As the sun has finally appeared, it’s time to start thinking about summer beauty. One of the easiest ways to get into the warm-weather mood is to pick a new nail design. Gel nails are perfect for summer thanks to their versatility and longevity. Whether you fancy switching to a brighter hue or trying out chrome for the first time, summer is the best time to experiment with your nails.
We’ve compiled our top picks for this year’s summer nail trends. Pick your favourite for your next appointment or combine ideas for a unique look.
Table of contents
What is the most popular summer nail colour? Summer gel nail ideas What nail polish goes with everything in summer?
What is the most popular summer nail colour?
Some nail colours will be on trend every summer. Pastels, brights and fun nail art are a timeless go-to, but there tends to be a colour that reigns supreme every time the sunny season comes around. In 2025, tomato red leads the charge.
Tomato red
This particular red hue has been a timeless classic for decades, so why is it so popular this year? The vibrant and lively shade captures the essence of summer like nothing else. By choosing a red with a hint of orange, you get an especially bright, juicy look that is perfect for summer fun. From festivals and holidays to long evenings with friends, tomato red is the perfect pick for this season’s manicure.
Vina Gel Polish in shade “060” is perfect for capturing the vibrant tomato red trend this season.
Summer gel nail ideas
Let’s take a look at some more trending nail styles for 2025!
“Sun-washed peach”
A soft, warm peach with a touch of chrome is like golden hour for your fingers. We love this subtle yet chic look. It’s universally flattering and pairs beautifully with sun-kissed skin and summer dresses. Kiara Sky Nail Polish in “Peachin” is perfect for hopping on this trend.
"Digital Sunset"
Aura nails walked so that "Digital Sunset" nails could run. This trend takes the blended, airbrushed look to the next level with a palette inspired by the hyper-saturated colours of a digital screen and the soft gradients of a dusky summer sky. Take your pick of pink, orange, gold and yellow hues to create this standout look.
Liquid metal
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Rey Kitti•Nail artist•NEWCASTLE (@kitti.claws)
Chrome will always be on trend, but this season we are seeing edgier, more tactile designs. Pearly sheens are making way for molten-like shapes to create a multi-dimensional look that is impossible to ignore. Check out our chrome powders and pigments to get the look.
Mocha nails
If you saw Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025, the Mocha nail trend will come as no surprise. The warming brown hue is enriched with chocolate and coffee vibes for a truly delectable treat this summer.
Try using Glamlac’s “Mocca” to achieve this simple yet trendy look.
Cat eye nails
Glittering cat eye nails use magnets and magnetic polish to create reflective and dimensional patterns. Cat eye polishes catch light beautifully, and look slightly different from every angle for a manicure you won’t get bored with.
Try using Vina cat eye gel to create this mesmerising manicure.
What nail polish goes with everything in summer?
While the classic, versatile black, white and nude shades remain staples all year round, you might want something a little brighter for your summer nails.
If intricate nail art isn’t your vibe and you want something that will go with everything, there are plenty of shades you can try.
Blue is a surprisingly versatile colour for your nails. There are many hues to try out, from deep navy to the “blueberry milk nails” trend. Alternatively, explore the pink spectrum for more options. Pink is an ultra-feminine shade with the added benefit of elongating your fingers for elegant-looking hands. Choose a subtle pale pink for a soft look, or feel super girly with a hot pink hue.
Similarly with purple, historically reserved for royalty, the spectrum ranges from beautiful jewel tones to amethyst, indigo and lavender. Purple offers a graceful, feminine look without being as girly as pink.
Vina gel nail polish in “119” is a beautiful lavender shade, perfect for summer fun.
Shop summer shades and more at The Nail & Beauty Link
We have an enormous selection of gel polish at The Nail & Beauty Link. Our range features gels from leading professional brands like VINA, Kiara Sky, and CND. Stock up on supplies with our nail tools and accessories, or check out our nail art range to get creative.
