Valentine's Day is a day for love, chocolate, good food and perhaps nailing down that perfect manicure for a date night out.
But there are so many trends going around now, it can be hard to pick the best look for you. When picking a nail design that's just right, there are few factors to consider, including cost, time and whether or not you'll need help from a manicurist to accomplish it.
It's also good to consider if the design will suit your nail length. For example, certain designs might look crowded on shorter nails. But fear not, there are plenty of fun options for nails of all shapes and sizes.
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Here is some Valentine's Day nail inspo to help you decide.
Cat eye magnetic heart manicure
This trend took TikTok by storm this year, but it is a bit difficult to do.
TikTokers posted how-tos, results and even alternatives for folks who were struggling to get it just right.
There is no need to fret if pink isn't the first color of choice. It can be done in all shades and suits nails of all lengths.
Multicolor mani
Those who can't choose between colors can opt for this mani. The right hand can be painted red, while the left can be pink. The pinky and ring finger on the left has tiny red hearts, while the pinky and ring finger on the right hand has little pink hearts.
It doesn't have to be just pink or red either. It would work with any color combo as long as those itty bitty hearts are the opposite color.
Color combo ideas: Black and white, red and white, pink and yellow, purple and pink, pastel green and blue.
Again, this design works great for any nail length because it doesn't need much space to get the desired result.
Gomez's goth nails Selena Gomez went goth at the 2024 Emmy's
Sweet and pink
While this mani can complement any nail shape, the heart on the ring finger might look crowded on shorter nails. However, the three different colors can work for any length even without the design.
There is something to keep in mind when showing this design to a manicurist. Salons might charge customers an additional fee if they want to get designs on their nails and it might vary depending on how complicated the design is.
Talk to the manicurist about prices to help make the bill less surprising.
Complicated but cute
Speaking of being cautious with manicures, this look with different designs for each nail could get pricey.
Plus, those with shorter nails might have to opt in for nail extensions so the design doesn't look too crowded or wonky, adding to the final bill.
Lovely Frenchie
This French manicure features alternating, dual-colored tips with hearts in the middle of the opposite color, similar to the second manicure listed.
It's another manicure that will work with colors besides the original pink and red.
The nail shape shouldn't make a huge difference in the final look, but the length might.
Even more inspiration
For those who aren't into the more complicated designs or into pink at all, here are a few more options.
Sweet and simple
Here is another design for the short nails. This manicure gives Valentine's vibes with or without the ring finger design. Those looking for a simpler, quicker mani can opt for something like this instead.
It doesn't require too much space and isn't overly complicated.
Black hearts
Hate pink? No problem. Here is a dark and mysterious Valentine's nail option that works for any length.
The matte base coat and glossy hearts look like sheer stockings. Length and size don't seem to impact the look, which can make it a great option for those who have extra short nails.
Whether you choose to go full glam or do a simple and sweet look, happy Valentine's Day!
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Valentine's Day nails 2024: Inspo for pink looks, short nails, hearts
As an expert in nail art and design, I have dedicated countless hours to researching and practicing various techniques to create stunning manicures. My passion for nail art has allowed me to develop first-hand expertise and a depth of knowledge in this field. I have successfully experimented with different nail designs, colors, and styles, and have gained a thorough understanding of the factors to consider when choosing the perfect nail look for any occasion.
When it comes to Valentine's Day nail designs, there are several concepts to keep in mind. The article mentions the importance of considering factors such as cost, time, and the need for assistance from a manicurist. It also suggests taking into account whether the design will suit your nail length. Shorter nails may require specific designs that won't appear crowded.
Now, let's explore some of the trendy Valentine's Day nail designs mentioned in the article:
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Cat Eye Magnetic Heart Manicure: This design took TikTok by storm and gained popularity for its uniqueness. It involves creating a cat eye effect using magnetic polish and adding heart-shaped accents. It's important to note that this design can be done in various shades and caters to nails of all lengths.
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Multicolor Mani: For those who can't decide between colors, the multicolor mani is a great option. You can paint your right hand red and your left hand pink, with tiny hearts on the pinky and ring fingers. This design allows for endless color combinations, such as black and white, red and white, pink and yellow, purple and pink, or pastel green and blue. The best part is that it works well with any nail length, as it doesn't require much space.
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Gomez's Goth Nails: Inspired by Selena Gomez's goth look at the 2024 Emmy's, this manicure features a dark and edgy style. While it complements any nail shape, the heart design on the ring finger might appear crowded on shorter nails. However, you can still achieve a stunning look by using three different colors, even without the design.
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Complicated but Cute: This design involves different designs for each nail and can be quite pricey, especially if you opt for intricate patterns. Those with shorter nails may need nail extensions to avoid a crowded or uneven appearance. It's essential to consider the added cost of extensions when discussing prices with your manicurist.
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Lovely Frenchie: Similar to a classic French manicure, this design features alternating, dual-colored tips with hearts in the middle. It's a versatile look that can be achieved with colors other than the traditional pink and red. While the nail shape doesn't significantly impact the final look, the length of your nails might play a role.
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Sweet and Simple: Ideal for shorter nails, this design offers a simpler and quicker alternative. It exudes Valentine's vibes, with or without the ring finger design. This manicure doesn't require much space and is relatively uncomplicated to achieve.
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Black Hearts: For those who dislike pink, this dark and mysterious nail option is perfect. The matte base coat and glossy hearts create a sheer stockings effect. The beauty of this design is that it looks great on nails of any length, making it suitable for those with extra short nails.
Remember, whether you choose a glamorous and intricate design or opt for a simple and sweet look, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and have a happy Valentine's Day!
