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As the sun once again takes its throne in the sky, are our toenails getting the spotlight they deserve? Can simple yet eye-catching summer pedicure designs be a reflection of our summer enthusiasm? This season, it’s all about the toes – whether they’re sinking into the golden sand or peeking out of open-toed sandals, let’s look at how you can give your feet the vibrant makeover they’re craving in 2024.
The timeless appeal of simple elegance
In the dazzling dance of summer pedicure designs, simplicity often takes center stage. The pristine white polish seen here captures a minimalist charm that is both timeless and modern.
Photo credit: IMEN
Professional Perspective: The elegance of a white pedicure lies in its versatility. Clean white polish acts as a canvas, making your toenails the center of attention without overwhelming them. It’s fresh, crisp, and embodies the clarity of summer.
Necessary consumables:
High-quality white gel polish (e.g. OPI Alpine Snow)
UV or LED curing lamp
Top coat for a glossy finish (e.g. Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat)
I find that a glossy top coat not only seals the deal, but also adds an extra layer of protection from the summer elements. Choosing a white gel polish like OPI’s Alpine Snow can complement any skin tone and add a touch of simple sophistication to your look.
Steps to do it yourself:
Start with a clean, prepped nail.
Apply a thin layer of your chosen white gel polish and let it dry under a lamp for the recommended time.
Seal with top coat and cure again for durability and shine.
A flower of elegance: blue serenity and floral grace
In the midst of the summer heat, toenails become the unexpected canvas of a fascinating story: a story where flowers bloom in shades of serene blue and the rustling of petals creates.
Photo credit: Lifestyles
Professional Perspective: This delicate display features blue as the protagonist, balanced with the soft touch of painted flowers. It’s not just a pedicure; it’s a statement of grace. Perfect for a summer afternoon or a casual walk on the beach, these toenails are a wearable work of art.
Necessary consumables:
Pastel blue nail polish (e.g. Essie Bikini So Teeny)
Fine detail brush for flowers.
Acrylic paints for floral art
Clear top coat for a durable finish (e.g. INM Out The Door)
The joy of this design is in the details: the fine strokes that form each petal. The use of acrylic paints gives it the precision needed for these miniature masterpieces.
Steps to do it yourself:
Apply a base coat and two coats of your pastel blue polish, allowing each coat to dry.
Dip the detail brush into acrylic paint and draw the flower design on your big toe nail.
Finish with a clear top coat to seal your miniature artwork.
Golden simplicity: a touch of glamour
The golden kiss of the sun immortalized on your toes; it brings together the simplicity of yellow polish and the opulence of gold leaf in an alchemy of summer pedicure designs.
Photo credit by: Игумнова Анастасия
Professional opinion: This pedicure balances easy, relaxed summer style with a touch of sparkle. The gold leaf detail creates a focal point, making it a versatile option that pairs with both flip-flops and stilettos.
Necessary consumables:
Light yellow nail polish (e.g. China Glaze Lemon Fizz)
Gold leaf sheets
Gold leaf adhesive (optional, depending on application method)
High shine gel top coat for a shiny finish.
Incorporating gold leaf is a bold move that pays off by turning something simple into something sophisticated. It’s all about adding that touch of luxury without going overboard.
Steps to do it yourself:
Paint your nails with the yellow shade of your choice and wait for it to dry.
Apply gold leaf over the accent nail, using the adhesive or tackiness of the second coat of polish.
Seal everything with a gel top coat for a shiny, protective finish.
Emerald Dreams: The exuberance of summer
A nod to the season’s verdant landscapes, it showcases the depth and drama of green polish, a true reflection of summer pedicure designs that speak to nature’s palette.
Photo credit by: Игумнова Анастасия
Professional Perspective: The luxurious green of this design transports us to the heart of summer – lush, vibrant and full of life. It’s a bold choice, not afraid to stand out and draw attention, and embodies the fearless spirit of the season.
Necessary consumables:
Dark green nail polish (e.g. OPI Amazon…Amazoff)
Strengthening base coat
Quick-dry top coat for a fast finish (e.g. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri)
Opting for a strong, deep green can transform your feet into a statement piece, perfect for those who embrace the essence of summer.
Steps to do it yourself:
Start with a base coat to protect your toenails.
Apply two coats of green polish, allowing it to dry between coats.
Finish with a quick-drying top layer to keep everything in place as you continue your summer adventures.
Cobalt Cool: A Dive into the Deep Blue
Capture the essence of the ocean depths with a deep blue polish that’s as boundless as the summer sky—a testament to the daring side of summer pedicure designs.
Photo credit by: Игумнова Анастасия
Professional Perspective: It’s all about making a statement with confidence. The electric blue of these toenails is a vibrant choice for the person who brings the freshness of the ocean with them wherever they go. It’s for the daring, the adventurous, the ones who leave a trail of wonder in their wake.
Necessary consumables:
Electric cobalt blue nail polish (e.g. Essie Butler Please)
Durable base coat
Top coat with UV protection (e.g. CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat) to prevent colour fading in the sun.
Blue is a statement in itself; a bold color that can carry an entire look. By choosing a shade like cobalt, you’re opting for a pedicure as deep and captivating as the midnight sky of summer.
Steps to do it yourself:
Protect your nails with a base coat to ensure your blue polish pops.
Apply two coats of cobalt blue polish, allowing them to dry completely.
Top it with a UV protective top coat to maintain the vibrancy of the blue, whether in the sea or the pool.
The contrast of monochrome magic
We discover a bold interplay between the timeless duo of black and white. This bold zebra design is a true graphic marvel for those who appreciate a chic and avant-garde take on summer pedicure designs.
Photo credit: tatiana.pro.nail
Professional Outlook: The stark contrast not only catches the eye, but also pairs beautifully with any color in your summer wardrobe. This pedicure suggests confidence and a certain boldness, perfect for those summer nights out.
Necessary consumables:
Jet black gel polish (e.g. Gelish Black Shadow)
Pure white gel polish (e.g. Gelish Arctic Freeze)
Nail Detailing Brush
Matte top coat for a contemporary finish (e.g. OPI Matte Top Coat)
The beauty of this design lies in the precise lines, which capture the wild essence of the zebra print with elegance and simple style.
Steps to do it yourself:
Apply a base coat and then two coats of white gel polish as a base coat, curing between coats.
Use the detail brush to hand paint the black zebra stripes – take advantage of the imperfections that add authenticity.
Finish with a matte top coat for a modern touch, dry and go.
Whispering Tides: A Fantasy Inspired by the Sea
It transports us to the relaxing tides with its sea foam green and delicate patterns, evoking images of gentle waves and sandy shores: an ideal narrative for toenails and the beach.
Photo credit:
Professional Perspective: This pedicure is a poetic ode to the sea. The use of teal and white suggests the soft lace of ocean waves caressing the sand, while the prints speak of marine flora.
Necessary consumables:
Seafoam teal gel polish (e.g. CND Shellac Aqua-intance)
Stamping plate with marine motifs
White stamping enamel
High gloss gel top coat to seal the design.
The tranquility of this design is its strength, offering a peaceful yet elegant statement to the beholder’s eye.
Steps to do it yourself:
Apply your seafoam teal polish as a base color and cure.
Use the stamping plate and white polish to transfer the marine patterns to the nail.
Seal with a top coat for added durability and a beautiful, glossy shine.
Pastel dreams and butterfly wings
The delicate dance of butterflies on a canvas of soft pastels in ‘8.jpg’ is a dreamy addition to your toenail art ideas, reminiscent of a serene summer meadow.
Photo credit: Kayleemowens
Professional outlook: This design brings a touch of whimsy to your toes, with pastel shades of pink, yellow and white creating a harmonious combination. Butterfly detailing adds a touch of charming cuteness, perfect for those leisurely strolls through the park.
Necessary consumables:
Pastel pink and yellow nail polish (e.g. Essie Romper Room and OPI Exotic Birds Do Not Tweet)
Butterfly nail decals
Iridescent glitter top coat for a magical shine.
Subtlety is at the heart of this design, as it captures the ethereal beauty of butterflies with a soft, simple charm.
Steps to do it yourself:
Paint each toenail alternating between pastel pink and yellow.
Apply the butterfly decals to your big toe nails.
Complete the look with an iridescent glitter top coat for a touch of sparkle.
Pretty in pink
As a professional manicurist, I must say that quintessential pink captures the essence of toenails with a summery vibe. The uniformity of the cotton candy shade, a bright and delicious color, not only screams cuteness, but is a complete concert. With each nail meticulously coated, the simplicity speaks volumes and offers a simple yet polished look that is always on trend.
Photo credit: IMEN
Necessary Consumables
Base Coat: Opt for a tacky adhesive base to ensure longevity.
Pink polish: Choose a gel formula like OPI’s Bubble Bath for a long-lasting, glossy finish.
Top Coat: A high shine gel top coat will seal in the color and add that candy-like shine.
DIY instructions
Start with a clean, buffed nail. Apply base coat and cure under UV light if you’re using gel.
Apply two coats of your chosen pink polish and let it dry after each coat.
Finish with a high gloss top coat for a long lasting, shiny finish and dry. Remember the key is to apply thin, even coats.
Tropical palm paradise
In the world of summer pedicure designs, nothing says tropical getaway like a palm leaf stencil adorning your toes. The green and white pattern on a deep teal background is a testament to this summer’s affinity for nature-inspired motifs.
Photo credit: IMEN
Professional opinion: The stark contrast between the crisp white and deep teal designs embodies the spirit of lush rainforests and serene beaches. It’s a sophisticated take on beach toenails that combines laid-back summer style with an air of exotic sophistication.
Bill of materials:
Base polish: Ocean Teal (Gel)
Template: Palm Leaf Paradise
Nail polish with accent: pure white (gel)
Top coat: Seashell Gloss
DIY Guide: Start with two coats of Ocean Teal Gel for a rich base. Once dry, apply the Palm Leaf Stencil firmly to the nail. Apply Pure White Gel Polish over the stencil and carefully peel off to reveal the design. Seal with Seashell Gloss Top Coat to last through summer adventures.
Teal Tranquility
As a professional manicurist, I can attest that teal is the whisper of the ocean captured on your toes. In this design, the soothing shade of teal merges with the gentle embrace of the summer breeze. The balance of sophistication and playfulness makes it the perfect shade for toenails, especially when they peek out from your favorite sandals.
Photo credit: 1millionideas.com
OPI Nail Polish in Teal the Cows Come Home
Seche Vite Quick Dry Top Coat
Rhinestones (optional) for an extra touch of sparkle.
To recreate this serene ocean effect, start with a clean, shaped toenail. Apply a base coat followed by two coats of teal polish. To make it last longer, finish with a top coat. If you’re craving a sparkle reminiscent of sunlight dancing on water, add a rhinestone detail.
Geometric glamour
There’s something inherently sophisticated about geometric patterns, and this toenail design idea is no exception. Hot pink provides the canvas for a network of white lines that intrigue the eye. It’s a design that speaks of precision, control, and a zest for the avant-garde—a fabulous choice for a summer pedicure.
Photo credit: Elen Andre
Zoya nail polish in “Mae” for the base
White nail art tape for precise lines
A glossy top coat to seal the design.
The pink base should be flawless; apply two coats for opacity. Next, use striping tape to outline the geometric pattern. Paint with white and carefully remove the tape before the polish dries. Finish with a top coat for a dazzling effect.
Whimsical cow print
The playful cow print is unexpectedly chic, offering a contrast of black and white with a pop of pink. It’s a simple toenail design with a twist, incorporating an animal pattern that’s cute and conversation-starting.
Photo credit: IMEN
ORLY Bonder Rubber Base Coat
Black and white nail polishes for cow print
A detail brush for freehand painting of stains.
After the base coat, apply a pink polish. Then, dip your detail brush into black polish to add cow spots of varying sizes. Use white for dimension. Seal with a top coat for a design that’s as long-lasting as it is adorable.
Green brio
In this vibrant beach toe nail design, lush green takes center stage, emulating fresh summer foliage. The pop of yellow flowers on the big toe adds a floral touch, creating a fresh and lively focal point.
Photo credit: nailustrous.com
Essie Nail Color in “Off Tropic”
Small yellow rhinestones for the floral center.
Green and yellow enamel for the petals.
Paint your toenails a bright green. For a statement nail, create a yellow flower with nail polish and add a rhinestone in the center. A thin paintbrush can help with the details on the petals. Top it all off with a high-gloss top coat.
Boho chic style
White toenails set the stage for an intricate bohemian design that exudes a free, easy, and chic spirit. The pattern on the big toe draws inspiration from world styles, while the white background offers a crisp contrast, perfect for summer-themed toenails.
Photo credit: a_lo_podolog
Sally Hansen Xtreme Clothing in “White On”
Acrylic paints for detailed design.
A fine brush for applying intricate patterns.
Start with two coats of white polish. Using acrylic paints, create the design on your big toe; fine brushes will help you achieve precision. You may need a steady hand, but the result will be a custom work of art.
Ocean waves
Dive into the deep blue with this pedicure that evokes the ebb and flow of ocean waves. The wave-like pattern on the big toe nail, highlighted against the white, shows a mastery of nail art, ideal for anyone looking to incorporate a bit of the sea into their toenail art ideas.
Photo credit: desavir
OPI Nail Polish in “Tile Art to Warm Your Heart”
White nail polish for the base of the wave design.
A detail brush to create the wave effect.
Paint the entire toenail, except for the big toenail, a striking blue. For the main nail, apply white polish as a base, then use the detail brush to paint blue waves. A top coat adds shine and protection to your mini sea mural.
Pristine whites
Classic white toenails never go out of style. This clean and sleek style brings simple elegance to any summer outfit. The glossy finish reflects the sun’s rays and offers a cool respite for hot summer days.
Photo credit: Nail Art
OPI Nail Polish in “Alpine Snow”
A high quality base coat for a smooth canvas.
Glossy top coat for a protective and shiny finish.
Apply base coat and then two coats of Alpine Snow for a crisp white. A top coat provides that glassy summer shine that lasts. This look is an easy option for a polished finish.
Classic with a twist
This pedicure design elevates the traditional French tip with a blue band and a touch of sparkle, adding a modern twist to a timeless classic. It’s an exquisite combination of sophistication and fun, making it perfect for both a casual day or an elegant evening.
Photo credit: naildesignsjournal.com
Essie Nail Polish in “Ballet Slippers” for the base
OPI Nail Polish in “Blue My Mind” for the tip
Small rhinestones for accent.
Use Ballet Slippers for a subtle pink base, then carefully paint the tips blue. Add rhinestones for a touch of glamour. The versatility of this design makes it a staple of 2024 toe nail trends.
Geometric shine
This design combines the allure of sparkle with the sharpness of geometric lines, topped with rhinestone detailing. It’s an elegant yet simple pedicure that brings sparkle and glamour to your toes without overwhelming them.
Photo credit: tufistop.com.ua
China Glaze in “Fairy Dust” for the shine
Nail art tape for precise lines
Rhinestones to enhance the look
After the base coat, apply Fairy Dust to selected nails. Use tape for geometric precision and add rhinestones for a luxurious feel. This combination of sparkle and structure will dazzle.
Sunny Delights
This sunny yellow design bursting with energy is accented with delicate leaf-like patterns that embody the vibrancy of summer. It’s a cheerful, cute, brightly colored pedicure that will definitely make you feel upbeat.
Photo credit:
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in “Lightning”
Black nail art pen for leaf design.
A top coat to seal the art.
Apply two coats of “Lightning” for a vibrant yellow base. Draw the leaf pattern with a nail art pen and then apply a top coat. This pedicure is like a little slice of summer on your feet, ready for any beach adventure.
Tropical Getaway
This bold, brightly colored design combines a bright yellow with a deep jungle green, transporting you straight to a tropical paradise. It’s the ultimate beachy toenail look, chic and easy to achieve, with a hint of mystery in the dark palm leaf detailing.
Photo credit by: Irina Криворучко
Sinful colors in “Let’s Meet”
Dark green and black enamel for the leaves.
A fine brush or nail art pen for detail work.
Coat your toenails with “Let’s Meet” for that bright yellow. Use the thin brush to paint palm leaves on your accent nails, mixing in a little black for depth. Seal with a top coat to ensure your tropical toes stay looking flawless.
Neo-French style
This design revitalizes the French tip with a neon pink and is a fresh take on the classic, ideal for toenails with a summery vibe. It’s a simple yet striking style, fun and chic, suitable for any summer adventure, whether it’s urban exploration or lounging by the sea.
Photo credit: fashion-woman.com
Essie nail polish in “Blanc” for the base
China Glaze in “Pool Party” for neon pink tips
A protective top coat for long lasting wear.
Start with “Blanc” as a base for a flawless look. Carefully apply “Pool Party” to the tips and then finish with a top coat for a vibrant and long-lasting toe nail art idea.
Glowing seascape
Dive into the depths of the ocean with this blue pedicure design that shimmers like sunlight hitting the waves. It’s a high-shine look that captures the essence of summer by the sea, perfect for anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their step.
Photo credit: divagaze.com
Base coat for nail protection
Blue glitter polish, preferably with different sizes of glitter to give it depth.
A sealing top coat to set the shine.
To achieve this mesmerizing look, start with a protective base coat. Then, apply a coat of bright blue polish until you reach your desired level of shine. Finish with a top coat to ensure your bright ocean nails last as long as your summer adventures.
Wild for fuchsia
Embrace your wild side with this electric fuchsia pedicure, adorned with a zebra pattern that screams fun and flirtatiousness. This summer pedicure design isn’t just a pop of color, it’s a roar of style.
Photo credit: Barinails
Bright fuchsia nail polish for the base.
White nail polish for zebra print.
A fine detail brush or nail art pen.
Paint your nails with the fuchsia base coat. Once dry, use a thin brush to draw white zebra stripes. Each nail becomes a mini canvas for your wild art and a top coat seals your safari adventure.
Cake party
This sweet and simple design features a pastel pink base with a hint of glitter on the big toe. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to add a touch of sparkle to a simple toe nail look, encapsulating both innocence and playfulness.
Photo credit: divagaze.com
Pastel pink polish for the base.
Multi-color glitter polish for accents.
A glossy top coat to encapsulate the sparkles.
Start with a pastel pink polish as a base. Add a touch of multi-colored glitter polish on your big toe for a festive touch. A top coat provides a smooth finish, making your fingers a celebration in themselves.
