21 Summer Neutral Nail Color Designs for 2024: Best Shades for All Skin Tones and Styles

As the warm breeze of summer 2024 approaches, it’s time to refresh your nail game with the latest trends in neutral nail colors. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hitting the beach, or attending a summer soirée, having perfectly polished nails is a must. Neutral nail colors are a timeless choice that exudes elegance and versatility, making them perfect for any occasion.

Neutral French Manicure with a Twist

This classic French manicure features a subtle twist, perfect for those who love a minimalist look with a modern touch. The base is a soft nude shade, while the tips are delicately painted in a crisp white. This design is timeless and versatile, suitable for any summer occasion. The clean lines and understated elegance make it a favorite among those who prefer a sophisticated yet simple look.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Bubble Bath”
  • Tip Color: OPI’s “Alpine Snow”
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for precision
  • Nail File: Glass nail file for smooth edges
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Start by shaping your nails with a glass nail file to achieve smooth edges.
  2. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
  3. Paint the base color using OPI’s “Bubble Bath” and let it dry completely.
  4. Use a fine tip nail art brush to apply OPI’s “Alpine Snow” on the tips, creating a clean French line.
  5. Finish with a layer of Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a glossy finish.

Elegant Black with Subtle Glitter

For a chic and modern look, these short nails are painted in a sleek black polish with tiny glitter accents. The dark hue contrasts beautifully with the subtle sparkle, making it a perfect choice for evening events or a bold daytime statement. This design is all about sophistication and glamour without being overly flashy.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: DND’s “Black Licorice”
  • Glitter Polish: Essie’s “Set in Stones”
  • Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off
  • Nail Brush: Flat nail brush for smooth application
  • Nail File: Emery board for shaping
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails using an emery board.
  2. Apply a base coat to prepare your nails.
  3. Paint your nails with DND’s “Black Licorice” and allow them to dry.
  4. Add a touch of glitter using Essie’s “Set in Stones,” focusing on the tips or a gradient effect.
  5. Seal the design with Gelish Top It Off for a long-lasting shine.

Classic Nude with a Matte Finish

This nude nail design is a quintessential example of elegance and simplicity. The matte finish adds a modern twist to the classic nude shade, making it perfect for any summer outing. The neutral tone is flattering on all skin tones, providing a polished look that is both subtle and sophisticated.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: SNS’s “Nude Pink”
  • Matte Top Coat: OPI’s Matte Top Coat
  • Nail Buffer: For a smooth base
  • Nail File: Buffer block for matte finish
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Begin by buffing your nails to create a smooth surface.
  2. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
  3. Use SNS’s “Nude Pink” for the base color, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Once dry, apply OPI’s Matte Top Coat for a chic matte finish.
  5. Use a buffer block to gently smooth out any uneven edges.

Minimalist Line Art

This design showcases a minimalist approach with clean lines and dots, perfect for those who love understated elegance. The nude base is complemented by delicate black lines and dots, creating a sophisticated look that’s ideal for any occasion. This simple yet stylish design highlights the beauty of minimalism in nail art.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Put it in Neutral”
  • Line Art: Essie’s “Licorice” (black)
  • Top Coat: Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Ultra-fine nail art brush for precision lines
  • Dotting Tool: Small dotting tool for accurate dots
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Start by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Apply OPI’s “Put it in Neutral” for the base color.
  3. Using an ultra-fine nail art brush, draw clean black lines with Essie’s “Licorice.”
  4. Add small dots with a dotting tool to complete the design.
  5. Finish with Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Top Coat for durability.

Neutral Gradient with Music Lines

This design features a sophisticated gradient from nude to sheer pink, with a unique accent of fine black lines on the thumb. The gradient effect is smooth and elegant, making it a versatile look for any summer event. The musical lines add a creative and personal touch to the classic gradient.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Bubble Bath”
  • Gradient Effect: Makeup sponge for blending
  • Line Art: DND’s “Black Licorice”
  • Top Coat: Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Thin nail art brush for precise lines
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Use a makeup sponge to create a gradient effect with OPI’s “Bubble Bath.”
  3. Draw fine black lines on the thumb using DND’s “Black Licorice” and a thin nail art brush.
  4. Seal the design with Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat for a long-lasting finish.

Pastel Lavender with Floral Accent

This delightful design combines a soft pastel lavender with a delicate floral accent on the ring finger. The lavender color is perfect for a fresh, summer look, while the floral detail adds a touch of elegance and femininity. This design is ideal for those who love a gentle, romantic style.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: SNS’s “Lavender”
  • Accent Color: OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the floral detail
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for floral detail
  • Nail File: Buffer block for smooth application
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Begin by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with SNS’s “Lavender” for the base color.
  3. Use OPI’s “Alpine Snow” and a fine tip nail art brush to create the floral detail on the ring finger.
  4. Apply Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to seal and protect your design.

Abstract Art with Neutral Base

This abstract nail design features a neutral base with splashes of color and intricate patterns. The combination of nude and vibrant colors creates a unique and eye-catching look. This design is perfect for those who enjoy artistic and creative nail art that stands out.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Samoan Sand”
  • Accent Colors: Essie’s “Butler Please,” “Blanc,” and “Hay There”
  • Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off
  • Nail Brush: Flat and fine tip brushes for abstract details
  • Dotting Tool: For precise dots and patterns
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Samoan Sand” as the base color.
  3. Use flat and fine tip brushes to apply Essie’s “Butler Please,” “Blanc,” and “Hay There” for the abstract patterns.
  4. Add precise dots with a dotting tool.
  5. Finish with Gelish Top It Off to ensure a long-lasting and glossy finish.

Glittering Accent Nail

This glamorous nail design features a neutral base with a dazzling accent nail covered in multi-colored rhinestones. The combination of subtle nude and sparkling embellishments creates a striking contrast that’s perfect for making a statement. This design is ideal for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of glamour to your look.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Dulce de Leche”
  • Rhinestones: Mixed sizes and colors
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Glue: For securing rhinestones
  • Tweezers: For precise placement of rhinestones
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Dulce de Leche” as the base color.
  3. Use nail glue to place rhinestones on the accent nail, arranging them in a pattern you like.
  4. Secure the rhinestones with a layer of Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a long-lasting finish.

Matte Nude with Geometric Lines

This design combines a matte nude base with fine black geometric lines, creating a sleek and modern look. The lines add a unique and artistic touch, making this design perfect for those who love minimalist yet striking nail art. The matte finish enhances the elegance of the design.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: DND’s “Sandy Nude”
  • Line Art: Essie’s “Licorice” (black)
  • Matte Top Coat: OPI’s Matte Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for precise lines
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Begin by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with DND’s “Sandy Nude” for the base color.
  3. Use Essie’s “Licorice” and a fine tip nail art brush to draw geometric lines on each nail.
  4. Finish with OPI’s Matte Top Coat to achieve a chic matte look.

Black and Nude Abstract Art

This striking design features a mix of glossy black and nude nails with abstract art on the accent nail. The combination of bold black and soft nude creates a dramatic effect, perfect for those who love edgy and artistic nail designs. The abstract art adds a unique and creative touch.

Consumables:

• • Base Colors: OPI’s “Black Onyx” and “Samoan Sand”
  • Abstract Art: Essie’s “Licorice” and white polish for contrast
  • Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brushes for abstract details
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint most nails with OPI’s “Black Onyx” and the accent nails with “Samoan Sand.”
  3. Use Essie’s “Licorice” and a fine tip brush to create abstract designs on the accent nails.
  4. Finish with Gelish Top It Off to seal and protect your design.

Soft Pink Matte with Leaf Accent

This elegant design features a soft pink matte base with a delicate leaf accent on the ring finger. The matte finish adds a sophisticated touch to the gentle pink hue, while the leaf accent brings a bit of nature-inspired charm. This design is perfect for a classy and understated summer look.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: SNS’s “Pink Blossom”
  • Matte Top Coat: OPI’s Matte Top Coat
  • Leaf Accent: Black nail art pen or fine tip brush
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for the leaf design
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Start by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with SNS’s “Pink Blossom” for the base color.
  3. Use a black nail art pen or fine tip brush to draw the leaf accent on the ring finger.
  4. Apply OPI’s Matte Top Coat to give a chic matte finish.

Bold Blue and White Combo

This eye-catching nail design features a striking combination of bold blue and crisp white. The vibrant blue color contrasts beautifully with the clean white, and a small heart detail adds a playful touch. This design is perfect for those who love to make a statement with their nails.

Consumables:

• • Base Colors: OPI’s “Funny Bunny” (white) and Essie’s “Butler Please” (blue)
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for the heart detail
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Funny Bunny” and Essie’s “Butler Please” as desired.
  3. Use a fine tip nail art brush to add the heart detail in blue on the white nail.
  4. Finish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a glossy finish.

Speckled Neutrals

This unique design features a speckled effect over a neutral base. The speckles add a fun and textured look to the nails, making them stand out without being too flashy. This design is perfect for those who love a bit of creativity and texture in their manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: DND’s “Soft Nude”
  • Speckled Polish: Black speckled top coat
  • Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off
  • Nail Brush: Flat nail brush for smooth application
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with DND’s “Soft Nude” for the base color.
  3. Apply the black speckled top coat for a textured effect.
  4. Seal the design with Gelish Top It Off for a durable finish.

Elegant Nude with Glitter and Stripes

This sophisticated nail design features a nude base with glitter accents and fine stripe details. The combination of nude, glitter, and stripes creates a classy and elegant look, perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Samoan Sand”
  • Glitter Polish: Essie’s “Set in Stones”
  • Stripe Detail: Silver striping tape
  • Top Coat: Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for precision
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Samoan Sand” for the base color.
  3. Apply Essie’s “Set in Stones” on accent nails for a glitter effect.
  4. Use silver striping tape to add fine stripe details.
  5. Finish with Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat for a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Soft Green with Leaf Accents

This refreshing design features a soft green matte base with delicate leaf accents on a neutral background. The combination of matte green and natural leaf details creates a serene and nature-inspired look, perfect for a calming summer manicure.

Consumables:

• • Base Colors: SNS’s “Mint Green” and OPI’s “Put it in Neutral”
  • Matte Top Coat: OPI’s Matte Top Coat
  • Leaf Detail: Black nail art pen or fine tip brush
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for the leaf design
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Start by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with SNS’s “Mint Green” and OPI’s “Put it in Neutral” for the base colors.
  3. Use a black nail art pen or fine tip brush to draw the leaf accents on the neutral nails.
  4. Apply OPI’s Matte Top Coat for a chic matte finish.

Icy Blue with Glitter Accents

This elegant nail design features an icy blue base with glitter accents near the cuticles. The soft blue color is both calming and stylish, while the glitter adds a touch of glamour. This design is perfect for those who love a cool and chic look for the summer.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “I Can Never Hut Up”
  • Glitter: Mixed sizes of blue and silver glitter
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for glitter application
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “I Can Never Hut Up” for the base color.
  3. Use a fine tip nail art brush to apply blue and silver glitter near the cuticles.
  4. Finish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to secure the glitter and add shine.

Soft Pink with Leaf Detail

This sophisticated design features a soft pink base with a delicate leaf detail on the accent nail. The combination of pink and natural leaf design creates a beautiful and elegant look, perfect for summer. This design is ideal for those who love subtle yet stylish nail art.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: Essie’s “Ballet Slippers”
  • Leaf Detail: Black nail art pen or fine tip brush
  • Top Coat: Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for leaf design
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Begin by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” for the base color.
  3. Use a black nail art pen or fine tip brush to draw the leaf detail on the accent nail.
  4. Apply Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat to finish and protect your design.

Peachy Perfection with Artistic Accent

This vibrant design features a peachy base with an artistic accent nail. The bright peach color is perfect for summer, while the detailed accent nail adds a touch of creativity and personality. This design is ideal for those who love bold and fun nails.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Cajun Shrimp”
  • Accent Detail: Black and yellow nail art pens
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip nail art brush for accent details
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Cajun Shrimp” for the base color.
  3. Use black and yellow nail art pens to create the artistic design on the accent nail.
  4. Finish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to add shine and durability

Forest Green with Gold Accents

This stunning design features a forest green base with gold accents and intricate patterns. The deep green color is rich and elegant, while the gold details add a touch of luxury. This design is perfect for those who love a sophisticated and striking look.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: DND’s “Green Forest”
  • Gold Accent: Gold nail art foil or polish
  • Top Coat: Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for gold details
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Begin by shaping your nails and applying a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with DND’s “Green Forest” for the base color.
  3. Use gold nail art foil or polish and a fine tip brush to create the gold accents and patterns.
  4. Finish with Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat to protect and enhance the design.

White Elegance with Gold and Black Accents

This sophisticated design features a milky white base with elegant gold and black accents. The combination of white with touches of gold foil and black lines creates a luxurious and artistic look, perfect for any special occasion. The long almond shape adds to the elegance of this design.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: OPI’s “Funny Bunny”
  • Gold Foil: Gold nail art foil
  • Black Detail: Black nail art pen or fine tip brush
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for precision
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails into a long almond shape and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with OPI’s “Funny Bunny” for a milky white base color.
  3. Apply gold foil randomly on the accent nails using a fine tip brush.
  4. Use a black nail art pen or fine tip brush to draw delicate black lines around the gold foil.
  5. Finish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Classic French with Leopard Print Tips

This chic design blends the timeless French manicure with a trendy leopard print on the tips. The white base and clear tips decorated with black and silver leopard spots make this design stylish and modern, perfect for those who love to mix classic and contemporary styles.

Consumables:

• • Base Color: Essie’s “Blanc”
  • Leopard Print: Black and silver nail art pens or polish
  • Top Coat: Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail Brush: Fine tip brush for leopard print
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Shape your nails into a square or squoval shape and apply a base coat.
  2. Paint your nails with Essie’s “Blanc” for the base color.
  3. Use black and silver nail art pens or a fine tip brush to create leopard print spots on the tips.
  4. Apply Essie’s Gel Couture Top Coat to seal and protect the design.