Summer Nail Inspo 2025: Cute Acrylic & Gel Designs for Almond, Short & Square Nails

As summer 2025 approaches, it’s not just our closets begging for a refresh—our nails are calling out for seasonal upgrades too. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous trip to Greece, brunching with your girls, or just want to feel fun, fresh, and totally in sync with the latest beauty trends, this guide is your go-to source for summer nail inspo.

From playful strawberries to understated elegance, we’ve curated looks that speak to every mood. Each manicure in this collection is inspired by real women living bold, expressive lives—and each one tells a story. Let’s dive into the most irresistible nail trends for 2025 that are setting the tone for the warmest months of the year.

Chic White Swirls on Nude Base

There’s something endlessly elegant about a 2025 almond nail shape with a simple twist. This design features a nude base that enhances natural beauty, topped with crisp white swirls and abstract tips. It’s the kind of look that balances effortlessness with polish—perfect for both office days and vacation nights. The lines feel modern and soft, making it a top choice for those craving a minimalist yet classy almond aesthetic.

The versatility of this style makes it a staple for summer 2025. Pair it with breezy linen sets or a white maxi dress to fully embrace the season’s easy-breezy glam.

Strawberry Stripe Fantasy

This juicy design is all about embracing your playful side. With vibrant fruit details like mini strawberries lining a vertical pink stripe, it instantly evokes summer picnics, retro charm, and childhood nostalgia—with a grown-up twist. The alternating pink and white French tips add contrast and dimension to the overall look.

Set against a sheer gel base, this manicure is both whimsical and Instagram-worthy. It’s a creative take on the classic French manicure, and a perfect match for picnic dresses, heart-shaped sunglasses, and your go-to strawberry lip gloss. If you’re planning a summer girls’ trip, this is the fun design that will spark compliments everywhere.

Moody Teal Ombré Fade

This acrylic look brings a cooler tone to the hot season with a dramatic ombré shift from deep forest green to soft jade. The elongated almond tips elevate the 2025 mood, while the fade effect adds an ethereal, galaxy-like dimension. It’s unexpected for summer, which makes it bold and fashion-forward.

This style works for women who like to defy the usual summer palette and lean into mystery. It’s ideal for rooftop dinners and twilight hours. Pair it with silver jewelry and a black slip dress for a look that’s unforgettable.

Pink & Sparkle Combo

For lovers of pink and all things dazzling, this short, square simple design is the perfect match. The glitter-packed ring and pinky fingers shimmer like confetti against smooth blush-toned gel nails. It’s the ideal blend of simple and festive, great for weddings, baby showers, or any summer celebration where you want to shine—literally.

There’s a touch of spring innocence here, paired with just enough sparkle to transition into summer glam. This is one of those 2025 short styles that lets your hands do the talking without overpowering your look.

Rose Gold Glitter Glow

This one’s for the woman who loves timeless glamour. Coated in a soft rose-pink base and layered with fine, golden glitter, these square nails are a nod to classic beauty with a 2025 update. The uniform acrylic length and subtle shape make it a solid contender for both work and weekend.

You can imagine this style against a tan, on a yacht, or while sipping champagne at a beachside bar. It’s refined yet radiant—perfect for that “glow from within” vibe.

Lavender Meets Animal Print

This bold style is for the trendsetter. Square nails alternate between matte lavender and cow-print monochrome, creating a unique juxtaposition of sweet and edgy. It’s a style that doesn’t play it safe, and that’s the whole point. If you’re someone who likes to shake things up and make a statement, this acrylic design is made for you.

Imagine this set paired with a lilac power suit or a leather skirt and sneakers. It’s city-ready, fun, and perfectly on trend for summer 2025.

Matte Green Meets Golden Shine

Bold, architectural, and fiercely modern—this matte emerald square set is a visual stunner. The nails alternate between solid forest green and statement art pieces with angular patterns and reflective gold tips. The contrast between the matte base and the glossy metallics creates a high-fashion editorial vibe, perfect for trend-savvy women looking to push the boundaries this 2025 summer.

It’s a power move for evening outings or fashion events, paired best with minimalist gold jewelry and monochrome outfits. This is not your typical simple manicure—it’s a confident, curated look that speaks volumes.

Delicate Pink with Glitter Animal Print

Sweetness meets sophistication in this ultra-feminine gel manicure. The soft baby pink base is elevated with a subtle silver leopard print overlay—an unexpected yet totally wearable acrylic design that bridges playful and polished.

The square cut and muted palette make it appropriate for day-to-day wear, while the glitter brings just enough sparkle to catch the sunlight on those outdoor brunch dates. Pair it with light denim, breezy tops, and silver accessories for a perfectly coordinated 2025 short look.

Tropical French Twist

This French mani has left the classic behind and embraced something much more artistic. Featuring pink base tones and crisp white botanical details on two accent nails, it feels like a breath of fresh air—like walking through a tropical garden in the middle of spring. The balance between modern structure and organic detailing gives it a wearable charm.

This square simple style feels effortlessly chic and will pair well with neutral summer linens or even a flowy sundress in pastel tones. It’s also the perfect vacation companion—stylish but low maintenance.

Abstract Soft Pastels with a 3D Touch

If you love soft textures and dreamy palettes, this nail design will be your go-to for 2025. With a delicate combination of milky white, pale blush, and muted gray, each nail is a little abstract masterpiece. The design plays with depth and movement using a 3D flower technique, bubbles, and sculptural outlines.

There’s a clear nod to high-end nail artistry here—something you’d expect to see in editorials or on the runways of Milan. It’s whimsical yet structured, and perfect for anyone seeking a 2025 almond short simple look that still packs a creative punch.

Minty Fresh with Love Letter Vibes

Mint green has never looked so fun. This extra-long square set combines candy-colored tips with white accents and retro-inspired heart motifs. The negative space adds dimension, while the pastel palette makes it ideal for everything from summer pool parties to date nights.

This is a standout look for women who love playful glam and want their nails to match their mood. The bold acrylic shape adds drama, while the heart graphics deliver sweet energy—an excellent almond simple design alternative for those leaning toward length and charm.

Pink French with Red Hearts

Ending this set with a romantic nod, this pink French tip design brings a fresh, loving twist to the season. Red hearts scattered across the tips add a playful touch without feeling overdone. It’s like summer love captured in a mani.

The short square shape keeps it approachable for everyday wear, while the detailing makes it feel elevated. Ideal for brunches, flirty texts, and capturing hearts wherever you go. Plus, it’s an excellent gel base idea that will last you through the summer heat.

Gold-Trimmed French with Glossy Hearts

This ultra-polished square nail set marries classic French elegance with a sweet twist. The white tips are subtly outlined in metallic gold—an unexpected and chic detail—while three nails feature suspended dark red hearts trailing from fine green lines. The contrast feels poetic and thoughtful, a nod to summer romance but done with refined artistry.

Perfect for date nights, summer weddings, or just making your everyday feel more luxe. If you’re into a 2025 almond short simple mood but love length and shine, this is your chic compromise.

Soft White with Neon Heart Pop

Minimalism doesn’t have to be boring, and this manicure proves it. Featuring a semi-translucent, milky white gel base with a surprise element—tiny hot pink hearts on two accent nails—it’s a perfect example of how a subtle look can still be completely fun.

This 2025 short shape works for professionals and creatives alike, and the little pop of neon gives it a youthful energy. Think of this set as the “whispering flirt” of summer nails—quiet, but unforgettably cute.

Statement Red Hearts on Stiletto Tips

For the bold at heart, these acrylic stiletto nails are a whole moment. The design features oversized red hearts dancing across sharp pink tips in a symmetrical, symmetrical layout that turns your hands into art pieces. There’s a dramatic, fashion-forward attitude here, ideal for women who love standing out.

They scream summer confidence—perfect for parties, music festivals, or even just a power move on your next night out. These belong to the kind of woman who owns her style and wears her heart—quite literally—on her fingertips.

Candy Pink Daisies on Almond Tips

Soft, sweet, and endlessly wearable—this pink gel manicure with daisy prints is practically made for the sunshine season. The rounded almond shape is flattering and feminine, while the yellow floral accents add charm without going overboard. It’s simple, yes, but that’s where the magic lies.

This is your perfect spring to summer transition look, especially for women who want to embrace a bit of retro flower power without losing that modern polish. Bonus: it looks great gripping a matcha latte or a beach tote.

Baby Blue Swirls with Silver Sparkle

Nothing says summer sky like baby blue—and this dreamy manicure pairs it with soft white swirls and a dash of glitter. The cool tones feel like a fresh breeze, while the precise lines and sparkle detail make it distinctly 2025.

If you’re heading to the coast or planning that Pinterest-perfect vacation, this design fits the bill. It’s a calm yet eye-catching almond simple design that can go from brunch to boat day effortlessly.

Pastel Rainbow Flower Power

Why settle on one color when you can wear the whole spring spectrum? These bright 2025 almond nails bloom with personality, each painted a different candy shade and adorned with a tiny daisy. Think Easter eggs meet festival glam.

This set is as cheerful as a warm summer morning. Perfect for vacations, backyard parties, or even as your happy-go-lucky everyday vibe. This gel design is a must-have for anyone craving a splash of joy at their fingertips.

Pink & Green Waves of Summer

Soft curves and sorbet colors define this dreamy gel manicure. The design features alternating shades of pink and green, playfully swirled into wave-like patterns over a nude base. The almond shape enhances the elegant flow, while the pastel palette feels light and breezy—ideal for sunny days or a stylish vacation by the water.

If you’re looking for something both fun and 2025 almond short simple, this set brings summer movement to your fingertips with ease.

Sunset Swirls & Abstract Lilac

This playful and artsy manicure fuses gradient ombré tones with abstract elements. The soft blend of pink into purple echoes a cotton candy sunset, while accent nails feature swooshes and cutouts that give it a distinctly modern twist. It’s a set that feels bold without being loud—perfect for women who love a simple look with unexpected creativity.

Ideal for spring into summer, this gel design flatters both casual and chic outfits. And those rounded edges? Soft enough for every day, polished enough for everything else.

Romantic Rosy Lace Accents

Think delicate lingerie, but for your nails. This square nail set features sheer nude bases detailed with fine white lines, pink roses, and lace-inspired tips. It’s a fresh spin on florals—more feminine than flirty, and ideal for bridal showers, garden brunches, or just channeling soft romantic vibes during the warm months.

This 2025 square style embraces detailed design without going overboard, and pairs beautifully with flowy summer dresses or white linen.

Neon Graffiti Edge

For those ready to step outside the pastel box, this punk-inspired acrylic design is a street-style dream. Featuring a punchy mix of black graffiti text, hot pink paint splashes, and graphic white accents, it’s bold, fearless, and pure attitude.

This is for the trendsetters—the kind of woman who throws on oversized denim, gold hoops, and doesn’t ask for permission to stand out. Definitely not your average simple mani, but the epitome of 2025 cool.

Rainbow Tips & Lavender Dreams

If ever there was a design that said “feel-good energy,” it’s this one. Set against lavender, pink, and blue hues, the show-stopper here is the multi-colored wave on the middle finger—like a candy-coated rainbow. The glossy gel finish makes it even more irresistible.

Whether you’re hitting a summer street market, grabbing coffee in Greece, or planning a music festival fit, this fun look captures the free-spirited essence of the season. 2025 almond and full of joy.

Glitter Petals & French Fan Flair

Elegance takes a playful turn with this petal-inspired almond nail design. The combo of white curved lines, lavender glitter detailing, and negative space creates a fresh interpretation of the French tip. It’s clean, modern, and undeniably chic.

Great for weddings, summer soirées, or just adding a bit of shimmer to your everyday, this style bridges simple beauty with high-impact artistry. One of the most elevated 2025 almond short simple looks you’ll see this season.

Bold Red Kiss Print with Classic Square Nails

If you’re looking to bring some flirtatious flair into your summer mani, this design delivers just that with its sassy red kiss prints. Set against a milky nude base, the lip accents feel both playful and polished. Paired with solid acrylic red nails in a square shape, this set balances bold and minimal with chic harmony. It’s perfect for date nights, girls’ brunches, or just when you’re in the mood for a confidence boost. It also nails that 2025 square aesthetic we’re seeing everywhere.

Pro tip: Match it with a matte red lip and white outfit for a statemen moment.

Electric Blue Lightning on Almond Nails

There’s something electric about this blue lightning bolt nail art, especially when done on an almond base with an ombré fade. The effect is striking yet wearable, giving off serious “power goddess” vibes without going over the top. Set against soft nude tones, the blue pops in all the right ways, making this one of the most fun yet elevated looks this season. Whether you’re heading to a summer music festival or hitting the boardwalk in Greece, this style channels that charged-up summer energy.

Perfect for: Women who want bold color without full coverage.

Glossy Nude Nails with a Leopard Accent

Neutral tones will always be a summer favorite, and this simple yet fierce design shows exactly why. The clean, creamy nude polish on all but one finger provides a polished backdrop for the standout leopard print accent. It’s an unexpected pop that gives this minimalist look a fashionable twist — ideal for city strolls or laid-back office days. With its clean acrylic design, it hits the sweet spot between understated and statement.

Tip: Pair with beige sandals and a flowy white dress for effortless style.

Heart-Dotted White Square Nails with Blue Accents

These delicate square simple nails are your go-to for sweet and summery vibes. The base is a smooth, creamy white, but what really makes it stand out are the tiny scattered heart motifs in hues of blue and lilac. The style whispers rather than shouts, which makes it perfect for everyday wear — think romantic picnics or casual coffee dates. It’s the kind of mani that says “I’m cute and I know it,” without trying too hard.

Seasonal Match: This is a subtle nod to spring vibes transitioning into warm summer days.

Lavender Marble Stiletto Nails with a Mystical Touch

Dramatic and unapologetically bold, these razor-sharp stiletto nails feature a swirling marble design in soft lavender and white. The glossy finish adds just the right amount of shimmer, giving this look an ethereal touch — like something straight out of a dream. If you’re someone who leans toward high-drama elegance, this one is your summer go-to. This elongated almond simple design is also great for lengthening the fingers while standing out in any room.

Styling tip: Complement with pastel jewelry and metallic heels.

Zebra-Inspired Minimalist Short Nails

This look is proof that short nails don’t have to be boring. Featuring a sleek gel overlay, this 2025 short style alternates between translucent pink and bold black-and-white zebra print. The contrast is high-fashion, but the length keeps it all wearable. It’s ideal for those who want something edgy but practical — a great pick for creative professionals and multitasking moms alike.

Nail inspiration: Straight from the runways of Paris, where short nails are trending hard this year.

Summer 2025 is all about self-expression through the little details—and your nails are the perfect canvas. Whether you lean toward romantic, retro, minimalist, or bold, this year’s acrylic, gel, and 2025 almond trends give you full permission to play. So go ahead and screenshot your favorite, send it to your nail tech, and let your hands do the talking.

Which style are you trying first? Tell us in the comments—we’d love to know what vibe you’re channeling this summer!