17 Prom Nail Art Ideas That Are Anything but Boring

Take the classic french tips and give them a retro twist by opting for a bold colour-blocking combo. This manicure would pair well with bright or multicolored dresses or suits that channel the 60s, 70s, or 80s.

Pastels go perfectly with pretty much any colour combination of clothing. This nail art combines a few powdery shades with tiny floral designs as an accent nail, which would pair perfectly with a bright getup or something with floral details.

Minimalism will never go out of style, and that applies to both fashion and nail art. If you're looking for something understated yet eye-catching, try this dual-colour french manicure with a red or white-coloured dress or tuxedo. You can also line the edges with glitter to make the colours stand out.

Wearing velvet for prom? How 70s. Pair your outfit with something like these translucent acrylic nails, which are more matte in finish. Blue-green colour palette optional.

When you're going for a timeless colour like black with your outfit, wear an equally neutral-coloured nail polish. The dainty red hearts on top of your base add a surprising twist while still keeping things simple.

If you love all things art, you're probably also a fan of colour-blocking and bold colour, which is why this nail art is perfect for you — it combines all the above.

Wearing white to prom is already making a statement (be careful with that red punch . . .) so try a minimalist, negative space nail art look with subtle swirls of white.

If you're going green this prom, you'll want to keep your manicure in the same earth-toned colour family, but adding tiny details — like this negative space floral design here — make the perfect accent.

Tulle dresses add a bit of whimsy to any prom look, so choose a nail design that's equally playful and sheer.

Red and pink pair so well together, but why pick just one? Try a diffused manicure that combines the two in ombre fashion.

No matter your animal print of choice, this manicure look — which combines a little bit of everything — will complement your look perfectly.

Burgundy and reds radiate royal vibes, and this nail art look is no exception. Pair these glittery details with a sequinned burgundy dress with a stylish back.

Look pretty in pink with this negative space look. The pops of bubblegum pink and orange would go perfectly with a princess dress or bubblegum pink suit that'll turn many heads.

Silk can be high-shine and dramatic, so if you're wearing that as your outfit, pair the look with a matte manicure finish. This blue iteration also has gold embellishments for an even more sophisticated look that'll go great with gold jewellery.

If your dress or suit comes in a yellow, black, or gold, this marble nail art will finish off your look perfectly.

Acrylic nails shaped and painted in arched french manicure will instantly make a statement look for your big night. If you're a fan of pearls, gemstones, or jewels, and plan on wearing those as a necklace or ring, extend that finishing touch to your nails. This turquoise take on the french manicure is a perfect example.

Any dress or suit with patterns — think: checkers, polka dots, stripes — will pair nicely with this red-and-white manicure.