Are your nails ready to soak up the sun? This summer, it’s not just about flaunting any gel nail design; it’s about embracing the vibrant, bold, and beautiful trends of 2024. But what are the standout styles that will make your nails beach-worthy and sizzling with style? Whether you’re a gel nail novice or a seasoned pro looking for fresh inspiration, we’ve got a collection of must-try summer gel nail designs that are making waves this season.
Lemon Zest Almond Nails
Radiant and zesty, these lemon-yellow almond nails are the epitome of summer. The bright hue is a nod to sunny days and lemonade stands, bringing a playful yet sophisticated look to your fingertips. The perfect length and almond shape provide a modern twist on the classic look, making it a fresh pick for the season.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
- Yellow gel polish: CND Shellac in “Electric Sun”
- Top coat: Essie Gel Setter Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp for curing
DIY Instructions: To recreate this sun-kissed design, start with a clean, dry nail and apply your base coat. Follow with two coats of the vibrant Electric Sun, curing under a UV/LED lamp after each application. Seal with a glossy top coat for a dazzling finish that’s as long-lasting as the summer days.
Royal Purple Gloss
Dive into the deep end of style with these glossy, royal purple nails. This bold, regal shade is versatile, complementing both casual daytime looks and elegant evening attire. The gel’s high shine and flawless application showcase the impeccable quality of a professional manicure.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Gelish Foundation Base Gel
- Purple gel polish: Gelish in “You’re So Vain-illa”
- High-gloss top coat: Gelish Top It Off Gel Polish
- UV/LED nail lamp for curing
DIY Instructions: Apply your base coat and cure, then glide on a layer of the lush You’re So Vain-illa. Let each coat cure to achieve the depth of this royal hue. Cap off with a glossy top coat to embody the luxury of a high-end salon experience from home.
Chic Matte & Gloss French Tips
A contemporary twist on a classic, these French tips mix matte and gloss for a sophisticated duality. The delicate pink base with a playful pop of blue on the tips redefines summer elegance, making it a chic choice for any occasion.
Consumables for Creation:
- Matte top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Matte Top Coat
- Pink gel polish: DND Gel Polish in “Barely Pink”
- Blue gel striping tape
- Glossy top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Coat your nails with Barely Pink and cure. Then, strategically place the blue striping tape at the tips and seal with a matte top coat. For the ultimate contrast, apply a glossy top coat over the blue tips only.
Lime Green Energy
Unleash a burst of energy with these lime green nails. The bright, neon shade is a showstopper and radiates confidence. The square shape keeps it edgy and contemporary, perfect for those ready to make a statement.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro
- Neon green gel polish: LeChat Perfect Match in “Lemonade Stand”
- Top coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp for curing
DIY Instructions: Prep your nails, apply the base coat and cure. Swipe on two coats of Lemonade Stand, curing each one for vibrancy. Add a top coat for that glass-like shine and a wear that endures through all your summer adventures.
Glittering Amethyst
Indulge in the glamour of these glittering amethyst nails, where sophistication meets a playful sparkle. The texture and depth of the glitter against the smooth purple creates a mesmerizing effect, perfect for nights under the starry summer sky.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
- Purple glitter gel polish: Kiara Sky Gel Polish in “Purple Haze”
- Finishing wipe: Gelish Nail Surface Cleanse
DIY Instructions: Begin with ORLY Bonder for a lasting base. Apply Purple Haze, letting each coat cure to build up the glitter effect. Use a finishing wipe to remove the tacky residue, revealing a flawless, shimmering finish.
Sunny Gradient Charm
Embracing the full spectrum of a summer sunrise, these gradient nails capture the essence of the season. The seamless transition from a warm peach to a soft pink evokes the delight of early morning rays. This design isn’t just a trend; it’s a mood-lifter on your fingertips.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: China Glaze Strong Adhesion Base Coat
- Gel polishes: Bio Seaweed Gel in “Sunrise” and “Blossom”
- Sponge for ombre effect
- Top coat: Bio Seaweed Gel No-Wipe Top
DIY Instructions: Apply the base coat and cure. Then, dab your sponge with alternating stripes of Sunrise and Blossom, and softly bounce it on the nail to create the ombre effect. Cure and seal with a no-wipe top coat for that summer-long gloss.
Neon French Tip Innovation
The neon French tip on a serene sky blue base is a refreshing twist to a classic. The vivacious lime green tips are eye-catching, making it a perfect fit for lively beach parties or a casual day out. This design merges tranquility with exuberance.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Dior Base Coat Abricot
- Sky blue gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in “First View”
- Neon green gel polish: Nails Inc. Gel Effect in “Neon Greenery”
- Top coat: Dior Gel Coat
DIY Instructions: Start with Dior’s nurturing base coat, followed by two coats of First View, curing each layer. Using a striping brush, apply Neon Greenery for the tips and finish with Dior Gel Coat for a durable, high-shine manicure.
Chromatic Spectacle
These chromatic nails are a futuristic leap into the summer of 2024. The metallic finish catches the light and mirrors the dynamic colors of a summer festival. Each nail is a canvas displaying a kaleidoscope of glossy brilliance.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: OPI Gel Color Base Coat
- Chrome powder: Daily Charme Chrome Mirror Nail Powder
- Gel top coat: OPI Gel Color Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp
DIY Instructions: After your base coat and cure, apply a black gel polish for base color and cure. Rub the chrome powder onto the surface until it shines. Seal with the OPI top coat and cure for the ultimate high-gloss, multi-dimensional finish.
Earthy Olive Elegance
These olive green nails are the definition of understated elegance. The rich, earthy tone is a nod to nature and works beautifully with a summer wardrobe of linens and light cotton. Its glossy finish reflects sophistication and a grounded style.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat
- Olive green gel polish: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Proper P-Rose”
- Top coat: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp
DIY Instructions: Apply the priming basecoat and cure. Layer on Proper P-Rose for a deep olive expression and cure. Finish with the Miracle Gel Top Coat for a high-gloss look that encapsulates the depth of a forest in full bloom.
Linear Illusion Artistry
A masterclass in precision, these nails feature fine linear art that creates an optical illusion. The soft pink base is the canvas for crisp white lines, with bold pops of yellow and blue that draw the eye along their length. It’s a playful yet meticulous design that demands a second glance.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Essie Here to Stay Base Coat
- Pink gel polish: Essie Gel Couture in “Matter of Fiction”
- White gel polish: Gelish in “Arctic Freeze”
- Detailing brush for fine lines
- Top coat: Essie Gel Setter
DIY Instructions: After the base coat, apply two coats of Matter of Fiction, curing between coats. With a detailing brush, paint fine white lines, and add accents with yellow and blue gel polishes. Finish with Gel Setter for a smooth, protective layer over your miniature artwork.
Pastel Perfection
This ensemble of pastel shades marries the softness of spring with the warmth of summer. The long, tapered shape gives a sophisticated edge to the candy-like hues, making them a perfect match for both formal events and everyday elegance.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Zoya Anchor Base Coat
- Pastel gel polishes: Ciaté London Gelology in “Baby Doll,” “Peach Puff,” and “Bon Bon”
- UV/LED lamp
- Top coat: Zoya Armor Top Coat
DIY Instructions: After prepping with the base coat, apply a different pastel polish to each nail, and cure under the lamp. Finish with a top coat for a long-lasting, glossy sheen that makes these hues pop.
Sunset Sparkle Fade
These nails echo the splendor of a summer sunset with a glittery gradient that fades into a soft yellow. It’s a sparkling design that blends the playfulness of glitter with the serene transition of sunset colors.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Rubberized Basecoat
- Gel polishes: Bio Seaweed Gel in “Sunset” and “Lemonade”
- Glitter: Born Pretty Nail Sequins
- Top coat: Seche Vive Gel Effect Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Begin with the base coat, and once cured, layer the colors from bottom to top, blending them to create a gradient effect. While the top layer is tacky, gently pat the glitter into place and finish with a gel effect top coat for extra durability and shine.
Soft Sparkling French
Reinventing the French manicure, this look features a sparkling pink twist on the classic white tips. The glitter overlay adds a touch of luxury and depth, updating a timeless style with a dash of contemporary glam.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Base Coat
- Pink gel polish: Gelish in “Pink Smoothie”
- Glitter polish: ILNP in “Rose Gold”
- Top coat: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Apply the base coat, followed by Pink Smoothie for a blush-colored base. Tip the nails with Rose Gold glitter, and finish with a top coat for a glossy, lasting French manicure that’s both classic and modern.
Modern French with a Coral Twist
This design offers a modern take on the French manicure by pairing a milky white base with vibrant coral tips. It’s an infusion of summer energy that brings a bold twist to a demure design, perfectly suited for the playful spirit of the season.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Essie Grow Stronger Base Coat
- White gel polish: Essie Gel in “Blanc”
- Coral gel polish: OPI GelColor in “Cajun Shrimp”
- Top coat: Essie Gel.Setter Top Coat
DIY Instructions: After the base coat, apply Blanc for a clean base. Add a stroke of Cajun Shrimp to the tips and seal with Gel.Setter for a pop of color that’s both fresh and familiar.
Blue Skies Ahead
The striking blue color of these nails is reminiscent of a clear summer sky. The bold color combined with the elegant square shape creates a look that is both playful and sophisticated – a true reflection of summer’s carefree yet chic mood.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Smith & Cult Basis of Everything Base Coat
- Blue gel polish: Smith & Cult Gel in “Subnormal”
- Top coat: Smith & Cult Above It All Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Start with a solid foundation using the base coat. Then apply two coats of Subnormal, curing after each. Finish with Above It All Top Coat for a glossy, durable finish that lasts through all your sunny adventures.
Ethereal Pink Sheen
A vision of grace, these nails feature a translucent pink hue with a sheen that’s both ethereal and grounding. The squared tips keep the design modern, while the subtle shimmer makes for a versatile look that complements any summer ensemble.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Morgan Taylor Stick With It Base Coat
- Sheer pink gel polish: OPI Gel Color in “Bubble Bath”
- Shimmer top coat: ILNP “The Magician” Topper
- UV/LED nail lamp
DIY Instructions: Apply your base coat and cure. Layer on “Bubble Bath” for that sheer pink allure, allowing each coat to cure. Top with “The Magician” for that enchanting shimmer, and cure under the lamp to seal in the magic.
Celestial Haze
These nails capture the dreamlike essence of a hazy summer dawn. The subtle ombre from blue to white, kissed with iridescent glitter, mirrors the sky as it brightens with the morning’s first light—delicate, serene, and full of promise.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: CND Shellac Base Coat
- Blue and white gel polish: CND Shellac in “Creekside” and “Cream Puff”
- Iridescent glitter: Light Elegance Glitter Gel in “Disco”
- Top coat: CND Shellac Top Coat
DIY Instructions: After the base coat, apply “Creekside,” fading into “Cream Puff” for a seamless sky-blue gradient. While the polish is tacky, sprinkle “Disco” glitter and cure. Cap with a top coat for enduring sparkle.
Purple Passion with Artistic Flair
The vivid purple of these nails is striking, offering a bold splash of color that’s both passionate and playful. Accented with intricate nail art, these nails are a canvas displaying a unique personality and artistic sensibility.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Gelish Foundation Base Gel
- Purple gel polish: Gelish in “You’re So Vain-illa”
- Nail art pen in black and silver
- Top coat: Gelish Top It Off Gel Polish
DIY Instructions: Apply your base coat and cure, then a layer of “You’re So Vain-illa” for that deep purple. Create the art with the nail pen and let your creativity lead. Finish with a top coat for a protective, glossy finish.
Aquatic Acrylic Infusion
These long, aqua nails with acrylic infusions evoke the clear, tropical waters of a summer getaway. The crystal-clear tips are filled with vibrant encapsulations that are like looking into a kaleidoscope of underwater treasures.
Consumables for Creation:
- Acrylic liquid and powder: Young Nails Acrylic System
- Aqua blue gel polish: Young Nails ManiQ in “Turquoise”
- Encapsulations: Various rhinestones and shells
- Top coat: Young Nails Ultimate Finish Gel
DIY Instructions: Begin with a clear acrylic base. Mix in your encapsulations as you sculpt each tip. Once set, paint with “Turquoise” and cure. Finish with a layer of Ultimate Finish Gel for that glass-like shine.
Swirls of Summer Fun
These nails are a playful dance of color, with swirling designs that are as whimsical as a summer breeze. The pastel palette against a clear base invites a lighthearted joy, echoing the freedom and fun of the season.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Bio Seaweed Gel No-Sanding Base
- Colored gel polishes: A variety of pastel shades from the Bio Seaweed Gel collection
- Detailing brush
- Top coat: Bio Seaweed Gel Diamond Shine Top
DIY Instructions: Apply the base coat and cure. With a detailing brush, swirl your pastel shades on a clear base, blending where they meet for a watercolor effect. Seal with Diamond Shine Top for a smooth, lasting finish.
Vibrant Green Statement
Bold and unapologetically vibrant, these nails are a statement of summer vitality. The squared tips accentuate the lively green, reminiscent of lush summer foliage and outdoor escapades. It’s a choice that says you’re ready to seize the sunny days.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Gellen Base Coat
- Vibrant green gel polish: Gelish “Amazon Flirt”
- Top coat: Gellen No Wipe Glossy Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp
DIY Instructions: Start with a base coat for protection, followed by two coats of “Amazon Flirt” for that vivid green. Cure under a lamp and apply a top coat for a lasting glossy finish.
Whispering Wintermint
The soft, wintermint hue of these nails brings a refreshing coolness to the summer heat. Infused with fine glitter, they sparkle like morning dew under the sun. It’s a delicate balance of cool and warm tones, perfect for those who prefer a subtle nod to summer trends.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Elite99 Base Coat
- Wintermint gel polish: Elite99 “Minty Fresh”
- Fine glitter: Nubar “Hologram Glitter”
- Top coat: Elite99 No Wipe Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Coat your nails with the base, cure, then apply a layer of “Minty Fresh.” Before curing, sprinkle “Hologram Glitter” and seal with a no-wipe top coat for a sparkle that lasts.
Ombre of Elegance
A smooth ombre of rose and white gives these nails an air of elegance. Perfect for summer soirees, the gradient mimics the gentle fade of a summer sky at twilight, while the sleek, rounded tips keep the look modern and refined.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Orly Bonder Base Coat
- Rose gel polish: LeChat Perfect Match “Rose Glow”
- White gel polish: LeChat Perfect Match “Flawless White”
- Sponge for ombre effect
- Top coat: Orly Glosser Top Coat
DIY Instructions: Apply the base coat and cure, then use a sponge to dab on “Rose Glow” and “Flawless White” in layers, blending to create the ombre effect. Finish with “Glosser” for a seamless shine.
Summer’s Berry
“Summer’s Berry” nails boast a juicy berry hue that’s sweet and inviting. With a smooth, jelly-like finish, they’re a perfect representation of summer’s ripest fruits and balmy evenings. Their rounded tips add to the soft, delectable look.
Consumables for Creation:
- Base coat: Beetles Gel Polish Base Coat
- Berry gel polish: Beetles Gel Polish “Berry Much”
- Top coat: Beetles Gel Polish No Wipe Top Coat
- UV/LED nail lamp
DIY Instructions: After the base coat and cure, layer on “Berry Much” for that deep berry color, curing between coats. A no-wipe top coat gives a lustrous finish that’s as tempting as a bowl of summer berries.
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