”Oh my God, you look like the Fourth of July!” 🎉 Yup, the most iconic line of Jennifer Coolidge in Legally Blonde 2 is making a comeback. During the prime of this movie (early 2000s), Fourth of July manicures leaned heavily on striking stars and stripes and unapologetic patriotism. Nowadays, we can notice the shift of trends favoring a more refined, minimalist approach. For this year, we’re embracing the understated with an easy DIY Fourth of July nail design that features clean red and white polish with subtle nods to the American flag. Cue “Party In The U.S.A.” because your nails are about to steal the show! Before you dive into the design.. Start with a solid nail prep to ensure your nails last the entire celebration. If you’re working with natural nails, apply a base coat and cure each one for 30 seconds. This step helps protect your nails and ensures your nail stays put. The same applies to extensions; a base coat can also prevent unwanted discoloration and create a clean canvas for your nail art. Base Shades: 1. Paint white nail polish To reflect the purity and innocence of the American flag, we’re using Dip & Dap Duo - DD001 Baby Powder, a pure white shade. Paint 2-3 thin, even coats, curing each layer for 30 seconds under a professional UV/LED nail lamp. Once you’ve built up the opacity, secure the color with a light layer of top coat and cure again for 30 seconds to lock in the shine and longevity. 2. Paint your red nail polish next Continuing the patriotic theme, we’re bringing Dip & Dap Duo - DD032 Candy Apple, a bold, vibrant red that symbolizes valor and bravery. Just like before, apply 2-3 thin, even layers, and cure each layer for 30 seconds. Finish with a high-quality top coat and cure once more to seal in the color. Interested in getting stiletto nail extensions? You can find it here. Accent Nail 1: Simple Red & Blue Stars On White Nails 1. Draw a red star With a white base already in place, it’s the perfect canvas to introduce red and blue accents for a true star-spangled twist. Draw a bold five-pointed red star using Line Art Gel Kit - 12 Flaming Red at the center of the nail. Keep the design impactful yet airy; avoid covering the entire nail so the negative space keeps it modern and minimalist. 2. Outline with a blue star To add dimension to your nail art, reach for the Line Art Gel Kit - 28 Beautiful Blue to outline the red star. This rich blue hue brings balance and contrast to your star nail art. Customize the thickness of the outline to your preference, just be sure it makes the star pop. Once your lines are clean and defined, lock in the design with a top coat and cure it for 30 seconds. Accent Nail 2: Patriotic Abstract Design Using Blooming Gel 1. Apply Blooming Gel Now it’s time to make a statement with your red nails! To elevate the design, start by applying a layer of Blooming Gel over the red base. This clear gel works like magic; it allows any gel color applied on top to softly spread and blend, creating a beautiful “blooming’ or marbled effect. Here is our tutorial on how to use the Blossom Gel/Blooming Gel. 2. Create 2 white dots diagonally With the help of a dotting tool, place two pure white dots diagonally across the nail. As they begin to spread, you’ll notice the Blooming Gel creating a soft, watercolor effect that looks so delicate. Let the gel move naturally for the most organic result. 3. Put red dots on top of the white dots We’re enhancing the depth of the design by adding two bright red dots in the middle of the two white dots. Allow the color to gently diffuse within the existing circles, creating a harmonious combination of colors. 4. Complete the colors with 2 blue dots For the final touch of color, put two blue (Line Art Gel Kit - 28 Beautiful Blue) dots at the center of each red circle. Hold off on curing just yet; we’ll be blending these shades next to create an abstract, freeform design to showcase your artistry. 5. Grab your Line Art Brush The thinner the brush, the better! Grab your Dual Line Brush 10mm / 22mm or any similar thin, fine-tipped long brush and ensure it is clean before using. Hold the brush upright to have the best control and achieve smooth, consistent strokes throughout the design. 6. Swirl your brush in a circular motion Begin with gentle pressure and maintain it as you swirl the brush through the gel. Use a steady circular motion, rotating your wrist while keeping the brush tip in contact with the color. Feel free to adjust your angle or hand position because this step is all about customization. Design your nails exactly how you envision them! Finishing Touch 1. Seal every nail with a top coat Finalize the look with our top-rated iGel No Cleanse Top Coat, known for its durable, glossy finish, and cure for 30-60 seconds. It’s a favorite among iGel Beauties for a reason; try it for yourself and see why it’s the final step no manicure should skip. 😉 We're American all year, but this 4th of July, we're turning ✨extra✨American and keeping the spirit in the most effortlessly chic way. Ready to celebrate freedom and good times with fabulous nails? Drop a 🎆on our Instagram post if you're feeling patriotic this July! Katy Perry said it best: Come on, let your colors burst.. with pride and honor! ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── Written by Alyssa Bueno on June 25, 2025 Alyssa Bueno, a true beauty enthusiast, brings her passion for writing and beauty to life as a writer for iGel Beauty. With a diverse editorial background and industry expertise, Alyssa shares the latest trends and curates tutorials and tips to inspire nail lovers worldwide.
