Color That Radiates: The Must-Have Nail Shades Defining Summer 2025 -

Summer 2025 has arrived in full color—and this year, nails are more than just a detail. They’re a canvas for self-expression, a wearable pop of joy, and a way to signal your summer energy without saying a word. The season’s trending shades are full of movement: from soft, wearable brights to daring neons and tropical twists, this palette feels fresh, flattering, and alive.

The best part? These colors aren’t just trendy—they’re transformative. Whether you’re sunbathing, working from your favorite café, or dancing through weekend getaways, your nail color becomes part of the memory. And this summer, it’s all about choosing shades that feel like sunshine on your fingertips.

Why I Love It

What I love about this year’s nail colors is how effortless they are to wear while still making a bold impression. A single coat of lemon yellow can instantly brighten your mood. A jelly pink manicure makes your outfit feel playful and polished. And a dusty mint or muted peach? Pure summer elegance in a bottle.

Each color tells its own story—whether it’s coral echoing a beach sunset or pistachio green reflecting soft new leaves. These shades feel connected to nature, travel, fun, and confidence. There’s also something comforting about how these colors look against tanned skin, golden light, and breezy fabrics. They complete the feeling of summer in a way only color can.

23 Best Summer Nail Colors Guide

These 23 best summer nail colors for 2025 capture the vibrant, radiant essence of beach outings, tropical escapes, and sunny festivals. Each color is bold, fresh, and designed to elevate your summer style with a glossy or matte finish. Detailed steps, tools, and variations ensure accessibility for all skill levels, embodying summer’s lively energy. The term “uncovered” is used for base polishes to align with sensitivity guidelines.

Tangerine Cream

Tangerine Cream is a bold yet soft orange that feels like a tropical breeze, offering a vibrant, summery look. Ideal for beach brunches or summer markets, this color radiates warm elegance.

Tools Needed

Tangerine orange nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to desired shape (e.g., almond or square); apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with tangerine orange polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Apply a second layer if needed for vibrant coverage.
Check for smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish around cuticles with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Tropical Pop: Tangerine Cream with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel yellow for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon green for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a quick-dry top coat to prevent smudging.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern twist.
Apply a subtle gold glitter overlay.
Create a tangerine French tip.
Pair with a tiny palm tree decal on one nail.

This color pairs with white sundresses or gold jewelry, radiating summer warmth. Maintain by refreshing the top coat every few days. Tangerine Cream is a versatile vacation choice.

Lemon Zest Yellow

Lemon Zest Yellow is a bright, fresh yellow made for sunshine, offering a cheerful, summery look. Ideal for beach picnics or summer festivals, this color radiates vibrant energy.

Tools Needed

Lemon yellow nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, oval shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with lemon yellow polish, using two to three coats for opacity; let dry.
Ensure even coverage to avoid patchiness.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Sunny Pop: Lemon Zest Yellow with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel orange for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with cobalt blue for a color block.

Tips for Success

Apply a white base coat to enhance yellow’s brightness.
Use thin polish layers for smoothness.
Avoid over-brushing to prevent streaks.
Use a glossy top coat for a radiant finish.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a lemon French tip.
Pair with a tiny lemon slice decal.

This color pairs with denim shorts or silver accessories, radiating summer joy. Maintain by touching up chips and refreshing the top coat. Lemon Zest Yellow is a lively vacation choice.

Skyline Blue

Skyline Blue is a clear, medium blue that mirrors cloudless summer skies, offering a fresh, summery look. Ideal for beach strolls or tropical getaways, this color radiates serene vibrancy.

Tools Needed

Medium blue nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with medium blue polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Check for even, vibrant application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Ocean Pop: Skyline Blue with white cloud accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel mint for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon pink for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid bubbles.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for a polished finish.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern look.
Apply gold foil flecks for sparkle.
Create a blue half-moon design.
Pair with a tiny wave decal.

This color pairs with white linen or silver jewelry, radiating summer calm. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Skyline Blue is a chic vacation choice.

Watermelon Pink

Watermelon Pink is a juicy, vibrant pink that pops on every skin tone, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for summer raves or beach parties, this color radiates playful energy.

Tools Needed

Vibrant pink nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, coffin shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with vibrant pink polish, using two coats for opacity; let dry.
Ensure bold, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Fruity Pop: Watermelon Pink with green accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with lime green for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers for smoothness.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a quick-dry top coat to prevent smudging.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a pink French tip.
Pair with a tiny watermelon decal.

This color pairs with neon outfits or gold jewelry, radiating summer fun. Maintain by touching up chips and refreshing the top coat. Watermelon Pink is a trendy vacation choice.

Mint Mojito

Mint Mojito is a crisp green with cool undertones, offering a refreshing, summery look. Ideal for beach cocktails or summer brunches, this color radiates chic vibrancy.

Tools Needed

Mint green nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with mint green polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Check for even, crisp application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Cool Pop: Mint Mojito with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel lavender for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon pink for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern twist.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a mint half-moon design.
Pair with a tiny lime decal.

This color pairs with white dresses or silver jewelry, radiating summer freshness. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Mint Mojito is a stylish vacation choice.

Sunset Coral

Sunset Coral is a blend of pink and orange that glows like a warm evening, offering a vibrant, summery look. Ideal for beach sunsets or tropical evenings, this color radiates warm elegance.

Tools Needed

Coral nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with coral polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Ensure vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Warm Pop: Sunset Coral with gold accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with teal for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers for smoothness.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a quick-dry top coat for durability.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply rose gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a coral French tip.
Pair with a tiny sunset decal.

This color pairs with flowy dresses or gold jewelry, radiating summer warmth. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Sunset Coral is a romantic vacation choice.

Papaya Peach

Papaya Peach is a bright but soft peach shade with fruit-stand vibes, offering a summery look. Ideal for beach picnics or summer markets, this color radiates juicy charm.

Tools Needed

Peach nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, oval shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with peach polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Check for smooth, vibrant application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Fruity Pop: Papaya Peach with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel yellow for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon pink for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern look.
Apply gold foil flecks for sparkle.
Create a peach half-moon design.
Pair with a tiny papaya decal.

This color pairs with light dresses or silver jewelry, radiating summer sweetness. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Papaya Peach is a delightful vacation choice.

Cherry Pop Red

Cherry Pop Red is a glossy, rich red with a hint of pink, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for summer parties or tropical nights, this color radiates vibrant sophistication.

Tools Needed

Red nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, coffin shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with red polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Ensure bold, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Classic Pop: Cherry Pop Red with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel pink for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with black for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers for smoothness.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a quick-dry top coat for durability.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a red French tip.
Pair with a tiny cherry decal.

This color pairs with bold outfits or gold jewelry, radiating summer glamour. Maintain by touching up chips and refreshing the top coat. Cherry Pop Red is a timeless vacation choice.

Flamingo Fuchsia

Flamingo Fuchsia is an electric, fun fuchsia perfect for a bold mood, offering a vibrant, summery look. Ideal for summer raves or beach festivals, this color radiates playful energy.

Tools Needed

Fuchsia nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with fuchsia polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Check for vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Vivid Pop: Flamingo Fuchsia with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel lavender for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with lime green for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern twist.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a fuchsia French tip.
Pair with a tiny flamingo decal.

This color pairs with neon outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer fun. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Flamingo Fuchsia is a trendy vacation choice.

Cobalt Wave

Cobalt Wave is a deep, true blue that feels nautical and striking, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for beach outings or tropical cruises, this color radiates oceanic vibrancy.

Tools Needed

Cobalt blue nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with cobalt blue polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure bold, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Nautical Pop: Cobalt Wave with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel mint for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon orange for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid bubbles.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver foil flecks for sparkle.
Create a blue half-moon design.
Pair with a tiny anchor decal.

This color pairs with white outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer strength. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Cobalt Wave is a bold vacation choice.

Bubblegum Jelly Pink

Bubblegum Jelly Pink is a semi-transparent pink with youthful energy, offering a playful, summery look. Ideal for beach picnics or summer outings, this color radiates whimsical charm.

Tools Needed

Jelly pink nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, oval shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with jelly pink polish, using two to three coats for translucency; let dry.
Check for even, sheer coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Playful Pop: Bubblegum Jelly Pink with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon green for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Apply thin layers for a translucent effect.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.
Clean cuticles for a polished look.
Use a quick-dry top coat to prevent smudging.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter flecks for sparkle.
Create a jelly pink French tip.
Pair with a tiny heart decal.

This color pairs with pastel outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer fun. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Bubblegum Jelly Pink is a delightful vacation choice.

Lime Flash

Lime Flash is a bright lime green with high-gloss shine, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for summer raves or beach festivals, this color radiates vibrant energy.

Tools Needed

Lime green nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with lime green polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Check for vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Zesty Pop: Lime Flash with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel yellow for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with fuchsia for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern twist.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a lime French tip.
Pair with a tiny lime decal.

This color pairs with neon outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer intensity. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Lime Flash is a trendy vacation choice.

Lavender Fog

Lavender Fog is a light, creamy lavender with cool summer contrast, offering a soft, summery look. Ideal for beach weddings or summer brunches, this color radiates dreamy elegance.

Tools Needed

Lavender nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with lavender polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Dreamy Pop: Lavender Fog with white star decals.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel mint for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon pink for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a lavender half-moon design.
Pair with a tiny flower decal.

This color pairs with pastel dresses or silver jewelry, radiating summer calm. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Lavender Fog is a refined vacation choice.

Sunbeam Gold

Sunbeam Gold is a subtle metallic yellow-gold with glowing highlights, offering a luxurious, summery look. Ideal for beach parties or tropical evenings, this color radiates radiant glamour.

Tools Needed

Metallic gold nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, coffin shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with metallic gold polish, using two coats for full shimmer; let dry.
Check for even, glowing coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Golden Pop: Sunbeam Gold with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with cobalt blue for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for shimmer.
Apply thin layers for smoothness.
Clean cuticles for a polished look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply gold foil flecks for extra sparkle.
Create a gold French tip.
Pair with a tiny sun decal.

This color pairs with bold outfits or gold jewelry, radiating summer luxury. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Sunbeam Gold is a glamorous vacation choice.

Tropical Teal

Tropical Teal is a rich blue-green that’s part ocean, part jungle, offering a vibrant, summery look. Ideal for beach outings or tropical adventures, this color radiates exotic energy.

Tools Needed

Teal nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with teal polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Check for vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Exotic Pop: Tropical Teal with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel mint for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon orange for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a teal French tip.
Pair with a tiny palm leaf decal.

This color pairs with white outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer adventure. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Tropical Teal is a bold vacation choice.

Blush Beige

Blush Beige is a refined neutral for an understated summer look, offering a subtle, summery elegance. Ideal for beach weddings or summer soirées, this color radiates minimalist charm.

Tools Needed

Beige nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with beige polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Neutral Pop: Blush Beige with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel pink for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon yellow for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for elegance.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern look.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a beige French tip.
Pair with a tiny heart decal.

This color pairs with neutral outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer sophistication. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Blush Beige is a refined vacation choice.

Neon Tangerine

Neon Tangerine is a sharp, eye-catching orange, unmistakably summery, offering a bold look. Ideal for summer raves or beach festivals, this color radiates vibrant energy.

Tools Needed

Neon orange nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with neon orange polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Check for vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Vivid Pop: Neon Tangerine with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel yellow for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with cobalt blue for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a neon orange French tip.
Pair with a tiny citrus decal.

This color pairs with neon outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer intensity. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Neon Tangerine is a trendy vacation choice.

Peachy Uncovered

Peachy Uncovered is a soft, warm peach shade ideal for polished minimalism, offering a subtle, summery look. Ideal for beach cocktails or summer brunches, this color radiates understated elegance.

Tools Needed

Peach uncovered nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, oval shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with peach uncovered polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Soft Pop: Peachy Uncovered with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel pink for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon green for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for elegance.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern look.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a peach French tip.
Pair with a tiny flower decal.

This color pairs with neutral outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer calm. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Peachy Uncovered is a chic vacation choice.

Citrus Chrome

Citrus Chrome is a reflective metallic orange-yellow hybrid with serious shine, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for beach parties or tropical nights, this color radiates glamorous vibrancy.

Tools Needed

Metallic orange-yellow nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, coffin shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with metallic orange-yellow polish, using two coats for full shimmer; let dry.
Check for even, reflective coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Shiny Pop: Citrus Chrome with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with teal for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for shimmer.
Apply thin layers for smoothness.
Clean cuticles for a polished look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply gold foil flecks for extra sparkle.
Create a chrome French tip.
Pair with a tiny sun decal.

This color pairs with bold outfits or gold jewelry, radiating summer luxury. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Citrus Chrome is a glamorous vacation choice.

Strawberry Smoothie

Strawberry Smoothie is a light pink with hints of shimmer, soft and sweet, offering a summery look. Ideal for beach picnics or summer weddings, this color radiates delicate charm.

Tools Needed

Shimmery pink nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with shimmery pink polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application with visible shimmer.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Sweet Pop: Strawberry Smoothie with white dots.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel peach for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon green for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for shimmer.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a shimmery pink French tip.
Pair with a tiny strawberry decal.

This color pairs with pastel dresses or silver jewelry, radiating summer sweetness. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Strawberry Smoothie is a romantic vacation choice.

Pastel Pistachio

Pastel Pistachio is a dusty pale green with a milky, muted finish, offering a soft, summery look. Ideal for beach brunches or summer soirées, this color radiates understated elegance.

Tools Needed

Pale green nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a short, oval shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with pale green polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Muted Pop: Pastel Pistachio with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel lavender for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon pink for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for elegance.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for a modern look.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a pistachio French tip.
Pair with a tiny leaf decal.

This color pairs with neutral outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer calm. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Pastel Pistachio is a chic vacation choice.

Rosewater Mauve

Rosewater Mauve is a romantic, dusty rose that transitions easily from day to night, offering a versatile, summery look. Ideal for beach weddings or summer evenings, this color radiates soft sophistication.

Tools Needed

Mauve nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, almond shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with mauve polish, using two coats for full coverage; let dry.
Ensure smooth, even application.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Romantic Pop: Rosewater Mauve with white star decals.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel pink for a gradient.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon yellow for a split nail.

Tips for Success

Use a high-quality polish for opacity.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a polished finish.
Use a glossy top coat for elegance.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply gold glitter to accent nails.
Create a mauve French tip.
Pair with a tiny rose decal.

This color pairs with flowy dresses or silver jewelry, radiating summer romance. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Rosewater Mauve is a refined vacation choice.

Electric Lilac

Electric Lilac is a light purple turned up with a punchy neon undertone, offering a bold, summery look. Ideal for summer raves or beach festivals, this color radiates vibrant energy.

Tools Needed

Neon lilac nail polish
Base coat and glossy top coat
Nail file
Acetone for cleanup

Step-by-Step Guide

File nails to a medium-length, square shape; apply a base coat and let dry.
Paint nails with neon lilac polish, using two coats for full opacity; let dry.
Check for vibrant, even coverage.
Clean excess polish with acetone.
Seal with a glossy top coat for shine.

Complementary Color Suggestions

Vivid Pop: Electric Lilac with white accents.
Soft Glow: Pair with pastel lavender for an ombré.
Bold Contrast: Combine with neon green for a color block.

Tips for Success

Use a high-opacity polish for bold color.
Apply thin layers to avoid streaks.
Clean cuticles for a professional look.
Use a glossy top coat for vibrancy.

Creative Variations

Add a matte top coat for contrast.
Apply silver glitter to accent nails.
Create a lilac French tip.
Pair with a tiny star decal.

This color pairs with neon outfits or silver jewelry, radiating summer intensity. Maintain by refreshing the top coat. Electric Lilac is a trendy vacation choice.

The best nail colors of summer 2025 aren’t just beautiful—they’re emotional. They elevate your look, enhance your glow, and bring joyful, curated energy into even the simplest routines. Whether you’re into full-throttle brights or soft tropical pastels, there’s a shade that will match your mood and reflect your season.

So when the temperature rises and your calendar fills, reach for a polish that reflects your summer story. Bold or breezy, glossy or matte—your perfect summer shade is waiting.