We know how it goes: the big day is approaching, and you’re this close to a meltdown trying to choose the perfect bridesmaid nails. You’re either a bridesmaid racking your brain for inspiration or a bride-to-be guiding your squad. But fear not, dear reader, for you have stumbled upon a treasure trove of nail wisdom.
As you navigate the endless sea of manicure ideas swirling around the internet, you may feel like you’re drowning in an ocean of nail polish. But fret not! We’ve enlisted nail pros to help you sail smoothly toward the best options.
Bridezilla or Bridesmaid in Distress?
If You’re the Bride, Take the Lead, Your Majesty
Mazz Hanna, editorial nail artist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood, say the bride always comes first1. So, if you’re the bride (congrats, by the way!), it’s time to contemplate your bridesmaids’ nail colors and designs. Will you be a benevolent ruler and let them choose, or will you meticulously curate every detail? The choice is yours, Your Highness!
Elegant polish colors for your bridesmaids include Essie Ballet Slippers, Jin Soon Nail Polish in Piedra, and Hermès Les Mains Nail Enamel in Rose Tamisé.
If You’re a Bridesmaid…Stay in Your Lane, Darling
Brooklyn-based nail artist Erica Hipp offers a golden rule: “You never want to upstage the bride. So, when picking a nail polish color, play it safe with neutral shades or match your bridesmaid dress. Mazz Hanna seconds this, suggesting you keep things simple.
But who said “simple” has to be snooze-worthy? A Dallas-based nail artist, Jennifer Tieu, recommends classic French tips, reverse French, abstract swirls, and minimal negative-space art5. Consider textured details like tiny rhinestones and pearls for a touch of pizzazz.
The Finishing Touches
You’ve Got the Look. Now What?
- Timing is Everything: Jennifer Tieu advises booking your manicure appointment as close to the wedding day as possible for a fresh and clean look.
- Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Keep your hands and nails hydrated with hand cream and cuticle oil.
- Emergency Backup: Have a similar nail color on standby for any last-minute mishaps.
15 Dazzling Bridesmaid Nail Designs: From Chic to Oh-So-Sweet
Wait! Are you a bride? Oh wow! It would be best to feast on these mesmerizing bridesmaid nail designs, each more fabulous than the last. Get ready to screenshot, laugh, and love these captivating creations!
1. The Reverse French: A Twist on a Classic
Tieu praises the reverse French manicure for its understated elegance. Nail artist Melissa Tome executed this design using BIAB polish. Still, it can easily be recreated using classic French colors: a neutral polish that complements your skin tone and an off-white for the cuticle line.
2. Sophisticated Swirls: Art on Your Fingertips
Craving a touch of design? Consider these sophisticated swirls. Content creator Jessica O’Loughlin wore this on her wedding day, but as Tieu says, it’s a fabulous option for bridesmaids too!
3. Sparkles and Sequins: Because Who Doesn’t Love Some Bling?
New York-based manicurist Sakie is the mastermind behind this high-shine design. The rhinestone appliqués elevate the sparkly base, making this combo a speedy alternative to intricate nail art.
4. 3D Pearls: Timeless Elegance
Pearl embellishments are perfect for those seeking a timeless look. Nail artist Bryony Howell expertly cured these miniature pearls (found on eBay) into a clear rubber topcoat for lasting beauty.
5. Rhinestone Nails: Unleash Your Inner Diva
Channel your inner glamour queen with inspiration from Miami nail technician Ian Hoang. Sparkles and gems sit atop a glossy neutral base, ideal for a wedding party with a modern vibe.
6. Modern French: A Fresh Take
We adore this updated take on the traditional French manicure for your wedding party. Editorial nail artist Queenie Nguyen designed this look with three extra-fine lines below the tips, making it an equally covetable choice for bridesmaids.
7. Semi-sheer: Minimalist Chic
The trendy “lip gloss” manicure is a sophisticated option for bridesmaids wanting a minimalist design. Manicurist Julie Kandalec created this semi-sheer taupe masterpiece.
8. Glitter Micro French: Tiny Yet Dazzling
Behold one of the prettiest micro French manicure renditions ever! Expert manicurist Lola K used a soft cream-pink base and a square-tipped nail brush to paint a dainty micro tip on each nail. The ultra-reflective Brillbird Hypnotic Gel & Lac Polish adds sparkle to the tips.
9. Double French: The Best of Both Worlds
Can’t decide between a traditional or modern French manicure? Combine the two, as nail artist Shelley Graham did. She cleverly alternated between white and rose gold on every other finger.
10. Gradient Hearts: Love at First Sight
It’s hard not to swoon over this minimalist design. London-based nail technician Sophie Zara created gradient-tone hearts using neutral polish shades of white, beige, and brown.
12. Something Blue: A Garden Party Dream
Why not make your bridesmaids’ nails “something blue” on the wedding day? Editorial nail artist Sarah Alaina painted intricate, dried flower-inspired nail art, perfect for a garden party wedding.
13. Floral Nails: Blooming Beauties
Seeking a bold floral design? Look no further than this hand-painted manicure featuring vibrant flowers on a pink base. Your bridesmaids will be rocking a bouquet on each finger!
14. Gold Leaf Nails: A Touch of Luxury
This eye-catching set by nail artist Mutsa Munyawiri features gold leaf contrasting beautifully against the pinky-beige base. These nails are perfect for bridesmaids who want to add a touch of luxury to their ensemble.
15. Minimalist Hearts: Sweet and Subtle
If you adore the heart idea but prefer a more minimal approach, try these charming bridesmaid nails by Liverpool-based nail artist Keely Decosta. She highlighted her client’s natural nails with sheer polish, then used a dotting tool to create tiny hearts. She placed “two dots onto the nail plate” before using a small liner brush to drag some of the polish from each dot into the shape of a heart.
And there you have it! 15 bridesmaid nail designs, each as unique and enchanting as the next. From chic and modern to whimsical and sweet, there’s a design for every wedding party. Happy screenshotting, and, most importantly, have fun exploring these delightful options!
Thanks to @jessica_oloughlin, @keelydecostamanicures, @beautyby_lola and Allure
