- August is the last full month of summer, so have fun with your manicure by incorporating the season’s bright colors and celebratory themes.
- For a gel manicure, we’re loving sunset shades, abstract designs, and more.
August is a month-long version of the “Sunday Scaries.” The end of summer looms in the not-so-distant future, and we’re already starting to consider our fall wardrobes. While you might be dreading your return to school or the end of summer Fridays, we’re here to keep you grounded in the present. Technically, there are still over 50 days of summer—and you need a good mani to get you through.
Gel nails are everything we need for August. Durable and customizable, the right set can have you walking out of the salon feeling on top of the world. Plus, no drying means extra time spent cooling off at the pool or soaking up the sun. Go to a good manicurist, and the gel set you get now could last until it’s time to start thinking about September nails.
To make this mani count, we’ve pulled together the best vibrant hues, summery motifs, and beachy themes. Explore 16 gel nail looks for August, ahead.
August Sunsets
@melissasnails83
As August rolls around, you can’t help but feel the summer winding down. But—there is still a month left of warm weather, sunshine, and beach days to go. Celebrate the summer sunsets with these perfectly done pink and orange gel nails.
Abstract August
@klawsbysonia
Does the heat have you feeling all over the place? In that case, you might need these gorgeous abstract art-inspired nails to match the mind-bending experience that is the sweltering weather.
Do you want to play mermaids?
@nails_by__bridgett
Every day is a day at the pool with these mermaid-inspired nails. This hand-painted gel art set is the perfect way to give your August manicure an aquatic twist.
Start Your Engines!
@jess_nails_it
Is NASCAR your summer sport of choice? Get in the racing spirit with these checkerboard nails and French tip flames.
Summer Stripes
@jess_nails_it
As you make your last few beach trips before Labor Day, don’t forget to pick up some colorful saltwater taffy on your way out. But don’t confuse those confections with these sweet and bright striped nails!
Lots-a Dots
@poppinpolishldn
These calm and cooling colors are perfect for the hottest August days. But the real beauty of this set is in the polka dot designs, which add texture to the classic French manicure design.
Summer Rave O’Clock
@nailsbymaki.nyc
What time is it? Time to dance. This pink gel aura set is given an eccentric boost with black geometric designs on each nail. From beach to bass drop, these nails will fit in anywhere—and stand out.
Dewy August
@nailsbyshantal
There is nothing like a dewy August morning, when earth’s tiniest creatures are waking up and flying around. Keep the cutest butterflies and ladybugs close to you with this creative set.
Tie-dye Sunsets
@nailsbyshantal
Summer sunsets are known for their majestic colors, from soft pinks to bright purples. Meld them all together for a gorgeous summery pastel nail set.
Bejeweled for the Summer
@nailsbyshantal
How perfect are these jewel-toned, velvet gel nails? The 3D dots add extra dimension to the satin effect of these cool multi-color nail sets.
Life is the Bubbles
@nailed.by.nika
You can never have enough beach motifs in August. Seashells, starfish, and tropical florals are the only inspiration you need this summer.
Sardine Girl Summer
@nailed.by.nika
If there isn’t tin fish involved in the summer plans, then we want no part in it. From sardines to bikinis, celebrate the trendiest warm-weather icons with this eclectic set.
Barbie Reset
@holliebarkernailartist
Even Malibu Barbie needs a simple manicure sometimes. For those who want a simple manicure for get a fresh start—but still want a pop of color—this is the set for you.
Honey, dew this color
@gelcare.official
Nothing beats a cool fruit salad on a hot summer’s day. Channel the bright colors of honeydew for your next set with this green gel set.
Touch Grass
@moonlit.nail.artistry
For those who need to get off their smart phone and into nature, these are the perfect nails for a day spent reconnecting with the earth. Grassy greens and sky blues are exactly what we need sometimes.
