The hottest nail trends you need to try this summer
If you’re in need of a bit of design inspiration to take you into the summer months, then look no further. Discover our round-up of the hottest patterns and colour trends you can try at home that are bound to give friends and family a serious case of nail envy.
70s wave
The 70s style is coming back in a serious way this season. Fueled by the aesthetics of dreamy Pinterest boards, the wavy nail trend has taken the beauty industry by storm, with thousands of different variations of the design going viral online.
The great thing about this look, is that you can recreate the waves however you like – so it can be as complicated or as simple as you like! Start off with a base coat, then use a thinner design brush to apply colour in dainty lines along the nail at different angles, we recommend using Essie’s range of pastel toned polishes for the perfect summer look!
Ombre
Ombre nails are the perfect option for people who love one colour, but want to make their mani look a little bit more interesting. Experimenting with different shades of the same colour creates a beautifully subtle rainbow effect that’s ideal for the summer months.
To recreate this look, simply take 5 shades of pink subtly increasing in darkness and paint one shade on each nail, starting with the lightest at the thumb to the darkest on your little finger. We recommend using OPI polishes for their vast shade range, and chip resistant formula to help your mani last longer!
Classic red
The great thing about a bold red manicure is that it will never go out of style. This classic look is ideal for date night or your big girls’ night out on June 21st! To recreate this simple, yet eye-catching and elegant style, it’s important to choose a good quality red. Start with the Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in the shade ‘Rock the Runway’ (no base coat required) and paint evenly along all your nails, going from cuticle to tips. Secure your manicure with the Gel Couture Clear Nail Polish Top Coat and enjoy chip-free nails for longer!
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RRP: £9.99Current price: £7.99
Pastel tips
This fresh twist on a classic French manicure is the ideal look to take you through summer. Pastel colours are super hot right now and are a really cute alternative to the typical white tips. This look is quick and easy to recreate from the comfort of your own home. Begin by filing your nails into a square shape before applying a pinky-nude base coat. Once dry, take a smaller detail brush and carefully sweep a line of colour along the edges of your nails. We recommend Barry M’s Hi Shine Gel Polish in the shade Lavender for the perfect lilac tone.
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RRP: £8.99Current price: £6.74
Funky florals
Nothing screams summer like cute a cute floral manicure. The great thing about this design is that you can mix and match, putting a flower on alternate fingers, having one statement nail, or drawing half flower designs instead. There are so many ways to recreate the trend, and you can make it as intricate or as simple as you like. After applying your nude base coat, place a dot of pastel yellow where you would like the middle of the flower to be, and then use a smaller detail brush to apply the white petals, working from the centre dot outwards. We’re currently obsessing over Essie’s vibrant ‘Check Your Baggage’ shade!
Discover our full range of nail polishes and nail kits at LOOKFANTASTIC.
As someone with an affinity for all things beauty, discovering fantastic new products is my not-so-secret obsession. Over the years I've tried and tested a mountains worth of creams, serums and cleansers, finding some of my favourite 'holy-grail' products along the way. However, I'm always on the lookout for more ways to nourish my hair, perfect my dewy base, or enhance my skincare routine. Working as a beauty blogger for over 3 years, I've been lucky enough to collaborate personally with lots of amazing beauty brands including Christian Dior, The Body Shop and Dermalogica. I've used the Dermalogica special cleansing gel religiously since I first got it and their products are some of my ultimate skincare faves. When it comes to cosmetics, NARS Sheer Glow foundation is definitely my go-to - I live for a light, glowy base!
