Bright nail colors are always more popular during the summer, but this year, saturation levels are reaching record-breaking highs. Think: Mojito-inspired French tips, tropical flowers, and bright blue auras, layered with sparkling chrome and sheer jelly finishes.
We also have Euphoria season three and Zara Larsson’s meteoric rise to fame to thank for the sudden influx of color. Plus, summer kicks off with Pride Month, which brings ample opportunity for “bold shades, glossy finishes, and fun color combinations,” as Choi points out.
Whether you opt for a rainbow blooming gel design to ring in Pride Month, or a tropical 3D decals to manifest an island getaway, the options for a vibrant summer manicure are endless. Keep scrolling for 11 bright summer nail ideas worth screenshotting.
Sunset Auras
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This manicure resembles every stage of a summer sunset. Golden-hour yellow blends seamlessly with a swirl of flaming orange, hot pink, and peach.
Chrome Auras
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Turn your summer nails up a notch with this rainbow chrome set. The silver base makes neon airbrushing even more eye-catching.
Miami Beach
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Channel a Miami summer with this hot pink and teal set. A jelly base helps soften the two bold hues.
Pink Blooms
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A square shape brings an unexpected edge to this pink hibiscus set. A soft nude base lets 3D flowers and airbrush detailing take the spotlight.
Island Breeze
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Papayas, airbrushed palm trees, 3D flowers—these nails are a maximalist’s dream. Adding to the vacation moodboard, stat.
Pop of Color
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This short set features a pop of pink and olive green, sandwiched between airy white nails. The crocodile print adds a lush element of texture.
Pucci Prints
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A printed silk scarf is the rich-looking staple every fashion girl is reaching for this summer. This French manicure pays homage to Pucci designs with a swirl of pink, yellow, turquoise, and black.
Honeydew Spritz
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These square French tips pair honeydew green with yellow and fuchsia accents. 3D water droplets and flowers add to their breezy, tropical feel.
Amalfi Summer
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Dreaming of a Euro summer? Bright blue stripes and lemon accents bring a touch of the Mediterranean to your mani.
Tie-Dye
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Why pick just one color when you can dabble in a rainbow of hues? Think of this short and colorful set as the grown-up version of a tie-dye tee.
Pink Lemonade
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Pink and yellow make such an energizing summer color combo. These almond-shaped French tips combine hot pink blooming gel with yellow auras, 3D flowers, and a seashell-patterned thumb.