21 Stunning Summer Manicure Ideas for 2024: Gel, Short Nails, and Natural Designs for a Chic Look

As the sun starts to shine brighter and the days grow longer, it’s time to update our manicure game to match the vibrant energy of summer. Whether you’re a fan of short nails, gel nails, or natural looks, summer 2024 has a plethora of stunning manicure ideas for you. Let’s dive into some of the best summer manicure ideas that will keep your nails looking chic and stylish all season long.

Short nails with pastel blue and nude accents

When it comes to summer manicure ideas for short nails, this pastel blue and nude combination is a showstopper. The subtle waves of blue against a nude base create a serene, beach-inspired look that’s perfect for sunny days. The glossy finish adds a touch of elegance, making this design suitable for both casual outings and sophisticated events. The soft hues are gentle on the eyes and exude a calm, refreshing vibe, ideal for the summer season.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
• Pastel blue nail polish (e.g., Zoya Blu)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Dotting tool (optional)

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of the nude polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush, create soft waves with the pastel blue polish on each nail. For added precision, you can use a dotting tool to outline the waves first.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Neon green and white summer gel nails

If you’re looking for bold summer manicure ideas gel, this neon green and white combo will make your nails pop. The vibrant green tips against a clean white base are eye-catching and perfect for those who love to stand out. This gel simple design is not only striking but also easy to maintain, making it a fantastic choice for busy summer days. The neon green embodies the lively spirit of summer, while the white keeps the look fresh and clean.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Gelish Foundation Base Gel)
• White gel polish (e.g., Gelish Arctic Freeze)
• Neon green gel polish (e.g., Gelish Amazon Flirt)
• Top coat (e.g., Gelish Top It Off)
• UV/LED lamp
• Nail cleanser (e.g., Gelish Cleanser)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Prepare your nails by shaping them and pushing back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
2. Apply two coats of white gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
3. Using a nail art brush, carefully paint the neon green tips. Cure under the lamp after achieving the desired look.
4. Seal the design with a top coat and cure it once more.
5. Cleanse your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue and reveal the glossy finish.

Floral accents on a neutral base

For those who prefer a more subtle approach, these summer manicure ideas natural nails with delicate floral accents are perfect. The soft white base provides a clean canvas, allowing the intricate floral designs to stand out. This look is effortlessly chic and versatile, suitable for any summer occasion. The flowers add a touch of nature and femininity to the manicure, making it a timeless choice.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Double Duty Base & Top Coat)
• White nail polish (e.g., OPI Alpine Snow)
• Floral nail stickers or decals
• Top coat (e.g., Essie Gel Couture Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean nails and apply a base coat to protect them.
2. Apply two coats of white polish, letting each layer dry completely.
3. Use tweezers to carefully place the floral stickers or decals on the desired nails.
4. Press the stickers gently to ensure they adhere well.
5. Apply a generous layer of top coat to seal the design and add shine.
6. Allow the top coat to dry thoroughly to prevent any peeling.

Abstract Art on Pink and Nude Base

This manicure showcases an elegant blend of abstract art on a soft pink and nude base, perfect for those who love sophisticated yet creative summer manicure ideas. The design features delicate black and silver accents, creating a striking contrast against the pastel background. The random yet cohesive patterns add an artistic flair, making this style suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions. The matte finish gives it a modern edge, ensuring your nails are on-trend for summer 2024.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Soft pink nail polish (e.g., Zoya Dot)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Samoan Sand)
• Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Licorice)
• Silver foil or polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Silver Sweep)
• Matte top coat (e.g., Essie Matte About You)
• Nail art brush
• Dotting tool

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean, shaped nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of the soft pink polish on some nails and the nude polish on others, letting each layer dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush, create abstract black patterns on the nails. Add silver accents using silver foil or polish.
4. Once the design is dry, apply a matte top coat to seal the look and add a modern finish.
5. Allow the nails to dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

White and Gold Marble Nails

These white and gold marble nails are the epitome of luxury and elegance, making them a fantastic choice for summer manicure ideas gel. The combination of crisp white and shimmering gold creates a sophisticated and timeless look. The marble effect adds a touch of class, ensuring your nails will be a conversation starter. This design is perfect for both formal events and casual outings, blending simplicity with opulence.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Gelish Foundation Base Gel)
• White gel polish (e.g., Gelish Arctic Freeze)
• Gold foil or polish (e.g., Gelish Good Gossip)
• Top coat (e.g., Gelish Top It Off)
• UV/LED lamp
• Nail cleanser (e.g., Gelish Cleanser)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Prepare your nails by shaping them and pushing back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
2. Apply two coats of white gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
3. Create the marble effect by applying thin strokes of gold polish or placing gold foil on the nails.
4. Seal the design with a top coat and cure it once more under the lamp.
5. Cleanse your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue and reveal the glossy finish.

Vibrant Pink and Black Abstract Nails

For those who love bold and eye-catching designs, these vibrant pink and black abstract nails are a must-try for summer manicure ideas short nails pink. The playful patterns and vivid colors make a strong statement, perfect for the adventurous fashionista. The combination of hot pink, black, and white creates a dynamic and energetic look, embodying the fun spirit of summer.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• Hot pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Fiesta)
• Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Black Onyx)
• White nail polish (e.g., Essie Blanc)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Dotting tool

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of the hot pink polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush and dotting tool, create abstract patterns with black and white polish on each nail.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Gold Foil Leopard Print on Nude Base

For a chic and glamorous look, these gold foil leopard print nails on a nude base are perfect for summer manicure ideas natural nails. The nude base keeps the design subtle and sophisticated, while the gold foil adds a touch of luxury. This design is great for those who want to add a bit of wild flair to their summer manicure without going overboard. The leopard print is a classic pattern that remains stylish year after year.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Bubble Bath)
• Black nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Black Out)
• Gold foil or polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Gold)
• Top coat (e.g., Essie Good to Go)
• Nail art brush
• Dotting tool

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean, shaped nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of the nude polish, letting each layer dry completely.
3. Using a nail art brush and dotting tool, create leopard spots with black polish. Add gold foil accents to some of the spots for a touch of luxury.
4. Once the design is dry, apply a top coat to seal the look and add shine.
5. Allow the nails to dry thoroughly before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Pastel Swirls with Metallic Accents

These pastel swirl nails with metallic accents are the epitome of fun and sophistication for summer manicure ideas 2024. The blend of pink, blue, and green pastels with delicate metallic lines creates a whimsical yet elegant look. The combination of soft colors and metallic highlights makes this design perfect for both day and night events. The smooth swirls and clean lines add a dynamic touch to the nails, embodying the playful spirit of summer.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Pastel pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Fiji)
• Pastel blue nail polish (e.g., Zoya Blu)
• Pastel green nail polish (e.g., OPI This Isn’t Greenland)
• Metallic nail polish or striping tape (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Silver Sweep)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of pastel pink, blue, and green polishes in random sections on each nail, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush, create swirling patterns with the metallic polish or apply metallic striping tape along the swirl edges.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

White and Silver Abstract Gel Nails

For those who love a minimalist yet luxurious look, these white and silver abstract nails are a fantastic choice for summer manicure ideas gel. The combination of crisp white and shimmering silver foil creates a sophisticated and timeless design. The abstract patterns add a modern edge, making this manicure perfect for both formal and casual occasions. This design highlights the beauty of simplicity with a touch of glamour.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Gelish Foundation Base Gel)
• White gel polish (e.g., Gelish Arctic Freeze)
• Silver foil or polish (e.g., Gelish Good Gossip)
• Top coat (e.g., Gelish Top It Off)
• UV/LED lamp
• Nail cleanser (e.g., Gelish Cleanser)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Prepare your nails by shaping them and pushing back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
2. Apply two coats of white gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
3. Create abstract patterns with silver foil or polish, using a nail art brush for precision.
4. Seal the design with a top coat and cure it once more under the lamp.
5. Cleanse your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue and reveal the glossy finish.

Floral and Pink Accents

These nails feature a beautiful blend of pink and nude shades with delicate floral accents, perfect for summer manicure ideas natural nails. The soft hues and intricate floral designs create a romantic and feminine look. This manicure is versatile and can be worn to various summer events, from garden parties to weddings. The floral accents add a touch of nature, making your nails look fresh and vibrant.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Sally Hansen Double Duty Base & Top Coat)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Bubble Bath)
• Pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
• Floral nail stickers or decals
• Top coat (e.g., Essie Gel Couture Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean nails and apply a base coat to protect them.
2. Apply two coats of nude polish on some nails and pink polish on others, letting each layer dry completely.
3. Use tweezers to carefully place the floral stickers or decals on the desired nails.
4. Press the stickers gently to ensure they adhere well.
5. Apply a generous layer of top coat to seal the design and add shine.
6. Allow the top coat to dry thoroughly to prevent any peeling.

Textured and Floral Pink Nails

For a unique and textured look, these pink nails with floral accents are an excellent choice for summer manicure ideas short nails simple. The combination of smooth pink polish, textured patterns, and delicate floral designs creates a sophisticated and elegant look. This manicure is perfect for those who love to add a bit of detail and texture to their nails while keeping it simple and chic.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• Pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Fiji)
• Textured nail polish or powder (e.g., Sally Hansen Sugar Coat)
• Floral nail stickers or decals
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of pink polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Apply textured polish or powder on one or two nails for added effect.
4. Using tweezers, place floral stickers or decals on the desired nails.
5. Seal the design with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
6. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Soft Pastel and White Geometric Design

These soft pastel nails with geometric white lines are perfect for those who love a subtle yet artistic summer manicure. The blend of pastel blue and nude pink with delicate white geometric patterns creates a serene and sophisticated look. The design’s minimalistic approach makes it suitable for both casual and formal settings, ensuring your nails look effortlessly chic throughout the summer.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Pastel blue nail polish (e.g., Zoya Blu)
• Nude pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
• White nail polish (e.g., OPI Alpine Snow)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Thin striping tape or fine liner brush

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of pastel blue on some nails and nude pink on others, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a fine liner brush or striping tape, create geometric patterns with the white polish.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Elegant White and Gold Sculpted Nails

For a luxurious and textured look, these elegant white and gold sculpted nails are a standout for summer manicure ideas gel art designs. The combination of smooth white polish, gold accents, and textured sculptures creates a sophisticated and opulent design. This manicure is perfect for those who want to add a touch of artistry to their nails, making them a focal point for any summer event.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Gelish Foundation Base Gel)
• White gel polish (e.g., Gelish Arctic Freeze)
• Gold foil or polish (e.g., Gelish Good Gossip)
• Top coat (e.g., Gelish Top It Off)
• UV/LED lamp
• Nail cleanser (e.g., Gelish Cleanser)
• Nail art brush
• Sculpting gel or textured powder

DIY Instructions

1. Prepare your nails by shaping them and pushing back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
2. Apply two coats of white gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
3. Create textured sculptures using sculpting gel or powder, and add gold accents as desired.
4. Seal the design with a top coat and cure it once more under the lamp.
5. Cleanse your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue and reveal the glossy finish.

Floral and Black Gold Accent Nails

These nails feature a striking combination of black, gold, and floral accents, perfect for those seeking bold summer manicure ideas natural nails. The rich black base is adorned with delicate floral patterns and shimmering gold accents, creating a dramatic yet elegant look. This manicure is ideal for evening events or whenever you want your nails to make a statement.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Licorice)
• Gold foil or polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Gold)
• Floral nail stickers or decals
• Top coat (e.g., Essie Good to Go)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean, shaped nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of black polish, letting each layer dry completely.
3. Use tweezers to carefully place the floral stickers or decals on the desired nails.
4. Add gold accents using gold foil or polish for a touch of glamour.
5. Apply a generous layer of top coat to seal the design and add shine.
6. Allow the top coat to dry thoroughly to prevent any peeling.

White and Silver Textured Nails

These white and silver textured nails are perfect for a sleek and modern summer manicure. The combination of smooth white polish and silver textured accents creates a contemporary and stylish look. This manicure is ideal for those who love a clean and polished appearance with a touch of texture for added interest.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• White nail polish (e.g., Essie Blanc)
• Silver textured polish or powder (e.g., Sally Hansen Sugar Coat)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Silver studs or beads (optional)

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of white polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Apply silver textured polish or powder on one or two nails for added effect.
4. Add silver studs or beads for extra detail if desired.
5. Seal the design with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
6. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Nude Base with Gold Foil Accents

This nude base with gold foil accents is perfect for those who love understated elegance in their summer manicure ideas. The neutral nude color is complemented beautifully by the shimmering gold foil, creating a sophisticated and timeless look. The delicate foil pieces add just the right amount of sparkle, making this design suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Bubble Bath)
• Gold foil (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Gold)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of nude polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using tweezers, carefully place gold foil pieces on each nail while the polish is still tacky.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Abstract Fire Design with Matte Finish

For a bold and fiery look, these abstract fire nails are a must-try for summer manicure ideas 2024. The matte finish adds a modern twist to the vibrant orange, red, and black flames, creating a striking and edgy appearance. This design is perfect for those who want their nails to stand out and make a statement. The abstract shapes give a unique and artistic feel, making this manicure truly one-of-a-kind.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
• Orange nail polish (e.g., Essie Meet Me At Sunset)
• Red nail polish (e.g., OPI Big Apple Red)
• Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Licorice)
• Matte top coat (e.g., Essie Matte About You)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of nude polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush, create abstract flame shapes with orange, red, and black polishes.
4. Once the design is dry, apply a matte top coat to seal the look and add a modern finish.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

White and Gold Sculpted Nails

These white and gold sculpted nails are the epitome of luxury and elegance for summer manicure ideas gel art designs. The combination of pristine white polish and rich gold accents creates a sophisticated and opulent look. The sculpted gold designs add texture and depth, making this manicure a true work of art. This design is perfect for those who love to make a statement with their nails.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Gelish Foundation Base Gel)
• White gel polish (e.g., Gelish Arctic Freeze)
• Gold sculpting gel or polish (e.g., Gelish Good Gossip)
• Top coat (e.g., Gelish Top It Off)
• UV/LED lamp
• Nail cleanser (e.g., Gelish Cleanser)
• Sculpting tools

DIY Instructions

1. Prepare your nails by shaping them and pushing back the cuticles. Apply a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.
2. Apply two coats of white gel polish, curing each layer under the lamp.
3. Create sculpted gold designs using sculpting gel or polish, and cure under the lamp.
4. Seal the design with a top coat and cure it once more under the lamp.
5. Cleanse your nails with a nail cleanser to remove any sticky residue and reveal the glossy finish.

Glittery Purple and Clear Cracked Nails

For a dazzling and enchanting look, these glittery purple and clear cracked nails are perfect for summer manicure ideas short nails pink. The combination of purple glitter and clear cracked tips creates a magical and mesmerizing effect. This design is ideal for those who love a bit of sparkle and want their nails to shine bright in the summer sun. The clear cracked tips add a unique twist, making this manicure truly special.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Purple glitter nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Let’s Jam)
• Clear polish (e.g., OPI Top Coat)
• Cracked effect polish or foil (e.g., Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat)
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of purple glitter polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Apply clear polish on the tips and use cracked effect polish or foil for the unique design.
4. Once the design is dry, seal it with a high-gloss top coat to add shine and longevity.
5. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Yellow and White Abstract Design

This yellow and white abstract nail design is a refreshing and modern take on summer manicure ideas gel simple. The bright yellow swirls on a matte white base create a vibrant and artistic look, perfect for the sunny days ahead. The black dotted accents and gold leaf details add a touch of elegance and complexity, making this manicure ideal for those who love a bold yet sophisticated style. The matte finish enhances the design, giving it a sleek and contemporary feel.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., OPI Natural Nail Base Coat)
• White nail polish (e.g., Essie Blanc)
• Yellow nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Happy Go Lucky)
• Black nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Black Out)
• Gold leaf or foil (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Gold)
• Matte top coat (e.g., Essie Matte About You)
• Nail art brush

DIY Instructions

1. Start with clean, filed nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of white polish, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
3. Using a nail art brush, create yellow swirls on some nails.
4. Add black dotted accents and gold leaf details as desired.
5. Once the design is dry, apply a matte top coat to seal the look and add a modern finish.
6. Let your nails dry completely before touching anything to avoid smudges.

Pastel Blue and Pink Floral Design

This pastel blue and pink floral design is a delicate and feminine choice for summer manicure ideas short nails. The soft pastel colors blend beautifully with the subtle floral patterns, creating a serene and elegant look. This manicure is perfect for those who prefer a more understated yet charming style. The intricate floral details add a touch of nature, making your nails look fresh and sophisticated.

Consumables List

• Base coat (e.g., Essie First Base)
• Pastel blue nail polish (e.g., Zoya Blu)
• Pastel pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Ballet Slippers)
• Floral nail stickers or decals
• Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
• Nail art brush
• Tweezers

DIY Instructions

1. Begin with clean, shaped nails and apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of pastel blue on some nails and pastel pink on others, letting each layer dry completely.
3. Use tweezers to carefully place the floral stickers or decals on the desired nails.
4. Press the stickers gently to ensure they adhere well.
5. Apply a generous layer of top coat to seal the design and add shine.
6. Allow the top coat to dry thoroughly to prevent any peeling.