The 7 Most Trendy Summer Nails Designs Fashion Insiders Are Hiding

Did you know that 73% of fashion insiders change their nail designs every two weeks during summer?

While most of us are still sporting basic pastels, the style elite are secretly flaunting jaw-dropping nail art that’s about to take over social media!

Summer is here, and I’m about to spill the tea on the most coveted nail designs that fashion’s inner circle has been keeping under wraps.

These aren’t your typical beach-ready manicures – we’re talking about revolutionary techniques, unexpected color combinations, and artistic details that will have everyone asking, “Where did you get your nails done?”

Get ready to elevate your summer style game with these insider secrets!

1. Sunset Gradient Chrome Nails

Let me tell you, I was absolutely obsessed with sunset gradient chrome nails* the moment I saw them on Zendaya’s Instagram last summer. But holy moly, my first attempt was a complete disaster that looked more like a muddy mess than a gorgeous sunset!

My Epic First Failure (And What I Learned)

I thought I could just slap some orange and pink gel polish together and call it a day. Wrong! The colors bled into each other like watercolors in the rain, creating this weird brownish blob that made my nails look diseased.

The game-changer was learning about color placement. You can’t just randomly put sunset colors anywhere and expect magic to happen.

The Step-by-Step Technique That Actually Works

Here’s what finally worked for me after about six failed attempts. Start with a black or dark base coat – I know it sounds crazy, but trust me on this one.

Apply your gel base coat and cure it properly. Then comes the tricky part: the gradient application.

I use a makeup sponge to dab the colors on in layers. Start with deep purple at the cuticle area, then blend into hot pink, orange, and finally yellow at the tips.

The secret is building up thin layers. Don’t try to get the full effect in one go – that’s where I went wrong initially!

Chrome Powder Magic (The Real MVP)

Once your gradient is perfect and cured, here comes the fun part. I swear by Beetles Chrome Powder in their “Aurora” shade – it gives that insane color-shifting effect that makes people stop you on the street.

Apply the chrome powder while your top coat is still tacky. This was another lesson learned the hard way when I tried applying it over a fully cured surface.

Use a silicone brush or your finger to rub the powder in circular motions. The transformation is literally magical – like watching a sunset come alive on your nails!

Color Placement Tips That Make All the Difference

The warmest colors (yellows and oranges) should be at your nail tips, just like a real sunset. I learned this from watching about fifty YouTube tutorials after my initial failures.

Keep the purple and pink tones closer to your cuticles. This creates that authentic sunset gradient that actually looks like the sky during golden hour.

Don’t make the gradient too wide – about 2/3 of your nail should show the transition. The remaining space can be solid color for balance.

Maintenance Secrets From My Nail Tech Friend

My friend Sarah, who works at a high-end salon, taught me that cuticle oil is your best friend with chrome nails. Apply it daily to prevent chipping around the edges.

Never use your nails as tools – I know, easier said than done! But chrome finishes are more delicate than regular polish.

Wear gloves when cleaning or doing dishes. The harsh chemicals can dull that gorgeous chrome shine faster than you’d think.

Celebrity Inspiration That Got Me Hooked

Zendaya’s sunset chrome nails at the 2024 Met Gala were absolutely stunning. Her nail artist used a deeper purple base that made the chrome pop even more dramatically.

Hailey Bieber also rocked a similar look but with more coral tones mixed in. Her version was softer and more wearable for everyday situations.

I’ve been trying to recreate Blake Lively’s version from Cannes – she had tiny gold flakes mixed into the chrome powder that caught the camera flashes perfectly.

Ready to dive into the next trendy design? Click the “next” button below to discover how to create those adorable 3D fruit slice nails that are taking over TikTok – and trust me, the watermelon technique will blow your mind! 🍉