As a kid, the pinnacle of summer was eating a brightly colored popsicle as it rapidly melted and created a sticky film over everything in sight. Ideally, I’d be by some sort of body of water, and with no school, long days, and warm weather, couldn’t bring myself to care that I was now covered in popsicle juice. Nowadays, my popsicles have been replaced with summer beverages like spritzes and frozen margs, but that doesn’t mean I can’t channel that summer nostalgia. Experts are saying popsicle nails are the chic, low-maintenance nail trend everyone will be wearing this summer.
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What are popsicle nails?
Popsicle nails replicate the bright, shiny look of our favorite summer treat—perfect for people who want playful, expressive nails without tons of effort or maintenance. “Jelly nails and glossy, translucent colors will dominate this summer, like popsicle-inspired pinks, oranges, and blues,” said celebrity manicurist and founder of Labo Beauté Salon, Lily Nguyen. “It’s all about feeling fresh and fun without the heaviness.” Think: Glossy, bold colors that embody the summer heat.

Lily Nguyen, Celebrity Manicurist & Founder of Labo Beauté Salon
Lily Nguyen is a celebrity nail artist and the founder of Los Angeles nail salon Labo Beauté. Her work has been featured in Vogue China, Adidas campaigns, and numerous films and reality TV shows.
Popsicle nail inspiration
1. Light pink popsicle nails

This mani leans into the semi-sheer popsicle look—perfect if you want just a hint of color. It would be the sugar-free popsicle your mom forced you to have because it didn’t have Red Dye 40 (but still somehow tasted incredible).
2. Bright orange popsicle nails

If you love a statement nail, look no further. These bright orange nails are just the summer accessory to rock all season long.
3. Turquoise popsicle nails

I can’t look at these without craving an Aquamarine rewatch, and that’s how you know they’re the epitome of summer.
4. Purple popsicle nails

Grape gets a lot of flack for being the worst popsicle flavor, but with this mani, you know you’ll at least have the best nails.
5. Red popsicle nails

A high-shine, glossy red manicure never misses, especially right around the Fourth of July.
6. Coral popsicle nails

Want an orange popsicle nail look but aren’t quite ready to commit to something insanely bright? This manicure is just the thing.

Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.