and makes each cocktail seem more elegant.

Cherry Accent on Deep Wine Base

This is cherry art for grown-ups. A soft neutral base on one nail, along with two precise cherries and rich wine-red gel on the others, gives the nails a moody and romantic look. It’s shiny, theatrical and just right for fall or winter when you want a cozy meal that feels special.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Cherry Accent on Deep Wine Base
You should have DND’s Red Moscow for the wine gel and OPI’s Samoan Sand for the nude. It is helpful to use a small art brush or dotting tool to add the cherry detail. It’s not difficult, but you should be careful, so it’s best to avoid trying after that second espresso.

This one really combines the look of a clean girl with the glamour of vintage. I enjoy using it for dinners, dates and holiday parties, because it’s not too flashy but still attractive.

Cherry nails have been popular for two years and this year, I’m making them relevant by keeping them simple, elegant and a bit playful.

Frosted Grays with Glitter Accents

This set is perfect for people who want a little shimmer, but not too much sparkle. This is one of my favorite classy short styles because of the dusty gray, silver glitter and tiny flakes over the icy polish. It’s modern, calm, and incredibly polished—literally and stylistically.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Frosted Grays with Glitter Accents
I usually reach for Zoya’s Dove for the base, paired with China Glaze’s Fairy Dust for that sheer sparkle overlay. Shimmer nails are best used on your ring finger or as an accent—you don’t want to make your nails too flashy.

Recently, nail pro Gina Edwards said that gray is now the go-to neutral color, as it matches with almost everything. This design shows that, especially if you want a piece that’s perfect for the season but can go with any outfit.

I wore this to a New Year’s brunch with some silver hoops and a big sweater. It gave cozy luxury—and yes, I’m still obsessed.

Color-Pop Checkerboard & Swirl Combo

There’s something irresistibly chaotic—in the best way—about this design inspiration. There are lots of different Art designs, checkered prints, rainbow squiggles and bold colors like neon green, lilac and pink. All the nails seem to be from different worlds, but they fit together perfectly. The checkerboard moment? Pure 90s nostalgia. The swirls in hot fuchsia and sunshine yellow? Total Gen Z dopamine. The almond shape is the perfect touch—it says Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025, all on its own.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Color-Pop Checkerboard & Swirl Combo
To recreate this summer-ready explosion of color, I’d stock up on polishes like Orly’s Neon Paradise, OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?”, and a high-contrast black and white duo like Sally Hansen’s “Blacky-O” and “White On.” You’ll want a striping brush and the ability to draw straight lines or you can ask a nail artist who loves details and chaos.

If you’re doing your nails at home, I suggest starting with a base coat of one color, then adding your art one nail at a time. A shiny topcoat will make your hair look fresh and healthy. As Julie Kandalec once explained, each nail doesn’t need to be the same, but they should go together in some way—and that’s what this set does. Feels like an entire graphic novel.

I had the same mani last year in Palm Springs and every barista or shop girl I came across had to tell me how much I owed. If you want to feel good now and look great later, this is the way to go.

Tropical Candy Color Bloom

They look like spring break was captured and turned into beautiful nail art for summer 2025. A touch of blue, pink and botanical designs, they instantly make you feel cheerful and relaxed. Because of the blurred leaves and see-through petals, the patterns look gentle and flowing, much like a dreamy garden in the sun. It’s not overly complicated, but definitely not boring. This is simple but impactful.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Tropical Candy Color Bloom
You’ll need jelly polishes like Cirque Colors “Sky High” and Lights Lacquer’s “Cherry Jelly” for this look. Apply a sheer nude base, use dotting tools and use fine detail brushes to achieve those lovely leafy effects.

My go-to hack? Apply the overlapping colors with a small sponge and then use a fine brush to add your botanical patterns. Use a top coat that gives your nails a shiny finish to make them look like glass.

I often get comments about my natural floral perfume from people I least expect such as at the DMV. Maybe it’s because they make people feel like warmer weather is just around the corner.

Warm Terracotta & Porcelain Fusion

Orange tones are often overlooked when it comes to fall outfits, but they’re really great! Sunbaked terracotta is mixed with Delft-blue florals and a dash of hand-painted detail in this mani. The whole look reminds me of vintage pottery and desert road trips and I can’t get enough of it. The mix of stripes, botanical drawings and detailed lines is just right for a rustic yet elegant effect. If you’re a fan of elegant art designs, this set will be your favorite.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Warm Terracotta & Porcelain Fusion
They look great with Zoya’s “Sawyer” and “Blu,” or Essie’s “In The Cab-ana” if you want to make your nails stand out. A micro-detail brush is a must if you want to nail (pun intended) those intricate floral layouts.

You do need patience, but you don’t have to be a professional. Alternate between solid and patterned nails and then add your flower and line designs on top. If you mess up? Make it yourself—the charm of this art comes out even more when you make it yourself.

When I put on something like this, people usually think I got it done at a salon in Echo Park. Spoiler: I was alone, listening to a Spotify playlist and had a free afternoon.

Minimalist Monochrome French Tip

Black and white always seem more refined, no matter the time of year. These nails have a sharp, clean and confident look. I enjoy that they reflect the style of winter outfits: smooth, simple and a bit mysterious. This collection proves that you can make a statement with just a few colors and Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 don’t have to be loud to be noticed.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Minimalist Monochrome French Tip
At home, I’d pick Beetles Gel Polish in “Blackout” and “Snow White” and use tip guides to make the curve look perfect. You have to be precise—wobble lines won’t work here.

According to Tom Bachik, a celebrity nail artist, using sharp acrylic tips is a simple way to add drama without taking away from your look. He calls it “power minimalism”—and I couldn’t agree more.

Honestly? These were my “back-to-office after vacation” nails last year. I wanted an easy way to make a big difference and they did just that. Clean, crisp, confident.

Ocean Breeze Blue Ombre

If there was a summer manicure, this would be the one. The combination of a blue and aqua ombré and wavy textures gives the design a calming effect. The seagulls are easy to hear and the breeze feels real on your face. They are inspired by the seaside but still look polished and can be worn anywhere. It’s not loud—it’s serene. You’ll love this drink at the beach or when you’re dreaming of one.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Ocean Breeze Blue Ombre
I use ombré sponges and mix OPI’s “Teal Me More” with “Rich Girls & Po-Boys” to create this look. The secret to those soft white accents? You’ll need a superfine liner brush and a sheer white nail polish called “Marshmallow” by Essie.

I always keep a bowl of ice water nearby to quickly set each layer before smudging, especially when it’s hot outside. Pro tip from celeb artist Mazz Hanna? “Always cure in cool air when using ombré gels. It keeps your layers sharp and crisp.”

I wore something like this for a boat brunch last August and felt like a real mermaid. No regrets.

Fresh Strawberry French Tips

What’s more joyful than strawberries in summer? These nails are a true source of inspiration—they’re sweet, fruity and have a lot of personality. This is a new way to do the French tip, using red berry tops instead of white arcs and green leaves. The simple base allows the strawberries to look as if they’re floating and the result is both natural and charming. This is Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 if you like playful polish without sacrificing polish (pun intended again!).

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Fresh Strawberry French Tips
You could start with OPI’s “Bubble Bath” and add nail art using pens or stickers from Olive & June’s summer line. I find it very enjoyable to use a fine dotting tool for the seeds.

This look is surprisingly doable at home. First, apply your sheer base, let it dry and then add the fruit tips with a brush or stickers. Finish it by coating the candy with jelly for a gummy candy effect.

My friend brought these to a 4th of July picnic and everyone thought they were made by a professional artist. Nope—just her, an Amazon nail kit, and some patience.

Sun-Soaked Neon French Tips

These nails are like bottled sunshine. They combine classic French tips with bright colors, making it look like fun—for example, cotton candy pink, traffic cone orange, lime green and cobalt blue. Every nail features a vibrant change from bright colors to soft pastels. The almond shape helps the whole look remain stylish and a little bit daring. If you’re a fan of Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 that look like you’re ready for a vacation, you’ll love these.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Sun-Soaked Neon French Tips
I’ve achieved similar looks by using polishes from the Holo Taco Rainbow Collection, mainly “Lemon Sucker” and “Blue Ain’t Slick.” For a pop of coral, add Essie’s “Tart Deco” to your nails. A fine brush helps you create the sharp arcs of the French tip without making the nails look too formal.

I like this style because it’s both neat and fun. If you prefer accuracy, use tip guides or if you’re more creative, draw freehand. According to nail pro Betina Goldstein, you should let the base coat dry completely before adding any bright tips to avoid mixing the colors.

Honestly, this was my go-to mani for last year’s outdoor music festivals. The place looked beautiful with fairy lights and was perfect when holding a frozen lemonade. You can’t convince me it wasn’t made for summer.

Rainbow Sorbet Shine

There’s something about a glossy, multicolored mani that just feels like spring turning into summer. This one has a mix of juicy colors: pink, tangerine, lemon, lime and tropical lagoon blue. The color blocking is so even that it looks like candy coating. The simple, curved shape allows the bold colors to be worn easily and, in fact, can be quite addictive. It’s both adorable and well-done—great for anyone who loves Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 and enjoys color therapy.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Rainbow Sorbet Shine
No elaborate tools here—just great polish. I recommend the Lights Lacquer Sweet as Summer set. These pastels are pigmented enough to give good coverage, yet they still feel light. A soft buffer before the base coat will help the colors go on evenly.

You might want to paint every nail a different color or simply blend a bit at the cuticle for a unique fade. According to Elle Gerstein, adding a sheer topcoat gives the nails a glass-like finish. It adds a lovely sparkle to everything.

I chose this outfit for a girls’ trip to Charleston last year and it went well with my smoothie, my swimsuit and my sunscreen. Coincidence? I think not.

Moody Autumn Minimalism

This set is made up of nails that are clean, dramatic and a bit different. The dark polish contrasts the sharp lines of the art, as burnt orange and pale grey are seen in the background. Even though the shape is more graphic than glamorous, that’s what makes it so appealing. This style makes your nails appear bold and smart, as if they just finished being displayed at an art school show. These are definitely Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 if you’re into modern minimalism.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Moody Autumn Minimalism
I’ve chosen polishes like “Licorice” by Essie and “Sunset Blvd” by Cirque Colors to get this look. A fine art brush or striping tool is useful for making swirls in your cake. Don’t overthink it—this is abstract art, not a formula.

I usually don’t apply base color to swirl nails so the contrast stands out. Paint the accent nails black first and then add swirls on top while the polish is still a little sticky for a smudged look.

A friend of mine tried this look at a gallery opening in Brooklyn and people thought her nails were from a famous design house. Nope—DIYed with love and steady hands.

Pastel Daydream Shorties

I think of this as a perfect spring starter set. The soft lavender, muted mint, baby blue, peony pink and glowy yellow on each nail make them look like petals from various gardens. The small, square design is perfect for girls who want a bit of color but don’t want to spend a lot of time on their hair. These nails are simple but still perfect. It’s offering Sunday brunch and floral candles, but in a fresh way.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Pastel Daydream Shorties
You can easily get these tones—try Olive & June’s “Sweet & Gracious” or OPI’s Nature Strong collection. It’s important to apply two layers of pastel, even on the lips, for a creamy finish instead of a sheer one.

I’ve tried this style using only nail polish and a clear gel top coat. It holds up well without chipping and lets you live your life (gardening, typing, cooking) without worry.

This set has serious “clean girl era” energy. I put these on when I met my boyfriend’s mom for the first time. Let’s put it this way, the nails were one of the main reasons she was so attractive.

Retro Poolside Flair

These nails channel Miami 1985 in the best way. The combination of turquoise, white and pink stripes gives these nails a major acrylics look. It’s light and lively—great for summer or for anyone who wishes they could see palm trees from their window. If you like the retro, glamorous look, you’ll love these nails in 2025.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Retro Poolside Flair
I use Gelish’s “Aqua-Fina” for the main color, and OPI’s “Mod About You” for that sweet pastel pink accent. The white background gives the design a solid and beachy look, instead of making it too bright.

The detail brush will be very useful—first, apply the base colors and then add the feather design when the first layer is dry. According to Miss Pop, the goal is not to make everything perfect. It’s about vibe.” This mani totally embodies that.

When I wore something similar last July, someone wondered if it was inspired by Saved by the Bell. I mean, yeah. If you understand the reference, we’re already great friends.

Jelly Gems with Starbursts

This is what happens when art meets fantasy. These nails are made of soft, clear almonds and are filled with glossy colors—emerald, cherry, tangerine, blue and bubblegum pink—with a tiny gem and burst design that seems to move. It’s elegant but not overdone and it’s fun but not childish. I think this is one of the most exciting Art designs I’ve seen for 2025.

Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025 Jelly Gems with Starbursts
The trick is to use jelly polishes from Cirque’s “Jelly Collection” and place flat-back gems before applying your topcoat. A dotting tool and a non-wipe topcoat will help you keep your nails looking great.

Don’t rush the process. Allow every color layer to dry before you add your burst designs. It’s worth the extra time for that multi-dimensional effect. Nail artist Eri Ishizu once shared that nails should be as beautiful as candy and this set certainly fits the bill. It’s a whole candy store.

I chose a similar outfit for a friend’s birthday dinner and people actually reached across the table to see it better. They’re like jewelry, but better.

Conclusion

So, what will your go-to look be for 2025? If you prefer bright colors, soft pastels or vintage art-inspired nails, you’ll find plenty of Pretty Nails You’ll Love in 2025. Allow these designs, ideas and seasonal feelings to inspire your next manicure, since your nails should reflect your own excitement and personality. Ready to book your next appointment or DIY session? Let’s make it a good one.