Let’s get one thing straight: summer nails are not just nails—they’re a whole mood. And if you’re not serving up fresh, fun, Hot Girl Summer energy every time you wave your hands in the sunlight, what are you even doing?
Trust me, I’ve been that girl. You know, the one scrolling through Pinterest at midnight searching “summer nail ideas” like it’s a full-time job. Been there, saved that. So I decided to round up the 13 hottest summer nail looks that actually deliver. These aren’t your basic French tips (no shade… okay, maybe a little)—these are the looks that turn heads, spark DMs, and honestly? They deserve their own poolside photo shoot.
Ready to slay your summer one mani at a time? Let’s gooo. 💅
1. Glazed Donut Nails (Yes, They’re Still That Girl)
Remember when Hailey Bieber casually broke the internet with her shiny, pearly nails? Yeah, that moment lives rent-free in my head.
Why we love it:
That subtle shimmer gives “rich girl who drinks coconut water” vibes.
Goes with literally any outfit.
Makes your hands look 10x tanner (and who doesn’t want that?)
Pro tip: Ask your nail tech for a sheer nude or milky base with chrome powder on top. Boom—instant glam.
2. Neon French Tips
You thought French tips were done? Think again.
The twist? We’re flipping that classy white tip for something way spicier—neon green, hot pink, or electric orange.
Why it slays:
It’s giving “I vacation in Ibiza.”
It’s lowkey bold—just the tips, babe.
Screams confidence without doing the most.
Rhetorical question: Is it even summer if your nails don’t glow in the dark?
3. Aura Nails – But Make It Sunset
Aura nails are still trending hard, but for Hot Girl Summer, we’re taking it up a notch. Think sunset gradients, dreamy pinks melting into orange, or even purple fading into coral.
Why we’re obsessed:
They look like summer bottled into nail form.
The airbrushed vibes are just chef’s kiss.
Bonus: They’re hypnotic to look at. Trust me, I’ve stared at mine in traffic. (Don’t judge.)
4. Blue Chrome – Mermaidcore Magic
If “Hot Girl Summer” had a fantasy spin-off, it would be Mermaidcore, and blue chrome is the queen of that castle.
Picture this: shimmering aqua nails catching the light while you sip a margarita on a boat. You are the moment.
Top reasons to try:
It’s bold, but still wearable.
Perfect for beach days or nights out.
Makes short nails look ✨fancy✨ too.
5. Jelly Nails – Basically Lip Gloss for Your Fingers
Raise your hand if you remember the jelly sandals from the early 2000s. Now imagine that but on your nails.
What to expect:
Bright, translucent colors.
Glossy AF finish.
That nostalgic, Y2K pop star energy.
FYI: Orange jelly nails with gold rings? Instant it-girl.
6. Fruit-Inspired Nail Art (Because Why Not?)
Strawberries, lemons, cherries—if it looks cute on a picnic table, it’s even cuter on your nails.
Here’s the tea:
It’s playful, fun, and screams “I’m booked and busy… at brunch.”
Works with both short and long nails.
Basically turns your hands into summer décor.
IMO: Strawberry tips > French tips. 🍓
7. Rainbow Pastels – Soft, But Make It Statement
Let’s be real—committing to one color is hard. So don’t.
Go with a different pastel shade on each nail and live your best unicorn life.
Why it’s a win:
It’s trendy but low-effort.
Pairs perfectly with literally every outfit.
Feels like sunshine in nail form.
8. Matte Coral Nails – Sleek & Chic
Glossy nails get all the love, but matte coral is seriously underrated.
Why I swear by it:
Looks clean, fresh, and fashion-forward.
Coral flatters every skin tone.
Great for weddings, beach parties, or just flexing at the office.
Need a little adulting energy with your hot girl nails? This one’s for you.
9. Barbiecore Pink (You Knew This Was Coming)
Thanks to Miss Barbie herself, bold hot pink is everywhere—and we’re not mad about it.
What you’re signing up for:
Maximum attention.
Instant serotonin boost.
Channeling your inner icon.
Pair it with rhinestones or keep it sleek. Either way, it’s giving.
10. Swirly Abstract Lines – Artsy Babe Energy
Not into bold colors? Cool. But you can still get in on the fun with neutral swirls or soft, artsy lines.
Why it’s perfect:
It looks expensive. Like, “I read Vogue for fun” expensive.
Customizable to your fave colors.
Perfect for minimalists who want just a lil spice.
11. Watermelon Nails – Hear Me Out
This one’s for the bold babes. Bright green tips + red base + black dot accents? It’s so extra, and I’m obsessed.
Don’t roll your eyes just yet:
It’s fun. Period.
Perfect for summer BBQs.
Instagram-worthy? Absolutely.
If you’ve got the confidence, this is your nail look. 🍉
12. Minimalist White Nails – Clean Girl Approved
If you’re not into all the colors and sparkles (you okay tho?), go for a sleek white mani.
Why it works every. single. time:
Clean, crisp, and effortlessly chic.
Pairs with every summer ‘fit.
Pops against tan skin like no other.
It’s the LBD of summer nails.
13. Glitter Fade – Because Hot Girls Sparkle
Want to glam it up without doing the most? Try a glitter ombré fade. Think nude or pink base with gold or silver glitter fading from the cuticle.
Why I always go back to this look:
Looks fancy without trying.
Hides chips better than most designs. (Lazy girl hack 😏)
Pairs well with everything—from beachwear to bridal.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Summer Nail Vibe?
Let’s be honest—summer’s too short for boring nails. Whether you’re going full neon Barbiecore or keeping it chic with pearly white tips, your mani deserves to match the main-character energy you’re radiating this season.
Hot Girl Summer isn’t about looking a certain way—it’s about feeling yourself unapologetically. So pick a look (or five), screenshot your faves, and run—don’t walk—to your nail tech. Or, if you’re a DIY queen, light a candle, grab your polish stash, and get painting. 💅