Fiona Embleton
Valentine's Day isn't exactly everyone's thing—but Valentine's Day nail art? Sign us up! Whether you're celebrating Galentine's day or have a cute first date planned, there's no better excuse to treat yourself to a romance-theme manicure. Here's all the inspo you need, whether you're heading to the salon or planning to create your love-themed nail look at home...
This year, we're bringing our A-game to the annual day of love with not only our Valentine's Day outfits but our nails—because why not? If you're heading to celebrate with a significant other, perfect. If you're not—who's to say a hot date with your couch and the best rom-coms doesn't warrant a mini mani?
Now, we know what you're thinking—when one thinks of Valentine's Day, often kitsch and cheesy imagery comes to mind. But a romantic mani can be whatever you want it to be, whether that's adding a rosy hue to Hailey Bieber's iconic nails, or incorporating red into any of the current 2023 nail trends.
So, to help you manifest romance—here are all the best Valentine's Day nail art looks to rock when February 14th rolls around, from heart-tipped French manicures to pink jelly nails!
Best Valentine's Day nail art looks
When it comes to creating your Valentine's Day nail look it's important to remember that it's only for one day—so it might be a good idea to opt for a design that has longevity and will last well past the big day. Or, if you really want to go all out, perhaps bring the love to your fingertips as soon as February 1st hits. If you're a lover of gel or Biab nails, when done properly they can last for weeks, so bear that in mind when you're planning your mani!
Now, onto the fun part—here are some Valentine's nail designs to get you in the mood...
Korean Blush trend nails
The Korean Blush nail trend is the perfect way to bring a bit of romance into your look! The soft, pink aura-like design actually incorporates your fave blush (hello, multipurpose makeup product!) into your manicure, to create the prettiest flush effect to your fingertips.
This pink nail look is subtle, which is also ideal for anyone looking for a manicure that works for any day really, but especially for Love-day!
Heart-tipped French Manicure
The heart-tipped French manicure have been a big trend over the last few years, with a number of celebs from Hailey Bieber to Kylie Jenner sporting the look.
This design is cute for all year round, especially during the holidays and of course, Valentine's Day. They're easy to do and ever fail to look chic and effortless.
Mini hearts mani
Nothing says Valentine's Day like hearts, so it's a no-brainer to incorporate a few heart motifs into your nail look!
If you're after a more subtle look, a few mini hearts scattered across your fingertips are a good way to go—plus they're easy to do at home. We love a simple nail design!
Stawberry 'Glazed' nails
We couldn't not include a nod to Hailey Bieber's 'Glazed donut' nails. These Strawberry Glazed nails (created by Hails' nail artist Zola Ganzorigt), feature an opaque, soft pink hue that looks just like strawberry syrup, topped with a pearly shimmer.
It's the perfect option for the minimalists among us, that want to incorporate Valentine's into their look but in a more subtle way.
Chic white hearts
For lovers of dainty designs, why not try a white heart line art mani? Again, with a fine nail brush and a bit of practice, this look is easy to do at home—but we understand if you'd rather leave this more intricate look to the pros!
It's simple and subtle and is ideal for any day of the year really, but especially Valentine's!
50 shades of pink
No shade evokes those flirty, first crush vibes more than pink! If red is a bit too bold for you, a pastel or millennial pink would make perfect alternatives. Hot pink is having a major moment right now—so if you're planning to rock the hue with date night outfit, why not coordinate your nails too?
In the cloud nails
Often our loved ones and crushes can leave us feeling like we're floating on cloud nine, so why not wear your heart on your sleeve (well, hands) with a cute cloud-themed manicure?
The nails are soft and really give us dreamy romantic vibes...
Negative space red nails
Now, here's a edgy option! Negative space nails are a mega nail trend, so why not inject some passion in the look with a crimson red?
Juicy Jelly nails
Jelly nails are also the perfect look for Valentine's day, they're juicy-looking and cool and will compliment any outfit, even your best pajamas! Opt for a red or pink for the perfect ode to love day!
Put a ring on it nails
If you're expecting the big question this Valentine's or just want to subtly (or not so subtly) hint at a proposal, sporting a design just on your ring finger is definitely the way to go! This style of manicure also works for all occasions, so it's ideal if you prefer a more low-maintenance nail routine.
