23 Sunset Gradient Nails for Summer 2025 That Look Like a Vacation on Your Fingertips

Summer is on its way — and that means we’ll get the color, heat and beautiful sunsets we’ve been missing since March. As soon as the weather starts to warm up and the iced drinks come out, it’s a good time to give our nails a new look. How great would it be if you could watch the sunset on your fingertips with your next manicure?

Here’s your ultimate guide to Sunset Gradient Nails for Summer 2025 — combining summer beachiness with bold design. Whether you’re a ride-or-die for pinks and oranges or curious about the softer side of pastel fades, this list isn’t just about what’s trendy. It’s all about the way these designs look — calm and bright, striking and simple, just like your favorite summer days in a bottle.

And no, this isn’t just a Pinterest roundup. We’re covering the techniques, wearing them out and sharing expert advice so you can feel proud of your work. Whether you’re at the beach, on a rooftop or just enjoying TikTok at home, these nails give your summer a fun look.

Ready to find your next obsession? We’re going to look at 23 amazing designs that look like they’re from a sunset.

Golden Hour Palms with a Sunset Kiss

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about this manicure. Remember the gentle breeze, the gentle waves and the last bit of sunlight before dusk. They begin as a clear nude gel, become pink, orange and gold and end with a glittery fade. But the show-stealer? Small metal palm tree shapes that remind me of music by the pool and sweet cocktails. It’s a mood. A vibe. A literal vacation for your fingertips.

To recreate this look, I’d recommend a good base gel like CND Shellac in “Be Demure” or OPI GelColor in “Put It In Neutral”, followed by a sponge blend of colors like Orly’s “Hot Tropics” and Essie’s “Tart Deco”. To finish, add gold foil decals or use MoYou London’s palm-tree stamping plates and then cover everything with a high-gloss gel top coat.

Creating this look at home requires a bit of patience (and a steady hand or stencil for the palm details), but the ombré fade is surprisingly achievable using the sponge technique and cleanup brush. Nail artist Sarah Bland (who’s worked with Kerry Washington) swears by this method for a more “diffused, dreamlike gradient.”

This design has major “my vacation starts now” energy. I wore the same thing last August in Laguna and people kept asking me where I had them done. You don’t just have this manicure; you live with it.

Fiery Sunset Fade with Crystal Sparks

This manicure is a real statement of self-confidence. A fade from a deep red to a blazing yellow on the sides of your hair looks like the sky just before the sun sets. There are a few rhinestones on the fingers, but it’s just enough to make the flames dance. It’s bold, confident and great for anyone who wants to show their radiance this summer.

A white base coat will help the colors stand out and you can then use Zoya “Carmen”, Essie “Tangerine Tease” and China Glaze “Sun Worshipper” in a makeup sponge ombré. After you’re done, apply flatback crystals from Swarovski or Born Pretty, pressing them into your wet gel top coat before it dries.

Don’t use thick paint when sponging and place a peel-off barrier around your cuticles for easier removal. According to Julie Kandalec, a celebrity nail artist, gently buffing the layers will prevent sharp lines and help your nails stay smooth.

Just thinking about this combo makes me remember festivals — my shoulders were sunburned, I drank iced drinks and the music was everywhere. It’s dramatic, yes, but summer’s the time to burn a little brighter. Why not?

Anchor in the Sunset: Nautical Romance

The combination of pink, peach and coral makes the eyes look blurry, as if you are seeing a late-summer harbor scene. It’s the little silver anchor accent that brings the main color story down to earth with a hint of nail art. It’s romantic, a little retro, and totally wearable.

You’ll need OPI “Bubble Bath” for the sheer base, with gradient layering using Beetles Gel in “Blossom Pink”, Coral Reef, and a warm orange like DND “Sunset Bliss”. Anchors can be placed using 3D charms or nail stickers or you can paint them on with a detail brush and silver polish like Essie “No Place Like Chrome.”

Blend the gel into your hair using a small flat brush before you let the layers dry. A top coat that doesn’t require wiping will keep your anchor embellishment from coming loose and catching.

For me, this look is pure spring-to-summer crossover energy. It’s the nail version of watching a sunset on a boat or wearing a light linen dress. Just add sandals and a wide-brim hat.

Lemon Pop with Silver Confetti

Say hello to highlighter green meets glossy minimalism. The look is bold but simple, going from clear natural nails to electric lemonade tips, with a finger adorned with lots of chunky glitter confetti. It’s like disco met the citrus aisle — and they fell in love under the sun.

You can get that bright yellow look with Color Club “Yellin’ Yellow” or Lights Lacquer “Now & Later.” To get a glitter nail, use Kiara Sky Diamond FX Top Coat or put loose chunky silver pieces over a sticky gel base coat.

Work the yellow upwards using a sponge or brush, so that the lower part remains sheer. A builder gel overlay will maintain the form and strength of your hair. According to Lauren Wireman, you should finish your glitter with a layer of clear builder gel for a nice, even look.

I choose this design for brunching on rooftops or spending the day at the beach. When you want your hands to say what you’re thinking before you can talk. It’s a little playful, up-to-date and still quite simple — much like Beyoncé in a slip dress.

Bold Sunset Safari with Black Palms

This set brings a tropical dream straight to you. Bright pink, orange and golden yellow blend together, much like mango sorbet and are topped by crisp, black palm trees. A small geometric design gives this manicure a bit of attitude — and now, it’s more than just a nail look, it’s a fashion statement.

If you want to get this look, pick Sally Hansen “Back to the Fuchsia”, OPI “Marigolden Hour” and Sinful Colors “Yolo Yellow.” Paint the palms with a detail brush or UberChic Beauty plates and finish with a strong gel top coat to keep the color from fading.

If you DIY, use a sponge, but make your cuticle area extra crisp by brushing it with a flat brush and acetone. According to Madeline Poole, putting on a sheer nude over bright colors allows them to blend together.

I think this one is a great example of something that’s both adventurous and easy to wear. I’ve applied this design on my shorter nails and it still catches the eye. Bonus? It’s basically Pinterest bait.

Minimalist Peach Sunset French

There’s something powerful about simplicity and this French tip gradient is a great example. The background is a soft nude, but the color moves to warm orange and coral, much like the sun setting over sand. It may not be flashy, but it doesn’t get dull — ideal for people who want simple summer nails.

I’ve found that using OPI “Samoan Sand” as the base and DND “Tangerine Dream” and “Orange Cream” on my tips looks amazing. The change is so smooth you might find yourself watching your hands all the time — or maybe it’s just me?

If you’re doing this at home, use a makeup sponge and start at the top of your nail before moving down to the cuticle. For a shiny glass finish, apply Seche Vite or CND Shellac Top Coat as your top coat. According to manicurist Betina Goldstein, it’s best to flash-cure each finger separately with gels to keep the shape and prevent the gel from pooling around the edges.

This design caught my eye last July and I chose it because I didn’t want to go full neon. I got lots of compliments from my barista all the way to my mom’s bridge club. It flatters everyone and never seems out of style, no matter what’s popular.

Rainbow Popsicle Fade

Bright, bold and very loud, this stiletto manicure reminds me of a summer popsicle and a retro beach ball having a baby. The nails feature streaks of yellow, orange and pink that look like the sky at a dramatic beach sunset. This isn’t just nail art, it’s pure dopamine.

You’ll find this type of vibrancy in Lights Lacquer “Jefa”, ILNP “Sunburst” and Color Club “Disco Dress” because their pigment is so strong. A gel base will help keep the tones true and luminous, especially if you’re planning a week of saltwater and sunscreen.

If you’re feeling brave, this is a great DIY moment. Begin with yellow, move up to pink using a sponge and cure every layer as you work. Don’t mix two colors until the first has dried completely. Nail educator Julie Ventura believes that to get clean multi-color blends, you just need to be patient and not worry too much.

This style is not meant for people who blend in and that’s the part I love best. It’s designed for selfies, group photos and just being your brightest self all day.

Tropical Sherbet Oval Blends

This set captures the spring-to-summer transition perfectly. The combination of pastel mango, bubblegum and sunset yellow looks light, but it’s still fun, much like a tropical sorbet melting on a hot day. Almond-shaped nails have a current finish, but it’s not too dramatic.

I’ve used Olive & June “JM”, Essie “Tangerine Tease” and Zoya “Cole” for this soft ombré. Every song merges with the next, much like watercolors on a canvas and it’s both dreamy and planned. If you want your nails to feel like sorbet, use a matte top coat or keep them glossy for a traditional gel look.

I prefer to use a flat ombré brush at home over a sponge because it gives me more control which is important with soft pastels. Paint each color separately and add Essie’s “Sugar Daddy” between them to blend them.

It’s now what I choose for weddings, brunches and simple date nights. It’s dressed up, but not overdone — it’s like a sundress, but for your nails.

Pink Sunrise Layers

Think cotton candy clouds at sunrise. The vertical fades from pink to yellow make these short nails look like a modern and lively watercolor sunrise. It’s gentle enough to wear all the time and it also stands out when the sun comes out.

This video shows Olive & June’s Glaze and there’s a good reason for that. Their semi-cured gel strips are super beginner-friendly. The tones are vibrant yet wearable, and the shine? Salon-level. If you’re doing this without a stencil, add Nailboo “Lemonade Stand” to your sponge blend kit.

If you haven’t tried strip ombré, remember to heat the strip with your fingers before applying — it will fit your nails better. After curing, use sandpaper to smooth the edge you left free.

I see them as a great way to try out sunset gradient nails if you’ve never done them before. They’re easy to get and make a big difference, so they’re great for any summer wedding, baby shower or even a random Tuesday.

Ultra Violet Horizon

Dark meets vibrant in this dramatic landscape design. Using purple, orange and pink, these long coffin nails look just like a sunset reflected on still water. It’s moody. It’s magnetic. And it’s definitely a conversation starter.

The best way to get those unusual tones is with OPI “Lincoln Park After Dark”, Orly “Purple Crush”, China Glaze “Sun of a Peach” and Zoya “Sweet”. This is real nail art, whether you paint it on with striping brushes or stick on nail wraps — the layers must be placed precisely.

If you’re confident and have steady hands, use a fine liner brush to draw stripes from the cuticle to the tip and blend them by dipping your brushes in acetone. Sunset art should look as if it is breathing, according to celebrity manicurist Mei Kawajiri and that’s what this piece does.

I often wear these with a dramatic maxi dress or when I’m getting ready for a rooftop dinner. Because you don’t wear it every day, it’s especially valuable when you do. Some looks are made to be remembered.

Pastel Sunset Dreams in Soft Yellow

There’s something so satisfying about the harmony of pastel blue, pink, and lemon yellow blending together like a gelato-inspired sunset. This style shows off the gentle charm of a spring sky as it turns into a summer evening—it’s both smooth and chic. The square tips add order and the ombre style makes it feel lovely and smooth. This mani is so summery that you’ll want to grab a sundress and a glass of lemonade and start thinking about a beach trip.

The first step to getting this look is to use OPI Nail Envy as a base coat for strong nails. For shades, reach for Essie’s “Bikini So Teeny” (a cool periwinkle blue), Sally Hansen’s “Peach of Cake” (soft coral pink), and a pale banana yellow like “Mellow Yellow” by Sally Hansen Insta-Dri. A sponge application is the best way to get a smooth gradient and it works particularly well with gel polish and curing in between.

I applied the polish at home by using a simple makeup sponge and curing each layer under a UV lamp. You don’t need to blend everything perfectly, a little naturalness is fine. Finish your manicure by adding a layer of Seche Vite or Gelish Top It Off on top of everything. Pro tip from celeb manicurist Julie Kandalec? Don’t forget to use a top coat to keep your nails looking good for longer and stop the tips from fading.

These nails made me feel instantly lighter. Like, emotionally. I wore them to brunch last weekend and our waitress asked for my nail inspiration. There’s something magnetic about soft pastels—they’re easy to wear and somehow make your whole look more pulled together, without trying too hard.

Desert Flame with a Hint of Drama

The colors burnt orange, red and deep wine blend together in the same way desert sunsets do. There’s a mix of excitement and calmness in this place. Because of its compact, rounded shape, this gradient is easy to wear, despite its striking colors. It’s intense without being extra, which honestly, is a vibe I crave during those late summer months.

I chose Butter London’s “Her Majesty’s Red”, OPI’s “My Solar Clock is Ticking” and Zoya’s “Rihanna” for this blend. If you like to do your own nails, use a flat brush and brush colors across the nail in a diagonal line, blending the edges. A touch of black or glitter on one nail would make this look perfect for a night out.

I’ve tried this technique after watching a video by Betina Goldstein (one of my faves), where she recommends brushing the gradient sideways instead of top to bottom for a more natural fade on shorter nails. It seriously works wonders and feels modern—almost editorial.

What I love most about this one? It instantly makes my hands look more tanned. No sun required. Just paint, blend, glow.

Tropical Postcard in Miniature

This one’s an actual mini masterpiece. You’d usually find this style on a vintage surf shirt, but here it’s painted on ten tiny canvases. Each nail tells a different story: sunset, sea, horizon. It’s real art and it isn’t for everyone—but if you’re heading out on a summer trip? Iconic.

To achieve this level of detail, you’d need ultra-thin brushes (try Winstonia’s detail liner set), gel polish for better control, and a steady hand—or a very talented nail tech. Use bold shades like Essie’s “Butler Please” for the blue, “Fuchsia-ristic” for the pink, and “Meet Me at Sunset” for the orange. Top the entire manicure with a glossy, thick top coat for better vibrant results.

Even though this isn’t an easy home manicure, it’s definitely something you should consider getting done at a salon. According to celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, “Maximalist nails are a statement for those who love wearable storytelling—don’t shy away from it.”

I once wore something similar to a beach wedding and all anyone could talk about were my nails. That’s how you know you nailed it—pun intended.

Cantaloupe Creamsicle Fade

It’s almost like a whisper of color, peachy orange turning into a soft natural nude, with just enough shine to shine in the sunlight. It goes down easy, tastes sweet and is light, much like a melted popsicle you didn’t spill. It’s a summer nail style that looks great for brunch, weddings or even job interviews if your company is relaxed.

You can easily do this ombre with a sponge, but I’ve also tried using a silicone stamp to get a smoother effect. I picked the colors “Peach Sorbet” and “Soft Beige” from DND Gel Polish. Add a layer of OPI’s “Bubble Bath” if you want to tone it down even further.

No real need to overthink the process here. Prep, base coat, dab with your sponge or stamper, top coat—and you’re done. You’ll find yourself using this mani style all through the summer. If you’re new to gradients, this is a super friendly place to start.

I’ve chosen this look so many times, it’s almost my go-to nail color for summer. It seems to me like I have everything figured out, even when I definitely don’t. That’s the real power of a good manicure.

Sunflare Almond Stilettos

Okay, now we’re talking power move. The bright orange to yellow gradient on these super pointy almond stilettos makes them fierce and very glamorous. This is the mani you sport when you’re going to be the star of your holiday. It’s full of drama, looks like a sculpture and feels like the perfect summer look.

You’ll have to be careful with your body shape, as this is not a routine you can improvise. I think Aprés Gel-X or Kiara Sky nail forms or sculpted gel extensions are the best options. Use Orly polishes called “Tropical Pop” and “Sunshine Highway” mixed on the nail with a fluffy brush.

One thing I learned? A dry brush applied after curing can even out the gradient if it’s too sharp. Once, nail pro Chelsea King said, “Let your brush move like the breeze of a sunset,” and it’s actually not a bad tip.

I wore these nails to every festival last year and they really gave everything a boost. Having a drink, striking a photo pose or browsing Spotify seemed a bit more stylish. That’s what a good outfit accomplishes—it makes your whole mood brighter.

Watermelon Pop Fade

I love the sweet fun of putting neon lime green, creamy nude and bubblegum pink together. I think of the colorful sorbet palettes people post on Pinterest just before Memorial Day weekend. It is a strong color, but it’s not overpowering—it looks summery and relaxed enough for any day of the week.

I find that this look looks great with pastel colors and gel polish. I chose Beetles Gel for “Fresh Avocado” and “Lover Girl” over “Bare My Soul” by OPI which gave me a milky base. Placing a sponge or airbrush tool on the nail and then applying a high-gloss top coat will allow the nail to show off a beautiful lacquered shine.

I discovered that this painting turned out best when I applied the color in thin layers and took my time. Don’t rush the blending—it pays off in the mirror. I noticed the same design on Elle Gerstein’s live stream, where she pointed out that bold colors in a simple gradient can really catch the eye. She’s not wrong.

Wearing this outfit always makes me notice my nails more than my phone. It’s that satisfying. It turns out, I get compliments from the baristas who are usually just quiet and say “next.”

Fiery Glitter Fade

That’s how you can add sparkle without looking like a disco ball. This coral pink polish gradually turns into orange, with a touch of gold glitter which makes the nails look like a golden hour cocktail in the tropics. It’s dramatic, but approachable. Flashy, but refined. A mani that makes everyone turn around and take pictures.

You should have a few supplies to get this done. Build your look with the basic builder base and then add touches of color with Madam Glam’s “Coral Crush” and “Golden Flame.” Try adding Daily Charme’s iridescent nail foil to get the shiny, sun-lit effect. Using gel holds the flakes in their place.

You shouldn’t expect this manicure to be quick; it’s something you do with love. After applying your gradient, cure it, press flakes into the tacky layer, use builder gel to seal them and finish with a gloss. Nail tech Jenny Bui (aka the Queen of Bling) often shares her flake layering secrets on IG—she says “always encapsulate, never topcoat raw foil.” Noted.

The first time I wore this set was on a summer girls’ trip and I really felt like everything—drinking iced rosé and dancing barefoot—became way more glamorous. Literal sunshine on your fingertips.

Palm Silhouette Paradise

It’s a lot like nostalgia and neon, but in the best possible way. The color moves from bright yellow to dark coral red and is finished with small black palm trees to create a retro sunset-on-the-boardwalk look. It’s the same as if a 90s postcard and a high-gloss gel mani had a child. Having the black outlines gives the outfit a sense of style, but it still feels summery.

“Sunshine State of Mind” by Essie is a good bright orange, “Glow With the Flow” is a lovely vivid yellow and “Big Apple Red” by OPI is a nice deep berry red. When stamping palms and birds, use either stamping plates or very fine brushes. Apply a glassy top coat in the end to keep the surface looking nice.

Because it’s a technical one, I always suggest applying it in thin coats and letting it dry completely. If the palm detail scares you, use water slide nail decals instead—it’s no big deal.

I wore this same look to a backyard barbecue last July and someone actually asked me where I had it printed. That’s how crisp and dreamy this gradient looks. It’s a great thing to talk about, especially when enjoyed with a spicy margarita.

Electric Coral Meets Ocean Breeze

Talk about contrast! It’s such a surprise to see cobalt blue and electric orange together, but it looks so right. It’s the same as the colors of a summer night sky just before the sun goes down over the water. This nail shape is elegant, but the bright blending makes it stand out.

I picked Gelish in “Pacific Sunset” for the blue and “Tangerine Dream” for the orange. The magic is found at the point where you meet the colors—dab lightly with a sponge so you don’t mix them too much. These tones play best when they stay bold. Put on Orly’s “Shining Armor” to give your nails the glossiest possible shine.

It takes a lot of practice to get this much contrast to blend well. I was advised by Tom Bachik to be gentle with the transition, so the brush lifts the colors softly. Total game-changer.

This one gives me energy. I put it on when I want to feel better, when I’m tired of being neutral. It’s bold, sure—but it’s also surprisingly wearable. Denim, white linen, even just bare skin—it pops.

Peach Bellini Sorbet

Just like a summer brunch menu, this gradient features nails in different hues of pastel yellow, peach, coral and creamy pink, but they all match well. It’s quite lovely how a mismatched hand can be when the shades are this harmonious. It’s feminine, playful, and a little bit luxe.

I used shades from the Lights Lacquer “Sweet as Summer” set—”Slice of Life”, “Tutti Frutti”, “Pink Lemonade”, and “Sorbet”. They build up nicely and give a subtle, shiny finish. There’s no need for a sponge; simply paint each nail in the desired gradient and keep the gradient across the hand, not on every nail.

It’s an easy one to pull off at home. If the colors match, simply use them in order across your nails and finish up with a thin brush. It’s almost foolproof.

For me, this set is perfect in early spring if you’d like to add some brightness to your day without choosing neon colors. It’s fresh, pretty, and somehow makes me feel like I’m walking into a rooftop cafe with sunglasses and an iced matcha—even if I’m just running errands.

Cantaloupe Smoothie Ombre

This coral-to-peach gradient is the definition of fresh. It’s not shy, but still feels soft and brings a warm orange glow that fits well during summer. The middle length and square shape ensure the look is neat and the little shine adds some depth but stops short of being too sparkly. You’ll want this manicure on days when you’re dressed up but want a pop of color.

To get this look, I used OPI GelColor in “Got Myself into a Jam-balaya” (a rich coral) and “Lisbon Wants Moor OPI” for that creamy nude-peach. You’ll get the best results when you use a dry brush and apply the base color twice before blending the gradient on top.

The trick is layering the colors gradually. Fill in the whole base with coral, let it dry and then use a sponge to dab peach from the middle down, gently blending upwards. Apply Gelish “Top It Off” as your top coat to keep the shine lasting.

Whenever I put on this outfit, my hands seemed to pick up the last hint of the sunset. Really, it’s a style that matches any outfit and always seems appropriate. It’s my low-maintenance luxury.

Fresh Papaya Fade with Lime Ends

Is this a green juice or a mani? Because honestly—it could be both. The combination of tropical orange and vibrant green gives a strong citrus feeling. It’s bold and juicy, but somehow not overwhelming. Because it’s square and short, it looks playful and neat and the colors give it a fun summer garden vibe.

I used both the ORLY “Life’s A Peach” and “Limeade” gels to make this design. These formulas are easy to apply, mix smoothly and leave a juicy shine when you apply a no-wipe glossy top coat. This set is perfect for DIY fans—the colors are easy to mix because they don’t clash, even though the contrast is strong.

Paint orange twice and then sponge the green tip down to the center. Blend with light dabs and cure in between layers. If you think it’s too strong, use a little bit of orange to blend it over the midline.

I chose this dress for a farmer’s market and felt it matched the stands perfectly. It’s unexpected, flirty, and a total conversation starter. What’s more, it makes your natural nails appear evenly shaped.

Royal Sunset Stiletto Sparkle

There’s glam, and then there’s this. The purple, hot pink and golden orange stilettos with rhinestones and glitter are the definition of royalty. It’s not just a manicure; it’s a full accessory. They sparkle, make the hands look longer and shout, “I’m here to kill it.” In fact, sometimes that’s just the kind of energy we’re looking for.

I picked the gel colors from Valentino Beauty Pure—“Purple Passion,” “Pink Lemonade,” and “Sunset Soirée”—for this look. Add a layer of holo top coat (like The Gel Bottle’s “Star Dust”) and rhinestones secured with builder gel. File those tips into stilettos if you’re feeling bold.

I used a large fan brush to apply the gradient, making thin lines horizontally and curing the piece after every layer. I sprinkled some loose cosmetic glitter over the uncured top coat and sealed it before it dried.

I felt so much like a disco ball, but in the best sense. I wore the ring to a summer gala and people I didn’t know wanted to photograph my hands. Not me—just the nails. They deserve the attention.

Sunset manicures aren’t limited to a time; they also set the mood. These colors, sparkles and gradients in these looks make them perfect for any season. They breathe out confidence, creativity and the warm feeling we hope for all season.

If you like to paint your nails at home, pop into the salon or just want some nail design inspiration, these 23 Sunset Gradient Nails for Summer 2025 are perfect for everyone. There are some you can try quickly as part of your Sunday reset. Others? They’re full-glam, main-character kind of energy.

Let your nails be your soft flex this season. Go bright. Go bold. You might go for something barely noticeable — just make sure it matches your idea of summer.

If you get a couple of extra compliments from people you don’t know? Consider that the universe giving you a high-five.