- There are endless manicure designs you can pick for your big prom night [1].
- You can go traditional with a french manicure [2], or try latest nail art trends [3] like pastel skittle nails [4] or wavy lines.
- Here you'll find a prom-worthy manicure for you, no matter your dress style and beauty vibe.
With the prom approaching fast, what you're going to wear isn't the only consideration to keep in mind. From deciding on your makeup to how to do your hair [5], there's a lot of intricate planning that goes into putting together the final look. There is no detail, however, that subtly takes your prom aesthetic to another level quite like trendy nail art [6]. Attribute it to buzzy shows like Euphoria" [7] or viral videos on TikToks [8], but intricate nail-art designs have seen a resurgence in popularity over the last few years. Bonus: they are the perfect way to express your individual style.
Whether your prom outfit is understated, glam, or head-turning – there are plenty of nail designs to choose from for your imminent exciting night. With a ton of manicure inspiration across Instagram and TikTok's For You page, though, it can be hard to set your heart on just one design that channels your beauty vibe. So, with so much prep to get to, let us take the nail beautification off your plate by whittling down those intimidating nail-art inspiration photos for you. If you tend to lean toward glitter nails, go for a pop of colour, or want something minimal and chic, there's something for everyone (and every dress) in the roundup ahead.
From matte finishes [9] to pastel colours to shimmery looks [10] – we've put together the best prom nails to make up the ultimate prom mood board for you. Keep scrolling for the ultimate inspiration ahead.
Prom Nails For Retro Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For Bright, Colourful Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For a Red Dress or Tuxedo
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.
Prom Nails For Velvet Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For a Little Black Dress or Pantsuit
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.
Prom Nails For an Artsy Dress or Suit
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.
Prom Nails For White Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For Green Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For Colourful Tulle Dresses
Tulle dresses add a bit of whimsy to any prom look, so choose a nail design that's equally playful and sheer.
Prom Nails For Pink Dresses or Suits
Red and pink pair so well together, but why pick just one? Try a diffused manicure that combines the two in ombre fashion.
Prom Nails For Animal Printed Outfits
No matter your animal print of choice, this manicure look — which combines a little bit of everything — will complement your look perfectly.
Prom Nails For Sequinned Dresses
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.
Prom Nails For Princess Dresses or Pink Suits
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.
Prom Nails For Silk Dresses or Suits
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.
Prom Nails For Yellow-Toned Colour Outfits
If your dress or suit comes in a yellow, black, or gold, this marble nail art will finish off your look perfectly.
Prom Nails if You're Wearing Pearl Jewellery
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.
Prom Nails For Patterned Dresses or Suits
Any dress or suit with patterns — think: checkers, polka dots, stripes — will pair nicely with this red-and-white manicure.