23 Cool Summer Nails Ideas: Vibrant Designs, Colors, and 3D Art Inspo

Summer is the perfect time to get creative with your nail designs and try out new, vibrant looks. Are you looking for inspiration for your next manicure? Whether you prefer short, long, or something in between, there’s a summer nail design for everyone. Let’s explore some cool summer nails ideas that are both trendy and fun.

Blue Ombre Glitter Nails

When it comes to summer, nothing says “cool” like a refreshing blue ombre glitter nail design. This look combines light and dark blue shades with a touch of sparkle, perfect for sunny days and beach vibes.

Professional Opinion: This cool summer nails design is both elegant and playful, making it ideal for any summer occasion. The gradient effect creates a beautiful transition from light to dark blue, enhanced by the subtle glitter that catches the light. It’s an excellent choice for those who love a bit of shimmer without going overboard.

Consumables:

• • Blue ombre nail polish set (e.g., Essie’s Ombre Blues Collection)
  • Fine glitter polish (e.g., OPI Glitter Off)
  • Base coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard as Nails)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
  • Ombre sponge

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint a gradient effect using the ombre sponge and blue polishes, starting with the lightest shade at the base.
   3. Add a layer of glitter polish for a sparkling finish.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for extra shine and durability.

Marble and Gold Accent Nails

Marble nails with gold accents bring a touch of luxury to your summer style. This cool summer nails look is sophisticated yet accessible, perfect for adding a bit of glam to your everyday life.

Professional Opinion: The combination of marble patterns and gold foil creates a high-end, chic aesthetic. This design is perfect for those who appreciate subtle elegance with a hint of extravagance. The white base color makes the gold accents pop, providing a beautiful contrast.

Consumables:

• • White nail polish (e.g., Zoya Snow White)
  • Gold foil flakes (e.g., Born Pretty Gold Foil)
  • Marble effect nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Marble Ink Nail Polish)
  • Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Essie Gel Couture Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply two coats of white polish and let it dry.
   3. Use the marble effect polish to create the marble pattern.
   4. Apply gold foil flakes on top of the marble design for an elegant touch.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal in the design and add shine.

Polka Dot Nails with Glitter Accents

Polka dots are a timeless and fun choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features colorful polka dots with glitter accents, making your nails stand out in any crowd.

Professional Opinion: This playful design is perfect for those who love to experiment with colors and patterns. The combination of pastel polka dots and glitter accents creates a festive and cheerful look, ideal for summer parties and outings.

Consumables:

• • White nail polish (e.g., Essie Blanc)
  • Pastel nail polishes for dots (e.g., Essie’s Pastel Collection)
  • Fine glitter polish (e.g., China Glaze Fairy Dust)
  • Dotting tool
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of white polish.
   3. Use a dotting tool to create polka dots with the pastel colors.
   4. Add a layer of fine glitter polish for extra sparkle.
   5. Seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Neon Marble Nails

Neon marble nails are perfect for those who want a bold and vibrant look. This cool summer nails design combines neon colors with a marble effect for a striking and eye-catching manicure.

Professional Opinion: Neon colors are a staple for summer, and when combined with a marble effect, they create a unique and dynamic look. This design is perfect for festivals, beach parties, and anyone who loves to make a statement with their nails.

Consumables:

• • Black nail polish (e.g., Revlon Black Out)
  • Neon nail polishes (e.g., China Glaze Neon Collection)
  • Marble effect nail polish (e.g., Born Pretty Marble Nail Polish)
  • Base coat (e.g., Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of black polish.
   3. Use the neon polishes to create a marble effect over the black base.
   4. Finish with a top coat to protect the design and add shine.

Abstract Art Nails

Abstract art nails are a fantastic way to showcase your creativity. This cool summer nails design features bold shapes and colors, creating a mini masterpiece on your fingertips.

Professional Opinion: This design is perfect for art lovers and those who enjoy unique, one-of-a-kind looks. The abstract shapes and vibrant colors make a bold statement, while the overall aesthetic remains chic and stylish.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Bare With Me)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Black Onyx)
  • Various colorful nail polishes (e.g., Essie Gel Couture)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Butter London Nail Foundation)
  • Top coat (e.g., Orly Sec’n Dry)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of nude polish.
   3. Use the fine nail art brush to create abstract shapes with the colorful polishes.
   4. Outline some shapes with black polish for added definition.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Holographic Swirl Nails

Holographic swirl nails are a striking choice for those who love a futuristic and edgy look. This cool summer nails design features a mesmerizing blend of holographic shades with dynamic swirls, perfect for making a bold statement.

Professional Opinion: The holographic finish adds a multidimensional effect to the nails, making them shimmer and change colors in different lighting. The swirls of purple, silver, and pink create an abstract and artistic vibe that is both trendy and eye-catching. This design is ideal for those who want to stand out and embrace a unique, otherworldly aesthetic.

Consumables:

• • Holographic nail polish (e.g., ILNP Mega)
  • Purple nail polish (e.g., Essie Gel Couture Fashion Playground)
  • Pink nail polish (e.g., OPI Infinite Shine Girl Without Limits)
  • Silver nail art pen (e.g., Sally Hansen Nail Art Pen)
  • Base coat (e.g., Seche Clear Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Glisten & Glow Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply two coats of holographic nail polish and let it dry.
   3. Use the nail art pen to create swirling patterns with purple and pink polishes.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for added shine and longevity.

Pastel Block Nails

Pastel block nails are a fun and colorful option for summer. This cool summer nails design features blocks of pastel colors, creating a bright and playful look that is perfect for any casual outing.

Professional Opinion: The use of pastel colors in block patterns gives these nails a cheerful and youthful appearance. The combination of yellow, pink, green, and blue creates a harmonious and balanced look that is both eye-catching and stylish. This design is perfect for those who enjoy a playful and vibrant manicure.

Consumables:

• • Yellow nail polish (e.g., Essie Chillato)
  • Pink nail polish (e.g., OPI Infinite Shine We’re in the Black)
  • Green nail polish (e.g., Zoya Jace)
  • Blue nail polish (e.g., China Glaze At Vase Value)
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder)
  • Top coat (e.g., CND Vinylux)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint different sections of each nail with the pastel polishes, creating block patterns.
   3. Use a thin brush to refine the edges between the colors.
   4. Finish with a top coat to smooth out the design and add shine.

Neon Abstract Nails

Neon abstract nails are a bold and artistic choice for those who love vibrant colors and unique designs. This cool summer nails look features bright neon colors with abstract shapes and black accents.

Professional Opinion: The combination of neon pink, orange, and black creates a high-energy and eye-catching design. The abstract shapes and patterns give the nails a modern and edgy look, perfect for making a statement. This design is ideal for summer festivals, parties, or any occasion where you want your nails to be the center of attention.

Consumables:

• • Neon pink nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Shocking Pink)
  • Neon orange nail polish (e.g., Essie Bright Cider)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Black Out)
  • Thin nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a mix of neon pink and orange polishes.
   3. Use the thin brush to add abstract black shapes and patterns.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Neon Leopard Print Nails

Neon leopard print nails are a fun and fierce design perfect for summer. This cool summer nails look combines neon colors with classic leopard print for a bold and stylish manicure.

Professional Opinion: The neon outlines around the leopard spots add a modern twist to the traditional leopard print. The combination of pink, orange, and green neon colors makes the design pop, creating a vibrant and edgy look. This design is great for those who love to experiment with bold patterns and colors.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Samoan Sand)
  • Neon pink nail polish (e.g., Orly Neon Heat)
  • Neon orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Flip Flop Fantasy)
  • Neon green nail polish (e.g., Essie Shake Your $$ Maker)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Sinful Colors Black on Black)
  • Dotting tool
  • Base coat (e.g., Zoya Anchor Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude polish as the base color.
   3. Use the dotting tool to create leopard spots with black polish.
   4. Outline the spots with neon colors using a fine brush.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Swirl Marble Nails

Swirl marble nails are a soft and elegant choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features pastel swirls that create a delicate and sophisticated look.

Professional Opinion: The pastel swirls in shades of pink, orange, and white create a beautiful marbled effect that is both subtle and stylish. This design is perfect for those who prefer a more understated yet chic look. The smooth transitions between colors give the nails a soft and dreamy appearance.

Consumables:

• • White nail polish (e.g., Essie Blanc)
  • Pink nail polish (e.g., OPI Infinite Shine She’s a Bad Muffuletta)
  • Orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Sun Worshipper)
  • Thin nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Butter London Nail Foundation)
  • Top coat (e.g., Essie Gel Setter)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a white polish base.
   3. Use the thin brush to create swirling patterns with pink and orange polishes.
   4. Blend the colors slightly to achieve a marbled effect.
   5. Seal the design with a top coat for a glossy finish.

Pastel Wave Nails

Pastel wave nails offer a serene and elegant look for summer. This cool summer nails design features soft pastel waves in pink and silver, creating a graceful and sophisticated appearance.

Professional Opinion: The gentle waves and subtle shimmer give these nails a refined and delicate feel. The pastel colors are perfect for those who prefer a more understated yet chic look. This design is ideal for any summer occasion, from casual outings to more formal events.

Consumables:

• • Light pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
  • Silver glitter nail polish (e.g., OPI Glitter to My Heart)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with two coats of light pink polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create soft wave patterns with the silver glitter polish.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Leopard Print French Tips

Leopard print French tips are a trendy and fierce choice for summer. This cool summer nails design combines classic French tips with bold leopard print accents.

Professional Opinion: This design adds a wild twist to the traditional French manicure. The leopard print tips are both playful and stylish, making your nails stand out without being overly flashy. It’s a great way to add some personality to a classic look.

Consumables:

• • Nude base nail polish (e.g., OPI Samoan Sand)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Licorice)
  • Brown nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Desert Sun)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Zoya Anchor Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create leopard print patterns on the tips with black and brown polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Neon French Tips with Floral Accent

Neon French tips with a floral accent are a fun and vibrant choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features bright neon tips with delicate flower details.

Professional Opinion: The combination of neon colors and floral accents creates a fresh and lively look. The neon tips add a modern twist, while the floral design brings a touch of elegance. This manicure is perfect for those who love a blend of bold and delicate elements.

Consumables:

• • Nude base nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
  • Neon orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Flip Flop Fantasy)
  • White nail polish for floral accents (e.g., OPI Alpine Snow)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Butter London Nail Foundation)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude base polish.
   3. Create neon French tips using the neon orange polish.
   4. Use the fine brush to add delicate floral accents with white polish.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Neon Leopard Print Nails

Neon leopard print nails are a bold and eye-catching choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features bright neon colors combined with classic leopard print patterns.

Professional Opinion: The neon colors make this leopard print design pop, creating a vibrant and energetic look. The combination of neon green, yellow, and orange with leopard spots makes for a playful and striking manicure, perfect for summer festivals and parties.

Consumables:

• • Neon green nail polish (e.g., Essie Shake Your $$ Maker)
  • Neon yellow nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Sun Worshiper)
  • Neon orange nail polish (e.g., Orly Neon Heat)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Black Onyx)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a mix of neon green, yellow, and orange polishes.
   3. Use the fine brush to add leopard print patterns with black polish.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Blue Wave Nails

Blue wave nails are a cool and refreshing design for summer. This cool summer nails look features various shades of blue in wave patterns, perfect for a beach-inspired manicure.

Professional Opinion: The different shades of blue create a soothing and visually appealing wave design. This look is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to carry a piece of it with them. The wave patterns add a dynamic and artistic touch to the nails.

Consumables:

• • Light blue nail polish (e.g., Essie Bikini So Teeny)
  • Dark blue nail polish (e.g., OPI Russian Navy)
  • White nail polish for accents (e.g., China Glaze White on White)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Zoya Anchor Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a light blue base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create wave patterns with dark blue and white polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Orange and Floral Nails

Orange and floral nails bring a fresh and vibrant look to your summer manicure. This cool summer nails design features a striking contrast between solid orange and delicate floral patterns.

Professional Opinion: The bold orange color makes a statement, while the floral designs add a touch of femininity and softness. The mix of solid color and intricate details creates a balanced and eye-catching look, perfect for those who love a mix of bold and delicate elements in their manicure.

Consumables:

• • Bright orange nail polish (e.g., Essie Tangerine Tease)
  • Nude base nail polish (e.g., OPI Bubble Bath)
  • Floral nail decals or nail art brushes for floral designs
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint some nails with bright orange polish and others with a nude base.
   3. Add floral designs using decals or hand-paint them with nail art brushes.
   4. Seal the design with a top coat for added shine and durability.

Retro Wave Nails

Retro wave nails are perfect for those who love a vintage-inspired look. This cool summer nails design features bold waves in purple, pink, and gold for a fun and nostalgic vibe.

Professional Opinion: The combination of bold colors and retro wave patterns creates a lively and playful look. The gold accents add a touch of luxury, making these nails perfect for any summer event. This design is ideal for those who enjoy standing out with unique and artistic nail art.

Consumables:

• • Purple nail polish (e.g., Essie Play Date)
  • Pink nail polish (e.g., OPI Suzi Nails New Orleans)
  • Gold nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Gold Mind)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a purple base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create wave patterns with pink and gold polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

3D Flower Nails

3D flower nails are a stunning and intricate choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features 3D flower accents that add a touch of whimsy and elegance.

Professional Opinion: The 3D flower make this design truly unique and eye-catching. The combination of soft pink and gold accents adds a luxurious feel to the manicure. This design is perfect for special occasions or for anyone who loves detailed and artistic nail art.

Consumables:

• • Soft pink nail polish (e.g., OPI Pink-ing of You)
  • Gold nail polish (e.g., Essie Good as Gold)
  • 3D butterfly nail charms
  • Nail glue for attaching charms
  • Base coat (e.g., Zoya Anchor Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a soft pink polish.
   3. Add gold accents using a fine brush or gold polish.
   4. Attach 3D butterfly charms with nail glue.
   5. Finish with a top coat to secure the charms and add shine.

Neon Flame Nails

Neon flame nails are a bold and energetic choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features bright neon flames that create a dynamic and eye-catching look.

Professional Opinion: The neon flames are perfect for those who love to make a statement with their nails. The combination of neon green, pink, and yellow creates a vibrant and electrifying look. This design is ideal for summer parties, festivals, or any event where you want to stand out.

Consumables:

• • Neon green nail polish (e.g., Essie Shake Your $$ Maker)
  • Neon pink nail polish (e.g., Orly Neon Heat)
  • Neon yellow nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Celtic Sun)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Butter London Nail Foundation)
  • Top coat (e.g., CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a neon yellow base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create flame patterns with neon pink and green polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Neon Marble Nails

Neon marble nails are a vibrant and artistic choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features a mix of neon green, orange, and yellow in a marbled pattern for a striking look.

Professional Opinion: The neon marble effect creates a dynamic and visually interesting design. The bright colors are perfect for summer, adding a pop of energy to your look. This design is great for those who love unique and bold nail art.

Consumables:

• • Neon green nail polish (e.g., Essie Lime Time)
  • Neon orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Pool Party)
  • Neon yellow nail polish (e.g., OPI Need Sunglasses?)
  • Silver glitter nail polish (e.g., Zoya Trixie)
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a mix of neon green, orange, and yellow polishes.
   3. Use a thin brush to swirl the colors together to create a marbled effect.
   4. Add a touch of silver glitter polish for extra sparkle.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Tortoiseshell and Green Tips

Tortoiseshell and green tips offer a unique and sophisticated look for summer. This cool summer nails design combines classic tortoiseshell patterns with vibrant green tips.

Professional Opinion: The tortoiseshell pattern adds a touch of elegance and depth, while the neon green tips bring a fresh and modern twist to the design. This combination creates a striking balance between classic and contemporary styles, perfect for those who want to make a subtle yet bold statement.

Consumables:

• • Nude base nail polish (e.g., OPI Bubble Bath)
  • Tortoiseshell nail polish kit (e.g., Olive & June Tortoiseshell Kit)
  • Neon green nail polish (e.g., Essie Lime Time)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Zoya Anchor Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Create the tortoiseshell pattern using the nail polish kit.
   3. Paint the tips with neon green polish using a fine brush.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Fire Flame Nails

Fire flame nails are a bold and fierce choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features fiery flames in black, orange, and yellow, creating a dynamic and eye-catching look.

Professional Opinion: The sharp, pointed shape of the nails enhances the flame design, making it look even more striking. The blend of black, orange, and yellow creates a high-energy and dramatic effect, perfect for those who love to make a statement with their manicure.

Consumables:

• • Nude base nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Black Onyx)
  • Orange nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Orange Knockout)
  • Yellow nail polish (e.g., Essie Need a Vacation)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Deborah Lippmann Hard Rock Base and Top Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a nude base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create flame patterns with black, orange, and yellow polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.

Blue and Silver Wave Nails

Blue and silver wave nails are a cool and elegant choice for summer. This cool summer nails design features vibrant blue and shimmering silver waves, creating a sophisticated and refreshing look.

Professional Opinion: The combination of blue and silver gives these nails a sleek and modern feel. The wave patterns add a dynamic and fluid touch, perfect for those who love the ocean and want to carry a piece of it with them. This design is ideal for any summer event, from casual outings to more formal occasions.

Consumables:

• • Light blue nail polish (e.g., Essie Bikini So Teeny)
  • Dark blue nail polish (e.g., OPI Russian Navy)
  • Silver glitter nail polish (e.g., Zoya Trixie)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Base coat (e.g., Orly Bonder Base Coat)
  • Top coat (e.g., CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat)

Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with a light blue base polish.
   3. Use the fine brush to create wave patterns with dark blue and silver glitter polishes.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add a glossy finish.