Soft, Shimmery & Beach-Ready: Pastel Summer Nails Are In

The top nail trend sweeping UK salons in 2025 is here: Pastel Summer Nails. This dreamy look blends sheer rosé tones, soft beach-inspired pastels, and shimmering finishes. It’s fresh, feminine, and perfect for holiday season, wedding guests, and everyday elegance.

Whether you’re a nail technician or a DIY lover, this trend offers the perfect combination of colour, subtlety, and summer charm.


What Are Pastel Summer Nails?

Pastel Summer Nails are soft-toned manicures inspired by seaside tones, rosé wine hues, and summer sunsets. These nails typically feature shades like:

  • Baby pink
  • Seafoam green
  • Cloudy lavender
  • Nude peach
  • Pale yellow

They may include sheer finishes, chrome shine, ombré blending, or delicate decals. The vibe is clean, calm, and subtly glam.


Why They’re Trending in 2025

This year’s UK beauty trends are all about quiet luxury and natural beauty. Pastel Summer Nails align with these themes perfectly:

  • Minimalist but creative
  • Perfect for short and natural nails
  • Works with BIAB, soft gels, or polish
  • Translates beautifully into reels and photos

Need help mastering clean gel art?
Learn prep and application in the Nail Prep Mastery Course.


Best Designs for Pastel Summer Nails

StyleDescription
Sparkling Rosé TipsPale pink base + chrome shimmer tip
Beach Ombré FadeNude to sea blue or coral blend
Pastel FrenchiesFrench tips in 5 soft pastel colours
Wavy Line ArtWhite or gold swirls over pastel backgrounds
Shell-Inspired DecalsGold foil, pearl studs, or seashell stickers

📌 Want to learn detailed pastel designs?
Try the Ocean & Beach Nail Art Masterclass.


Product Recommendations

To get salon-quality Pastel Summer Nails, you’ll need:

  • Sheer BIAB or builder gel
  • Pastel gel polish collections
  • Ultra-thin art brushes
  • Top coat with shimmer or chrome
  • Gold foil flakes or shell decals

💡 Learn how to use BIAB effectively in this BIAB Masterclass.


How to Create the Look (Step-by-Step)

  1. Prep the nail – Push back cuticles, file the shape, and cleanse.
  2. Apply base – Use sheer BIAB or jelly nude base.
  3. Add colour – Blend pastels with sponge or brush for ombré or sectioned colour.
  4. Design – Add art like waves, chrome dust, or decals.
  5. Seal – Top coat with extra gloss.

Where to Wear Pastel Summer Nails

These soft-glam styles work for:

  • Beach holidays & pool parties
  • Bridal & bridesmaid sets
  • Garden parties or festivals
  • Office-friendly glam looks

Related Courses and Blog Posts


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I do pastel summer nails on short nails?
A: Yes! This trend looks stunning on short nails—especially with rounded or soft-square shapes.

Q: Do I need builder gel or BIAB?
A: BIAB provides strength and a flawless base for sheer or pastel colours. It’s highly recommended.

Q: Are pastel nails still trending in late summer?
A: Absolutely. These tones transition well into autumn and can be updated with metallics or richer shades.


Final Thoughts: Soft Glam Is Here to Stay

Pastel Summer Nails are the ultimate trend for 2025. They’re elegant, wearable, and easy to tailor for every client or personal style. Whether you’re booking a holiday set or refining your portfolio, now’s the time to master this airy, delicate trend.

Ready to level up your nail game?
Explore Artistic Touch – Nail Training Academy for on-demand training and support.

Headshot of Stacy Ferguson, UK Nail Expert and Beauty Writer for Nail Blog UK
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Stacy Ferguson is a UK-based nail expert, beauty writer, and content creator with years of experience in the professional nail industry. She shares nail care tips, product reviews, and inspiration for aspiring nail technicians, helping them thrive in salons or as home-based nail artists.