Summer's Biggest Nail Trends Are Taking Us on Vacation

Jelly Nails

Jelly nails are one of the top Y2K beauty trends we’re revisiting lately. They have a translucent, candy-like finish and they’re a playful way to get a sheer wash of nostalgic color. Perfect for summer, jelly nails are light, fresh and deliver plenty of personality. “Jelly nails have been very popular this summer,” says nail artist Alyssa Fronce. “They give a nice pop of color to a manicure and they’re really fun underneath nail art.”

Mediterranean Nails

Up 1,062 percent in Pinterest search this year, Mediterranean nails have taken over this summer. “Think cobalt blues, hand-painted lemons, ceramic tile patterns and ocean-inspired accents that instantly transport you to the Amalfi Coast or a Greek island getaway,” says Cochrane. “It’s colorful, escapist and luxurious without feeling overly polished. Mediterranean nails also work beautifully as mixed nail art, where every nail has a different design, making them ideal for people wanting something more unique and expressive this summer.”

Seashell Nails

Heading to the beach? Bring some of that seaside energy with you on your fingertips. Up 459 percent in Pinterest search, this design is the perfect vacay-ready manicure. “Seashell nails are bringing soft glamour to summer manicures,” says Cochrane. “These designs typically feature pearlescent finishes, iridescent shimmer and textured details that mimic the inside of a shell, giving nails an almost oceanic glow.”

These nails are also super versatile: “What makes this trend so popular is how wearable it is,” says Cochrane. “While it still feels fun and seasonal, the soft shimmer makes it elegant enough for weddings, holidays or everyday wear. It taps into the ongoing obsession with glazed and glossy beauty trends, but with a more coastal-inspired twist.”

Butter Yellow

Butter yellow is staying put this season. Up 441 percent on Pinterest search, butter yellow is one of the top pastels right now. “Soft pastel shades always return for summer, but butter yellow has become the standout color of the season,” says Cochrane. “It’s warmer and creamier than brighter yellow tones, which makes it feel fresh, flattering and surprisingly versatile.”

You can wear it plainly on its own or with some chrome powder on top to make it shine. “Butter yellow works especially well on short, natural nails, giving a clean and effortless look that pairs perfectly with gold jewelry and sun-kissed skin,” says Cochrane.

Starfish Nails

A fun, abstract take on summer nails, search for starfish nails is up 375 percent on Pinterest this year. “Starfish nails are one of the more playful trends taking over Pinterest this year,” says Cochrane. “Designs often feature tiny starfish accents, textured 3D details and sandy nude or ocean-blue shades that recreate a beach-inspired look.”

Though nails may be staying on the shorter side this summer, there’s still plenty of real estate to play around with nail art. “We’re seeing people become much more experimental with nail art this summer, especially when it comes to texture and embellishments,” says Cochrane. “Starfish nails feel fun, creative and slightly nostalgic, reminding people of beach holidays and seaside souvenirs.”

Short-to-Medium Length Nails

Short-to-medium length nails will reign supreme this summer. Both chic and practical, they’re “still very functional for everyday life but long enough to give a really manicured and elegant look,” says Fronce. While longer extensions aren’t disappearing entirely, nail artists are seeing that clients are increasingly opting for shorter lengths that are easier to maintain.

Sardine Nails

In a surprising turn of events, sardine nails are one of the most popular manicure trends this summer, with Pinterest search up 281 percent. “Sardine nails might sound unexpected, but they’ve quickly become one of the internet’s favorite nail trends,” says Cochrane. “Inspired by the rise of fisherman aesthetics and quirky Mediterranean fashion trends, these manicures feature tiny illustrated sardines, silver chrome details and coastal color palettes.” You can also create your own take and opt for bright, summer-friendly colors.

Summer Flower Nails

Floral designs aren’t just for spring anymore—they’re a significant summer nail trend as well, with Pinterest search up 257 percent for summer flowers. These, however, are different than years past: “Floral nails are a summer classic, but this year’s versions feel much more elevated and delicate,” says Cochrane. “Instead of bold tropical prints, we’re seeing smaller hand-painted flowers, soft pastel petals and daisy-inspired details dominating nail inspiration boards.”

Flowers also match with virtually anything: “The beauty of floral nails is that they can be adapted to suit any style,” says Cochrane. “You can keep them minimal with tiny floral accents on neutral nails or go for a brighter, retro-inspired look with colorful blooms across every nail.”

Lemon Nails

Similar to Mediterranean nails, lemon nails lean into yellows, blues and fruits for a fun, summery manicure. Search for lemon nails is up 200 percent on Pinterest, signaling that manicure lovers are absolutely interested in these Mediterranean-inspired looks. “Lemon nails are another trend heavily influenced by Mediterranean aesthetics,” says Cochrane. “Bright lemon designs paired with white, blue or nude shades create a manicure that feels instantly fresh, vibrant and holiday-ready.”

You can also explore other fruit-themed manicures, as well. “Fruit-inspired nails always return during summer because they bring such a playful energy to beauty looks,” says Cochrane. “Lemons in particular feel very chic and timeless, especially when paired with minimalist nail art or glossy finishes.”

Mermaid Nails

With Pinterest searches up 170 percent, mermaid nails are a whimsical, escapist take on manicures. “Mermaid nails are making a comeback this summer with shimmering finishes, aqua tones and holographic details that catch the light beautifully,” says Cochrane. “These manicures lean heavily into iridescent textures, giving nails that wet-look, underwater effect.”

There are plenty of ways to wear your mermaid nails, though some have leaned into the beachy vacation-ready vibe of it all. “This ties into the wider popularity of fantasy-inspired beauty, where people want their makeup, nails and hair to feel more whimsical and escapist,” says Cochrane. “Mermaid nails are perfect for anyone wanting something ultra-glowy and eye-catching for holidays or festivals.”

Almond and Oval Nails

Oval and almond nails continue to dominate salon appointments this summer, thanks to their universally flattering shape and timeless appeal. “Almost all of my clients get an almond or oval-shaped nail,” says Fronce. “Almond/oval nails are very trendy because they're not only durable, but they also give the appearance of having longer and thinner fingers.” They’re a great everyday choice, especially if you prefer something practical that’s less likely to break while traveling or having a beach day.

Neon Nails

Neon nails are an iconic summer manicure moment, and this year is no different—search on Pinterest is up 166 percent. “Neon nails continue to trend every summer because they instantly make a statement,” says Cochrane. “Fluorescent pinks, oranges, greens and yellows bring a high-energy feel that works perfectly for festival season and summer parties.”

If you’re hesitant to dive in fully, you don’t have to: “While last year focused on full neon manicures, this summer we’re seeing people use neon shades more creatively through French tips, abstract nail art and color-blocking designs,” says Cochrane. “It’s a more wearable take on the trend while still keeping that bold pop of color.” You can combine them with plenty of other summer nail trends as well, like flower nails.”

Matcha Nails

Matcha as a drink has been popular for years now, so it only makes sense the trend would make its way to our fingertips and become a huge nail moment as well. With search up 143 percent on Pinterest, “Matcha-inspired nails are proving that green tones are still hugely popular this year, but in a softer, calmer way,” says Cochrane. “Unlike bright lime or neon greens, matcha nails feature muted pistachio and earthy green shades that feel minimalist and modern.”