Maximalism staged a fierce comeback this summer season, and saturated palettes, geometric line work, and abstract prints are taking centre stage.
Unapologetic self-expression is dominating the fashion and beauty landscape (and let’s be honest, it was long overdue), and we’re keeping a watchful eye on maximalist nail art in particular. Because when fingertips double as canvases, they command attention with every gesture.
As bold looks re-enter the style sphere, we are seeing a widespread surge of experimental styling. This has made for trending nail designs that are anything but two-dimensional; they’re adorned with gems, beads, and charms—and literally jump off the surface to create hyper-realistic looks and textured, non-figurative patterns.
Whether a trip to the salon is an essential part of your bi-weekly routine or you’re just looking for a one-time style for a summer weekend getaway, the right manicure makes all the difference. So, ditch your dependable monochrome pinks and whites, and swap simple for statement with these five maximalist nail trends.
Summer 2025 Nail Art Trends:
1. Ladybug Nails
If you haven’t yet heard, it’s officially Ladybug Summer. The trending aesthetic takes its cue from an early/mid-summer predecessor: the revival of the Y2K polka dot craze.
We are bugging out about this crawly-but-cute spin on the fashion fad—made all the more tasteful with a signature, almond French tip.
2. Classic Polka Dots
Not into something so nail-on-head? The more classic (but never boring) polka dot pattern makes for a playful contrast to any neutral outfit. And if you’re looking for the perfect segue from late summer into fall, these leafy brown and quail egg colour choices are subtly seasonal, without sacrificing flair.
3. Micro-Fruit Nails
With fruit motifs flooding our screens for some time now (think last year’s ‘strawberry summer,’ popularised by Hailey Bieber for Rhode), the girls inevitably flocked to styles that mirrored the mood.
From bold watermelon graphics to quiet references toward summer’s most coveted treat, we simply can’t get enough of our Pinterest feeds. Try out this sweet style as you soak up the last few weeks of the season.
4. Coastal Nails
This maximalist, beach-inspired summer nail trend is a vision of pearly whites and bright blue hues. Resembling seashells — and even painted to facilitate a sculpture-like feel—the unique accent nails keep the look visually dynamic, but nonetheless polished and intentional in its unexpected cohesion. A touch of beads and embellishments adds an eye-catching finish and indulges us in our three-dimensional dreams.
5. Euro-Summer Postcard Nails
Maybe you never made it to the Mediterranean this summer, but not to fret! These thin-stroke, mini paintings nod to the whimsical, endless summer feelings induced by a vacation spent relaxing along the Italian coast.
If you can’t reach Cagliari, channel the ambience at home with this trendy take on vintage postcard art. Whether for nostalgia or aesthetics, any reason is the right one (IMO).
This story first appeared on GRAZIA USA, Author: Campbell Mattus.
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