Although the actual summer solstice is weeks away, Memorial Day is the unofficial start of the season. The national holiday signals the return of sunny days and that laissez-faire energy that comes with warmer temps.
If you’re looking for an on-theme manicure, it probably lies somewhere on the fun-to-patriotic spectrum. For inspiration, scroll through the 15 Memorial Day nail ideas below.
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Hot and Sunny
This fun and bright French manicure features multicolored tips and hazy sun detail using shades of blue, orange, pink, and yellow.
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Patriotic Mix
For a patriotic look that’s not too on-the-nose, opt for a fun mix-and-match design in red, white, and blue. This look features cherries, smileys, stars, and checkers.
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Sunny Days
This manicure uses bold shades of pink, yellow, and blue in a look that blends French tips, flowers, suns, and checkers.
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Chrome Stars
This velvet nail look features a dynamic pewter shade with stars.
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Gingham Picnic
Go for a picnic vibe with gingham tablecloth-inspired French tips. Pair it with a floral-adorned tip to add even more visual interest.
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Watermelon Season
Summer marks the start of watermelon season, so why not sport nails to match?
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Simple Flags
For a straightforward Americana nail look, incorporate the flag into your design. In this look, the flag is paired with blue gingham, stars, and solid red.
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Berries and Cream
Go for a springy look by pairing the classic French manicure with cute strawberries.
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Stars and Stripes
This bright look uses light blue, white, and red for a patriotic nod. A set of cow-print pinkies adds an unexpected touch.
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Summer Neons
Celebrate with a bold neon manicure. This swirled design uses shades of pink, yellow, orange, and white.
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Subtle Florals
This delicate nail art features the classic red-white-and-blue combo in a floral nail design.
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Navy Florals
Navy is the base for this white and orange floral design. It features a mix of French tips and floral-splashed nails.
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Watermelon Tips
Get in the watermelon mood with this tip design. Each nail features a nude base and watermelon slices at the tip, complete with seeds and a dual-toned rind.
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Juicy Fruit
A 3D polish was used to add a juicy vibe to these orange nails. It’s paired with a stunning blue-and-white design that screams summer.
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Strawberry Stripes
This design features strawberries and stripes for a super summer-forward design.