Fresh and Fabulous: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Nails Short 26 Ideas

Have you ever glanced down at your hands and felt a pang of delight at the sight of a fresh, vibrant manicure? As we usher in the sunny embrace of summer, it’s the perfect time to explore the magic of short summer nails. Why choose short nails, you ask? Well, they’re not just a breeze to maintain; they’re also the canvas for some of the season’s most dazzling designs. Ready to see how your nails can become your summer’s best accessory?

Playful Pastel Swirls

Starting with a file, the nail design evokes a sense of carefree summer joy thanks to its pastel palette. Swirls of delicate lavender and flecks of neon orange and yellow suggest a playful nature, perfectly complementing the simple summer mood. This manicure doesn’t just speak, it sings the melody of fun and cute summer adventures.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Start with a protective layer, like OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Pastel Purple Polish: Apply a coat of Essie’s “Baguette Me Not”.
• Neon Accents: Use Sally Hansen’s “Neon-Orange” and “Neon-Yellow”.
• Detailing Tool: Fine brushes or dotting tools for the swirls.
• Top Coat: Seal it with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.

My tip? Keep the swirls delicate for a natural feel; they don’t need to be perfect to be pretty.

DIY Directions

For the at-home artist, start with a clean, shaped nail. Apply your base coat, followed by two layers of your pastel polish. Let it dry. Dip your tool in the neon polishes and gently draw your swirls. Don’t worry about symmetry; summer is about celebrating the imperfect! Finish with a top coat for that gel-like shine.

Classic Red With a Twist

Showcases a timeless look with a modern flair. Short summer nails painted in a glossy red assert confidence, while a simple high-shine finish nods to the always classy choice. This manicure is a statement of sophistication, perfect for a summer outing or a birthday bash.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A smooth base with CND Stickey Base Coat.
• Red Polish: A swipe of Chanel’s “Pirate” for that luscious red.
• High Gloss Top Coat: A layer of Chanel Le Gel for durability and shine.

Pro advice: Apply the red with steady strokes to avoid streaks, and don’t skimp on the top coat for that glassy finish.

DIY Directions

Painting the perfect red nail requires patience. After your base, apply the red in thin layers, allowing each to dry. This prevents bubbling and ensures a sleek, shellac-like surface. End with your glossy top coat, and you’ve got a simple yet chic look.

Modern French Manicure

We rediscover the French manicure, reimagined. The natural nail color paired with a bright red tip offers a summer twist on the classic. This design’s simple elegance is versatile for any occasion, from a casual summer break to a posh European getaway.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Begin with ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat.
• Nude Polish: A coat of “Ballet Slippers” by Essie for that natural look.
• Red Striping Tape or Polish for the tip.
• Matte Top Coat: Finish with OPI Matte Top Coat for a contemporary touch.

Insider tip: For a flawless French line, use striping tape. It’s your shortcut to easy, salon-level precision.

DIY Directions

The key to a DIY French mani is taking your time with the tips. Apply your base and nude polish. Once dry, place your striping tape where you want your red to end. Paint the tips, peel away the tape, and finish with a matte top coat for that unique French twist.

Vibrant Violet Ombre

Is a dance between color and texture, featuring an ombre gradient from violet to black, sprinkled with glitter for a Y2K throwback. It’s a unique acrylic look that’s as trendy as it is fun, ideal for both daytime dazzle and nighttime elegance.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Always start with something like ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat.
• Purple and Black Polishes: Essie’s “Play Date” for the base and “Licorice” for the tip.
• Glitter Topper: A sprinkle of China Glaze’s “Fairy Dust” for that sparkle.
• Sponge: For the ombre effect.
• Top Coat: A coat of INM Out The Door Fast Drying Top Coat for a lasting finish.

Hint from the expert: Dab lightly with the sponge to blend the colors seamlessly—this technique makes the ombre come alive.

DIY Directions

Begin with two coats of your purple polish. Then, using a sponge, apply the black polish to the edge and dab it gently towards the middle of the nail, blending as you go for that ombre effect. Sprinkle some glitter while the polish is tacky, and finish off with a fast-drying top coat for a summer acrylic masterpiece.

Subtle Sky Blue Elegance

Speaks to those who appreciate a simple, natural look with a touch of whimsy. The soft sky blue lays a calming backdrop for the delicate white dots, evoking the serene feeling of a summer sky dotted with clouds. It’s a cute, easy design that’s effortlessly chic and perfect for any summer time gathering.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Begin with a strong foundation using Deborah Lippmann’s Hard Rock base and top coat.
• Sky Blue Polish: OPI’s “Can’t Find My Czechbook” for a tranquil blue.
• White Polish: For the dots, something like Sally Hansen’s “White On”.
• Dotting Tool: To get those perfect spots.
• Top Coat: A swipe of Essie Gel Setter Top Coat for a gel-like shine.

Here’s a tip: Use the dotting tool sparingly to create various sized dots for a natural, cloud-like effect.

DIY Directions

After applying your base coat, sweep on two even coats of the blue polish. Once dry, gently press your dotting tool dipped in white polish onto the nail, creating random patterns of dots. Conclude with a top coat for a simple disney-esque sky on your nails.

Understated Elegance

Our journey through summer nails short designs takes us to the refined subtlety. The choice of a muted lavender speaks to a classy, natural elegance that’s both simple and sophisticated. The impeccable application with a self-leveling finish echoes a 2024 approach to neutral beauty, capturing a summer calm that complements every outfit.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat for protection.
• Lavender Polish: “Go Ginza” by Essie for that muted elegance.
• Top Coat: Essie’s Good To Go Top Coat, for a flawless finish.

Insider’s hint: Achieve this look with thin, even layers, allowing each to dry thoroughly for a smooth, shellac-like surface without the need for UV light.

DIY Directions

Clean and shape your nails to a natural curve or a square acrylic look. Apply the base coat, followed by two coats of the lavender polish. Remember, it’s all about those smooth, even strokes. Seal it with a top coat for durability and that gel-like sheen, perfect for a summer break lounging or a casual chic outing.

Sage Serenity

The lush sage green of transports us to a tranquil summer garden. Bold yet simple, the short summer nails take on a jewel-like quality with this deep green that’s both trendy and timeless. The glossy finish adds a touch of bling without overwhelming, making it a versatile choice for both day and night during the Summer time.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Start with a strengthener like Nailtiques Formula 2.
• Sage Green Polish: “Off Tropic” by Essie for a deep, verdant hue.
• Top Coat: A swipe of Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat for extra shine.

Tip from the pro: Don’t rush the painting process. Apply the color with care to avoid streaks, and a top coat is a must for that high-gloss, gel look.

DIY Directions

Prep your nails and apply the base coat. Once that’s dry, lay down two coats of the sage green polish. Keep your hand steady, let the polish do the work, and close it off with a top coat to lock in that color and make it pop against your summer tan.

Pop Art Pizzazz

Showcases a lively blend of neon orange and a soft blue—a fun, bright choice for anyone looking to add a pop of color to their summer nails short. The French-inspired tip in contrasting hues is a playful twist, evoking memories of sun-soaked summer beaches and sherbet ice cream during summer break.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann’s All About That Base for a perfect prep.
• Neon Orange Polish: Try “No Tan Lines” by OPI for the zesty tip.
• Blue Polish: “Bikini So Teeny” by Essie for the cooler tones.
• Top Coat: Finish with INM Out The Door Top Coat for a quick-dry sheen.

Here’s the secret: Use a fine brush to get the French tip just right, and don’t be afraid to express your personality with these fun colors.

DIY Directions

Begin with a base coat, followed by the blue polish as your main color. Once it’s dry, carefully paint the tips with your neon orange polish. A steady hand leads to sharp lines that define this look. A top coat brings it all together with a glossy, long-lasting finish.

Whispering Leaves

The folder reveals an ethereal design reminiscent of summer foliage. The light white base covered with delicate blue leaves tells a story of serenity and sophistication. This manicure is perfect for those looking for something beautiful, unique and with a touch of summer acrylics.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: CND Stickey Base Coat to start off strong.
• Light Blue Polish: OPI’s “It’s a Boy!” for a dreamy base.
• White Art Polish: For the leaf design, a fine brush and OPI’s “Alpine Snow”.
• Top Coat: A layer of Glisten & Glow Top Coat for durability.

Pro tip: Use a fine brush to paint the leaves. It’s about the artistry, not speed. Take your time.

DIY Directions

Firstly, protect your nails with a base coat. Apply the light blue polish and allow it to completely dry. With a fine brush dipped in white polish, draw delicate leaves on each nail. This can be a meditative process, so there’s no rush. Finish with a top coat to seal your summer masterpiece.

Lime Twist

Closing our collection is a lime shade that blends with green and white to capture the essence of summer freshness. This trendy and fun look is perfect for a summer picnic or birthday party. It’s a real conversation piece that embodies the essence of Y2K nostalgia with a modern twist.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Begin with ORLY’s Bonder to prevent staining.
• Lime Green Polish: Essie’s “The More The Merrier” for that citrus punch.
• White and Darker Green Polish: For marbling, use shades like Essie’s “Blanc” and “Off Tropic”.
• Small Brush or Toothpick: To swirl and marble.
• Top Coat: Add Essie’s Gel.Setter for a gel look without the lamp.

Tip from the expert: Marbling is an art, not a science. Let the colors flow together organically for that authentic summer nails short vibe.

DIY Directions

Kick off with the base coat, followed by the lime green as your background color. While it’s still wet, add drops of white and darker green, and use a toothpick or small brush to swirl the colors gently. When you’re happy with the design, apply a top coat for shine and protection.

Electric Pink Energy

The radiant pink of electrifies the simple aesthetic of short summer nails. This hue is not just fun; it’s a statement, embracing 2024’s love for bright, bold colors. The matte finish adds a modern touch to the classic shade, making it a trendy choice for those celebrating life in vibrant color.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: ORLY Rubberized Base.
• Pink Polish: Essie’s “Bachelorette Bash” for a vivid punch.
• Matte Top Coat: Essie Matte About You Finisher for that contemporary matte look.

Pro tip: Apply the color in even, thin coats and wait for each to dry completely before adding the matte top coat for a chic, simple yet unique finish.

DIY Directions

Prepare your nails with the base coat, then apply two coats of the pink polish, allowing them to dry between applications fully. Once dry, apply the matte top coat evenly for a summer nails short look that’s as cute as it is edgy.

Wild for Fuchsia

Is an adventure in print with a unique and trendy fuchsia animal pattern on short summer nails. This design is for those who carry a bit of the wild with them, merging fun and femininity in a cute and chic way. It’s a look that can take you from a summer break day out to a birthday night on the town.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails.
• White Polish: OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the base.
• Fuchsia Polish: “Forget Me Nots” by ORLY for the spots.
• Detailing Brush: For the animal print details.
• Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.

Tip from the expert: When creating animal prints, let the brush dance with a light touch to create organic, unique shapes.

DIY Directions

Start with a base coat, followed by two coats of white polish. Once that’s set, dip your detailing brush in the fuchsia polish and create irregular spots. Don’t strive for perfection—irregularity is key. Finish with a top coat for a bright, playful look.

Moo-velous Mod

The playful cow print of showcases a modern take on a simple disney pattern with a chic black and white palette. It’s an easy, cute, and unique acrylic design that adds a touch of fun to the natural nail, proving that Y2K inspired art can be both simple and sophisticated.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Essie Here to Stay Base Coat.
• Pink Polish: “Muchi, Muchi” by Essie for the base.
• Black Polish: “Licorice” by Essie for the spots.
• Top Coat: INM Out the Door Top Coat for a quick-dry finish.

Insider’s hint: Use the tip of a bobby pin to dot on the black cow spots for a summer nails short design that’s easy to achieve at home.

DIY Directions

Prep your nails with the base coat and follow with a pale pink polish. When it’s dry, use a bobby pin or dotting tool to apply the black spots. There’s no right or wrong pattern here—embrace the randomness! Seal it all with a top coat for summer-lasting wear.

Enchanted Forest

Presents a lush sage green background sprinkled with golden flecks, reminiscent of a summer evening in an enchanted forest. This simple yet elegant design is surprisingly easy to achieve, and the added bling brings a magical flair, making it a cute, classy choice for any summer time event.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Butter London Nail Foundation Priming Basecoat.
• Sage Green Polish: “First Timer” by Essie for the base.
• Gold Glitter: OPI’s “Gold Key to the Kingdom” for the sparkle.
• Top Coat: Butter London Hardwear Shine UV Topcoat.

Expert advice: Sprinkle the glitter while the base polish is still tacky to ensure even distribution and a flat, shellac.

DIY Directions

Begin with your base coat to protect your natural nail. Then apply the sage green polish; while it’s still a bit wet, lightly dust your nails with the gold glitter. Use a fan brush for a more controlled application, creating a speckled effect. Finish with a slick top coat to seal in the sparkle and give your nails a gel-like shine, ready for any summer soirée.

Sunny Delight

We see a delightful yellow that captures the very essence of summer. These short summer nails are like a burst of sunshine on your fingertips—bright, fun, and full of happiness. It’s a simple summer look that’s easy to pull off, yet it makes a trendy statement wherever you go.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Deborah Lippmann’s Hard Rock Nail Strengthening base and top coat.
• Yellow Polish: “Sun Bleached” by CND for that sunny hue.
• Top Coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast for a lasting glossy finish.

Expert tip: For a streak-free finish, apply thin layers of the yellow polish and let each layer dry completely before adding the next.

DIY Directions

Apply your base coat for nail protection, followed by a layer of the yellow polish. Patience is key—let each coat dry thoroughly to avoid smudging. Finish with a top coat for a bright, durable manicure that will last through your summer break adventures.

Oceanic Dreams

The vivid blue of reminds one of the clear summer sky or a deep ocean adventure, perfect for a summer nails short design. The added dried flowers encapsulate the natural beauty and freedom of the season, while the jelly-like finish is all about that 2024 nail trend of playful transparency and depth.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A solid start with Sally Hansen Double Duty Base & Top Coat.
• Blue Jelly Polish: Use a translucent blue like Zoya’s “Frida”.
• Dried Flowers: Available at craft stores or specialized nail art suppliers.
• Encapsulating Gel: Like IBD Builder Gel to seal in the botanicals.
• Top Coat: A glossy finish with Essie’s Gel.Setter for that gel look.

Expert tip: Positioning is everything with encapsulation. Use tweezers for precision placement of the dried flowers before sealing them in.

DIY Directions

After your base coat, apply a layer of blue jelly polish. Before it dries, place the dried flowers on the nail. Once you’re happy with the arrangement, apply the builder gel to encapsulate the design. Cure under a lamp if necessary and finish with a top coat for a shellac-like gloss.

Gradient Glamour

Is all about the ombre effect, combining pink and sparkling glitter to create a simple summer gradient that’s fun, cute, and chic. This design is ideal for those who love a hint of bling while maintaining a natural and elegant look.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Start with ORLY Bonder Rubberized Basecoat.
• Pink Polish: A gradient base with OPI’s “Mod About You”.
• Pink Glitter: Add some sparkle with OPI’s “Princesses Rule!”.
• Sponge: To dab and blend the gradient.
• Top Coat: Seal it with INM Out The Door Top Coat for lasting wear.

Pro tip: Apply the polish to the sponge first, then dab onto the nail for a smooth ombre transition.

DIY Directions

Apply the base coat, then paint your nails with the light pink. Take your sponge, apply both colors side by side, and then dab onto the nail, blending the two shades together. While the polish is still tacky, add a touch of glitter where the colors meet. Finish with a top coat for a durable, summer-ready look.

Checkerboard Chic

Pictured here is a trendy plaid pattern that hasn’t left the global style scene. It’s a playful yet stylish choice that showcases unique acrylic craftsmanship, combining neutral tones with metallic accents for a summer look that’s both fun and sophisticated.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A layer of CND Stickey Base Coat.
• Neutral Polish: “Topless & Barefoot” by Essie.
• Metallic Polishes: Alternating squares with OPI’s “Love.Angel.Music.Baby” and “Just BeClaus”.
• Detailing Brush: For precise lines and squares.
• Top Coat: Finish with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.

Expert tip: Use striping tape to create even, symmetrical squares for that perfect checkerboard.

DIY Directions

After the base coat, apply the neutral polish as the base color. Once dry, use striping tape to map out the checkerboard pattern. Fill in the squares with alternating metallic colors using a detailing brush. Remove the tape while the polish is still wet and seal with a top coat for a striking effect.

Mint Condition

Offers a refreshing take on summer nails short with a cool mint green base complemented by gold foil accents. This design is for those who appreciate a simple yet unique style, infusing a touch of Y2K nostalgia with 2024’s love for metallic textures.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Apply Essie’s Grow Stronger Base Coat.
• Mint Green Polish: “Mint Candy Apple” by Essie for a refreshing feel.
• Gold Foil: Nail art foil for an added luxurious touch.
• Top Coat: A durable layer of Glisten & Glow Top Coat.

Tip from the expert: Apply the foil gently to avoid tearing, and seal it immediately with a top coat to maintain its lustre.

DIY Directions

Prep your nails with a base coat, then sweep on the mint green polish. When it’s dry to the touch, press on small pieces of gold foil where you desire that metallic shine. It’s okay if the pieces crinkle a bit; it adds to the texture. Seal your design with a high-gloss top coat, and voila! You have a summer nails short look that’s both modern and regal.

Sunny Side Up

We see a vibrant yellow that embodies the sunny side of summer. It’s a bright, cheerful hue that’s both trendy and easy to wear, making it a perfect choice for a simple summer manicure or for those looking to add a pop of color to their summer break wardrobe.

• Base Coat: A layer of ORLY Bonder for a smooth canvas.
• Yellow Polish: “Sunrise Dance” by Essie for that perfect sunny shade.
• Top Coat: A long-lasting finish with Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat.

Expert tip: Bright colors can be sheer, so build up the opacity with 2-3 thin coats, letting them dry in between.

DIY Directions

Kick off with your base coat to protect your nails. Then, layer on your yellow polish until you reach the desired brightness. Be patient between coats to prevent any bubbling. Once you’re happy with the color, seal it with a top coat for a gel-like finish without the need for a UV lamp.

Serene Skies

Showcases an artful sky-themed nail design that whispers stories of tranquil summer evenings. The soft blue tones blend into a serene backdrop, while the miniature art of birds in flight evokes a sense of freedom and wonder. It’s a unique acrylic design that’s simple, yet full of narrative depth, perfect for those who love a touch of Disney magic on their fingertips.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Start with a smoothing layer like OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Blue Polishes: “Bikini So Teeny” by Essie for the base, “Butler Please” for the darker details.
• Acrylic Paint: For the detailed bird silhouettes.
• Fine Detailing Brush: Precision is key for the miniature artwork.
• Top Coat: Finish with Essie Gel.Setter for a durable, glossy finish.

Pro tip: Practice your bird silhouettes on paper first to get comfortable with the brush strokes.

DIY Directions

Prepare your nails with the base coat, then apply two coats of the light blue polish. Once dry, use a darker blue to add depth to the design. With a fine brush, gently paint the bird silhouettes using black acrylic paint. Complete your masterpiece with a top coat for a summer nails short look that’s both enchanting and enduring.

Lemon Zest Twist

Bursts with vibrant energy, featuring a bright yellow that’s sunny and uplifting. The creative twist of a striped accent nail brings a dynamic contrast to the simple summer look. It’s a fun, trendy design that encapsulates summer break joy and stands out in a crowd.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Begin with Essie’s “First Base” Base Coat.
• Yellow Polish: “Canary Yellow” by Orly for the solid color nails.
• Gray Polish: “Chinchilly” by Essie for the base of the accent nail.
• Striping Tape: For clean, crisp lines on the accent design.
• Top Coat: Seal the look with Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.

Expert tip: Apply the striping tape on the accent nail before the polish is completely dry to achieve sharp lines.

DIY Directions

Start with a base coat to protect your nails. Paint all but one nail with the yellow polish. For the accent nail, apply the gray polish and let it semi-dry. Then, place the striping tape and paint over it with yellow. Remove the tape carefully, and once the design is dry, apply a top coat to all nails for a summer-ready look.

Vibrant Verdancy

We’re greeted with a lush green that’s as bright and fresh as a summer garden. It’s a monochromatic look that’s bold yet simple, reflecting the natural vibrancy of the season. This fun and easy design is a nod to the Y2K revival, perfect for those looking to make a statement with their summer nails short.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A solid start with CND Stickey Base Coat.
• Green Polish: “Off Tropic” by Essie for that rich, verdant hue.
• Top Coat: Add durability and shine with OPI Top Coat.

Pro tip: Two coats of polish should suffice, but if you’re aiming for an even bolder look, go for three.

DIY Directions

Protect your nails with a base coat, then apply the green polish. Let each coat dry thoroughly for a uniform, opaque finish. Conclude with a top coat for an enduring gel-like sheen, ready to show off on any summer outing.

Radiant Reds

The deep, red nails embody a classic summer vibe that’s classy, trendy, and timeless. The high gloss finish brings a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for both summer break and a night out.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: Start with Essie’s “Here to Stay” Base Coat.
• Red Polish: “Russian Roulette” by Essie for that classic red.
• Top Coat: A coat of Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a lasting, glassy finish.

Expert tip: Apply thin layers to avoid bubbles and ensure a smooth, shellac-like finish.

DIY Directions

Begin with the base coat to protect your natural nails. Apply two coats of the red polish, taking care to let each layer dry to avoid any dents or smudges. Once you’ve achieved the perfect depth of color, seal it with a top coat for that desirable shellac-like shine. This look is effortlessly chic, ideal for any summer time event or simply when you’re in the mood for a touch of classic beauty.

Nautical Whimsy

Takes a playful spin on summer nails short with a nautical theme that’s both fun and unique. The deep blue evokes the ocean while the nail art brings to mind the joy of setting sail on a summer adventure. It’s a trendy take on simple disney motifs, adding a sense of whimsy to a simple manicure.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A reliable foundation with OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Blue Polish: “Sailor” by Zoya for the oceanic backdrop.
• Nail Art Pen: For precise work on the nautical accents.
• Top Coat: A glossy seal with Essie Gel.Setter.

Pro tip: Steady hands are a must for nail art. Rest your arm on a flat surface to stabilize while painting.

DIY Directions

Prepare your nails with the base coat. Then, paint them with a generous coat of the blue polish. Use a nail art pen to draw your nautical designs. Be patient and take your time for clear, crisp lines. Finish off with a top coat to ensure your maritime masterpiece lasts as long as your summer memories.

Rainbow Bright

Is like a summer parade on your fingertips, celebrating the season with a full spectrum of rainbow hues. This design is for the bold at heart, those who embrace color and fun, showing off each shade in full, glorious saturation. It’s a perfect representation of summer vibrancy and trendy flair.

Essentials for Creation

• Base Coat: A strong foundation with OPI Natural Nail Base Coat.
• Rainbow Polishes: A selection of bright, bold colors from the OPI collection, such as “Purple Palazzo Pants,” “No Room for the Blues,” “Hotter than You Pink,” “A Good Man-darin is Hard to Find,” “I Just Can’t Cope-acabana,” and “Green-wich Village.”
• Top Coat: A high-gloss finish with OPI Top Coat to make those colors pop.

Pro tip: When working with multiple colors, clean your brush between shades to keep the colors vibrant and distinct.

DIY Directions

After applying your base coat, start painting each nail a different color of the rainbow. Begin with the thumb and work your way to the pinky, following the order of hues for a true rainbow effect. Be sure to let each nail dry before moving on to the next to prevent smudging. Once all nails are painted and dry, seal with a glossy top coat for a summer nails short look that’s bright, cheerful, and sure to turn heads.