Summer 2025 has ushered in a nail trend that’s making waves across social media – jelly nails with maximalist flair in dreamy pastel colors. This translucent, candy-like manicure style offers the perfect balance of playfulness and sophistication for the warm July days ahead. Let’s dive into this glossy phenomenon that’s both eye-catching and surprisingly achievable.
What exactly are jelly layer nails?
Jelly nails create a translucent, luminescent effect reminiscent of colorful fruit jellies. “The beauty of jelly nails lies in their sheer quality that allows your natural nail to peek through, creating depth and dimension with minimal effort,” explains nail artist Sophia Chen from Ambedo Beauty. These manicures feature a glossy, wet-look finish that catches light beautifully – perfect for showing off during summer activities.
Why pastel colors are dominating summer 2025
Pastel shades—soft pinks, baby blues, pale oranges, and muted lavenders—have become the cornerstone of this season’s jelly nail trend. As one expert notes, “With the shades being buildable, you can layer them until you’ve reached your desired coverage.” This customizable opacity makes pastels particularly suited to the jelly technique, offering a soothing yet playful color palette that complements summer wardrobes.
The Korean influence behind the trend
“Korean jelly nails are the perfect example of how translucence and glossiness can turn simple pastel colors into a statement,” shares nail specialist Emma Park. Originally popularized by K-beauty trends, this technique involves applying multiple thin coats of translucent gel polish to build up that coveted squishy texture that’s captivating nail enthusiasts worldwide.
Achieving the look: easier than you think
Creating jelly nails at home requires just a few key steps:
- Start with thoroughly prepped nails and a clear base coat
- Apply 2-3 thin layers of sheer pastel jelly polish, curing between each
- Seal with an ultra-glossy top coat for that wet-look finish
“Applying thin layers of pastel jelly polish is the key to an easy, foolproof manicure that looks polished and professional every time,” advises DIY nail artist Jamie Lewis. The layering technique allows for precise control over the intensity of your color.
Maximalist touches for summer flair
While the jelly base creates a beautiful foundation, it’s the maximalist elements that truly make this trend shine in summer 2025:
- Try the “jelly sandwich” technique with fine glitter between layers
- Experiment with pastel color combinations on different nails
- Add minimal line art or tiny embellishments for dimension
“The wet-look shine of jelly nails paired with pastel tones offers an approachable maximalism that doesn’t overwhelm, making it ideal for all occasions,” explains Korean nail art influencer Min-Ji Kim. This versatility makes jelly nails appropriate for everything from beach days to summer weddings.
Keeping your jelly nails fresh in summer heat
Maintaining your jelly manicure through summer activities requires special attention. “A high-quality top coat is essential to achieve that luscious jelly finish, especially when working with subtle pastel hues that need that extra pop,” notes beauty editor Taylor Reed. For those concerned about nail damage from sun exposure, consider a top coat with UV protection.
Perfect for all ages and nail conditions
One of the most appealing aspects of pastel jelly nails is their adaptability for different nail types. Those experiencing hormonal nail changes or swimmers dealing with water exposure can benefit from this gentle approach to nail art that doesn’t require aggressive filing or heavy products.
Workplace-friendly yet fashionable
For those heading to the office this summer, pastel jelly nails offer a professional yet trendy option. “Jelly nails transform everyday pastels into a glowing, radiant look that fits perfectly with 2025’s clean and colorful nail aesthetics,” says fashion nail consultant Ashley Wang. The subtle transparency presents a sophisticated alternative to bold opaque colors.
Are you ready to embrace the translucent beauty of pastel jelly nails this summer? With their dreamy colors, adaptable techniques, and eye-catching shine, this trend offers a refreshing way to express your style while keeping things light and playful during the hottest days of the year.