Fact: 2025 has delivered some stellar manicure trends. Five months in and we’ve already seen variations of nostalgic and classic looks go viral along with several other food-specific styles. While it’s true that every year brings something unique to try, one of the things that has made some of the recent nail trends so special is their ability to stick around. Cat-eye nails are a great example. The alluring swirls created by magnetic polishes ruled fall and winter with moody shades. Now summer cat-eye nails are poised to to be the “it” look of the season with a fresh take.
With the same enticing style, these manicures combine the cat-eye effect with summery shades for a fresh feel. Instead of dark garnet, navy blue and deep olive tones, they embrace bright neons and soft pastels. The result is a manicure that’s fitting for the warmer months and has just the right amount of edge to stand out. ‘Tis the season for manicure exploration and with the wide range of summer cat-eye looks, you have plenty of styles to choose from. Ahead, see the best looks to add to your lineup.
Summer cat-eye nail looks we're loving
Summer Cat-Eye Nails to Try Right Now
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Soft Shades
Soft Shades
If bright neon nails aren't your thing, you can still embrace cat-eye nails this season. Enter this soft and subdued look. With cloud-like colors and cat-eye swirls it creates a stunning take on the trend. Plus, the shorter length is perfect for minimalists.
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Mint Green Velvet
Mint Green Velvet
Soft and alluring, this mint green mani is bound to be a hit in your summertime rotation. They blend two trends, cat-eye and glass nails, and feature delicate fern leaf nail art. The result isn't just pretty, it's also elegant.
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Stained Glass
Stained Glass
For a truly maximalist take on cat-eye nails try this stained glass manicure. Topped with structural elements and shimmery shades, it has a captivating look that turns heads and gets the best compliments .
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Poolside Colors
Poolside Colors
The only thing more relaxing than lounging on a floatie in the pool, drink in hand, is looking down to see these colorful cat-eye nails. Inspired by jelly colors and the shimmer of sunlight, they have a summery style that's hard to deny. Pro tip: try pairing two bright hues for a bold look.
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Sandstone
Sandstone
These cat-eye nails have a beachy look perfect for summer—think shimmering sands on a tropical island. Pairing them with a long coffin shape only enhances the effect.
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Firefly
Firefly
If red manicures are your staple style for summer, consider throwing these fiery cat eyes into the mix. The combination of vivacious orange and red polishes feels fresh without straying too far from a classic red manicure.
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Lavender Matcha Latte
Lavender Matcha Latte
While matcha-inspired nail colors have been a top trend for summer, this set leans into the latte look with a subtle ombré effect. The key to nailing it lies in the shade selection. Instead of vibrant green and white, opt for soft sage and lilac to create the blend.
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Chrome Accents
Chrome Accents
Adding chrome designs to your manicure is never a bad idea. This set with pink glass cat eyes hits differently. With thick bands of shiny silver polish and classic chrome designs, it's edgy and elegant — the perfect combo for festival season.
