Nails ideas

25 Vacation Nails Summer 2025: Tropical Designs & Inspo You’ll Want to Try

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You know that feeling when you’re packing for a trip and suddenly realize your nails need to match the whole vibe of the destination? If you’re headed to Italy, imagining a Hawaiian beach or just enjoying margaritas in Mexico, your nails should come along too. But what actually feels trendy and not overdone? What says “I’m on vacation” without screaming it?

For summer, nail artists are using colors that lift your mood, adding fun details and mixing in cool, minimalist looks with a touch of boldness. From cute clouds to bright abstract splashes, I’ve put together inspiration for every kind of summer moment — whether you’re poolside or passport-ready. Here are the first vacation nails summer 2025 looks I’m enjoying at the moment.

Blue Skies and Cloud Vibes

Looking at a matte blue makes me think of a calm afternoon, watching the sky. Soft white clouds and smiley faces, both bringing a touch of nostalgia, help this mani stay both fun and neat. The almond shape gives the eye a touch of glamour, but it isn’t too much. It’s a design that will catch the attention of TSA staff — in a positive way.

vacation nails summer 2025 Blue Skies and Cloud Vibes
I began with OPI’s “To Infinity & Blue-Yond” because it’s a beautiful, smooth blue that’s perfect for this look. I used dots and a detail brush to paint the clouds with Essie “Blanc.” I chose to use a thin navy nail pen for the smiley faces.

To copy this at home, file your nails into an almond shape and buff them before you paint them. Use a matte top coat after your design to help it stay matte and perfect. If you’re not great with freehand art (same), smiley stickers exist — and they’re vacation-proof.

I chose this design for a spring desert road trip and was asked about it at every gas station. They just bring good energy. Easy to wear and with plenty of ideas for a summer full of fun.

Neon Splash Party

If you’re all about boldness, this is the design for you — the type who wears statement earrings and enjoys frozen cocktails early in the day. Pink, green and colorful drips stand out against the background of a deep, cosmic black-purple. It makes me think of festivals in Ibiza or secret beach bars in Europe. To be honest, these nails are what vacation nails will look like in summer 2025.

vacation nails summer 2025 Neon Splash Party
I applied Holo Taco “Purple with Envy” to achieve the galaxy base for this look. The neon splashes? Those are Color Club’s “We’ll Never Be Royals,” “Under the Blacklight,” and “Warhol.” You should use a toothpick or a fine dotting tool to apply drip effects — start with a small amount and let the paint drop.

Layering is key here. Allow each splash to dry before applying the next, so you don’t smudge the dimension. The glossy finish on top makes everything look like a gel or lacquered manicure. These look amazing on short nails too, if you’re not into long claws.

When I rocked this look last summer at a rooftop pool party, a bartender said it looked like “Warhol in Miami.” I decided to put it in my repeat folder after that. They’re the fashionable choices you turn to when you want something other than basic.

Golden Hour Palm Dreams

Okay, now we’re channeling full tropical vacation fantasy. Imagine: having a mojito in Mexico and watching the sunset through the palm trees. This look combines a neutral look with a little sparkle — white French tips, a clear jelly base, gold foil flakes and palm tree details. It’s stylish, easy to wear and pretty enough to be in your suitcase all summer.

vacation nails summer 2025 Golden Hour Palm Dreams
I put Modelones “Milky Way” over a sheer base and then decorated the palms with gold foil stickers from Daily Charme. I used a fine striping brush to make the white lines and added a few Swarovski micro-crystals to give the nails a little shimmer.

You’ll want to build this design gradually. First, add the nude base, let it dry and then add the foil using tweezers. Apply the French tips last so they stay crisp. Once everything is dry, apply a high-gloss top coat and Seche Vite will make the process easy.

I use this one when I don’t want to spend time figuring out what goes well with what I’m wearing. White, gold and sheer colors pair well with everything — especially if you’re wearing a linen dress and have salty hair from the beach. It’s providing Italian, Hawaiian and that feeling of being at ease.

Gothic Lavender Ombré

This mani is for the night you go out in heels and a dress you’d wear if you saw your ex. Because of the lavender-to-black ombré, crushed chrome shards and almond shape, this set looks like a nighttime storm — mysterious, attractive and glamorous.

vacation nails summer 2025 Gothic Lavender Ombré
I mixed Beetles Gel Polish “Smoky Violet” and “Blackout” together using a sponge. I got the metallic flakes from Born Pretty and they make the nails look like crushed gems. Topping it with a tinted gel polish will give your nails more depth.

You need to be patient when doing the fade; sponge on a thin layer, let it dry and then repeat until you reach your desired look. Press the foil in with a silicone tool and then use a tinted top coat to soften the difference between the foil and the base.

I saw a girl in Santorini with the same dress, a slip and red wine-stained lips which inspired this design. If your vacation is more about romance and mystery than about sunny beaches, it’s ideal for you. Inspo comes in all shades.

Froggy Green Fun

I really liked this set because it’s playful, punchy and has a cartoon frog face. Having the greens on each ring finger is trendy and playful and the frog details make the look more youthful. It’s a mani that encourages people to ask about your trip — especially if your travel is more about roller coasters than luxury.

vacation nails summer 2025 Froggy Green Fun
I chose Orly “Lime Twist” and ILNP “Sundance” for the two different shades of green. I make the frog by hand-painting it in acrylic and finish it with a matte seal. If you don’t like painting, you can replace them with frog nail stickers.

If you’re doing this at home, I think it’s best to begin with the lightest base color and end with the darkest. Take some time to work on the details of your character, as a simple outline can really help.

This one is similar to the nails my little cousin wanted me to have for our Disneyland trip. This turned out to be the mani I liked best all summer long. Sometimes it’s better to have cute nails than fancy ones and there’s something fun about not worrying about them too much.

Matte Tropics in Monochrome

There’s something quietly confident about having black matte nails. A simple white accent nail and a palm tree silhouette help this look avoid shouting; instead, it manages to express everything. It’s a simple take on the tropical — ideal for anyone who wants their vacation nails this summer 2025 to be both simple and meaningful. Bonus: it flatters every skin tone.

vacation nails summer 2025 Matte Tropics in Monochrome
I chose Cirque Colors “Memento Mori” in matte to get the deep black velvet look for this design. The accent nail? I used a striping brush to paint a palm on top of OPI’s “Alpine Snow” after being patient. It looks polished (literally) but still has beachy energy — especially for those not into loud colors.

This set is beginner-friendly, too. After you have applied your base and gel, go ahead and use a matte top coat. Making a palm tree silhouette is easy — it’s just a few thin lines and gentle curves and you can use a temporary tattoo or stamping plate if you prefer.

I usually wear this when I want something that goes with everything in my bag, whether it’s loose, neutral linens or bright swimsuits. It’s simple, cute, and feels like a little black dress… for your hands.

Flamingo Pool Party

A summer vacation nails lineup wouldn’t be complete without some flamingo style. The collection is filled with Miami glam: matte pink, crisp white, palm trees, sparkles and a flamingo with rhinestones on its body. The place is colorful and fun, but everything is well put together.

vacation nails summer 2025 Flamingo Pool Party
A few special products will really help this one stand out. I picked Bio Seaweed Gel “Flamingo Float” for the coral matte, Essie’s “Licorice” for the palms and added some Swarovski crystals to a flamingo decal. I used Holo Taco’s Stargazer glitter base to give the nails some depth without making the design look busy.

This one is a little slow — consider it like a small art project. Use decals or nail art stamps for the flamingos and palms if painting isn’t your thing. Add a layer of glitter to the sparkle nails and finish it with a strong top coat to keep them from chipping.

I wore this set on a girls’ trip to Mexico and I’m sure it made my pool photos much more enjoyable. This is for anyone who loves the idea of island, beach, inspo and all.

Mermaid Shoreline Magic

This manicure is as if you’re putting your fingertips in the sand at the beach. The blue ombré mimics the ocean’s gradient, while pearls and golden starfish add a delicate under-the-sea charm. Thanks to its square shape, it stays fresh and neat which is ideal for a place that mixes fantasy with elegance. Picture yourself on the Amalfi Coast or at a fancy spa in Hawaii.

vacation nails summer 2025 Mermaid Shoreline Magic
I applied Modelones “Ocean Breeze” to get the sea glass base and gently blended it up to the cuticle. The starfish charms come from Born Pretty and pearls can be added using builder gel or nail glue. Using clear acrylic extensions makes the look more like you’re underwater.

Use a sponge or ombré brush to apply the gradient, make sure it’s completely dry and finally add your 3D accents. Finish the design by adding a glossy coat — it makes the whole design stand out.

This style makes me think of my niece gathering shells at the beach — it’s full of wonder, mystery and never seems to change. It’s a charming, ocean-inspired take on neutral style, with a bit of holiday glamour.

Chrome Sunset Shift

If you’re the type who packs a suitcase full of metallic bikinis and shimmery oils, this mani was made for you. With a pink, blue and lavender mix and a high-gloss chrome finish, this set shows the beauty of a moving summer sunset. The way the shade looks depends on how much light is in the room. It’s futuristic and soft at the same time.

vacation nails summer 2025 Chrome Sunset Shift
The foundation color was a sheer pink gel from The GelBottle Inc. and I added Unicorn Chrome Powder from Daily Charme on top. To get that shiny look, put the chrome on a base that’s slightly sticky, rub it in with a silicone tool and seal it afterward.

If you want to do this at home, stick to gel polish, as chrome powders won’t give good results on regular lacquer. Let the base coat dry, put on the chrome and finish with another top coat. Trust me, it’s worth it.

This one made me look like a walking light filter — very glowy and polished. You’ll look great on a rooftop in Europe or while relaxing by the sea in your favorite big sunglasses. Inspo for the modern siren.

Sweetheart Neon Dreams

This bright pink French mani with rainbow hearts is the result of Y2K nostalgia meeting summer confidence. It’s girly but bold, playful but clean. Because it’s nude, the manicure looks mature, but the neon pink and colorful hearts add a playful touch. It’s a great mix — just like wearing a crop top with pants that fit well.

vacation nails summer 2025 Sweetheart Neon Dreams
For the base I used OPI “Bubble Bath” (an icon, always). I used “Pink Gellac Neon Flirt” for the neon tips and the hearts were done with dotting tools from the Beetles Pastel Set. A matte top coat gave it that soft-touch finish.

This one’s surprisingly easy to DIY. Use French tip guides if freehand makes you nervous. Just make two dots on the hearts and drag them down together with a thin brush. A matte top coat will make it stand out or you can use a glossy one for a full Barbie look.

I put on this set for a summer music festival and felt like the star of a teen rom-com. It’s popular, has lots of ideas and almost demands you take a photo of your ice cream cone.

Jungle Queen Leaves

This design lets you enjoy the beauty of the rainforest wherever you are. Tropical green is painted on every nail, making your manicure a botanical style. It’s vibrant without being loud, detailed yet calming. Perfect for vacation nails summer 2025 when you want to feel connected to nature—maybe you’re staying in a boutique jungle villa or planning a retreat in Hawaii.

vacation nails summer 2025 Jungle Queen Leaves
I used a soft sage gel base (try “Sage Advice” by Lights Lacquer), and layered leaf decals from MoYou London’s Botanical collection. I used a fine detail brush and a bit of time to achieve the layered look for the foliage. The final step is applying a glossy topcoat which makes every leaf look like it’s just been touched by dew.

If you’re doing the look at home, use a lot of green, pairing dark greens like Essie “Off Tropic” with lime accents. Dry each layer before adding the next to keep the look clean. If you like to focus on the little things, this piece is a dream come true.

It seems like the design would fit perfectly in Mexico, where everything felt so lively. Having a little bit of that wild beauty in your outfit can make your whole look more solid. Tropical, bold, but surprisingly wearable.

Electric Neon Drips

Now we’re turning the volume way up. This manicure screams beach party meets rave sunset. Neons like electric pink, yellow, blue and orange melted on sheer almond nails make this look bold, artsy and clearly meant for hot-girl summer. If you’re looking for a party in Europe, want to dance at a festival by the sea or just love some excitement — this is the event for you.

vacation nails summer 2025 Electric Neon Drips
Neon shades came from the Cirque Colors Vice Collection — I’m obsessed with “Kushy” (lime) and “Flamingo” (pink). A striping brush or a liner brush will help you make those dripping shapes look perfect. Build your look by putting on a nude base and adding as many colors as you like.

The trick to getting this look right is to spread your colors out evenly so they aren’t all in one place. Move your brush like the polish is dripping just as it would from a cone of cotton candy. Adding a glossy top coat will make your hair feel like fresh gel.

I wasn’t used to wearing this style, but people from the bar to the airport kept asking about it. It’s a great way to get people talking — a true expression of holiday fun. It’s even more impressive when you have golden skin and a giant margarita to go with it.

Fruit Stand Fantasy

If your summer plans involve farmer’s markets, Sunday brunches, or sipping sangria in a coastal town, this juicy fruit design is the one. Featuring hand-painted cherries, oranges and blueberries on a soft nude background, it’s enchanting, very detailed and looks as good as it tastes. Honestly? This is what inspiration looks like — capturing summer in art.

vacation nails summer 2025 Fruit Stand Fantasy
The base here was “Ballet Slippers” by Essie. I used acrylics to paint the fruit, but there are wonderful stickers on Etsy that give the same effect. If you want to do your own painting, you’ll need fine-tipped brushes for the cherry stems and small flowers.

It might be hard to DIY, but if you enjoy working with details or want to try something new, it’s definitely worth doing. Once you’re done, apply a clear top coat and enjoy your little orchard.

I wore this to a picnic in Central Park and someone I didn’t know said they liked my nails as I was eating a croissant. If you’re looking for a summer 2025 trend, this is it, especially when your outfits are light and filled with fruit prints.

Modern Neutral Safari

If you’re looking for a more subtle choice for your travel wardrobe, try this. The neutral set here uses glossy beige, classic white, a bit of leopard print and black graphic lines. It’s modern, well-groomed and down to earth — a mani that would fit in at either a jungle lodge or a café in Milan. For a quiet, stylish traveler, it’s the best vacation nails summer 2025 choice.

vacation nails summer 2025 Modern Neutral Safari
The nude base is “Topless & Barefoot” by Essie (a go-to), paired with “Black Onyx” by OPI for the graphic stripe and leopard detailing. I relied on nail tape for the straight areas and a dotting tool to make the spots. A touch of gold foil adds that subtle glimmer.

You can make your nails look more modern by applying the leopard pattern diagonally — it makes your nails appear longer and more interesting. If you’re nervous about symmetry, go with decals to keep it crisp.

This look made me feel expensive. Like, rosé-by-the-pool expensive. You can easily wear it from the beach to a nice dinner, so you don’t have to change your style. One of the most versatile ideas on the list.

Retro Glam Waves

If Studio 54 had a beach club, these would be the manicure you’d choose. Black polish adds drama to the retro stripes in orange, lavender and glittery rose gold. The design features waves that remind me of sunshine, spins and trippy movement, all found on a smooth square nail.

vacation nails summer 2025 Retro Glam Waves
I used Gelish “Black Shadow” to paint the background and the Makartt brushes for the waves. The glitter? “Rose Gold Spark” from Daily Charme. The secret is to let each color dry and then add another, so the lines stay crisp.

Just go with the flow — don’t worry too much about the words. Let them curve and bend like music notes. A top coat on these nails gives you a beautiful vinyl finish that stands up to flights, sand and Aperol spritz.

I wore this outfit before my trip to Italy and found it went with everything I packed. If you’re a fan of art deco, disco or want a scent that’s not your typical floral or fruity, this is your vacation scent.

Emerald Energy Meets Safari Sparkle

It’s really surprising how great deep green nails, holographic shimmer and tropical animal print look together. This design is bold without being over the top, which makes it perfect for those late summer getaways—whether you’re walking the cobbled streets of Europe or sipping frozen margaritas at a beach bar in Mexico. Having green glossy solids, wild leopard print in pink and lime and a nail that looks like it’s been dipped in crushed rainbow foil is all about vacation style.

vacation nails summer 2025 Emerald Energy Meets Safari Sparkle
To recreate this look, I’d go for OPI’s “Stay Off the Lawn!!” for that ultra-slick green, and maybe mix in Cirque Colors’ holographic flakes over a clear gel base. To get the leopard pattern, a nail art brush and patience are best, but if you’re not up for it, you can always try the reusable nail wraps from INCOCO.

It’s important to use a base coat on your nails to prevent staining and then apply two layers of each color you choose. The glitter nail? Best applied using a sponge for max opacity. And that animal print? First, paint white, put on the pink and green spots and finish with a thin line of black around each blob using a small detailing brush. After that, add a thick gloss gel topcoat and allow it to cure. Voilà.

I’d go for this manicure if I didn’t want to worry about my outfit, since my nails are making a statement. Bonus: the green hits different under golden hour light. I want to embrace unexpected, bright and confident energy as we move into summer 2025.

Sun-Drenched Swirls in Mustard Yellow

For me, this manicure is the perfect example of what I call “vacation nostalgia.” It feels like sunshine. The combination of mustard and white on your nails will make you feel like you’re in Italy having gelato or in Hawaii dancing with no shoes. It’s a light, easygoing look that manages to be bold—and its mix of order and movement is quite appealing.

vacation nails summer 2025 Sun-Drenched Swirls in Mustard Yellow
I’ve found that using Essie’s “Yes I Canyon” with a little “Hay There” gives me the exact shade I want. For the swirls, a precision liner brush dipped in gel-white (like Orly’s “White Tips”) will give you that fluid, hand-drawn vibe.

The technique is surprisingly soothing. Paint the mustard base on your nails twice and after it has dried, sweep your swirls across each nail. Don’t aim for perfection—this style looks better when it’s a little organic. Because it’s forgiving, it’s great for people who are just getting into DIY nail art.

I wore this look on a quick trip to Tulum and I can honestly say it got more compliments than what I was wearing. There’s something about the matte version too that just screams neutral, yet chic. Especially if you’re carrying a woven tote and having a cold hibiscus spritz.

Pink Sorbet Dreams with Crystal Accents

Let’s look at soft pinks that have a whipped frosting effect. This manicure with swirls of pastel colors and a few rhinestones looks elegant and just a little sparkly. The color palette includes a translucent pink base, plus blue, green and yellow marble on the edges and tiny crystals that shine when they’re lit up. It’s both trendy and timeless and its playful style is polished, making it great for vacation nails next summer.

vacation nails summer 2025 Pink Sorbet Dreams with Crystal Accents
For this effect, first apply a milky pink like Lights Lacquer’s “Rosie.” You can use a thin brush and pastel gel colors from Olive & June such as “Into You” or “Matcha,” for swirl art. I suggest using nail gems from Swarovski or Kiss’s gel-ready adhesive stones for your crystals.

Make sure your hand is steady when painting the marble edges, since you’ll be using a liner brush dipped in alcohol to blend a few gel colors for the watercolor effect. After the rhinestones are dry, put a wax pencil on each one and finish by sealing with a no-wipe topcoat. Celeb nail artist Brittney Boyce suggests that you always apply two layers of topcoat, under the crystals, to keep them from fading.

There’s something so soft and elegant about this one. I picture this mani when I’m having dinner on a roof in Europe or brunch by the ocean. It doesn’t scream glam, but hints at it which means it’s perfect for any occasion this summer.

Light Blue Horizon Tips

This nail style is the first thing I think of when I imagine Beach Mexico. A base of translucent nude, with a soft shimmer edge added to cool blue French tips? Say no more. Anyone aiming to be chic and still celebrate the sea will enjoy this. It’s especially ideal if you’re into short or almond shapes and want to keep things minimal but still cute.

vacation nails summer 2025 Light Blue Horizon Tips
You can get a similar result by using “Candy Floss” from Butter London as your base and Zoya’s “Blu” for the tips. Sprinkle some silver glitter such as DND’s “Mirror Ball,” right along the smile line.

Using a tip guide is a good way to get the perfect tip, but if you can freehand with a detailed brush, that works too. First, use the nude base, allow it to dry and then carefully paint the tips and apply glitter. Seal with a thin topcoat for a glassy finish.

Whenever I do this mani with a different color, I feel like I’m driving through Europe, with the wind blowing my scarf around. It’s low-key but visually soothing. Neutral meets nautical, and I love it.

Electric Pink with Wild Leopard Punch

I’m curious how great this high-voltage pink is paired with hot pink leopard print. It’s like Hawaii meets fashion week. If you’re looking for nails that are bold, on trend and perfect for your vacation, this set is for you. It’s fearless. Fun. And honestly? Surprisingly wearable—especially paired with gold rings or layered anklets.

vacation nails summer 2025 Electric Pink with Wild Leopard Punch
I’ve applied Sally Hansen’s “Back to the Fuchsia” and Le Mini Macaron’s “Bubblegum Crush” for this. It’s easier to do leopard spots than you might think—just put on some darker pink and trace it with black gel liner.

I usually paint a base coat, apply two pink layers and let it cure. After that, dot the spots with a dotting tool and add the black details with a very fine brush. Finish with a thick topcoat to lock everything in—especially if you’re packing for an Island escape.

I noticed while in Mexico that wearing this set made me feel more confident instantly. Even without any fancy accessories, my nails made me feel ready for margaritas and salsa nights.

Pineapples & Flamingos, Please

This manicure makes it seem like you’re on a Mexican beach. Glossy pink and yellow are paired with flamingos, tropical leaves, pineapples and a single gold glitter moment in the design. It screams island vacay in the best way. Thanks to the 3D detail on the pineapple nails, the whole design seems a little more special which is just what you want from your vacation nails.

vacation nails summer 2025 Pineapples & Flamingos, Please
A bright yellow like OPI’s “Sun, Sea and Sand in My Pants” and a pink like Essie’s “Mod Square” will give you this combination of designs. For the nail art, you can go the sticker or stamp route (check out MoYou London’s tropical plates), or hand-paint with a fine brush and acrylic paints for the flamingos and leaves.

Start with your solid colors first. Once dry, carefully layer your chosen art. If you want a 3D pineapple, use builder gel to shape it and then cover it with metallic gold polish. Apply a topcoat over everything, except the glitter nail, where you should press in gold sequins and then seal it up.

I put on something similar for a brunch on the beach in Hawaii last year and felt like I was a piña colada. Just listening to this set can make you feel better, whether you’re on vacation or at home. Pure summer 2025 magic.

Minimal Sage with a Metallic Twist

I think this is what neutral means, but it’s done with a serious sense of style. The square, green set with gold lines running through it looks clean, calm and quietly elegant. You can’t go wrong with a linen dress, some woven sandals and a bit of makeup for a simple holiday wardrobe. It’s feeling like I woke up in Italy and made my way to a coffee shop under the vines. Understated, but never boring.

vacation nails summer 2025 Minimal Sage with a Metallic Twist
You should use a soft sage base such as Olive & June’s “WKF,” and add gold nail tape or Orly’s “Rage” for the accent parts. You should always protect your finish by applying a matte topcoat.

If you’ve applied two coats of green, use a striping brush with metallic polish to create the wavy line or apply ultra-thin nail tape over each nail. Give the design a final layer of matte gel topcoat, even on the metallic part. It will make the gold a little less bright, but it helps the whole ensemble look nice together.

Whenever I want a manicure that’s both cute and versatile, I love this style. You don’t have to worry about it chipping or fading, as long as you use the right gel base. Beachy brights have a grown-up sister and I’m all for it.

Safari Heat in Yellow and White

Pairing bright yellow polish with a cheetah print gives off a bold look, but it’s not overdone. With its mix of patterns and bright colors, it’s perfect for a girls’ trip to Mexico or a visit to Hawaii. Bonus? It’s easy to wear even on short nails if you file them into a soft square shape.

vacation nails summer 2025 Safari Heat in Yellow and White
China Glaze’s “Happy Go Lucky” is a great yellow and Gelish’s classic white will look perfect underneath. For the spots, dip a dotting tool or toothpick into black gel liner and orange-yellow. It’s best to make this print look messy, since it’s more about energy than accuracy.

Begin with your base, move on to the cure and keep switching between solid color nails and your animal print. First dot the yellow blots, then fill in the outlines with uneven black lines. This gives that trendy, worn-in look without feeling cartoonish. Finish it off with a thick, glossy topcoat.

After I do animal prints on my nails, at least three people usually ask me where I had them done. It’s sure to inspire you and the yellow makes everything feel cheerful. It’s a must-try for vacation nails summer 2025 if you’re into playful vibes that don’t take themselves too seriously.

Mermaid Holographic Fantasy

I think a mermaid queen would wear these almond shape nails when she’s on her week off. The holographic blue chrome looks amazing on the watch and I couldn’t stop looking at it. A raised, fish-fin shape is added to one nail and it is finished with crystals all around the edge. It’s the ultimate symbol of bright, trendy and bold, so if you’re ready to be a siren this summer, it’s the way to go.

vacation nails summer 2025 Mermaid Holographic Fantasy
I first applied Holo Taco’s “Blue Ain’t Slick” over a black gel base, applied a no-wipe topcoat and buffed in unicorn chrome powder to achieve this effect. The details I wanted raised were sculpted with a sculpting gel and a liner brush. I used a wax pencil to apply the crystals and then sealed them around the base with builder gel.

You need to be patient and use a little technique, but the outcome is amazing. Make sure you fully cure the textured nail, along with each layer, to avoid chips for a long time.

I put on this set at a beach club in Ibiza and it soaked up all the sunshine. It felt magical. If you’re not afraid to go all in and want nails that literally glisten like ocean waves, this is your inspo. Total vacation nails summer 2025 fantasy unlocked.

Lavender Safari with a Zebra Twist

If you’re into pastels but you also want something wild, try combining lavender with zebra prints. Then, I use a cool lilac polish and add two zebra striped nails on a see-through base. The result? A lighthearted version of black and white animal print that is both gentle and tough. Great for a weekend trip to Europe or a relaxing time in the country.

vacation nails summer 2025 Lavender Safari with a Zebra Twist
I painted the main color with “Lilac Bridges” from ILNP and added zebra lines using a thin black striping brush. The main thing is to use a clear, milky base for the accent nails—try DND’s “Natural Pink” or any builder base with a nude tone.

First, paint your nails lavender and then cover them with the zebra design on top. Change the thickness of your lines and make the stripes a little curved to look like real zebra stripes. Once dry, lock everything in with a high-gloss topcoat.

I like this style since it allows me to wear a bit of black and white without having to wear all the same color. It gives a bit of extra excitement to a calm set—much like putting sneakers with a sundress. Uncomplicated, but effective.

It’s true — your nails are not just something you wear for style. They’re the tiny, detailed mood board of your summer. Whether you’re jetting off to Mexico, catching sunsets in Italy, or making memories at a beach closer to home, your mani can set the tone for the whole trip. That bit of pink, blue or tropical leaf art isn’t just popular — it’s about you.

This year’s summer nails are designed to be fun and full of personality. No matter if you prefer bright and bold or soft and neutral, fruity or black-and-white designs — you’ll find a look that fits you. And the best part? You don’t have to follow every rule. You just need to follow your vibe.

So, what’s your next inspo? A cute set that matches your passport cover? A vibrant or bold piece to highlight the linen you’ve been waiting to wear? A simple classic might be the best way to show off your tan.

No matter what, act like your vacation is completely dependent on what you’re wearing. A good manicure can make everything else seem better, can’t it?

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Hellen

Welcome to Plurzo.com! I'm Hellen, the founder and editor-in-chief, dedicated to helping everyone express their individuality and feel confident through fashion and beauty.

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