Simplify your workday, amplify your results... especially when it comes to creating stunning summer almond nails that'll have your clients raving. Almond nails are the ultimate shape for summer—elegant yet playful, elongating fingers for that perfect Instagram shot. Whether your clients are lounging poolside, hitting a Pride parade, or just living their best summer life, we've got the inspo (and the professional gel polish) to make every manicure unforgettable.
Let's dive into the hottest summer almond nail trends that'll keep your appointment book packed. From juicy fruit-inspired hues to rainbow glitter explosions, these designs are guaranteed to turn heads. And don't worry—we've included tips for making each look last through chlorine, saltwater, and those inevitable margarita spills.
Poolside Perfection: Nails That Make a Splash
Nothing says summer like a dip in the pool, and these aquatic-inspired almond nails are making waves. Think mermaid scales in shifting blues and greens, created with nail art rhinestones and iridescent foils. Or go for a minimalist approach with sheer aqua tips that mimic sunlight through water—perfect for clients who want subtle elegance.
Pro tip: Use a high-quality LED lamp to cure these watery wonders properly. There's nothing worse than a gorgeous poolside manicure that chips before the first cannonball!
Fruity Fresh: Juicy Summer Vibes
Summer fruits aren't just for eating—they're nail art gold! Strawberry reds, citrus oranges, and watermelon pinks look especially luscious on almond-shaped nails. Create dimensional fruit slices using detail brushes, or keep it simple with solid fruit-toned polish from our OPI collection.
For clients who can't decide on just one fruit flavor (we get it), try a different fruit on each nail. Bonus points if you add tiny seed details with a dotting tool—it's these little touches that'll have clients snapping pics for their stories.
Pride Ready: Rainbow Everything
June means Pride month, and almond nails are the perfect canvas for celebrating. Go bold with full rainbow ombré using dipping powder systems for maximum color impact. Or create subtle pride vibes with a single rainbow stripe across neutral nails—great for clients who want to show support while keeping it office-appropriate.
Don't forget the glitter! Our CND glitter polishes can add just the right amount of sparkle to any Pride design. Because nothing says "celebrate love" like nails that catch the light from every angle.
Sunset Serenade: Warm Summer Skies
Capture those magical summer sunset moments on your clients' nails. Almond shapes are ideal for gradient techniques that blend peach, pink, and purple just like the evening sky. Use a buffer to perfect the nail surface before application—smooth canvases make for the most seamless blends.
For extra drama, add silhouette details like palm trees or birds in flight using acrylic paints. These designs pair perfectly with sundresses and rooftop cocktails.
Barely There: The "No-Makeup" Makeup Look for Nails
Not every client wants bold summer colors. The "my nails but better" trend is huge, with sheer pinks and nudes from our Essie collection creating that perfect barely-there look. Almond shapes take this trend to the next level by adding natural elegance.
Elevate the look with a single subtle detail—maybe a tiny gold foil accent at the base of one nail, or a nearly-invisible shimmer. It's like the French manicure's cooler, more modern cousin.
Making Summer Manicures Last
All these gorgeous designs won't matter if they don't last. Prep is key—start with cuticle oil and proper nail shaping. Always use a quality base coat, especially important for summer when nails expand and contract with temperature changes.
Finish with a top coat that can handle summer adventures. Our Seche Vite top coat is a salon favorite for good reason—it creates a durable, glossy shield against summer's worst.
Remember to educate clients about aftercare too. A small bottle of cuticle oil makes a great add-on sale and helps maintain their manicure between visits.
Stock Up for Summer Success
Make sure your salon is ready for the summer nail rush. From manicure stations that keep you organized to sanitizing products that meet health standards, we've got everything you need to make this your most successful summer yet.
So whether your clients want mermaid vibes, fruity fun, or Pride celebrations on their fingertips, almond nails are the perfect summer shape. Now go forth and create some nail magic—your clients' summer selfies are counting on you!
