When the summer season arrives with its longer days and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to experiment with cute and bright nail art designs that stand out. Short nails are the ultimate accessory during this playful season, offering vibrant colours, eye-catching patterns, and dazzling textures that inspire creativity. Think floral prints, fruity pops, or even neutral hues with a chic twist. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or soaking up the sunshine, these stunning looks are perfect for any adventurous taste or understated vibe.
As a manicurist, I’ve seen celebrity trends like French tips with neon energy or chrome finishes officially rise to complete any summer look. Gina Edwards even calls this year the best time to keep your nails bold yet chic. Add summertime inspo with floral designs, toned-down beauty statements, or colourful prints that elevate your game. Whether you’re experimenting at home or visiting a salon, ensure your manicure feels new, daring, and ready for the beach. Don’t forget to bookmark those stunning ideas—your fingertips deserve to pop with textures and styles that match your vibe.
Let your nails shine this summer season! From short nails to long acrylic and gel designs, these bright ideas will inspire your look. With over 65 designs, your list is ready—explore and get covered!
1. Bold Lime Green & Blue Swirly Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Cagla
A swirly nail design in lime green and blue is the ultimate summer choice that rocks any bold look. This combination not only stands out but also turns heads with its simple vibe. Whether it’s a playful twist on French art or a unique colour choice, these designs bring out the best of the summer vibe.
2. Cheerful Summer Nail Art to Lift Spirits
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Image Source: @ Kayley Herbert
This summer, let your nails bring the perfect vibes with cheerful art that washes negative thoughts and sadness away. Whether you’re looking for floral designs or a fresh wave of creativity, it’s never too early to start!
3. Easy & Stylish Fresh Manicure Idea
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Image Source: @ Trendy Pins
Try a fresh manicure at home or with a professional. It’s the perfect time to explore easy-to-recreate nail designs and pick your favourites for an undoubtedly stylish look!
4. 3D Nail Art & Lavender Manicure Idea
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Image Source: @ Fiona Gade
This July and June, embrace cuteness with 3D nail art designs featuring flowers or geometric tips. A lavender manicure with a clear top coat adds a classic, neutral pop to your everyday look. For a levelled-up version, switch to Bellacures at your next appointment—an easy update that’s truly special.
5. Bold Fruit-Inspired Strawberry Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Funky Nails
Make a bold statement with fruit-inspired designs like strawberry nails. A pink gel manicure with vibrant colours is a great choice to keep your look fresh. For a chic moment, try Markey-level variations that fit any shape and showcase your skill—the literal goal of stunning nails!
6. Effortless Green Gel Manicure with imPRESS
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Image Source: @ Glamermaid-Press On Nails
If you want a simple, clean look, a green gel manicure is always a great idea. It’s trendy, stays covered for days, and is perfect when you press on imPRESS nails. This dark aura design is effortless but bold, and it’s easy to do—just press and go!
7. Chaotic Yet Artistic Short Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Ashlee Sara Krasnov
A short nail design using a dotting tool and a Bobby pin gives a chaotic yet artistic look. With a bit of energy and love, you can easily achieve the perfect caption for your nails!
8. Bold Sunset-Inspired Summer Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Wimzia 🔥 Nails Trends
Try a crazy, colourful summer design with pink, yellow, and coral for a sunset effect. Add some dots and an abstract twist using a dotting tool to mix things up. This bold look will pop on social media and give you the perfect summer nail design, inspired by Natalie Kirk—a fun and unexpected style for your dream nails!
9. Bright French Tips with Rainbow & Gems
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Image Source: @ rainbow
For the perfect summer mani, try French tips with a bright, colourful twist using nude, green, or pastel shades as the base. Add a rainbow spin or gems for embellishments to take your nails to the next level. Finish with nourishing cuticle oil to keep your cuticles healthy and your nails looking fresh and light.
10. Elegant Floral Nails for Special Events
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Image Source: @ Glamour Gaze
Short, elegant nails with flowers are perfect for a bachelorette or engagement event. A green and white design adds a fresh touch, complementing any dress. Whether it’s prom or a party, stiletto nails with simple art make a standout look for any special event.
11. Bold Pink & Brown Ombre Nail Design
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Image Source: @ ameera.azar
Ombre nails are the ultimate choice for summer. A pink and brown combo with swirls creates a cute and eye-catching design. Whether you prefer almond or long nails, these Rich shades from Essie give a bold yet bright finish. Add a touch of dark polish to balance, and you’ll be ready to rock your manicure all season long, feeling like the song of the summer.
12. Vibrant Multicolour Manicure for Summer
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Image Source: @ Etsy
If you want to stand out this summer, a multicolour manicure is the way to go. Short nails with bright polish can make you feel comfortable and stylish, perfect for wearing at home or out. No matter what colours you love, this fun design will have you feeling great and ready to enjoy the season.
13. Trendy Swirl Nail Designs for Any Occasion
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Image Source: @ ༻ℳ𝒾𝓁𝓁𝒾 ℒ𝓊𝓃𝓃𝒾𝒾𝓉𝒶𝒽☽༺❦
Whether you prefer long or short nails, the creative and versatile designs with swirls are a great choice for any occasion. These trendy colours have already made a bold statement, making your nails stand out uniquely.
14. Refreshing Pink & Blue Swirl Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Rena
For a refreshing summer look, go for pink and blue nails with a cute swirl design. The intricate lines and flowers will pop on a porcelain or baby base. Add a clear shine for that perfect finish, inspired by Dutra‘s art. It’s an easy, fun pick-me-up for your next party, bringing a touch of elegance like fine tableware.
15. Abstract Colourful Nails for Tropical Vibes
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Image Source: @ Annette Surfer
Enjoy your vacation with bright sunshine and tropical vibes on the island. As you sit outside, let the abstract storm of colours add a fresh touch to each day. Make this summer one to count!
16. Bold Floral & Animal Print Summer Nail Art
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Image Source: @ S&L Beauty Company
Nail art featuring bold orange, red, blue, and floral designs is perfect for summer. Whether casual or formal, these hand-painted pieces with animal print add a fun touch to any occasion. Created with poppy hues and sky vibes, this festive look is ideal for events like the 4th. Take an online class to master these nails, blending blues and a bright background.
17. Classy French Manicure with Chrome & Colour
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Image Source: @ Maلik🔥💸
A sweet summer look with a French manicure and pearly chrome tips is the perfect way to slay. Pair orange and purple shades with gold rings for a classy touch. This design adds a hypnotic pop of colour, taking your nails to the next level for any outing or conversation starter. Kirk designs with long nails give a bold, stylish finish.
18. Cute Flower Nail Art with Dots & Petals
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Image Source: @ Margery Brault
Create a cute flower nail art design this summer with dots and petals using a dotting tool. It’s an easy manicure idea for medium-length or longer-looking nails, perfect for a festival or local outing. Kirk-inspired designs with green tones can give an illusion of elegance. Take a photo and enjoy showcasing your trendy nails!
19. Blue & Purple Flower Accent Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Alastriona
For your next manicure, try a flower accent with blue and purple shades. It’s an easy design you can do at home, perfect for events. The dots add a subtle, playful touch, while the short nails give a fresh, toned look. Whether it’s for a season-appropriate style or something fun, this is the best version of a nail art design. Bellacures will help you get it done!
20. Chic Pink Coquette Nails with Bow & Pearls
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Image Source: @ EtsyDE
Wake up to creative vibes with a pink manicure perfect for summer. Coquette-themed designs, including bow and pearl accents on the tips, add intricate details. Whether for weddings or special occasions, this set is the perfect balance of chic and girly. Markey’s nails offer a sheer, girly touch for girls who want to stand out, all while staying above the rest with a playful and elegant look.
21. Trendy Lavender & Nude Nails with Flowers
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Image Source: @ Etsy
Katie, an educator, recommends a fun, unique manicure with lavender and nude nails for summer. Opt for shorter-length, square nails with metallic or flower patterns and intricate lines to stay on-trend. These designs are practical yet stylish, perfect for the warmer season. Keep your profile looking great with purple hues and fun details in photos! Dutra says this look is perfect for trending nail art.
22. Playful Blue & Pastel Summer Nail Design
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Image Source: @ EtsyFR
The beach and ocean set the perfect backdrop for a bubbly and free summer vibe. With blue and pastel shades, the nail design features playful shapes and two vibrant colours that capture the spirit of the season. Bright and fresh, it’s the ultimate summer style!
23. Bold Blue & Rainbow Nail Art for Summer
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Image Source: @ Aliciamackenziie
For the perfect summer manicure, try a bold blue shade with nail art featuring a fun rainbow motif. Add ice accents and sprinkles for a playful touch. This short design is a statement, perfect for work or everyday wear. The solid base with a cream finish complements the orange and blue shades, giving you a refreshing and trendy look. Bellacures style is always a great choice!
24. Sophisticated Bold Colours for Summer Nails
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Image Source: @ ellen jane⚡️
A smart idea for a professional summer manicure is to choose bold colours that work perfectly in any setting. This look is sleek and sophisticated, ideal for work while still embracing the vibrant vibes of the season.
25. Vibrant Orange Nails for Bold Summer Style
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Image Source: @ Carlota Arango
Choose a bright orange colour that sets the right vibe. It’s the perfect moment to celebrate and have your nails covered in a bold, vibrant shade. With the right bases and accents, this look is both appropriate and fun without risking ruining your style at any point or end.
26. Timeless Matte Nude Nails for Any Occasion
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Image Source: @ outfitideasdaily
A matte nude colour on your nails is a timeless design that complements every look. It enhances your skin tone beautifully, creating a subtle yet elegant vibe. The base of this shade helps your nails grow and harmonise with any outfit. Paired with a pop of contrast or a simple accent, it is a perfectly matched design that works for any occasion.
27. Fun Pink Doughnut Nail Design for Summer
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Image Source: @ EtsyUK
While waiting for summer to arrive, I’m thinking about a fun pink nail design that fits the season perfectly. A sparkly doughnut design would be a cute and playful way to express the hungry vibes we get when craving something sweet. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season in style!
28. Royal Deep Ink Nail Design for Elegance
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Image Source: @ hat do
The deep ink colour of this nail design gives off a royalty vibe, reminding me of the ocean‘s beauty. It’s a rich and beautiful shade that’s perfect for anyone who wants a bold yet elegant look. I agree it’s a stunning choice, though be careful, as dark colours can leave stains if not properly cared for.
29. Calming Sage Nails with Chrome Finish
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Image Source: @ With Houna
The sage colour of this nail design creates a beautiful, calming effect, reminiscent of a seaside holiday. Under the sun, the chrome finish adds a stunning shine, making it the perfect choice for summer. The water-like reflection on the surface creates a flawless look that captures the essence of the season, blending perfectly with the warm vibes.
30. Playful Multi-Coloured Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Sherry Joseph
These six colours create a playful and bubbly nail design that perfectly reflects your personality. The flow of shades showcases your favourite colours, adding a creative touch to your look.
31. Creative Short Summer Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Wimzia 🔥 Nails
A creative nail design is the perfect way to express your summer vibe at home. A short manicure with fun polish gives a stunning result, and the final picture is sure to impress!
32. Elegant Half-French Nail Design for Simplicity
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Image Source: @ Nessi
For a natural and elegant look, a simple half-French nail design is a great choice. It gives a feel of a forest nymph, bringing the two styles together beautifully. Perfect for those who want something understated yet stunning!
33. Prepare for Greece with Summer Vibe Nails
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Image Source: @ kristen
Before stepping onto the aeroplane to Greece, make sure to prepare and soak in the summer vibes. The Mediterranean feel will have you thoroughly enjoying the warmth and beauty that awaits!
34. Pearly Iced Tips & Ombre Chic Nail Design
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Image Source: @ ailasque
Celebrate the greatest joys of summer with pearly iced tips and a stunning ombre effect blending white, coffee, and brown for a chic look. Add a touch of chrome to complete the glazed finish, perfect for a hot day!
35. Blue & Yellow Lemon-Themed Vacation Nails
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Image Source: @ mollie❤️🔥
For the ultimate vacay look, elevate your summer manicure with a blue base, taking it to the next level by adding a splash of yellow for a fun twist. This design with lemons and nail art is a great choice and is sure to be a hit!
36. Bright Summer Nail Designs for Bold Style
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Image Source: @ LIGHTS LACQUER
Step out of your comfort zone this summer with bright nail designs that show off your style. Green and blue are hot colours to make a fun statement, perfect for Pinterest boards. Keep it short and chic to hit the right spot with your nails this season.
37. Bold Silver & Orange Ombre Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Michelle Herd
The main focus of this nail design is a bold silver and orange ombre that exudes strong energy. The swirls add a touch of character and fun, making it a unique and powerful look to love.
38. Cute Pink Base with Gold Accents Manicure
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Image Source: @ Thaesha Buckley
A cute pink base with gold accents is the perfect idea for a manicure that shows off your personality. The clear finish complements the soft tones, making the design feel good and perfectly balanced.
39. Creative Long Playful Summer Nail Designs
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Image Source: @ Sassy Nails
If you’re feeling crazy and want to get creative with your nails, long and playful designs are the way to go. You can’t go wrong with cute summer designs that work as the perfect pick-me-up. Whether it’s a design that’s fun or a mean style, it will always put you in a great feeling for summertime!
40. Fun Swirl Nail Designs with Mixed Colors
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Image Source: @ NAILS BY KIMBERLEE
Lately, I’ve been choosing to mix my favourite colours in a fun set with swirls on each nail. It’s a great way to add some new designs and keep things exciting, never feeling bored. I love how you can try different styles and change the base with a classic look or something bold for a fresh feeling at the end.
41. Yellow Neon Nails for a Vibrant Summer
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Image Source: @ Fab Mood 🌟 Inspiration
Yellow neon nails are a good choice for summer, adding a pop of colour. Medium-length nails can be easily accessorized, creating beautiful looks in different ways.
42. Neon Turquoise & Lime Green Summer Nails
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Image Source: @ Morgan Goldacker
The ultimate Summer trend is the combination of neon nails—turquoise blue and lime green. These vibrant colours naturally kick up the aura of nails, creating a look you’re obsessed with.
43. Vibrant Blue Tie-Dye Design for Summer Nails
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Image Source: @ Taylor Coffin
For the perfect Summer mani, try a tie-dye design in blue hues. You’ll be obsessed with the vibrant and fun look it gives your nails!
44. Colorful Neon Dip Manicure with Dots
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Image Source: @ Keri
Add a touch of fun to your summer nails with a colourful neon dip manicure. The dot designs on your toes are the perfect way to rock this trend all season long!
45. Flame Nails as Bright Summer Trend 2025
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Image Source: @ Thara Koekenbier
After 2 years of neutral nails, I finally plunged into bright summer nails and now I’m obsessed! Flame nails have been getting me compliments for a month, and they’re the perfect understatement for the year. No longer on the fence, this trend is on my radar and I’m loving it!
46. Fun Blue Squiggly Line Design for Summer
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Image Source: @ Rachel ✿
For a fun and crazy look this Summer, try a squiggly line design in blue. From far away, it might seem simple, but up close, the colour and intricate lines are perfect for standing out!
47. Pink and Blue Squiggly Line Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Maggie Moneypenny
I’m obsessed with how the pink and blue squiggly line design looks together on nails. The shades of polish create such a hot vibe, and I can’t wait to recreate this look! It’s just so much fun!
48. Colorful Tie-Dye Manicure for Creative Summer
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Image Source: @ Profi
In the past, I couldn’t get enough of tie-dye manicures—they were always my favourite! The colourful elements of Summers turned my nails into a fun and creative canvas, and I was obsessed with how they combined so well.
49. Neon Green Nails with Bold 3D Dot Design
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Image Source: @ Jackie Giardina
For a great look, you can go for long or short nails with a particular design in neon or fluorescent green. Adding a dot can make the 3-D effect stand out, but don’t worry if it’s too bold—it’s all about making your colour pop!
50. Cool Blue Marble Nails for a Summer Statement
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Image Source: @ A
A cool blue marble design on your nails is a good idea for summer. It’s reminiscent of the water and the first time you fall in love with a new nail trend. Although it’s hard to perfect, it’s worth the effort—anything to make a statement!
51. Black and White Colorful Summer Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Grow with Fashion
This summer season, the perfect manicure is a colourful mix of black and white nails. People on the street can’t stop asking where to get the design, making it the decision to see everywhere!
52. Evil Eye Nail Design Trend for Summer
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Image Source: @ Jackie Giardina
If you’re a nail fan, the latest trends featuring the evil eye design are reinventing summer looks. Whether you’re into sparkle or a summary of your style, these designs are here to keep you on top. Don’t miss out – they’re a huge hit this season!
53. Bright Pink Nail Art for a Summer Vibe
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Image Source: @ kate🍒
Hot summer days call for bright pink nail art. Nothing beats a fresh polish for a summery look, and it’s truly one of my favourites—a better way to stand out!
54. Versatile Blue Wave Squiggly Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Orla
Pretty and subtle, the blue wave design works for any length or shape of the nail. Depending on your style, the squiggly trend is popular and never goes out of fashion. Colours and styles can be customized, making it a versatile choice that lasts for years.
55. Pink Jelly Polish with Magnetic Cat Effect
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Image Source: @ Aries Jepson
A perfect pink jelly polish topped with metallic and glittery particles gives your nails a shimmery shine. The magnetic cat effect adds an extra eye-catching touch to your manicure.
56. Bold Blue Ombre Gel Nails for a Stunning Look
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Image Source: @ SwimmR
Grab your favourite blue ombre shades and gel polish for a quick, easy mani. These nails will look stunning with a smooth transition of colour, taking your manicure to the next level. Forget the average—this painting technique is perfect for a bold statement.
57. Fun Multi-Color Nail Art for an Easy Summer Look
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Image Source: @ Mangadexx
Shiny or matte, nails can have a fun design that tames the look with less effort. Multi-color art doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you’re someone who loves a lot of colours or prefers summer manicures, it’s easy to wear and always looks great.
58. Regular Manicures for Healthy Summer Nails
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Image Source: @ Abbey Govett
A man can be a great way to grow your nails, but regular manicures help avoid the negative effects of leaving them without care. During summer or while on vacation, you may notice your nails getting long and healthy with less maintenance.
59. DIY Rainbow Stripe Nail Art for Summer
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Image Source: @ 🌜ｍａｅｂｅｌｂｅｌｌｅ🌛
Create cute nail art at home with 5 different colours and a rainbow stripe design. All you need is a brush and some bright hues for a fun, summer look. You’ll have 10 beautiful nails in no time!
60. DIY Squiggly Nail Art for a Fun Summer Look
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Image Source: @ Yuri
If you love nail art, you can easily recreate squiggly designs at home. Just keep your hand steady, and you’ll enjoy it. The weird shapes can be fun, and you’ll need some patience to perfect them!
61. 70s-Inspired Funky Summer Nail Designs
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Image Source: @ Cierra Voelkl
Get into those 70s vibes this summer with funky nails that match the warm weather. Take a break, listen to some good music, and let the retro designs bring a fun twist to your look. It’s all about adding those unique things to your style!
62. Y2K Nail Trends with Retro Symbols
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Image Source: @ kailee scott 💌
The Y2K comeback is here with signs like peace symbols, smiley faces, lightning bolts, and yin and yangs appearing on nails, bags, t-shirts, and hats—all featuring favorite designs!
63. Colorful Y2K Checkerboard Nail Designs
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Image Source: @ Em
The Y2K resurgence brings a colourful spin on summer fashion, with checkerboard print and early 2000s designs making a comeback. Love the sense of style these nail designs bring!
64. Mediterranean Blue Nails for Luxe Summer
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Image Source: @ Sofia
The Mediterranean vibes are perfect for summer, with blue shades creating a luxe and summery feel. Recreating these designs is a definite must for the best nail looks. Send me your favourite summer ideas, and I’ll try them later!
65. Markey and Abi Inspired Trendy Nail Design
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Image Source: @ Amazon
Inspired by Markey and Abi, you’ll have the ultimate nail design! Add some t-shirts, hats, and ying and yangs for an added touch. The bolts and favourite designs are making a comeback this season!
Conclusion
Summer is the perfect time to let your creativity shine through your nails. With over 65 short and bright nail art designs to choose from, there’s something for every mood and occasion. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant colours, playful patterns, or elegant minimalism, these nail ideas are sure to make your summer looks pop.
So grab your favourite shades, experiment with designs, and let your nails become your ultimate accessory this season. From poolside lounging to evening outings, your nails will be ready to steal the spotlight!
