The Cutest Summer 2025 Nail Trend? Polka Dot Nails Are Officially Back
If you’re looking for a playful, retro-inspired manicure this summer, say hello to the trend that’s about to be everywhere: polka dot nails. Fun, feminine, and surprisingly versatile, this summer 2025 nail trend brings a touch of vintage charm to your look, whether you love soft pastels, bold brights, or minimalist neutrals.
And it’s not just us who are obsessed. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Sabrina Carpenter have all been spotted recently rocking dotted nail art, proving this sweet, nostalgic style is officially back in the spotlight.
Polka Dot Nail Ideas
Pastel Polka Dots Nails
A milky nude or sheer pink base dotted with pastel blue, yellow, and lavender. Soft, dreamy, and perfect for weddings or summer picnics.
Glazed Polka Dots Nails
Glazed nails have been trending for a while now, and glazed polka dot nails are the prettiest twist on this nude, minimalist trend. Think a sheer, milky base topped with delicate, pearly dots — it feels soft, elegant, and quietly eye-catching. Perfect for weddings, summer soirées, or anyone who loves an understated, glossy manicure that still feels playful.
French Polka Dot Tips
Instead of classic white tips, add a row of tiny polka dots along the tip of each nail. Choose a bright summer color like butter yellow, pink, or keep it classic and elegant with black and white.
Monochrome Polka Dots Nails
White dots on black polish, or black dots on white. It’s timeless, graphic, and goes with any outfit.
Strawberries and Cream Polka Dot Nails
Sweet, nostalgic, and so on-trend for summer 2025, strawberries & cream polka dot nails combine soft creamy pink or white bases with tiny red or rosy dots. The look feels fresh, girly, and a little bit vintage — perfect for picnics, brunch dates, or adding a pop of color that’s still subtle enough for everyday wear. Pair with a glossy top coat to keep it juicy and bright.
Mix & Match Colourful Polka Dots
One of the freshest ways to wear the polka dot trend this summer? Mix & match colourful polka dot nails. Think different designs on each finger: some nails with playful French tips made of tiny dots, others with full polka dot patterns scattered across the whole nail. Using soft rainbow shades like pastel pink, blue, orange, and lilac keeps the look cohesive, fun, and summery — while the mix of negative space and dotted tips adds a modern, editorial twist. It’s the perfect blend of playful and polished for summer 2025.
How to Get Polka Dot Nails at Home
Getting this playful look at home is easier than you might think. “All you need is a dotting tool,” advises celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt. Dotting tools are inexpensive and easy to find, but you can also use things you already have — like the tip of a toothpick, the end of a bobby pin, or even a small paintbrush.
To create perfect dots, simply dip your tool into your chosen polish and lightly press it onto your nail. “Less pressure creates smaller dots, while more pressure makes them bigger,” explains nail pro Hanna. Finish with a glossy top coat to seal your design and keep it looking fresh all week.
Nail Polishes & Tools We Recommend for Polka Dots Nails
OPI Passion Nail Polish – perfect base for a pink nude color
OPI Nail Lacquer in Alpine Snow – classic white dots
OPI Nail Lacquer in Black Onyx – classic black dots
Dotting Tool Set – makes perfect dots every time
Essie Gel Couture Bubbles Only – for a classic red polka dot nails
Manicurist Top Coat High Shine – provides a long-lasting and ultra-shiny manicure without the need for a UV lamp.
Why We’re Obsessed with Polka Dots Nails
Polka dot nails are playful yet surprisingly elegant, and they work on short nails, almond shapes, or even long square tips. You can go classic with black and white, or make them feel fresh for 2025 with buttery yellows, soft greens, glazed chrome or metallic dots.
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