As the seasons transition and days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to dive into the season’s hottest trend: summer nails with a blue twist. Gone are the days when summer was synonymous with neons and pastels. This year, it’s all about embracing the cool, calm, and collected vibe of blue hues, ranging from soft aquas to deep navies. These shades are making a splash, and we’re excited to explore five captivating designs that add a touch of sophistication to the usual summer nail game.
Soaring on Azure Wings
The essence of these long, almond-shaped nails is captured by imagining the ocean’s depths meeting the sky’s vastness. The color transition, reminiscent of a sunset’s warm tones giving way to the cool darkness of night, starts with a light blue at the cuticle and deepens into a rich, dark blue towards the tips. This ombre effect is more than just a visual treat; it’s an invitation to embark on a journey.
Each nail also features a bold, red stripe at the edge, adding a surprising burst of energy to the overall design. In my view, this look represents a bold statement that celebrates individuality and refuses to be confined by conventional boundaries. It’s a declaration that says, ‘I’m fun, I’m fearless, and I’m unapologetically myself.’ To recreate this striking look, start with a base coat of CND Shellac in ‘Creekside’ and blend into ‘Indigo Frock’ towards the tips.
Use OPI’s ‘Big Apple Red’ to add the pop of color at the edge. The harmony between these hues creates a mesmerizing dance on your fingertips that’s sure to turn heads.
Serenity in Simplicity
Imagine yourself surrounded by the soothing ambiance of a summer sky, where the gentle gradient of blues on these nails takes center stage. With a subtle shift from soft aqua to bright sky blue, this design embodies serene elegance and nods to the classic French tip with a modern twist. Perfect for those seeking a charming yet professional look that seamlessly transitions from office to beach, this gradient is sure to delight.
To recreate this stunning effect, start with Essie’s ‘Ballet Slippers’ fading into ‘Bikini So Teeny’, and finish it off with ‘Butler Please’. A sponge dabbing technique allows for a smooth transition between each layer, resulting in a look that’s as effortless as it is captivating.
Bold as the Summer Sky
In a bold stroke of color, this design makes a statement with its unrelenting blue hue. The sheer audacity of the uniform blue is tempered by its timeless appeal, making it a perfect pairing for denim or crisp white summer dresses. What draws me to this look is its unwavering confidence and sense of self-assurance, reminiscent of someone who knows exactly what they want and isn’t afraid to show it off.
To achieve this vivacious look, I recommend Gelish’s ‘My One Blue Love’, a gel polish that promises durability and a radiant shine that lasts as long as your summer escapades.
Night Sky Enchantment
The allure of a starlit night is perfectly captured in these long nails, where a dark blue base reminiscent of the night sky meets an explosion of glittery sparkle. This enchanting design exudes both whimsical fun and sophisticated charm, making it a standout for summer nights filled with mystery and magic. The essence of romance and storytelling can’t help but captivate, as if the stars themselves are whispering tales of adventure and wonder.
To recreate this celestial masterpiece, start with OPI’s ‘Russian Navy’ as your base color and add a dash of ‘Cosmo-Not Tonight Honey!’ for that extra touch of stardust sparkle. Apply the glitter with a light hand to achieve the perfect balance of twinkling magic.
Waves of Elegance
This enchanting nail art design harmonizes contrasting shades of blue, seamlessly merging light and dark hues to evoke the soothing rhythm of summer tides. The result is a mesmerizing wave pattern superimposed onto a French base, reminiscent of the ocean’s gentle lapping against the shore. A delicate white butterfly motif adds an air of playfulness, beckoning the imagination. This design speaks directly to the dreamer, the beachcomber, and those who cherish intricate patterns.
To recreate this maritime fantasy, begin with a French base using Chanel’s ‘Ballarena’, then blend Dior’s ‘Bleuette’ and ‘Blue Drop’ for the undulating waves. For those seeking assistance in achieving such detailed designs, a fine brush or stamping technique can be employed to bring the intricate butterfly and wave patterns to life.
Aqua Allure
The nails in question are a masterclass in understated elegance, with an aqua base that seems to have been kissed by the gentle waves of the sea. A whisper of white adds subtle depth and harmony to the design, conjuring up images of a serene summer’s day. The matte blue accents perfectly complement the delicate wave patterns, weaving together a narrative that is at once playful and sophisticated.
From an expert’s perspective, this fusion of simple artistry and bright hues distills the essence of summer into a single, effortless stroke. It’s a testament to the beauty that can be found in the most basic of elements – a classic French tip reimagined with the vibrant colors of the ocean, making it a trendy choice for any sun-kissed adventure.
To recreate this marine-inspired masterpiece, consider pairing OPI’s Gel Color in ‘Can’t Find My Czechbook’ for the base with Essie’s ‘Blanc’ for the intricate designs, then finish with a matte top coat to transform the glossy sea into a peaceful lagoon.
Midnight Safari
Cerulean Chic
This reimagined take on the classic French design injects a burst of summer freshness into a timeless favorite. By incorporating vibrant blue accents along the tip, the French manicure is given a modern makeover that maintains its elegant essence while embracing a playful twist. The result is a look that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to add a touch of whimsy to their beauty routine.
For enthusiasts looking to recreate this design at home, a light base such as Essie’s ‘Ballet Slippers’ can be paired with the bold blue hue of ‘Butler Please’ along the tip. The precise French lines that define this look can be achieved using striping tape, allowing for crisp, clean edges that elevate the overall aesthetic to new heights.
Serene Skies
In this captivating portrait, a delicate dance of light blue and sparkle unfolds. A single accent of artistry adorns the nail, as a glittering butterfly wing is outlined in shimmering blue, transporting the wearer to a whimsical realm where fantasy knows no bounds. This understated yet powerful statement of beauty tells the story of transformation on one finger alone, carrying the essence of the clear summer sky and its effortless beauty with it.
The butterfly, a timeless symbol of change, seems to flutter against the backdrop of serene blue, hinting at the possibility of renewal in each new season. To bring this ethereal design to life, a palette such as Gellish’s ‘Up in the Blue’ could serve as the foundation, while the intricate butterfly details might be achieved with a touch of ‘Twinkle Silver Glitter’.
The secret to its magic lies in the steady hand and fine brush strokes that bring the delicate features to life, allowing the butterfly to soar.
Cerulean Canvas and Zebra Whispers
Summer’s allure is embodied in the first vision, a bold cerulean blue paired with the classic zebra pattern. This design masterfully blends the untamed spirit of nature with the poise of the high seas. The interplay of bright blue against white and dark animal design creates a dynamic that not only speaks, but roars with style. To me, this design embodies both trendy and timeless qualities, offering a fun twist on traditional animal prints while maintaining sophistication.
It’s impossible not to be captivated by the seamless blend of fierce and flamboyant. To recreate this look, start with a base coat of Gelish ‘Ocean Wave’ for the blue tone. For the zebra pattern, use Artistic Nail Design’s ‘Swag White’ and ‘Bride’ for the perfect white French tip. A steady hand or thin brush from OPI’s professional toolkit may be necessary to achieve the precise stripes.
Sapphire Depths and Glossy Heights
Diving into the depths of sapphire blue, our design mimics the ocean’s most profound hues. The gloss is as radiant as the sun-kissed waters at noon – pure, unspoiled, and striking. Yet, within its simplicity lies a profound beauty that draws us in. For me, it’s the prolonged exposure to this color that captivates. It’s as if you’re wearing the ocean on your fingertips, bringing serenity with every movement. The glossy finish? A gentle wave caressing the shore, leaving behind a shimmering memory.
For those seeking to craft this deep blue masterpiece, start by using CND’s ‘Creekside’ as a foundation and then layer ‘Blue Eyeshadow’ to achieve that mesmerizing depth. Seal it with Seche Vite’s glossy topcoat for a mirror-like finish that endures.
Sky’s the Limit: Azure Affection
Our third summer nail adventure takes a subtle approach with a serene aqua-blue hue reminiscent of cloudless skies and peaceful waters. The short, sweet nails exude elegance in any shape or size, while the matte finish injects a modern touch to the classic glossy look. This understated yet chic aesthetic makes it an effortless addition to any summer outfit.
I find the matte finish adds a sleek, contemporary flair, making it perfect for daytime strolls or casual beach evenings.
The soft blue shade evokes the gentle lapping of waves at your feet, creating a soothing and calming atmosphere.
To recreate this look, pair Essie’s ‘Bikini So Teeny’ with Matte It!’s topcoat for that velvety texture. While simple in design, the impact is just as profound as the vastness of the ocean.
Waves of Whimsy: Oceanic Overtures
As we explore the intersection of transparency and layering, our gaze falls upon a mesmerizing dance of light blue and dark blue hues. The striped pattern evokes the rhythmic undulations of the sea, imbuing this design with an air of playfulness while maintaining an artistic sophistication. The interplay of shades and transparency holds my attention, transporting me to a canvas where the light and darkness harmonize in a celebration of summer blues.
This wave-inspired motif is reminiscent of the ocean’s depths, where sunlight sparkles on waves that carry both the mystery of the deep and the radiance of the surface. To replicate this enchanting nail art, one might layer OPI’s ‘Can’t Find My Czechbook’ as the base with ‘Dating a Royal’ for the striped effect. A subtle touch of ‘Alpine Snow’ could add the finishing touches, imbuing the design with an airy, frothy quality that captures the essence of sea-swept waves.
Electrifying Elegance: Bold and Blue
This show-stopping nail design boldly combines the striking hue of cobalt blue with a hint of celestial magic. A single accent nail shines bright with a dusting of glitter, adding an otherworldly touch to the bold, confident statement made by the long nails. The overall effect is reminiscent of a summer night sky ablaze with fireworks, a timeless fusion of trendiness and allure.
As each grain of glitter on the accent nail represents the potential for even the smallest elements to reflect light and tell a story, this design embodies the beauty of the universe. To achieve this stellar look, begin by applying LeChat’s ‘Royal Blue’ as the base color, followed by a sprinkle of ‘Stardust’ glitter on the accent nail. Then, seal it all in with IBD’s ‘Just Gel Polish Top Coat’, ensuring the glitter remains firmly in place like stars shining brightly in the firmament.
Classic With a Twist: Midnight’s Muse
Imagine a design that embodies the essence of both serenity and excitement, like a midnight sky illuminated by the warmth of a sun-kissed beach. This captivating blue hue has taken creative liberty with French tips, boldly deviating from tradition. The long nails are enveloped in a deep, rich blue, while playful French designs add an air of whimsy, encouraging a second glance and a smile. To me, this design evokes the refreshing sensation of diving into a cool pool on a sweltering summer day.
The classic French tip nods to time-honored elegance, while the vibrant blue hints at adventures yet to come. It’s a style that boldly declares, ‘I am refined, but I also have an untamed spirit.’ For those ready to embark on this French adventure, consider pairing OPI’s ‘Indigo Waves’ with the crisp lines of Alpine Snow for the tips and a thin brush from Sally Hansen’s detailing set to achieve this playful twist on the classic French manicure.