Beauty
Because nail art is for your toes, too.
For many people, summer 2023 marks the beginning of sandal season. And whether you choose to slip on a trendy pair of heels or opt for a trusty pair of Birkenstocks, warmer weather ups the chances that your toenails will be on full display.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with polish-free toes. But if you just so happen to be a frequent salon visitor or much prefer that at-home polish painting life, there’s no better time to experiment with bold new colors and designs.
Nail experts Julie Sariñana, Jin Soon Choi, and Nadine Abramcyk recently told Bustle that some of this season’s most requested pedicure hues include shiny chromes, crisp summer whites, and classic reds (all shades that look fab worn alone or incorporated into a more intricate look).
Some of the hottest trends to consider even borrow from TikTok’s most beloved manicures — namely, comic book-inspired pop-art nails and French tips. Others can be DIYed at home or replicated with a pack of nail stickers or a nail polish pen.
Not sure what to get at your next appointment? If you're searching for toenail designs to complement your strappy sandals, here are 20 pedicure art ideas to use for inspiration.
1
All Things ’90s
The 1990s will always and forever be an iconic decade. A mix of peace signs, smiley faces, and yin-yang symbols will channel nostalgic vibes in the coolest way.
2
The “Gemini” Pedi
The Gemini hair trend (inspired by the zodiac sign represented by twins) taps two contrasting hues for a seriously bold ‘do. As for a pedi? The colorful trend is just as much for the bold and indecisive.
3
White French Tips
Whether they’re on your finger or your toes, white French tips look effortlessly chic.
4
Summer Fruits
Sunny season is the best time to bust out a fruity print. A milky white base color will make adorable strawberry and watermelon decals stand out.
5
Abstract Accents
These subtle abstract strokes proof that toenail art can be chic and simple.
6
The Skittles Pedicure
In the mood for a matching mani-pedi moment? Take inspiration from your nail art design and paint each one of your toes a different color. (Cute smiley face design optional.)
7
Botanical Designs
Mix and match florals and botanicals for the ultimate summer pedicure design.
8
Diamond Details
Keep it classy with a neutral base color, a couple glittery accent toes, and glitzy rhinestone pops. The combination will look so chic with any pair of sandals.
9
The Pop-Art Pedi
Comic book nails — the graphic manicure design beloved by BeautyTok — can work on your toes, too. Opt for bold, pigment-packed neons, or keep it neutral with white, brown, and black lacquers.
10
Subtle Waves
If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of pedicure art (pun intended), limit the design to one toe and paint the rest one solid hue.
11
Seeing Stars
Tiny stars look oh so pretty when paired with pastels. Borrow from the Gemini trend and use a different base color for each foot.
12
Dotted Decals
Paint on black French tips, then add tiny dots (which are super DIY-able with a dotting tool or the end of a bobby pin).
14
Accent Melons
Another cute way to incorporate fruity vibes in your next pedicure design? A juicy accent melon on just one toe.
15
Pretty Little Petals
There’s no rule that says bright colors are only for the summertime. Combine purple, pink, teal, and lime green — then rock it into the cooler fall months.
16
Summery Strawberries
Apply the “red nail theory” to your toes with a vivid hue and tiny berry decals.
17
Soft Swirls
For a twist on the negative space look, paint your toenails in pretty pastel swirls.
19
Blue Crush
Into bright blue hues? Use them to create a marbleized look on one accent toe.
20
Barbiecore Combo
You already know that 2023 is (unofficially) the Year of Barbie. There’s no better way to embrace the trend than with toenails that are painted in shades of pink.
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