When you think of a picture-perfect manicure, you likely imagine a glossy nail look. But as popular as high-shine designs are, matte nails can be just as impactful.
“Matte nails are bold and chic in their own way,” says Nailing Hollywood artist LaTara Haye. A matte finish can give any manicure a certain je ne sais quoi, making it stand out in an unexpected way. Need proof? Ahead, scroll through a variety of summer matte nails.
From solid colors and French manicures to abstract art and fruit-inspired nail art, these matte moments are so fun you won’t want to pass them up.
Negative Space Pastel Neon Matte French Mani
We love a pastel neon nail look, and this matte one is too chic to pass up for summer. Joseph created it using Bio Seaweed Gel Unity All-in-One Polish ($18) in the shades Babe, Lemon Drop, Lime Time, Sweet Tart, and Tea Cups, topped off with a matte top coat.
Hot Pink Outline Nails
Bright magenta-y pink is one of the biggest colors of the season. Here, you can see how even just a few slivers of the vibrant color can make a bold impact. The exact pink shade used here is Pink Orchid Gel Polish ($13) by Le Mini Macaron.
Artsy Matte Swirl Nails
This artsy matte nail look belongs in a museum. It reminds us of an abstract coral reef.
Abstract Matte Purple Nails
You may have noticed that ultra-bright shades of purple are popping up left and right here in 2024. To hop on the trend without investing much, opt for a matte royal purple mani. Keep it solid or incorporate pink, white, and orange accents, as nail artist Jessica Lauritzen did here.
Abstract Pink and Green Nails
Clearly, we have a thing for abstract matte nail looks—but with a thumb design like this, how could we not? You can DIY the look at home using the Cirque Colors Nail Polish in the shades Tumbleweed, Wild Berry West, and Renegade.
Cute Matte Coral Nails
Notice the subtle gingham accent nails in this matte coral-pink nail look? Lauritzen says it’s a nod to the Barbie movie.
Earthy Matte Green Nails
Even solid matte polishes can make a notable style statement. Case in point: This earthy matte green hue. While the shade—Danny by Pin-Up Paint—has been discontinued, you can get a similar look with Manucurist Paris Green Quick Dry Intense Color Nail Polish ($14) in the shade Artichaut.
Dual Finish Black French Mani
Did you know you can rock a French mani using a single nail color? So long as you have glossy and matte top coats, you’re good to go.
Matte Greenery Mani
Headed somewhere tropical? For a rainforest on your nails, opt for a botanical print in various shades of green, topped off with a matte top coat. This one by Nailing Hollywood artist Morgan A. Dixon instantly grabbed our attention.
Matte Cow Print Nails
Cow print is expected to be big this summer thanks to Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter and the rise of Western-inspired fashion. Luckily for us, it’s easy to DIY with black and white polish and a dotting tool. Just remember to finish with a matte top coat.
Matte Nude Botanical Nails
Even neutral matte nails have a certain allure to them. “Consider experimenting with different shades of neutrals and seal with a matte topcoat for a fun twist on a traditional manicure, says nail artist and Nailing Hollywood CEO Mazz Hanna. For an extra summery touch, add a botanical sprig on an accent nail.
Matte Sunset Stiletto Skittle Nails
Skittle manis have a special place in our hearts, and this matte sunset-inspired one is too pretty to ignore. “Multicolor nails are great for any season,” Hanna says. “To make your multicolor mani summer-themed, opt for highly saturated shades topped off with a matte topcoat for a soft finish.”
Matte Teddy Nails
ICYMI: The Ralph Lauren bear is inspiring the latest style craze—dressing like a Polo Bear. With this nail look, it’s edging into beauty, too. Nailing Hollywood artist Rachel Joseph created this adorable mani by encasing her glossy teddy nail art under a matte top coat. To create the bears yourself, you can use dotting tools in different sizes. It’s easier than it looks!
Rainbow Checker Matte Mani
Excuse us while we swoon over these gorgeous multicolor matte checker nails. They were created using the Drizzle Beauty Poolside Collection ($26).
Matte Neon Snakeskin Nails
“If you’re in need of a summer matte nail look, neons are a perfect option,” Haye exclaims. One of our favorite matte summer nail looks is this neon snakeskin mani by Nailing Hollywood artist Laura Malarkey.
Retro Mismatch Matte Mani
Matte pastels make up this joyful mani. It’s made with flowers, checkers, smileys, and rainbows in shades of beige, pink, and orange.
Matte White Dew Drop Nails
Focus on the nail on the right. That matte metallic white base? Those crystal clear dew drops? Summer mani perfection.
Cutesy Matte French Mani
Whether you love a cutesy nail look or hope to surprise your little one with a fun summer manicure, this matte French mani is worth checking out. Malarkey painted them by hand using various pastel polishes topped off with the Luxapolish Velveteen Matte No Wipe Gel Top Coat ($20).
Short Watermelon Mani
“Fruit nail art is phenomenal with a matte finish,” Haye says. “A combination of tropic neon vibes and fruit is the cutest for vacation.” Need a little inspo? Check out this short watermelon mani by Lauritzen. Cute, no?
