Summer 2024’s Hottest Nail Trends: Chic Designs & Colors

Have your nails been whispering for a splash of summer? Are they craving the vibrant hues and dynamic designs that only the sunniest season can inspire? As a professional manicurist, I’m here to dive into the ocean of summer nail trends 2024, exploring the most captivating styles that are making waves this year. Whether you’re into the timeless allure of short nails or the bold statement of almond and square shapes, this summer brings a palette of designs that promise to sprinkle a little sunshine on your fingertips. Ready to discover your next nail affair?

Vivid Geometry – The Fusion of Art and Manicure

From the professional lens, the first look captures the essence of summer nail trends 2024 with its bold geometric shapes and a playful array of colors. A harmony of sharp lines and bright, contrasting hues creates a visual symphony on each nail, perfect for those who fancy a splash of modern art in their style.

Photo credit by: @1stladyofcolors

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Trusty Armor Base Coat
  • Polish colors: Sunny Yellow, Sky Blue, Fiery Orange (Vivid Lacquers Collection)
  • Top coat: Crystal Clear Finish
  • Nail tape for precise lines
• Professional Tip: Use the nail tape to map out your design first, ensuring crisp edges. Apply colors with patience, allowing each layer to dry completely.

To recreate this avant-garde look at home, begin with a flawless base coat to protect your natural nails. Once dry, place nail tape to outline your desired geometric pattern. Fill in the shapes with your chosen vibrant polishes, applying two coats for full opacity. Seal with a glossy top coat for a lasting finish.

Subtle Waves – A Whisper of Elegance

Behold the epitome of elegance with a twist on the summer nail trends almond category. Soft waves in muted tones of blue and peach whisper of beachy vibes, while the pop of vibrant orange adds a surprising zest, creating a perfect harmony for an almond nail lover.

Photo credit by: @thewnailbar

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Sheer Elegance Base
  • Polish colors: Peachy Sands, Ocean Whisper, Zesty Orange (Elegant Waves Set)
  • Top coat: Matte Dreamer Top Coat
  • Thin brush for detailing
• Professional Tip: Use the thin brush to gently swirl the colors together for that perfect marble effect.

Crafting this design starts with a good base coat. Use the lightest color as a base, and while still wet, add drops of the other colors. Take a thin brush and gently swirl them together to achieve the marble effect. A matte top coat will give this design a sophisticated finish.

Chic Animal Instinct – Embracing the Wild Side

Dive into the wild side of summer nail trends 2024 short with this chic animal print. It’s a sophisticated take that marries the edginess of the wild with the refined palette of black, white, and gray, presenting an option for those who want to flirt with their fierce side while keeping it classy.

Photo credit by: @by_millimac

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Natural Fortitude Base
  • Polish colors: Midnight Black, Snowy White, Smoky Gray (Predator’s Palette)
  • Top coat: Shine Like the Top Predator
  • Dotting tool for the spots
• Professional Tip: Don’t aim for perfection with the spots; the more organic they look, the better.

For this wild pattern, start with a neutral base. Add random splotches of gray and black, using a dotting tool for the spots. Overlap some spots and keep others isolated. Finish with a shiny top coat for a fierce, glossy look.

Bold and Blue – A Statement of Confidence

When it comes to making a statement, summer nail trends blue are a confident choice for those seeking a touch of drama. The stark contrast of cobalt blue tips against a nude base in this design speaks to the bold at heart, perfect for an almond or stiletto nail shape, giving off an air of both sophistication and daring.

Photo credit by: @classystreetweargirls

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Nude Illusion Base
  • Polish color: Cobalt Confidence (Bold & Blue Series)
  • Top coat: Ultra-Gloss Seal
• Professional Tip: Apply the blue with a fine brush to achieve that sharp, precise tip.

To achieve this striking look, begin with a nude base coat. Once it’s dry, use a fine brush to paint just the tips with a vivid cobalt blue polish, ensuring a clean line where the color meets the nude base. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a durable, shiny look.

Whimsical Summer – A Playful Touch of Nature

Incorporating the playful essence of summer nail trends 2024 short, this manicure blends delightful neon accents with dainty nature-inspired designs, creating a charming look that’s perfect for a casual day out or a whimsical summer party.

Photo credit by: @queenbcreative_

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Natural Radiance
  • Polish colors: Neon Fling Collection, Pure White (Garden Party Set)
  • Top coat: Lasting Matte Finish
  • Detailing brush for tiny art
• Professional Tip: For intricate designs, keep your hand steady by resting it on a flat surface.

Start with a sheer base coat, then, using a detailing brush, draw on the small, nature-inspired accents using bright neon polishes. A matte top coat will give these playful nails a modern, yet understated finish.

Pastel Perfection – Subtle Chic Meets Trend

This look captures the essence of summer nail trends 2024 with a gentle nod to the classic French manicure, adding a modern twist with a cow print accent nail. It’s a perfect blend of plain and trendy, with soft pastels meeting the bold contrast of black and white.

Photo credit by: @feminaflauntsalon_official

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Pastel Primer
  • Polish colors: Baby Pink Bliss, Cotton White, Noir Dot (Pastel Dreams & Bold Accents Kit)
  • Top coat: Sheer Elegance Shine
• Professional Tip: Use a dotting tool to create the cow print pattern with ease and precision.

To create this design, start with a pastel pink base. For the accent nail, apply a white base and then use a dotting tool to drop on the black spots in a cow print pattern. Cover with a glossy top coat for a seamless merge of chic and fun.

Sunset Marble – Warm Hues Melt Into Cool Elegance

The warm blend of orange and peach in this summer nail trends 2024 design evokes the serene feeling of a sunset by the beach. The marble technique used here is an exquisite choice for those who want to carry the tranquil vibes of summer evenings at their fingertips.

Photo credit by: @leannehaycock_

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Smooth Beginnings
  • Polish colors: Sunset Glow, Peachy Keen (Serenity Collection)
  • Top coat: Glassy Ocean Finish
• Professional Tip: Drag a fine-tip brush through the colors while still wet to create the perfect marble effect.

After applying a base coat, add drops of orange and peach polish on the nail. While wet, use a fine-tip brush to swirl the colors gently, creating a seamless marble look. Finish with a glossy top coat to emulate the reflective quality of water at sunset.

Playful Pastel Swirls – Embrace Summer’s Vibrancy

Here we see a celebration of summer nail trends 2024 short with playful swirls of pastel. The pink, orange, and yellow hues dance together, reminiscent of summer’s carefree spirit and the joy of ice cream on a hot day.

Photo credit by: @_commoninterests

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Pastel Prep
  • Polish colors: Blushing Pink, Sunny Citrus, Lemon Twist (Pastel Play Collection)
  • Top coat: Satin Shield
• Professional Tip: Layer colors while slightly wet to achieve smooth transitions between hues.

Begin with a soft pink base. Then, while the base is still tacky, add swirls of orange and yellow polish. Use a small brush to blend the edges where the colors meet for a seamless transition. A satin-finish top coat provides a soft-focus effect, perfect for these playful pastel swirls.

Pretty in Pink – A Statement in Monochrome

Nothing says summer nail trends pink like a monochromatic pink palette. These nails are a bold statement of femininity and confidence, with their sharp almond shape and a uniform candy pink color that stands out with a sophisticated yet playful vibe.

Photo credit by: @hotforbeauty

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Pink Whisper Primer
  • Polish color: Candy Floss (Pink Perfection Series)
  • Top coat: Shine Supreme
• Professional Tip: Two thin coats of color are better than one thick one for a smooth, even finish.

Start with a smooth pink base coat, followed by two thin coats of the chosen pink polish for an opaque and even finish. Seal the color with a glossy top coat for a look that’s sweet as candy and bold as summer itself.

Neutral Elegance – The Harmony of Simplicity and Style

Embracing the minimalist side of summer nail trends, this design is a testament to the saying ‘less is more.’ The translucent base adorned with delicate lines in a warm, creamy hue is a celebration of understated elegance.

Photo credit by: @classystreetweargirls

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Crystal Clear Foundation
  • Polish colors: Creamy Nude, Purest White (Essentials Collection)
  • Top coat: High-Gloss Protector
• Professional Tip: Use a very thin brush to draw the fine lines; precision is key.

Start with a clear base coat to let your natural nail color shine through. Using a thin brush, paint soft lines with a creamy nude color, allowing each to curve with the shape of your nail. Seal your art with a glossy top coat for a durable and stylish finish.

Sunbeam Radiance – A Burst of Sunshine on Your Tips

This vibrant nail art brings the golden warmth of a summer’s day to your fingertips. The ombre effect from soft nude to bright yellow, topped with a sparkly gold strip and a sunflower design, captures the joy of sunny days.

Photo credit by: @feminaflauntsalon_official

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Sun-Kissed Base
  • Polish colors: Sunny Yellow, Glitter Gold (Sunbeam Collection)
  • Top coat: Dazzling Top Layer
• Professional Tip: The ombre effect is best achieved by using a sponge to dab the colors on the nail.

Apply a nude base, then use a sponge to apply sunny yellow polish to the tip, blending it back toward the nail bed. Add a strip of gold glitter polish for a hint of sparkle. Draw a sunflower on the accent nail for a playful nod to summer’s favorite bloom.

Soft Whispers – A Gentle Take on Summer

Reflecting the softer side of summer nail trends, this manicure employs a tender pink base with a whisper of white marble. It’s a design that speaks volumes with its simplicity and softness, perfect for those who prefer a subtle touch.

Photo credit by: @leannehaycock_

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Pink Prelude
  • Polish colors: Whispering Pink, Milky White (Gentle Breeze Collection)
  • Top coat: Satin Comfort Finish
• Professional Tip: Create the marble effect by swirling the white into the wet pink base with a fine brush.

With a soft pink base coat in place, add a few drops of milky white and gently swirl with a fine brush to create a dreamy marble effect. Finish with a satin top coat for a smooth and comforting touch.

Eclectic Charm – A Melange of Summer Vibes

This playful set takes summer nail trends to a new level of eclectic charm, with each nail showcasing a different facet of summer. From a bright yellow smiley face to a cool cow print, each design is a conversation starter.

Photo credit by: @nailsbymk_

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Universal Base
  • Polish colors: Lemon Smile, Cloud White, Cow Spot Black, Sunset Orange, Sky Blue (Summer Mosaic Set)
  • Top coat: Anti-Chip Shield
• Professional Tip: Keep each design simple for an eclectic yet harmonious look.

Begin with a neutral base coat, and then let your creativity run wild. Use a fine brush to paint each design on a different nail, playing with shapes and colors. A clear top coat seals in the fun.

Fresh Greens – The Essence of Summer’s Lush Lawns

Nothing says fresh like the green tips of this summer nail trends 2024 design, reminiscent of the first sprouts of grass under the summer sun. It’s a fresh take on the French manicure, with a zesty twist.

Photo credit by: @classystreetweargirls

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Bare Beauty
  • Polish color: Sprout Green (Verdant Visions Collection)
  • Top coat: Glossy Greenhouse
• Professional Tip: Use tape to get a perfect line for the green tips.

Apply a clear base coat for a natural look. Place tape as a guide for where the green tip should start, and apply a vibrant green polish. Finish with a glossy top coat to enhance the fresh feel.

Pink Dotted Dreams – A Delicate Dance of Color and Shape

Soft pink and warm orange dots bring a dreamy, playful vibe to these summer nail trends. The careful placement of each dot creates a sense of motion and fun, ideal for any summer occasion.

Photo credit by: @naileditbeauty

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Perfectly Pink Base
  • Polish colors: Pink Whisper, Sunset Dots (Dotted Delight Collection)
  • Top coat: Lasting Luster
• Professional Tip: Use a dotting tool for uniform dots and to maintain control over the size.

Begin with a soft pink base. Once dry, use a dotting tool to apply small orange dots along the tips of the nails, creating a gradient effect. Finish with a durable top coat for a playful yet polished look.

Psychedelic Swirls – A Vibrant Journey

Unleash your inner free spirit with this retro-inspired look that’s all about bold, psychedelic swirls. These nails are a vibrant journey through a spectrum of neon hues, wrapped in a captivating swirl that screams summer fun.

Photo credit by: @katiealice_nail_design

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Total Transparency
  • Polish colors: Neon Pink, Luminous Yellow, Electric Blue, Radical Red (Neon Nirvana Set)
  • Top coat: Shine Amplifier
• Professional Tip: Use a thin detailing brush to create the swirls, and move quickly while the polish is still wet for smoother lines.

Start with a clear base coat. While the base is wet, add lines of neon polish and use a detail brush to swirl them together. Work fast to ensure a seamless blend. Finish with a high-shine top coat for a stand-out look.

Modern French – A Touch of Avant-Garde

Here’s a modern twist on the classic French manicure that’s poised to be a hit for summer nail trends 2024. The traditional white tips are replaced with a crisp shade of green, perfect for those looking to bring a touch of avant-garde to their summer wardrobe.

Photo credit by: @classystreetweargirls

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Sheer Elegance
  • Polish color: Vogue Green (Chic Greens Set)
  • Top coat: Ultra-Seal Top
• Professional Tip: Use striping tape to achieve the perfect tip line.

Apply a transparent base coat for a natural look. Position striping tape where you want the color to start and apply the green polish. Peel off the tape while the polish is still wet and seal with a top coat for a refined finish.

Pink Ombre Elegance – Soft Shades Meet Sparkle

These nails blend soft pink into sparkling brilliance, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and enchanting. This ombre effect is a subtle nod to summer nail trends pink, ideal for any occasion from a beach day to an elegant evening out.

Photo credit by: @leannehaycock_

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Pink Silk
  • Polish colors: Blushing Petal, Diamond Dust (Glitz and Glam Collection)
  • Top coat: Shimmer Lock
• Professional Tip: Use a makeup sponge for the ombre effect and apply the glitter polish while the base is still tacky for better adhesion.

After a silky pink base, use a makeup sponge to dab on the glitter polish, creating a gradient from the nail base to the tip. Finish with a shimmer-lock top coat to keep the sparkle intact.

Sweet Citrus – A Delicate Balance of Pastel and Pop

This design is a delightful blend of soft pastel pink and vibrant orange, reminiscent of a refreshing citrus sorbet on a hot summer day. The tiny orange hearts are the perfect pop of fun for those looking to add a playful twist to their manicure.

Photo credit by: @naileditbeauty

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Soft Start
  • Polish colors: Bashful Pink, Tangerine Dream (Sweet Citrus Collection)
  • Top coat: Long-Lasting Shine
• Professional Tip: Use a toothpick or a small dotting tool to create the perfect tiny heart shapes.

Start with a soft pink base coat for a delicate backdrop. Then, using a toothpick or a small dotting tool, carefully add tiny orange hearts at the base of each nail. Seal with a top coat for a long-lasting, glossy finish.

Lavender Field – A Nod to Nature’s Serenity

Inspired by the calming fields of lavender, this design features a muted purple hue paired with delicate floral accents. It’s a nod to nature’s serenity and the perfect choice for someone who prefers a subtle yet artistic approach to their summer nail look.

Photo credit by: @blackbox_nailcraft

• Materials:
  • Base coat: Lavender Whisper
  • Polish colors: Mauve Mist, Petite Petal Orange (Floral Hues Collection)
  • Top coat: Matte Marvel
• Professional Tip: To paint the tiny florals, use a fine-tipped brush and have a picture of real flowers handy for reference.

Apply a muted purple base to each nail. Once dry, use a fine brush to paint small orange floral designs, adding little green leaves for a touch of color contrast. Finish with a matte top coat for a contemporary look that brings out the detail in the flowers.

FAQ

Q: Can these designs be achieved with gel polish as well? A: Absolutely! Each of these designs can be adapted for use with summer nail trends 2024 gel polishes, ensuring longevity and shine.

Q: Are there any tips for beginners trying these designs at home? A: Patience is key! Start with simple designs and don’t be afraid to experiment. Also, a steady hand and good lighting can make a world of difference.