Set your sights on the horizon because summer 2024 is about to get a splash of color and a whole lot of style. Are you wondering how to spruce up your look for those sun-drenched beach days and balmy evenings? Look no further, as we dive into the world of summer vacation nail inspiration, bringing you the hottest trends straight from the sunny shores.

Almond Breeze by the Sea

As a professional manicurist, I can’t help but admire the almond shaped nails. The beach inspired designs are a testament to creativity, showcasing a serene combination of sky blue and sandy white, perfect for a beach vacation or a cruise to the Bahamas.

• Consumables:
  • Base Coat: Seacret Nail Care Collection
  • Sky Blue Polish: OPI ‘Can’t Find My Czechbook’
  • White Polish: Essie ‘Blanc’
  • Palm Tree Accent: DecoArt Paint Marker
  • Top Coat: CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat

In my professional opinion, these products offer durability and a high-gloss finish that withstands the summer heat.

To recreate this tropical masterpiece:

1. Start with a clean, shaped nail.
2. Apply a base coat to protect your natural nails.
3. Layer the sky blue polish, followed by the white to create the horizon effect.
4. Use the paint marker for detailed palm trees.
5. Seal with a top coat for a beachy look that lasts.

Tropic Like It’s Hot

Looking at the photo, you’ll see that the short gel manicure embodies simplicity with a tropical touch. The muted neutral base transitions into bright foliage details, echoing the lush flora of a secluded island.

• Consumables:
  • Gel Base: Gelish Foundation Base Gel
  • Neutral Polish: Sally Hansen ‘Birthday Suit’
  • Detail Brushes: Winstonia Fine Liners
  • Green & Yellow Polish: Kiara Sky ‘Matcha Madness’ & ‘Lemonade’
  • Gel Top Coat: OPI GelColor Top Coat

My advice? The key to achieving such intricate detail is patience and a steady hand.

For the DIY enthusiasts:

1. Prep the nails with a base gel and cure.
2. Apply two coats of the neutral polish and cure after each coat.
3. Paint the leaf designs with fine brushes.
4. Cure again and apply a top coat for a glossy finish.

Sun Kissed and Beach Bound

When it comes to beachy simple short nails, this design hits the spot. The soft gradient from yellow to blue evokes images of sunsets and coastlines. A lone palm tree on each nail is the epitome of beachy simplicity.

• Consumables:
  • Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat
  • Yellow Polish: China Glaze ‘Sunshine Pop’
  • Blue Polish: Essie ‘Butler Please’
  • Nail Art Stencil: Palm Trees from Whats Up Nails
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

A little piece of advice: gradients are easier with a sponge applicator.

To do this at home:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Sponge on the gradient effect with your chosen colors.
3. Once dry, place the stencil and apply the blue polish for the palm design.
4. Finish with a fast-drying top coat to lock in the design.

Floral Finesse on the Shore

We have a vivid representation of short square nails. The striking pink tips adorned with playful daisy accents capture the essence of summer fun and are sure to be a hit at beach parties or sipping cocktails on a Floridian shore.

• Consumables:
  • Pink Polish: Deborah Lippmann ‘Hot Child in the City’
  • White Polish for Daisy: Orly ‘White Tips’
  • Nail Art Tool: Dotting Tool Set
  • Top Coat: Butter LONDON Hardwear UV Shine Topcoat

Remember, the daisies are simple yet significant, so make them pop!

For a homemade version:

1. Paint your tips with a vibrant pink.
2. Use the dotting tool to create white daisy petals.
3. Add a yellow dot in the center of each flower.
4. Apply a top coat for a lasting finish.

Wave Hello to Summer

These bold blue waves on a soft pink base, reminiscent of a calm ocean at sunset. The playful design is perfect for those who like to combine the trendy with the simple.

• Consumables:
  • Pink Base:

• Pink Base: Zoya ‘Believe’
  • Blue for Waves: Sally Hansen ‘Blue Me Away!’
  • Wave Stencil: Nail Vinyls Wave Pattern
  • Top Coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat for a smooth, sealing finish

It’s all about the waves in this design. To make them stand out, use a light hand with the stencil.

Here’s how to bring the ocean to your nails:

1. Apply a pale pink base and let it dry completely.
2. Position the wave stencil on the nail and apply the blue polish.
3. Carefully remove the stencil while the polish is still wet.
4. Finish with a swift application of top coat for a shiny, enduring manicure.

Verdant Waves of Elegance

A glimpse of rich, vibrant greens is at play on acrylic long nails that captures the essence of tropical foliage. The alternating monochrome and marbled patterns are a fresh take on the 2024 summer nail trend, reminiscent of swaying palm trees in Florida or a beach vacation in Mexico.

• Consumables:
  • Solid Green Polish: Essie ‘Off Tropic’
  • Marbling Duo: SinfulColors ‘Snow Me White’ & ‘Exotic Green’
  • Detailing Tool: Fine-tip brush for marbling
  • Top Coat: ORLY Glosser Topcoat

Professionally speaking, the marbling technique requires blending while the polish is wet for that seamless look.

Crafting this look at home:

1. Begin with a solid color base on alternate nails.
2. For the marbled nails, drop dots of white and green, then use the brush to swirl the colors together.
3. Finish with a top coat for a glossy, protective sheen.

Cool Waters and Golden Sands

We are greeted by the serene Almond shape nails, half-dipped in oceanic teal and half in a subtle pink nude, bisected by a sparkling gold line. This design is a nod to Simple yet Trendy beachside elegance, ideal for those leisurely Cruises or lounging on Island sands.

• Consumables:
  • Nude Polish: Zoya ‘Avery’
  • Teal Polish: China Glaze ‘Too Yacht to Handle’
  • Gold Striping Tape: Art Deco Nail Detail
  • Top Coat: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat

My advice for perfection is to apply the striping tape with tweezers for precision.

For the DIY artist:

1. Apply a nude base coat and let it dry.
2. Carefully tape off the lower section and fill in the teal.
3. Add the gold striping tape between the two colors.
4. Complete with a top coat for a durable, holiday-ready look.

Summer Spectrum

The nails showcase a spectrum of Bright hues in a soft, sponged Art design contrasted against a cool matte Blue background. This choice is perfect for embodying the vibrant, carefree spirit of Summer 2024.

• Consumables:
  • Matte Blue Polish: OPI ‘Matte Top Coat’ over ‘Suzi Says Feng Shui’
  • Sponging Colors: A rainbow selection from OPI Brights Collection
  • Makeup Sponge: For gradient application
  • Matte Top Coat: Essie Matte About You

In practice, sponging requires a light touch for that feathered gradient effect.

Creating this at home:

1. Paint the base with a matte blue.
2. Dab the sponge with your bright polishes and gently press onto the nail.
3. Seal it with a matte top coat to maintain the velvety texture.

Citrus Twist

Acrylic almond nails are reminiscent of a tropical fruit salad – tangy, fun, and perfect for a simple day at the beach or a cheeky night out in Mexico. Glossy translucent colors transition from one citrusy hue to the next, embodying the atmosphere of a tropical vacation.

• Consumables:
  • Jelly Polishes: Orange – OPI ‘Orange You a Rock Star?’, Pink – Essie ‘Resort Fling’, Green – ILNP ‘Walking Home’
  • Glossy Top Coat: INM Out the Door

The gradient effect is best achieved with a sponge for a blended look.

At home, replicate this by:

1. Applying a base coat to protect your nail.
2. Sponge on the different colors to create a gradient.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat for that juicy, high-shine look.

Island Flora

Lastly, brings us Short nails with a Bright green base and Cute floral accents that scream Island adventures. The bold green combined with the soft pink details gives off a Tropical yet Simple vibe, ideal for those looking to add a pop of color to their Beach simple pink aesthetic.

• Consumables:
  • Bright Green Polish: ORLY ‘Green Apple’
  • Pink Detailing Polish: ORLY ‘Kiss Me, I’m Kind’
  • Detailing Brush: For precise floral patterns
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

As a pro tip, use a detailing brush for the floral patterns and don’t rush; the beauty is in the details.

To recreate this botanical beauty:

1. Begin with two coats of your vibrant green polish.
2. With a fine brush, paint the pink floral patterns.
3. Add small green dots to represent leaves or floral center
4. Seal with a top coat for a lasting, chip-resistant finish.

Hearts Aflutter

Showcases a delightful contrast of Short nails painted in a vivacious red with a singular accent nail lovingly adorned with tiny hearts. This playful design is perfect for those summer romances or just spreading love with your fingertips.

• Consumables:
  • Red Polish: OPI ‘Big Apple Red’
  • White Polish: Essie ‘Blanc’ for heart details
  • Detailing Tool: Fine-tip brush for heart shapes
  • Matte Top Coat: Essie Matte About You

From my professional stance, the matte finish juxtaposed with the glossy red creates an intriguing texture contrast.

To create this heartwarming design:

1. Paint all but one nail with the bright red polish.
2. Use the white polish with a fine brush to draw hearts on the accent nail.
3. Apply a matte top coat on the red nails for a contemporary finish.

Pink Metallic Waves

We’re greeted with Long nails donned in a vivacious pink shade, with two nails featuring a metallic silver wave over a transparent base. This design captures the playful essence of Bright summer days and electrifying Florida nights.

• Consumables:
  • Pink Polish: China Glaze ‘Bottoms Up’
  • Silver Metallic Polish: Essie ‘No Place Like Chrome’
  • Clear Base: Sally Hansen ‘Big Peel Off’ Base Coat
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast

The metallic polish should be applied with care to create that perfect undulating effect.

For a DIY creation:

1. Apply a clear base on the nails designated for metallic design.
2. Swipe on the bold pink for a pop of color.
3. With a steady hand, draw the silver waves and let dry.
4. Finish with a fast-drying top coat for a dazzling effect.

Sunrise Gradient

Brings us a subtle Acrylic almond gradient, from a warm, peachy sunrise to a Neutral beige, accented with delicate white dots. This understated yet elegant look is perfect for any summer occasion, from a casual beach visit to a more formal event on a Cruise.

• Consumables:
  • Peach Polish: ORLY ‘Peach Pastel’
  • Neutral Polish: Zoya ‘Spencer’
  • Dotting Tool: For precise dot application
  • Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for shine

When creating a gradient, blend quickly while both shades are still wet to achieve a seamless transition.

To do this at home:

1. Start with a base of the neutral polish.
2. While still wet, apply the peach polish to the nail’s tip and blend towards the middle.
3. Use the dotting tool to add white accents.
4. Seal with a top coat for a smooth, lasting finish.

Skyline Shimmer

The sky’s the limit with these acrylic square nails, featuring a pastel blue sky with glittery silver inlays. This is a versatile design that goes well with both a simple beach manicure and the elegance of a tropical evening.

• Consumables:
  • Pastel Blue Polish: Essie ‘Bikini So Teeny’
  • Silver Glitter Stripe: Sally Hansen ‘Silver Sweep’
  • Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for a high-gloss finish

Tip: Apply the glitter stripe with a detail brush or use striping tape for precision.

To create this look yourself:

1. Paint your nails with the pastel blue shade.
2. Once dry, apply the silver glitter as a diagonal stripe.
3. Complete the design with a layer of top coat for shine and protection.

Tropical Sunset Foil

The nails are reminiscent of a tropical sunset with vibrant pink and soft orange hues accented with silver foil, reflecting the fading sunlight. This design is perfect for endless days at the beach in Mexico and adds glamor to any outfit.

• Consumables:
  • Pink Polish: OPI ‘Strawberry Margarita’
  • Orange Polish: China Glaze ‘Papaya Punch’
  • Silver Foil: Nail Art Transfer Foil
  • Top Coat: INM Out the Door Super Fast Drying Top Coat for durability

The foil application might be tricky, but it’s all worth it for the stunning, reflective finish.

For the DIY manicurist:

1. 1. Alternate the pink and orange polishes on each nail.
   2. Apply the foil on the nails while the polish is tacky to ensure it sticks.
   3. Press the foil gently onto the nail, then remove the backing.
   4. Seal your design with a fast-drying top coat to maintain the metallic sheen and prevent chipping.

Autumnal Harmony

The nails are a harmonious blend of fall hues with a modern twist, making them perfect for transitioning from the bright summer to the more muted tones of fall. The intricate leaf patterns are a trendy yet simple approach to nail art, perfect for a short Beach simple look.

• Consumables:
  • Base Nude Polish: Essie ‘Ballet Slippers’
  • Orange Polish: OPI ‘A Good Man-darin is Hard to Find’
  • Black Detailing Polish: Sally Hansen ‘Black Out’
  • Dotting Tool: For precise dot placement
  • Top Coat: Glisten & Glow Top Coat for a fast-drying finish

To recreate this look:

1. Apply a nude polish as the base.
2. Paint selected nails with a vibrant orange polish.
3. Use black detailing polish to hand-draw the leaf patterns.
4. Add colorful dots for a playful touch.
5. Seal the design with a quick-dry top coat for lasting wear.

Zesty Zebra

Showcases a lively zebra print over a fresh, lime green base. This look merges the wild patterns of the savanna with the fluorescent trends of Summer 2024, perfectly suitable for an adventurous day at the Beach mexico or a Florida retreat.

• Consumables:
  • Lime Green Polish: China Glaze ‘Lime After Lime’
  • White Polish for Zebra Stripes: Essie ‘Blanc’
  • Striping Tool: Fine brush for detailed lines
  • Top Coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat for shine and protection

Creating the zebra stripes:

1. Begin with a bright green base coat.
2. Use the striping tool to carefully paint on the white zebra patterns.
3. Apply a top coat to prevent the design from smudging and to add a glossy finish.

Sparkling Pink Gradient

We find a Cute and delicate gradient of pink, crowned with sparkling glitter that captures the joy and whimsy of summer. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of Bright glamour to their Neutral beachwear or evening attire.

• Consumables:
  • Light Pink Base: OPI ‘Let’s Be Friends!’
  • Glitter Polish: OPI ‘Princesses Rule!’
  • Sponge: For a smooth gradient effect
  • Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for a radiant finish

To achieve this sparkling gradient:

1. Apply the light pink polish as a base.
2. Sponge on the glitter polish, concentrating at the tip to create the gradient.
3. Finish with a layer of top coat for extra sparkle and hold.

Subtle Sugar

Gives us a soft, Simple elegance with a sugared texture at the nail bed, fading into a clean pink transparency. This Short gel design is perfect for those who prefer a hint of sweetness with their Neutral palette, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal summer occasions.

• Consumables:
  • Sheer Pink: Essie ‘Sugar Daddy’
  • White Glitter: Sally Hansen ‘Strobe Light’
  • Top Coat: Essie Gel Setter for a gel-like shine

For a sugary effect:

1. Apply two coats of sheer pink polish for a translucent base.
2. While the second coat is still tacky, sprinkle on the white glitter at the nail base for a gradient sugared look.
3. Complete with a top coat for a smooth finish and lasting wear.

Cosmic Contrast

Take a celestial journey on your acrylic long nails, showcasing a striking contrast between ethereal white and mesmerizing space foil. This design is a bold statement suitable for starry nights on the beach or bright days celebrating island life.

• Consumables:
  • White Polish: Essie ‘Marshmallow’
  • Nail Foil: Cosmic Pattern
  • Foil Adhesive: For secure placement
  • Top Coat: ORLY Glosser for a high-shine finish

Crafting the cosmic design:

1. Start with a white base to make the colors pop.
2. Apply foil adhesive according to the instructions on the accent nails.
3. Once tacky, press the cosmic foil onto the nails, shiny side up, then peel away.
4. Seal everything with a glossy top coat for a smooth and durable manicure.

Serene Pastel Play

The manicure radiates a calm combination of pastel shades, reminiscent of the softness of a summer sky. The minimalist approach with soft lime and peach tones is for those who appreciate simple, understated elegance with a touch of modernity.

• Consumables:
  • Soft Lime Polish: Essie ‘Chillato’
  • Peach Polish: OPI ‘Freedom of Peach’
  • Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

To recreate this serene look:

1. Apply two coats of soft lime on some nails and peach on others for a soft, pastel canvas.
2. Finish with a fast-drying top coat for a sleek, durable manicure.

Crimson Sparkle

The nails in feature a deep, rich crimson base sprinkled with glitter, resembling a starry summer night. Perfect for a bold statement, this design brings the sparkle of the Beach nights directly to your fingertips.

• Consumables:
  • Crimson Polish: Deborah Lippmann ‘Single Ladies’
  • Glitter Topper: China Glaze ‘Ruby Pumps’
  • Top Coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat for added shine

Crafting this starry design:

1. Begin with a base of deep crimson polish.
2. Apply a layer of glitter topper to achieve the sparkling effect.
3. Seal with a top coat to ensure your nails shine all night long.

Matte Ocean Blue

Presents a beautiful matte blue, reminiscent of the ocean’s tranquil depths. The Matte finish gives these Acrylic long nails a contemporary edge, suitable for beach days or an evening out in Tropical locales.

• Consumables:
  • Ocean Blue Polish: Sally Hansen ‘Pacific Blue’
  • Matte Top Coat: Essie ‘Matte About You’

For the DIY approach:

1. Apply two coats of the ocean blue polish for full coverage.
2. Finish with a matte top coat to transform the glossy blue into a smooth, matte texture.

Classic French Twist

The nails shown take the classic French manicure and give it a twist, perfect for those summer weddings or upscale Cruises. The clean lines and Neutral base are timeless, with an added modernity that makes it a go-to for any summer event.

• Consumables:
  • Nude Polish: OPI ‘Bubble Bath’
  • White Polish for Tips: OPI ‘Alpine Snow’
  • Top Coat: ORLY Glosser for a high-shine finish

To achieve this updated classic:

1. Apply the nude polish as a base coat.
2. Carefully paint the tips white to create the French manicure look.
3. Add a top coat for a glossy, professional finish.

Speckled Sophistication

Lastly, showcases a sophisticated grey-blue base with delicate speckles, providing a Cute, yet professional look that’s great for both daytime activities and evening relaxation. It’s a versatile design that complements a wide range of summer outfits.

• Consumables:
  • Grey-Blue Polish: Essie ‘Petit Trianon’
  • Black Speckle Topper: Nails Inc. ‘Baker Street’
  • Top Coat: OPI Top Coat for lasting wear

Creating the speckled effect:

1. Start with a base of grey-blue polish.
2. Apply the speckled topper for a unique, textured effect.
3. Finish with a top coat to protect and set your design.