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The Summer Nail Trends We're Seeing All Over Instagram

  • Writer: Margo Ghertner
    Margo Ghertner
  • Oct 27, 2018
  • 2 min read

This piece was published in June 2018 on Clique Media Group's College Fashionista

I always find that it’s easy to go for your basic reds and pinks when it comes to a manicure, but there’s nothing more exciting than changing it up for once. Especially because summer is finally here, nothing screams “the warmer months have arrived!” than the perfect, punchy mani-pedi. Burgundies, deep reds, and darker tones are put away, and pops of bright colors galore take center stage. Here are some fun and unique summer nail ideas to get you inspired for your next trip to your next mani appointment.

PHOTO: Niha Chandar, New York University


Rainbow of Colors

Why choose one color when you can choose 10?! When it comes to chic summer nail trends, this is probably one of the easiest ones in the book. You can use polishes you already have at home to create dreamy color combinations.


PHOTO: Emmy Zobitz, New York University


Cosmic Details

Adding small sequins and gems is the perfect way to add some minimal sparkle to your look. After painting your nails with as many coats as you want, place the small gem or sequin to your nail bed using some tweezers. Seal it all in with a strong, clear topcoat.

Get this look: Sally Hansen Insta-Dry Nail Color in Sunset Orange ($4), VAGA Silver and Gold Star Manicure Studs ($4), Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat($9)


PHOTO: Briana Wilvert, University of Washington


Negative Space

Showing your natural nail and creating shapes out of negative space has been all the rage when it comes to the latest and greatest manicure trends. To get this look at home, tape off your nails using a thin manicure tape in any shape you’d like and then paint over the tape in multiple coats, letting the polish to fully dry before peeling.

Get this look: M-Egal Nail Tape ($7), Essie Nail Polish in Young, Wild, and Me($9)


PHOTO: Kally Cera, Fashion Institute of Technology


Holographic Silver

For sparkle lovers who don’t want their nails to be the least bit minimal, this is an easy way to get a crazy design just in time for festival season. Pair this look with a ton of rings and you’ll be ready to dance the night away.


PHOTO: Tumelo Nwanma, Rutgers University


Simple Pale Pastels

Although it’s easy to get caught up in bright and detailed nail designs, a simple coat of lavender white keeps your nails looking clean and fresh and incorporates one of the season’s hottest hues.

Get this look: Ella + Mila Love Collection in Lilac Luster ($11)


What are your favorite summer nail trends? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re interested in writing articles like this for College Fashionista, be sure to apply to be a Community Member today.


Opening image by Ana Acosta.

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