The Cutest Nail Ideas for May Are in Bloom With Florals, Food, More

Spring is in full bloom—and your nails deserve to be, too. The colder months usually mean going into full hibernation mode, leaving nails bare for longer than one may like to admit or with a more reserved manicure. But now that the sun is out and the sidewalks are lining up with blooming flowers and fresh green leaves, it's the perfect time to give your manicure a seasonal refresh with something bright and joyous.

Even if you're not typically drawn to florals, it’s hard to ignore the beauty of delicate blossoms and colorful pastel tones when they’re everywhere you turn. And while May is certainly peak flower season, it also signals the unofficial start of beach days, iced coffee walks, and sun-kissed afternoons—plenty of inspiration to take to the nail salon.

From petal detailed designs to citrus-inspired manicures, this season’s nail trends are all about embracing the happiness of warmer days. And sure, a manicure might feel like a small detail. Still, there's something undeniably mood-boosting about catching a glimpse of a fresh manicure while typing away or reaching for your sunglasses.

Keep scrolling to see manicure photos that are exactly what you need to show your nail artist. Here are our favorite nail inspiration photos for May 2025. 

Kicking off nail ideas for May 2025 are the classic May flowers. Nothing screams spring more than these nails. Delicate and just simply pretty, these nails are a must-have to match all your white linens this summer. 

Want your nails to feel a little funky (in a good way, of course? Combine your favorite pastel colors with a fun pattern. Who said you can't do both in one manicure? 

It's giving "Sally sold seashells by the seashore" realness. If you're planning a trip to the coast or you reside by the water, embrace the beach's beauty by recreating it. 

Feeling inspired by a picnic date with your friends? A minimalist, fruit-inspired manicure might be just the thing. Perfect for warm weather, this look is playful yet subtle—ideal if you love keeping it simple with just a touch of fun.

If you celebrate Cinco de Mayo, be the extra one out of your friends at the party and show some love and appreciation for Mexico and its rich history. 

Fruit is a popular theme for nail inspiration May 2025, as have food-themed trends been ruling beauty lately, and the item du jour? Strawberries. Dedicate your whole manicure with the sweet berry. 

If you’ve scrolled through all these May nail ideas and still aren’t sold—don’t worry. If you prefer to keep things minimal, there’s still a way to embrace the season without stepping too far out of your comfort zone. A simple manicure with a subtle spring twist—think a touch of sparkle or a delicate floral detail—is the perfect way to keep it classic while still feeling fresh. Just ask your manicurist for something clean and understated with a seasonal pop.

Texture is taking over this May—especially in the form of gator nails. This edgy, reptile-inspired manicure is making waves, whether you go for classic alligator greens or opt for a playful twist with soft pastels. No matter your color choice, the raised, scaly design adds just the right amount of detail, making it a standout option for your next spring manicure.

Ladybugs might not be the first thing you think of for a manicure, but these cute little designs are enough to make you forget they’re technically insects. Plus, aren’t they supposed to bring good luck? Sounds like a win-win.

Pink lemonade, anyone? These ombré nails feel just right for warmer days—and happen to match whatever pink drink you're sipping.

Not a pink girl? Neither am I. Embrace the more earthy, grounded tones of May with these sage green nails with a hint of celestial detailing. They're the perfect amount of ethereal without doing too much.