At long last, summer is finally here. The temperature is rising and everyone’s heading outside to celebrate the warm weather, and of course the Fourth of July. Get ready for a cookout with a festive manicure that perfectly complements your adorable Fourth outfit.
Whether your nails are short or long, we’ve got ideas for everyone, from the skilled home manicurist to the first-timer, to give you easy red, white and blue designs for the holiday.
This epic red, white and blue design was painted by New York City-based nail artist Karirenize Guerrero, who says you can create “a simple look at home — any colorblocking design using red, white and blue would do the trick.”
You can make a colorblock look at home with a few colors and some washi (or craft) tape. Regular tape will also work in a pinch, but just make sure you let each coat dry. Start with the lightest color, let dry and then draw a design with the tape and paint over.
Essie Not Red-y for Bed Nail Polish ($10.99; target.com)
Of course you need a solid red to celebrate the Fourth. Opt for this one from Essie, which goes on glossy and has a cream finish.
Essie Nail Polish in Marshmallow ($8.99; target.com)
Mimic the white stripes in the flag with this bright shade.
SinfulColors Professional Nail Polish in Endless Blue ($1.99; target.com)
Bring a bright blue pop to your nails with this bold hue.
Scotch Washi Tape, 15-Pack ($19.99; target.com)
You’ll be colorblocking for months with this fun washi tape that won’t stick and pull off your polish.
Conair Scunci Curved Bobby Pins, 60-Pack ($3.19; target.com)
Another simple technique? Polka dots! You can use a bobby pin, straight pin or safety pin to create dots. Be sure to let your base coat dry before dropping your polka dots, however. These curved hair pins are easier to hold when dotting your nails, letting you create your perfect look.
Dior Vernis Gel Shine & Long Wear Nail Lacquer ($28; nordstrom.com)
This gel-effect nail polish promises a glass-like shine and extended wear so you won’t have to worry about your mani looking shabby by the end of the night.
Tenoverten Nail Polish in Ludlow ($14.69; target.com)
Acetone-, paraben- and cruelty-free, we love this nail polish because it leaves your nails feeling stronger after wearing it. Also, just check out that gorgeous red.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Canotier ($28; nordstrom.com)
Bring in this glamorous shade of gold to dot your red and blue nails.
Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Amazing Grace ($20; nordstrom.com)
The classic white doesn’t have a hint of sheer to it, making it the perfect accent color.
Ella+Mila Nail Polish Collection in Stonehearted ($10.49; target.com)
Show off your style with this subtle white that reviewers absolutely love.
Olive & June The Poppy Manicure Tool ($16; target.com)
For precise nail art, this manicure tool can help steady your hand.
Nail stickers can add a pop of interest without spending hours on your nails. You can set white stars on a red or blue background, or go in a less literal direction with sparkling red stars to light up the night.
Olive & June Nail Art Stickers — White Stars ($7.50; target.com)
Stick these white stars of various sizes on all 10 fingers and have an Instagram-ready mani in seconds.
4th of July Star Nail Art Sequins Glitter Nail Art ($7.99; amazon.com)
Go all out with this holiday-themed package with hundreds of red, white and blue stars. You’ll be set for the next dozen summers!
12 Shaped Holographic Nail Sequins ($6.99; amazon.com)
This nail sequin kit has stars for the holiday, and other shapes for the rest of the year. Just place carefully and set with a clear top coat.
Stars Confetti Glitter 4-Angle Star Laser Sequins ($6.59; amazon.com)
These stars will make your nails sparkle and shine.
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Sheer Fantasy ($11.59; target.com)
This classic pink sheer polish from Essie will let your stars sparkle.
Ella+Mila Nail Care Quick Dry Top Coat (In a Rush) ($12.89; target.com)
This top-rated top coat dries quickly and will set your nail art in place.
If you’re looking for a more simple style, try painting your nails a bold blue or red, and add a little glitter to your look.
CND Vinylux Azure Wish ($10.99; walmart.com)
This polish isn’t the dark, navy blue you’d typically use if you’re trying to mimic the American flag, but it adds a light pop of color to any look.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Color in Tidal Wave ($9.59; target.com)
How cute would this be as an accent to a solid blue, or even on all fingers of a mani?
Sephora Collection Color Hit Mini Nail Polish in Engagement Ring ($5; sephora.com)
Paint this silver glitter onto a few nails or every finger for an extra-sparkly look.
Kiss ImPress Press-On Manicure False Nails in Wannabe Star ($8.59; target.com)
Not that confident painting your nails? These press-ons will give you the look with a lot less work.
Kiss ImPress Press-On Manicure False Nails in Kill Heels ($8.59; target.com)
With red jelly nails and a few silver glitter accents, we can’t get over how perfect these press-ons would be for the Fourth.