45 The Cutest May Nails and May Nail Designs You Have to Recreate
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Are you looking for the cutest May nails to upgrade your nail art for spring and summer? These May nail designs are going to be your next favorite May nail arts for your next stunning manicure.
I can’t believe we’re down to the 5th month of the year (hello, May!).
And if you’re anything like me, you’re already looking forward to trying new May nails for summer. Oops, forgive my excitement. It’s still spring. It’s absolutely an excuse to get your May nail designs ready to welcome this new month.
You may feel you’re still in spring, while on other days, it seems Summer is already here – This offers the opportunity to get your May nails done and play with some summer nail colors.
As a nail technician who’s ready to give your nails a makeover. Thus, I’m here to enlighten you with the best May nails and May nail ideas to get inspired by creating the cutest nails of all time.
Also, these cute nails can be done at home, and you can call yourself a self-made nail artist.
With so many different designs to pick from – since nail designs for May combine cool colors, pastels, lavenders of spring, and brighter shades of summer – exciting, right?
To help inspire you to give your manis a makeover with pressure, I’ve assembled a collection of aesthetic May nail ideas to inspire your next manicure – These May nail designs are hot and Instaworthy!
Whether you’re looking for fresh and flirty, and never seen May nails, something bright, classic, and timeless, or ready to ditch spring for summer nails, you’ll find the perfect May nail designs.
Even if you want to spend the day on your couch trying out playing with colors creating the best nails for May or visit your manicurist for a spring-summery nail makeover, keep scrolling to discover the perfect May nail designs to up your manis this month.
Cute May Nails and May Nail Designs
1. May Neon Flowers Nails
May nail designs are so loved for being some of the most lively and colorful looks. This manicure is no different, but the sharp square shape definitely adds an edge that beats expectations.
So, if you want to be sensationally seasonally themed but also stay through to your trendsetting nail influence reputation, then this is the ideal look for you.
It’s unapologetically May, gorgeously glamorous, all good vibes, and totally you. Enjoy.
2. Gucci Summer Floral French Nails
Some nails are just made for showing off everywhere you go, and these are them. Each nail is like a little accessory in its own right, from the chic French tips to the fabulous florals that will enhance all of your May fits this year.
Plus, despite being gorgeously vibrant, the manicure isn’t over-the-top, meaning you might even get away with these lovelies at the office.
3. May Ombre Nails with Rhinestones
I’m obsessed with cosmic nails at the moment. The otherworldly and exotic vibes are absolutely to die for, and do I even need to tell you that it’s also brimming with 70s funky fabulousness?
You don’t need to stick to almond shapes with this manicure since the design looks fabulous on all nails. Just be sure to glue the little gem nail art on well.
4. Minty Confetti Flower May Nails
Vintage chic with a lipgloss effect edge, sparkles, and delightfully dainty flowers? Honestly, just put it all on my fingers right now, because I won’t allow May to go by without trying out this life-changing look.
The mint shade is so fresh and rustic at once, while the glitter adds just the right amount of radiance. I’m completely head over heels for this work of art.
5. Cute Marble Nails for May
The nail obsessives that come up with May nail ideas every year are on top of their game, and I would like to thank them personally for this idyllic design.
First of all, I’m obsessed with framed nails. They each look like little unique works of art but add swirls, and you have all of my heart.
And yes, I know it seems impossible to watercolor within the lines, but your nail tech can definitely manage it, so book in with your salon ASAP.
6. Mix and Match May Nails
Everything about these nails, from the tip to the cuticle, absolutely screams that you’re about to have the best May of your life.
Seriously, Summer is just around the corner, so why wouldn’t you be in the mood for fun and riding that good vibe wave all the way to the salon to have beauty painted across your nails?
7. Orange Ombre Nails
The lipgloss nail trend and chrome mania took off at the same time. They exploded onto the beauty scene and took every corner of it by storm, from Tiktok to the catwalk.
And here, we see the two trends come together powerfully in this sleek IT girl looks that’s going to be the object of everyone’s desire and envy, so be sure to post them online.
I promise to gawk at them, and I’ll definitely be trying them out myself because how could I not?
8. Yellow Daisies Nails
May nails, but make it festive. Honestly, I’m here for the cross-season trend that’s been picking up lately.
Why should we limit ourselves to seasons? Why can’t we mix some Christmas cheer with the bubbliness of May?
The result is ideal for a celebration, with the lovely little flowers genius mimicking fireworks.
The yellow is quite summery, while the glittery little nail almost looks frosted. Somehow, it all works together in uniquely stylish harmony, and I’m here for it.
9. Groovy Neon Swirlies
May nails tend toward the softer side of manicures, but it’s not the law. So, if you want to break the roles and become a trendsetting trailblazer, then give these daring nails a go.
Of course, we still have the radiant rainbows and prepiness of classic nails, but they are sharpened by the striking nail shape.
Plus, the glossy overcoat adds to the sharp allure that’s just irresistible and makes this manicure so unique.
10. Dragon Fruit May Nail Designs
Fruity nails give me a little boost every time I see them. What’s better than doubly sweet nails that remind you to eat healthily?
They really are such little sweetheart nails, and yes, I know we’re seeing Barbie everywhere this year, but I’m definitely sensing a bit of Barbie here.
You can definitely recreate this look using your own amazing skills, but you’ll have to act fast to create the swirls using a toothpick before the polish dries. You’ve got this.
11. Glittered Swirly Nails
I don’t need to tell you that swirls are dominating the nail scene at the moment. The funky, 60s-inspired flair is all around, and we’re thankful for it.
When it comes to this sparkly manicure, each swirl is perfection. The lines are sharp, and not a speck of glitter is out of place, making this manicure extra striking.
12. Neon Floral Frenchies Nails
Literally, no one can tell you what to do when you have these nails on. They’re loud, bursting with personality, and unapologetically gorgeous.
You could say they’re girl’s girl nails. So powerfully feminine and never sorry about it, and that’s what we’re here for these days: girl culture.
So, if you’ve ever hesitated before asking for the brightest pink on the shelf before, now’s your time to reclaim the power and prettiness of pink in flawless style. Enjoy.
13. Cute May Floral Nails
This may be the look that turns my obsession into an addiction. The first reason is that it can be worn pretty much anywhere; colorful nails are becoming more accepted in formal settings, as they should be.
The second reason is the genius use of color. Seriously, I could swear every nail polish color is used here, but it somehow works and doesn’t look overcomplicated at all.
14. Glittery Spring Pastel Nails
May nail designs have my heart, and it’s thanks to heaven-sent beauties like this. Honestly, each sparkly gem nail looks entirely out of this world.
I can’t get enough of the precious pastel colors, too. The shades keep things subtle and delicate, allowing the sparkles to shine truly.
The whole manicure is completely radiant and sure to catch attention in both real life and in photos.
15. Cute Almond May Nail Designs
Sometimes, you just want the coolest nails ever, and that’s okay. You deserve them, and you can have them, too, thanks to this one-of-a-kind look.
The psychedelic-chic heart alone is enough to convince anyone to try out his breathtaking design, but then you look at the bubble-tip nail and fall even further in love.
Don’t even get me started on the floral yin-yang nail or the flower thumbnail that grounds the look while maintaining the cheerful vibe. It’s perfection.
16. Confetti May Nails
May nails for summer can be dreamy thanks to this whimsical aesthetic that’s entirely prepossessing and lighthearted.
I just love how gorgeously girly the manicure is, obviously due to the polished colors and shimmery glitter, but really, the oval shape completes the pretty picture.
If you love the look but want to add some edge, don’t hesitate to file down your nail edges and go for a more almond or stiletto shape.
17. Holiday Vibes Nails
These are your going-out nails. They’re all about letting your hair down and stealing the spotlight wherever you go.
The vibes are extra, unapologetic, and striking. You’ll honestly feel like a superstar everywhere you go with these nails.
They’ve got that confident influencer edge, too, which means they’ll look fabulous in photos and will be the envy of everyone who sees them.
18. Funky May Nail Designs
I think we can officially say the minimalist era is over. Beauty no longer whispers. Instead, it shouts.
It wants to be heard and seen, and it’s unapologetically attention-grabbing. Usually, we associate this vibe with glamour, but as you can see from this quirky look, it can also just be outright cutesy fun.
It also makes sense to go all out this time of year since festival season is right around the corner and the sun’s starting to shine brighter, so why shouldn’t your nails, too?
19. Sea Glass Wavy Mani
Okay, I am absolutely obsessed with nails that barely look real. Seriously, so many classic nail effects combine genius here to create an otherworldly look that’s absolutely prepossessing.
If you’re hesitant to try out such an avant-garde look, don’t be.
This is the way nail trends are going in 2024, so you’ll actually be extremely stylish and are sure to get plenty of compliments everywhere you go.
20. Classy Pastel May Nail Design
I knew when I started researching May nail designs and trends this year that there’d be little hints of Barbie-style-inspired nail art everywhere.
What I didn’t expect to find was a manicure that literally looks like it belongs on a doll.
Seriously, these nails are so picture-perfect, striking, and polished that they look like a modern art masterpiece.
I just adore the sharp lines of the nails that are perfectly complemented by the glossy overcoat that really brings the look to life.
21. Funky French Tip Nails for May
Stiletto nails, swirls, and vibrant colors? Sign me up. Seriously, these nails are fascinatingly fabulous in the best way possible.
They’re the nails that catch everyone’s eye, bring good vibes, and get you plenty of well-earned compliments.
They’re also a little confidence boost that is made for the dancefloor and Instagram photoshoots because we all need to see more of this irresistible glamour.
22. Vibrat May Nails
If you’re filling your May schedule with loads of fun and excitement or just think you might need a little seasonal pick-me-up, then claim these lovelies as your own.
Everything about these nils is such a lighthearted and sunny scene.
23. Blueberry Milk Nails
These are fairy princess nails that you’d wear while frolicking through a field on a mild May day.
The lavender chrome sheen is absolutely prepossessing and entirely breathtaking. I also can’t help but point out that these are the ideal bride, bridesmaid, or wedding guest nails.
They’ve got that cute, loved-up look and are brimming with good vibes with a sophisticated allure, of course.
Plus, the little blueberry nail art is just the right amount of quirky and really makes this look completely your own.
And last but not least, light lavender is one of the rare colors that doesn’t clash with white.
24. Mint Green Nails for May
These are diva nails. They’re made for Mariah Carey and you, too, of course.
If you’re feeling like a VIP and want your manicure to look like pure money, wealth, and star power, then what are you waiting for?
Claim these stunning show-stopping nails as your own. It’s what you deserve.
25. Classy Teal Nails
These nails are literally gilded. How stunning and magical is that? It’s honestly like something out of a princess fairytale.
And not to be cheesy, but this nail design really is a dream come true. The long square shape is so regal, while the gold threaded nails are art.
The choice to add a light, sky-blue polish is a touch of genius that looks sophisticated and fresh at once.
26. Purple and Blue Swirls
Short and sweet nails? No problem. You can still sport those swirls with pride in any color your heart desires; just be sure to keep the lines thin; the rest is Beauty 101.
These polish colors were also made for short nails. They’re just so powerful and soft at the same time, which makes the most out of the smaller canvas and grabs attention.
So, expect plenty of compliments with this adorable look.
27. Spring Florals for May
First things first, May nail designs were made for flowers. Secondly, I love any designs that acknowledge the unexpected match made in heaven, which is yellow and pink.
Both shades bring out the best in each other and are still quite unique and undiscovered, meaning you can still enjoy the most one-of-a-kind and trendsetting nails this May. Enjoy.
28. Colorful Mani with Dainty Daisies
I have a special place in my heart for these looks. Using a simple style, the manicure draws on the natural beauty of the polish colors before being adorned with funky florals that appear to float off the nail.
The long almond shape adds some edge to the overall soft and girly aura.
Altogether, it’s a fabulous “Goldilocks zone” manicure that’s ideal for the girlies who aren’t sure if they want to go all-out in May but still want to enjoy seasonal nails in flawless style.
29. Blue Chrome Floral Nails
In your soft girl or just outright girly girl era? What you need are these nails. Like a classic Monet painting etched across your nails, this manicure is brimming with timeless beauty, creativity, and delightful vibes.
The overall look perfectly encapsulates that easy-going essence of a May day with the sun shining bright.
This is a marvelous manicure for dreamers who like their nails to tell a tale while also looking effortlessly stylish.
30. Rhinestone Butterfly Nails
These nails are the definition of pretty. They’re so utterly precious, and I’m honestly head over heels for them.
No accessory can outshine their glow. Each nail is as radiant as the next, and you can bet they glimmer in the light, especially in photos.
In other words, this is definitely an Instagram-worthy manicure that you’ll never ever want to take off again. So what are you waiting for? You deserve these nails.
31. Cute May Nail Designs
Some nails are effortlessly cool, and this is them. It’s all lighthearted and easy-going with joyful colors that evoke long, sunny childhood days.
This manicure looks on the brighter side of May and is ideal for any fashionista who’s excited for Summer. I love the cute little twinkles and smiley faces.
32. Blue Flowers Nails for May
These May nails are what I want to see every time I look at my hand. They look so divine and heavenly and are giving freshly washed white sheets vibes.
Their essence is so light, and the aesthetic is undeniably dainty and pretty. I would also definitely crown these beauties as princess nails.
They’ve definitely earned their spot. Plus, the gradient blue of the cute flowers is absolutely to die for. Just such a heartwarming look all around that’s a must-try this May.
33. Blue and White Plaid May Nails
I personally think that blue and white are the official colors of May. They’re a fresh, vibrant, and dynamic duo that’s just the right amount of chill to perfectly reflect this lovely time of year.
So, wear these nails with pride and pay a subtle homage to one of the best times of the year, in fabulous style, of course.
That said, while fabulous, the nails are undeniably cool and chill, which definitely makes them look immediately trendy, especially if you follow TikTok trends.
34. White Frenchies with Colored Flowers
I’m convinced that May nail ideas should be used all year round; they really are just that beautiful and refreshing.
Who doesn’t love having flowers sprinkled over their nails? Especially when the surface is a timelessly chic French tip.
It’s the picture of beauty, like a little snapshot of spring, as the flowers bloom and everything seems so fresh. The vibes are perfect and oh-so-beautiful.
35. Colored Swirly May Nails
If you can’t decide which of the many May colors represents your vibe this year, then you’re in luck.
Nail fanatics worldwide are clearly feeling the same because they’ve thought up hundreds of these multi-colored designs that make good use of every polish on the counter.
36. Mooncat May Nail Ideas
May nail designs or pre-festival nails? You decide with this look that’s buzzing for a party. Somehow, the many vibrant colors belong together beautifully.
I put it down to the oh-so-slightly muted shade of each polish color, so be sure to hold back a little bit when it comes to brightness.
The look is only meant to have a slight sheen instead of all-out glossiness, so no need for an overcoat to achieve this stunning look.
37. Classy May Lilac Swirls
Who knew that lilac nails could ever evoke femme fatale vibes. Because yes, I’m getting Barbie, but there are also undeniable Lana del Rey vibes here.
I’d be lying if I said I also didn’t get superhero.
I think it’s the powerful, swooping swirls and the two-tone complementing colors that just go together like a match in heaven.
Plus, the almond nails are a little sharper than is usually expected for May nails, which adds a powerful edge, and I’m more than here for it.
38. Colored Swirly Tips
I’m all for nails that are elegantly defined with a bubbly twist, which is why I had to include this look on the list.
I love how the white, blue, pink, and yellow polish combine effortlessly for a minty, fresh glow.
Of course, the semi-opaque, milky undercoat helps elevate the brightness of the colors through contrast.
39. Colored Funky Summer Nails
Ready to bring your A-game everywhere you go this May to upgrade your summer nails? Yes? Then you’ll need to bring these nails, too.
It doesn’t get much more funky than this or just downright extra. Seriously, if you want loud, these nails are screaming (in a good way, of course.)
Everything down to the vibrant swirls is so precise and perfect, so be sure to use these pretty party animals as an excuse to get down to the salon.
I’m sure your nail tech will have the time of their life recreating this marvelous madness.
40. Sweet Candy Nails
May nails for spring have obviously had a glow-up this year, and designs like this prove it. These beauties could honestly be the nails of the season. These nails are going to be the perfect spring nails upgrade of this year.
They’re all comic book super girl vibes with a hint of princess, a bit of Barbie, and just pure loveliness.
Somehow, the manicure even maintains an air of elegance and sophistication. Can you tell that I’m head over heels?
41. Summer Is Coming Nails
Deconstructed, or abstract, whatever you want to call it, nails are having a moment. This year’s May nails selection is no exception and also adds its own twist to the popular look.
It’s very artsy, quite cute, a lot quirky, and entirely chic. It’s really all you want wrapped up effortlessly in one funky look that’s as vibrant as it is cozy.
I absolutely love everything about it, and you should, too.
42. Water Marbling May Nails
Soft, sweet, and even a little bit sensual, these are your bestie nails. They go with all your favorite fits, don’t clash with any accessories, and never dare to rob the spotlight in photos.
Instead, they bring out the best in your look with their flawless style. What are you waiting for?
43. Airbrush Abstract Pink Nails
Pay close attention to this magic manicure. Do you see the ethereal fade and barely-there gloss?
Yes, it’s all nail tech genius and beauty 101. Still, the most clever feature of this deluxe design is that it’s about to be on everyone’s fingers.
That’s right, you’re looking at this May’s (likely) biggest trend. Since May is a transition month between spring and summer, the faded nature of this design reflects that absolutely darlingly.
44. Pretty Summer Neon Nails for May
This fiery manicure looks like it’s gone up in fabulous flames. Seriously, the hot effect is so cool and captivating.
They’re so fabulous and fruity and are giving Juicy Couture with all that lipgloss shine and berries and cream beauty.
Sticking to the color palette is absolutely essential when it comes to bringing out the magic of this gorgeous manicure design.
Other than that, you can go creative with the nail shape; just be sure to make the swirls smaller toward the tip.