Cool Summer Nails 2024: Trendy Designs to Inspire Your Next Manicure

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new nail designs and colors. Whether you prefer short, almond, or long nails, there are countless ways to make your nails stand out. In this article, we’ll explore some of the coolest summer nail ideas for 2024, with detailed descriptions and DIY instructions for each design. Get ready to be inspired by the latest trends in cool summer nails!

Leopard Print Nails

Leopard print nails are a timeless design that never goes out of style. This bold and chic look is perfect for making a statement this summer. The design features a nude base with striking black and orange leopard spots, creating a stunning contrast that’s sure to turn heads.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Dulce de Leche”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Licorice”)
  • Orange nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in “Orange Zest”)
  • Dotting tool or fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using the dotting tool, create irregular black spots on each nail.
   4. Add orange spots around the black spots to complete the leopard print effect.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Matte Neutral Nails with Floral Accent

Matte neutral nails are a sophisticated choice for summer. This design features a mix of matte beige and taupe shades, with a delicate floral accent on one nail. The contrast between the matte finish and the glossy floral details adds a touch of elegance to this understated look.

• Consumables:
  • Matte beige nail polish (e.g., Zoya Matte Velvet Lacquer in “Dovima”)
  • Taupe nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Chinchilly”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard As Nails in “White On”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (optional for the accent nail)
• DIY Instructions:
  1. Apply a matte base coat to protect your nails.
  2. Paint your nails with the beige and taupe polishes, alternating colors for a mixed look.
  3. Using the fine nail art brush, create delicate floral patterns on one nail with the black and white polishes.
  4. Allow the design to dry completely, then add a top coat to the accent nail if desired.

Ombre Stiletto Nails

For those who love dramatic and edgy nails, ombre stiletto nails are a must-try. This design features a gradient effect from deep red to white, creating a striking and bold look. The long stiletto shape adds to the drama, making these nails perfect for summer nights out.

Consumables:

• • Deep red nail polish (e.g., Essie Gel Couture in “Rock the Runway”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”)
  • Makeup sponge
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the white polish as a base and let it dry.
   3. On a makeup sponge, apply both the red and white polishes side by side.
   4. Dab the sponge onto your nails to create the ombre effect, blending the colors smoothly.
   5. Repeat until the desired intensity is achieved, then finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Tropical Vibes with Leaf Accents

Nothing says summer like tropical leaves! This design features a soft nude base with black and gold leaf accents, creating a chic and elegant look perfect for any summer occasion. The leaf patterns add a touch of nature to your nails, making them perfect for beach outings or tropical vacations.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Ballet Slippers”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • Gold foil or gold nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Game of Chromes”)
  • Leaf nail stickers or decals
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Apply the black and gold leaf stickers or decals on each nail.
   4. Add gold foil accents around the leaves for a more glamorous look.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Bold Yellow with Leopard Stripes

Brighten up your summer with bold yellow nails featuring trendy leopard stripes. This design combines the vibrancy of yellow with the edginess of leopard print, making your nails a standout accessory for any summer outfit. The matte and glossy finish adds a unique twist to this playful look.

Consumables:

• • Yellow nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Hay There”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Get Mod”)
  • Leopard nail stickers or decals
  • Matte top coat (e.g., OPI Matte Top Coat)
  • Glossy top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint some nails with the yellow polish and others with the white polish.
   3. Use black polish to create leopard stripe patterns on the white nails.
   4. Apply leopard stickers or decals for a more defined look.
   5. Finish with a matte top coat on the yellow nails and a glossy top coat on the leopard nails to enhance the design.

Geometric Yellow and Black Nails

For a modern and edgy look, try geometric yellow and black nails. This design features bold yellow and black shades with intricate geometric patterns, perfect for making a statement. The mix of colors and shapes creates a dynamic and eye-catching manicure that’s perfect for summer.

Consumables:

• • Yellow nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Happy Go Lucky”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Nail striping tape
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint some nails yellow and others black for a contrasting base.
   3. Use striping tape to create geometric patterns on each nail.
   4. Fill in the patterns with alternating yellow and black polish.
   5. Carefully remove the striping tape and allow the design to dry.
   6. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Blue and Gold Elegance

Blue and gold nails are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your summer look. This design features a stunning combination of matte blue and shiny gold, creating a sophisticated and luxurious manicure. The geometric patterns add a modern twist to this classic color combo.

Consumables:

• • Matte blue nail polish (e.g., Zoya Matte Velvet Lacquer in “Dovima”)
  • Gold nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Good as Gold”)
  • Nail striping tape
  • Top coat (optional for the matte nails)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint some nails with the matte blue polish and others with the gold polish.
   3. Use striping tape to create geometric patterns on the blue nails.
   4. Fill in the patterns with gold polish for a stunning contrast.
   5. Carefully remove the striping tape and allow the design to dry.
   6. Finish with a top coat on the gold nails to add shine, leaving the blue nails matte.

Minimalist Black and Nude Nails

Minimalist designs are perfect for those who love a clean and sophisticated look. This design features a nude base with delicate black swirl patterns, adding a touch of elegance to the nails. The simplicity of the design makes it versatile and suitable for any occasion.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Ballet Slippers”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using the fine nail art brush, create delicate black swirl patterns on each nail.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Gold and Black Abstract Nails

For a bold and luxurious look, try gold and black abstract nails. This design features a shimmering gold base with striking black abstract patterns, creating a dramatic and eye-catching manicure. Perfect for evening events or special occasions, this design will make your nails the center of attention.

Consumables:

• • Gold nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Good as Gold”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the gold polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using the fine nail art brush, create bold black abstract patterns on each nail.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Royal Blue Nails with Butterfly Accent

Royal blue nails are perfect for adding a pop of color to your summer look. This design features a vibrant blue base with a stunning butterfly accent on one nail, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance. The combination of the bold color and delicate design creates a beautiful and eye-catching manicure.

Consumables:

• • Royal blue nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Tidal Wave”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard As Nails in “White On”)
  • Butterfly nail stickers or decals
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the royal blue polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Apply the butterfly sticker or decal on one nail.
   4. Add details to the butterfly using the black and white polishes with a fine nail art brush.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Matte Nude Nails with Black Accent

Matte nude nails are a timeless and versatile choice for summer. This design features a matte nude base with a delicate black branch accent on one nail, creating a subtle yet elegant look. The matte finish adds a modern touch to this classic design.

Consumables:

• • Matte nude nail polish (e.g., Zoya Matte Velvet Lacquer in “Dovima”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Black Onyx”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (optional for the accent nail)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a matte base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the matte nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using the fine nail art brush, create a delicate black branch pattern on one nail.
   4. Finish with a top coat on the accent nail if desired to add a glossy contrast.

Gradient Gold French Tips with Heart Accents

Gold French tips are a classic look, but adding a gradient effect and cute heart accents gives them a fresh twist for summer. This design features a smooth gradient from nude to gold on the tips, with tiny white hearts adding a playful touch. It’s perfect for a chic and romantic summer look.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Ballet Slippers”)
  • Gold nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “GoldenEye”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard As Nails in “White On”)
  • Small heart-shaped stickers or decals
  • Makeup sponge
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. On a makeup sponge, apply the gold polish and gently dab it onto the tips of your nails to create a gradient effect.
   4. Apply the small heart stickers or use a dotting tool to create heart shapes with the white polish.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Matte Black with White Leaf Accents

Matte black nails are bold and sophisticated, and the addition of white leaf accents adds a touch of elegance. This design is perfect for those who love minimalist yet striking nail art. The matte finish gives it a modern edge, while the delicate leaf pattern keeps it chic and stylish.

Consumables:

• • Matte black nail polish (e.g., Zoya Matte Velvet Lacquer in “Dovima”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Blanc”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (optional for the accent nail)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a matte base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the matte black polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using the fine nail art brush, create delicate white leaf patterns on a few nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat on the accent nail if desired to add a glossy contrast.

Neon Green and Pink with Floral Design

Brighten up your summer with neon green and pink nails featuring a stunning floral design. This vibrant and playful look is perfect for those who love bold colors and intricate nail art. The combination of neon shades and delicate white flowers creates a fresh and eye-catching manicure.

Consumables:

• • Neon green nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “I’m With the Lifeguard”)
  • Neon pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Mod Square”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard As Nails in “White On”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint some nails neon green and others neon pink for a vibrant base.
   3. Using the fine nail art brush, create delicate white floral designs on the neon nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Marble and Gold Foil Nails

For a luxurious and elegant summer look, try marble nails with gold foil accents. This design features a soft white marble base with hints of gold foil, creating a sophisticated and glamorous manicure. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of luxury to your look.

Consumables:

• • White nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Alpine Snow”)
  • Clear polish or top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
  • Gold foil or gold leaf
  • Nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the white polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using a nail art brush, create thin, random lines with clear polish, then press gold foil onto the wet polish.
   4. Smooth out the foil gently and let it set.
   5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Elegant Green and Black Nails with Gold Accents

Green and black make a striking combination for a sophisticated summer look. This design features a matte green base with glossy black nails, accented with small gold studs. The contrast between the matte and glossy finishes adds depth and interest to this elegant design.

Consumables:

• • Matte green nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Stay Off the Lawn!”)
  • Black nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Licorice”)
  • Gold studs or small gold beads
  • Nail glue or adhesive
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint some nails with the matte green polish and others with the black polish.
   3. Using nail glue or adhesive, place gold studs or beads on the green nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat on the black nails to seal the design and add shine, leaving the green nails matte.

Metallic Pink Nails with Polka Dots

For a playful and modern look, try metallic pink nails with white polka dots. This design features a shiny metallic pink base with matte pink accents and white polka dots, creating a fun and trendy manicure that’s perfect for summer.

Consumables:

• • Metallic pink nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Color Foil in “Pink Platinum”)
  • Matte pink nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Muchi Muchi”)
  • White nail polish (e.g., Sally Hansen Hard As Nails in “White On”)
  • Dotting tool
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint most of your nails with the metallic pink polish and a few accent nails with the matte pink polish.
   3. Use a dotting tool to create white polka dots on the matte pink nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine to the metallic pink nails.

Glittery Silver French Tips

Add some sparkle to your summer nails with glittery silver French tips. This design features a nude base with silver glitter tips, creating a glamorous and festive look. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of sparkle to your everyday style.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “Bubble Bath”)
  • Silver glitter nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Silver Lining”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using a fine nail art brush, apply the silver glitter polish to the tips of your nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Modern Blue French Tips

Modernize the classic French tip with a bold blue twist. This design features a nude base with vibrant blue tips, creating a fresh and contemporary look. The bright color and clean lines make this design perfect for summer and add a pop of color to any outfit.

Consumables:

• • Nude nail polish (e.g., Essie Nail Polish in “Ballet Slippers”)
  • Blue nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “My Car Has Navy-gation”)
  • Fine nail art brush or striping tape
  • Top coat (e.g., Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the nude polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using a fine nail art brush or striping tape, apply the blue polish to the tips of your nails.
   4. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Matte Burgundy Nails with Glitter Accents

Matte burgundy nails exude sophistication and elegance, making them perfect for a refined summer look. This design features a deep burgundy matte base with subtle glitter accents on one nail, adding a touch of glamour without overpowering the overall simplicity. The matte finish gives it a modern and chic vibe, while the glitter detail adds just the right amount of sparkle.

Consumables:

• • Matte burgundy nail polish (e.g., OPI Nail Lacquer in “I’m Not Really a Waitress” with a matte top coat)
  • Burgundy glitter nail polish (e.g., China Glaze Nail Lacquer in “Ruby Pumps”)
  • Fine nail art brush
  • Top coat (optional for the glitter nail)

DIY Instructions:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Paint your nails with the matte burgundy polish and let it dry completely.
   3. Using a fine nail art brush, apply the burgundy glitter polish in a wavy pattern on one nail to create an accent.
   4. Finish with a top coat on the glitter accent nail to seal the design and enhance the sparkle, leaving the other nails matte.