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Watermelon nails are a fun and colorful summer nail art trend inspired by the look of watermelons. The tips are painted bright green (like the rind), fading into a juicy pink or red base (the fruit’s flesh), with tiny black dots as seeds. Some designs add a thin white line between the green and pink to mimic the rind’s white layer.
The style is popular in the summer or for festivals, as it’s cheerful and eye-catching. You can get watermelon nails using regular nail polish, gel, or acrylics, which work on short and long nails. Watermelon nail designs are surprisingly doable, and some people add glitter, swap colors (like blue instead of pink), or use stickers for a quicker finish.
The best part is that this trend is wildly customizable. For my graduation party, I swapped pink for neon orange like Cantaloupe nails. Another time, I added glitter gradients to the pink half (perfect for a rooftop party). It’s low-key genius. You can make it subtle for your corporate internship (“Oh, these? Just a fun accent nail!”) or go full maximalist with 3D charms like tiny watermelon slices.
But watermelon nails clicked with my audience: They’re mood boosters. In a world of beige minimalism and “quiet luxury,” this trend screams, “Let’s just have fun!”
It’s playful, nostalgic, and gives off major “I’m here for a good time” energy. If strawberries and lemons can have their moment, why not watermelons?
1. WATERMELON VIBES
This design uses bright green and pink shades to mimic watermelon slices. Start with a white base, then paint the nail pink, and lastly create a bright green French tip and outline it with white colour to show the fruit rind white portion.
Styling Tips: Pair these nails with summery outfits like denim shorts or a bright sundress. Add gold jewelry to balance the vibrant colors.
2. JUICY WATERMELON NAILS
Use pink, yellow, and green polishes to create a 3D effect. Opt for glossy finishes to make the nails look “juicy.”
Styling Tips: Pair these nails with casual outfits like white tees, jeans, or tropical prints. They’re great for picnics or beach days. For a coordinated look, match them with pink or green sandals.
3. WATERMELON PIECES
Paint each nail as a mini watermelon wedge on a pink base. Use a thin brush to outline the green rind and add black seeds.
Styling Tips: Wear these with playful outfits like polka dots or gingham patterns. They add a fun twist and are ideal for farmers’ markets or BBQs. Pair with red earrings or a green hair clip. Avoid busy patterns in clothing to let the nails shine.
4. WATERMELON CAT EYE NAILS
Use magnetic nail polish in green or pink to create a shimmering “cat eye” effect. Layer pink over a dark green base, then drag a magnet to create a metallic stripe.
Styling Tips: Style with edgy outfits like leather jackets or metallic accessories. Pair with silver jewelry and neutral tones to let the nails stand out.
5. SIMPLE WATERMELON NAILS
Paint nails pink. And that’s it. You got the nails.
Styling Tips: This style is great for everyday wear! Pair it with casual outfits like linen shirts or flowy skirts. Add a green headband or pink bag for a cute touch. It’s perfect for beginners or low-key summer days.
6. JAPANESE STYLE WATERMELON NAILS
Inspired by kawaii art, this design features cartoonish watermelon slices with flowers. Use pastel pink and mint green, adding white highlights. Outline details in black for a comic-like look.
Styling Tips: Accessorize with charm bracelets or cute hairpins. These are ideal for anime conventions or family night outs.
7. TAPERED SQUARE NAILS
Shape nails into tapered squares for a modern look. Paint them pink and green. The sharp edges give a chic twist to the classic design. Use gel polish for longevity.
Styling Tips: Wear this with minimalist outfits like monochrome dresses or tailored pants. The shape adds sophistication, making it office-appropriate. For polish, add a sleek watch or geometric jewelry.
8. WATERMELON FRENCH TIPS
Swap classic white tips for green, adding pink watermelon with black seeds along the line.
Styling Tips: Wear with preppy outfits like striped tops or blazers. Perfect for brunch or casual Fridays. Match with green loafers or a pink scarf. Keep nails short for a clean look.
9. ACRYLIC PAINTS
It’s really unique to hand-paint detailed watermelon slices using acrylics for precision. Every detail on a black base is created, and it looks cool for parties.
Styling Tips: Pair with boho outfits like maxi skirts or embroidered tops. Great for art festivals or creative events. Accessorize with handmade jewelry.
10. WATERMELON DRIP NAILS
Create a “dripping” effect with glossy red polish over nude bases, mimicking melting fruit. Use a dotting tool to drag the polish downward. Also, add black seed details.
Styling Tips: For an edgy and bold look, wear streetwear or graphic tees. Pair with chunky boots and dark lipstick for contrast.
11. MATTE
To create this nail art, use a matte yellow and pink base and add the classic watermelon design. The lack of shine gives the design a modern, velvety look. Paint the seeds with matte black for consistency.
Styling Tips: Sophisticated yet fun, pair with neutral-toned outfits like beige or gray. Ideal for autumn or subtle summer looks. Add a structured bag for elegance.
12. FRUITY BLAST
Create lots of fruit designs on each finger. Add additional elements like polka dots, circles, etc. Use bright colors and white accents for a lively collage.
Styling Tips: Wear colorful sundresses or tropical shirts. They’re perfect for vacations or poolside lounging. Match with fruit-shaped earrings for whimsy.
13. STILL TOTALLY CLUELESS
Calling all Clueless movie fans, you need to recreate this graduation cap design. It totally fits into the theme and is super cute.
14. PASTEL COLORS
Soft pink, mint green, and pale gray replace classic hues. Paint subtle seeds with white or silver.
Styling Tips: Dreamy and delicate, this look is perfect for spring weddings or baby showers. Pair it with lace dresses or knit sweaters, and add pearl accessories for romance.
15. 3D WATERMELON
Create raised watermelon slices using acrylic charms or tiny beads. Attach them with gel or glue, then seal.
Styling Tips: Keep outfits simple to avoid clutter; solid colors work best here. This is ideal for photo shoots or special occasions. Avoid bulky jewelry.
16. FRESH WATERMELON FLESH
Focus on the pink center with sheer or jelly polish for a “juicy” effect. Add green tips and a combination of no seeds.
Styling Tips: Pair with light, airy fabrics like chiffon or silk. Perfect for beach weddings or daytime events. Add a dewy makeup look.
17. WATERMELON SMALL NAILS
Perfect for short nails. Create cat eye watermelon nails with green French tips, which adds extra details.
Styling Tips: Casual and cute, this look is great for active days. Pair it with crop tops or sneakers. Add a sporty watch or anklet.
18. RETRO STYLE WATERMELONS
Think 80s vibes—neon colors, geometric shapes, and bold outlines. Add glitter for extra flair.
Styling Tips: Pair with high-waisted jeans or retro prints. This look is perfect for themed parties. Big hair accessories and bright blush complete the look.
19. WATERMELON SHADE
Purchase the watermelon from any website and apply it to your nails. For an added touch, create watermelon slices.
Styling Tips: Elegant yet fun, pair with flowy dresses or jumpsuits. This look is ideal for sunset dinners, and gold hoops add warmth.
20. HOT PINK
Swap classic pink for neon or fuchsia. Pair with black seeds and deep green tips.
Styling Tips: Bold and vibrant, wear with all-black outfits for contrast. Perfect for clubbing or bold statements. Add metallic silver accessories.
21. WATERMELON SUGAR ALMOND NAILS
Almond-shaped nails with soft pink bases, green tips, and gold seed accents. Subtle and chic.
Styling Tips: Pair with romantic outfits like ruffled blouses or satin skirts. They are ideal for dates or garden parties. Rose gold jewelry enhances the sweetness.
22. GLITTER WATERMELON NAILS
Add glitter to green tips or pink bases. Use green or pink glitter polish for sparkle.
Styling Tips: For a festive and eye-catching look, style with sequin tops or party dresses. This look is perfect for NYE or birthdays. Keep makeup shimmering but simple.
23. POLKA DOTS
Paint black polka dots over pink nails, with green tips. Playful and retro.
Styling Tips: Pair with retro-inspired outfits like A-line skirts or Peter Pan collars. Add red lipstick for a classic touch. Great for fairs or casual outings.
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. Learn more on my Private Policy page.
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