Spring & Summer Ready Pastel Nails: Hottest Trends & Shades

Pastel nails are everywhere right now, and we’re not mad about it - 'tis the season after all. From TikTok trends to celeb manicures, these dreamy hues are taking centre stage for both spring and summer. Soft and subtle, pastel nail polish is that easy-breezy way to change up your nail game without going full neon.

If you’re a little colour shy when it comes to your nails and tend to gravitate towards nudes and light pinks, pastel nails are a nice little soft intro to more colourful sets. And if you love bolder nail sets that have playful twists, pastel nails are a great way to stay true to your colourful roots whilst embracing quintessential spring and summer shades, there’s a pastel shade and trend (or five) for you.

In this blog, we’re diving into the hottest pastel nail trends of the season, from ombre blends to cool twists on the classic French tip. We’ll also throw in a few design ideas and inspo so you can make the look totally your own. Ready for your prettiest mani yet? Let’s go.

Why We’re Loving Pastel Nails Right Now

They roll around every spring without fail, and every year we find new ways to wear them. And for good reason, pastel nails are timeless. With hues of baby pinks, soft lavenders or mint greens, pastels have this low-key luxe feel that works for literally any occasion.

And the best bit is that they suit everyone. Pale or deep skin tones, long or short nails - it doesn’t matter. Pastel shades flatter all styles and moods, even if you’re someone who likes to keep things natural but still wants a touch of colour, pastel nails are the sweet spot.

And because we can’t get enough, we’ve rounded up our fave pastel nail trends for the season. Keep scrolling for all the inspo…

Gradient/ombre pastel nails

Ombre is having a serious moment right now and pastel colours take it to the next level. Think smooth blends of lilac into soft blue, or peachy pink melting into lemon yellow.

Go for a subtle fade across each nail or a full set where the colour transitions from thumb to pinky, gradient pastel nails are a fab way to wear multiple shades without going full rainbow.

Pastel French tips with a twist

The classic French manicure has had a glow-up, and it’s all about colourful tips. Swap the white edge for pastel shades like pistachio green, powder blue or lilac for a fun, modern take on a timeless style.

You can keep things sleek with a uniform colour on every tip or go mismatched for extra personality. Either way, pastel French tips are a subtle but stylish nod to the trend - ideal if you like your nails to look polished but still a little playful.

Mismatched multi-pastel mani

Can’t choose just one colour? Good, you don’t have to. The mismatched mani is one of the easiest and most fun ways to wear pastel nails. Pick around five shades and paint each nail a different colour for a cheerful, carefree vibe.

From buttery yellow to soft sage and dreamy periwinkle, there’s something really satisfying about seeing all those tones together. This look is especially great for spring, so it’s a favourite when you want your pastel spring nails to make a statement.

Matte pastel finishes

Glossy finishes are classic, but matte pastels hit different. There’s a velvety smoothness to a matte top coat that gives pastel nails a more modern, high-fashion feel. It softens the colour just enough to feel chic but still fresh.

Matte pastel nails look amazing with minimal outfits, making them the kind of mani that quietly steals the show. If you want to add texture without going full nail art, this is your move.

Floral and abstract pastel nail art

Pastels were made for nail art. Their soft tones lend themselves beautifully to dainty designs, especially florals. Go for little daisies, pressed flower-style art, or abstract swirls and dots, pastels give you the freedom to play with shapes and details without feeling OTT.

Abstract designs using a pastel palette are also super popular this year, think brushstrokes, blobs and waves in mixed shades. They’re fun, creative, and let you show off your personality, one nail at a time.

As the temperature continues to climb, opt for a pastel mani the next time you do your nails at home for a splash of spring and summer spirit. For more on nails, check out our picks of Fresh Spring Looks With Glitter And Pastels.