Summer Nail Art 101: From Classic Manicures to Bold and Creative Designs

Ready to take your nail art to the next level this summer? From the classic manicure to bold and creative designs, it’s time to show off your personality and creativity with some fun summer nail art. Summer is the perfect time to switch up your nail design, as there are unlimited possibilities when it comes to color and pattern combinations.

With themed parties, summer holidays and vacations, you’ll need a look that stands out from the crowd. But how do you know what design to pick and where to start? This blog post will take you from being a nail art novice to an expert in no time. We’ll give you the scoop on everything from classic manicures to the most creative of designs. Our guide to summer nail art will provide you with all the inspiration and guidance you need.

Whether you’re looking for a minimalist alternative to bright colors, or something more intricate and daring to express your inner artist, this guide will teach you how to create the perfect look for your summer events. So don’t settle for plain nails, and start experimenting with some eye-catching designs that will make your nails stand out this summer.

Tropical Vibes Summer Nail Art

Ah, summer! The season of sun, sand, and sea. And what better way to express your love for all things tropical than through your nails? Say hello to the perfect summer accessory – tropical summer nail art.

From bold and colorful to subtle and delicate, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to tropical nail designs. You can go for the classic designs that feature palm trees, flamingos, coconuts, pineapples, and hibiscus flowers in bright and bold colors. These designs are perfect for making a statement and showing off your fun-loving personality.

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can try mixing geometrical designs with tropical elements for a unique and eye-catching look. Think of prints and patterns that add a pop of color to your nails, like beach-toned zig-zags, sunshine-inspired polka dots, or even floral prints. Or, for a more subdued look, try a nude or pastel base with just a touch of tropical flair.

If you really want to take your tropical summer nail art to the next level, try adding some extra texture and detail. Metallic paints, splashes of glitter, rhinestones, and tiny seashells are all great ways to make your nails stand out.

The great thing about tropical summer nail art is that it complements any summer outfit. Whether you’re going for a casual beach look or dressing up for a night out, your nails will always look stunning. And with so many different designs to choose from, you can mix and match to create a look that’s uniquely you.

READ MORE: DIY Manicure At Home: 4 Tips To Make Gel Nails Beautiful

Ombré

Summer Nail Art 101: From Classic Manicures To Bold And Creative Designs
Photo credit: @nail_sunny

Ombré nails have been a trend for a while now, and they’re still going strong this summer. Try a gradient effect using two or more colors, or go for a monochromatic ombré with varying shades of the same color. Ombré summer nail art is a trendy and fun way to add some dimension and style to your nails this season. Whether you prefer bold and bright colors or soft and subtle shades, there’s an ombré design for everyone.

To create an ombré effect, you’ll need at least two colors that blend well together. Start by painting your nails with a base color of your choice. Once it’s dry, use a makeup sponge to apply the second color to the tips of your nails, gradually blending it towards the middle of the nail. For a bolder look, try using bright and contrasting colors like pink and blue or orange and yellow. To create a softer and more subtle look, try using shades of the same color family like light pink and hot pink or light blue and navy.

Another fun idea for ombré summer nail art is to use a metallic or glitter polish to add some extra sparkle and shine. You can apply the glitter polish to the tips of your nails or blend it in with the base color for a more subtle effect.

Ombré summer nail art is perfect for any occasion, from a day at the beach to a night out with friends. It’s a versatile design that can be customized to fit your personal style and preferences.

Why not give ombré summer nail art a try? It’s a fun and easy way to add some extra flair to your summer style and make a statement with your nails. Whether you go bold or subtle, your ombré nails are sure to turn heads and make a lasting impression.

Bold Brights Summer Nail Art

Summer is the time to break out the bold and bright colors for your nails. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hitting the beach, your nails can reflect the vibrant energy of the season. Here are five colors that can help you achieve the perfect bold and bright summer nail art.

  1. Neon Pink

Neon pink is the ultimate summer shade. This bold and bright color will make your nails stand out, and it’s perfect for both day and night looks. You can even add some glitter or metallic accents for an extra pop of fun.

  1. Sunshine Yellow

Bring a little bit of sunshine to your nails with a bright and cheery yellow. This color is perfect for beach days and summer picnics. Pair it with some white accents for a fresh and clean look.

  1. Coral

Coral is a versatile color that can range from a soft pastel to a bold and bright hue. It’s perfect for those who want to embrace a little bit of color without going overboard. Add some floral accents for a beachy vibe.

  1. Turquoise

If you want to go for a bold and unexpected color, try out some turquoise. This shade is perfect for ocean-inspired designs, and it pairs well with other bright colors like pink and yellow.

  1. Purple

Purple is a fun and unexpected color for summer nail art. You can go for a deep, rich shade or a bright and bold hue. Pair it with some geometric shapes or metallic accents for a modern and edgy look.

No matter what color you choose, summer is all about having fun and embracing your individuality. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and designs, and let your nails reflect your unique personality. With these five colors, you’ll be ready to take on summer in style.

READ MORE: 5 Super Stylish Spring Nail Art Trends To Help Say Bye-Bye To The Winter Blues

Flower Power Summer Nail Art

Summer is the season of blooming flowers, so why not incorporate them into your nail art? From daisies to sunflowers to intricate floral designs, there are plenty of ways to add some flower power to your manicure. Whether you’re going for a fun and funky look or a more classic design, incorporating flowers into your nails is a surefire way to add some extra color and fun to your summer style.

When it comes to flower summer nail art, the options are endless. You can go for a minimalist look with a single flower accent nail, or go all out with a full floral bouquet design on every nail. Some popular floral designs include roses, sunflowers, daisies, and cherry blossoms.

To create a classic floral design, start with a base color. You can use a pastel, a neutral, or go bold. Once it’s dry, use a small brush or toothpick to paint on the flowers with a bright color like pink, orange, or yellow. For added depth, you can also use a lighter or darker shade of the same color to add shading or highlights.

If you want to get more creative, try mixing and matching different flower designs on each nail. You can even add in some glitter or rhinestones for some extra sparkle and shine.

One fun idea is to create a flower crown design on your nails. Start with a white base color, then use a small brush or toothpick to paint on the flowers in a circular pattern around the edges of the nails. You can also add in some green leaves or stems to complete the look.

Another option is to create a watercolor floral design. Start with a white base color, then use a makeup sponge to dab on different shades of pink, orange, and yellow to create a watercolor effect. Once it’s dry, use a small brush or toothpick to add in the flower details.

No matter which summer nail art design you choose, you’re sure to turn heads and feel the joy of summer with your fun and floral nails. So embrace your inner flower child and let your creativity bloom with these fun and playful designs.

Nautical Summer Nail Art

Summer Nail Art 101: From Classic Manicures To Bold And Creative Designs
Photo credit: Nail Designs Journal

If you’re spending time near the water this summer, why not embrace the nautical trend with your nails? You can even add some sea-inspired accents like anchors or seashells for an extra touch. The first thing to consider when creating nautical nail art is the color palette. Think navy blue, white, and red, just like the classic sailor uniforms. You can also incorporate other shades like gold or silver for a metallic touch.

Next, you’ll want to consider the design elements. Anchors, stripes, and sailor knots are all classic nautical motifs that you can incorporate into your nail art. You can also add in some sea creatures like starfish or seashells for a beachy vibe.

One fun way to incorporate stripes is by using tape to create a striped pattern on your nails. Paint your nails with the navy blue base color, then use strips of tape to create the white stripes. Once the white polish is dry, carefully remove the tape to reveal the stripes.

For a simpler design, you can create an anchor on one accent nail. Start by painting the nail with the navy blue base color. Once it’s dry, use a small brush or toothpick to paint a white anchor on the center of the nail. You can also add in some gold or silver accents for extra flair.

Another option is to create a sailor knot design on your nails. Start with a white base color, then use a small brush or toothpick to create the knot design with the navy blue polish. This design is perfect for those who want a more subtle nautical look.

No matter which design you choose, nautical summer nail art is the perfect way to show off your love of the ocean and all things nautical. So set sail on your next adventure with these fun and creative nail designs.

READ MORE: 30 Striking OPI Nail Polish Colors

Summer Nail Art Tools

When it comes to summer nail art, the right tools are just as important as the actual designs. Even the simplest manicure will look better when the correct nail art tools are used. The basics include a quality nail file, cuticle scissors, clippers, and a set of cuticle pushers. More complex designs will require specialized tools such as dotting tools, nail art brushes, nail stamps, and even porcelain dishes. Additionally, a good basecoat and topcoat nail polish of good quality should never be overlooked.

Nail files are essential for achieving the desired shape and smoothness of the nails. A nail art technician should always have several different-sized files depending on the size and shape of the customer’s nails. Cuticle scissors, clippers, and cuticle pushers help to keep the cuticles clean and neat and make nail work easier.

Dotting tools are used to create interesting designs by forming tiny dots on the nail surface. Nail art brushes come in various sizes and shapes and can be used to create intricate lines and patterns. Nail stamps are rubber stamp plates with intricate designs or images that can be stamped onto the nails. Porcelain dishes are used for mixing colors and creating unique marbled looks.

The choice of basecoat and topcoat nail polishes is also important, as they help protect the nails from damage and keep the art in place. A good-quality base coat will help the colours appear more vibrant and last longer while the topcoat will provide a durable and shiny finish.

Having the right tools is essential for creating interesting summer nail art designs. Taking into consideration the type of tools, the size and shape of the nail, and the desired design, one can make sure that each manicure is perfect.

READ MORE: Salon Perfect Manicure at Home

Summer is the perfect time to let your creativity shine with some fun and colorful nail art. From tropical vibes to nautical themes to bold brights, there are endless possibilities to try. Just make sure you have the right tools and a steady hand, and let your nails do the talking this summer.

WANT TO READ MORE?
Done with your summer nail art and looking to keep the glow-up going? Read 23 Of The Best Makeup Brands Every Woman Is Dying To Have.

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Summer Nail Art 101: From Classic Manicures To Bold And Creative Designs

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Michelle K
Michelle K
Michelle is a Florida girl who loves the ocean, sunshine and nature. She enjoys cooking, gardening and boating with her husband and children. A full-time working mama, Michelle works in marketing and has been writing for her entire career. She de-stresses with snuggles from her kids, Pilates, essential oils, a good book or a smooth Cab. Her happy places are the beach, live music events and UCF football games. (Go Knights!)

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