@HEYGREATNAILS / INSTAGRAM

Pink is perhaps one of the most versatile colors in the cosmetic world. You can wear the shade in any capacity from head to toe, but our go-to is most definitely on our nails. A pink manicure knows no limits—from classic pink-and-white French manicure to pastel baby pink nail art and everything in between. A search for pink nail designs on Instagram will serve up tons of inspiration, but we managed to round up a curated edit of pretty-in-pink style nail designs. Ahead, discover 56 elevated and exciting ways to wear pink nails—plus tips from Michelle Nguyen of PLA on how to get the perfect pink manicure.

MEET THE EXPERT

Michelle Nguyen is the founder and CEO of PLA, a beauty supply company based in Reno, Nevada.

01

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Festive and Fun

@DISSEYNAILS/INSTAGRAM

This fun pink and sparkly manicure is like a party on your nails. We love the mix of stars and sequins among the confetti glitter.

02

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Pink Clouds

@IMARNINAILS/INSTAGRAM

This pinkish nude mani is so dreamy. We love how the soft white clouds accent the pale pink polish.

03

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Blush Aura

@LOLO.NAILEDIT/INSTAGRAM

Aura nails are totally in, and we love this pink take on the trend. You can further enhance these galaxy-inspired nails by adding dainty white dots and stars.

04

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Pink Camo

@LOLO.NAILEDIT/INSTAGRAM

We’re obsessed with these pink camouflage nails. To achieve this look, start with a light base, then layer splotches of darker pinks over the top.

05

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Groovy Pink Flowers

@DISSEYNAILS/INSTAGRAM

The most far-out aspect of this manicure isn’t the groovy white flowers with rhinestone centers but the subtle French tip design in different shades of pink.

Byrdie Tip

You can also DIY this look at home by applying a neutral polish at the base. You’ll need multiple shades of pink nail polish for the French tip. You can achieve the shape using tape or a nail brush. Finally, use a bobby pin or a stylus to add floral details. Bonus points if you throw in a rhinestone or two!

06

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Pink Yin and Yang

@NAILSBYRAVI_/INSTAGRAM

A subtle nod to harmony, this design features a ballet pink glossy base coat topped with a diminutive pink yin-and-yang symbol.

07

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Pink and White with Squiggly French Tips

@LADYFANCYNAILS/INSTAGRAM

What’s better than a traditional pink and white French mani? One with a pop of hot pink. It puts a fresh and modern spin on the classic look.

08

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Pink and Mauve Geometric Shapes

@SUNDAYS_STUDIO/INSTAGRAM

Pink, white, and mauve in a geometric pattern will surely turn heads in a modern-but-chic way.

09

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Slanted Metallic and Pink French

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

The French manicure has taken many more modern iterations as of late, including this pink-slanted French design.

10

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Pink Hearts and Swirls

@NAILSBYRAVI_/INSTAGRAM

This romantic design is both bold and simple, pairing a nude base with detailed pink swirls and hearts over the top.

11

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Pastel Shades of Pink

@SUNDAYS_STUDIO/INSTAGRAM

Can’t choose your favorite shade? Grab all your favorite pinks and paint one color on each nail for this ombré-adjacent style. Add a pop of white for an extra “oomph.”

12

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Baby Pink and Bold Stripes

@MPNAILS/INSTAGRAM

A simple, classic light pink manicure is kicked up a notch with these boldly painted stripes.

13

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Pink Neutrals

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

The right shade of pink can definitely work like a neutral. We love how the baby pink shown on one nail here pairs with neutrals with rosy undertones.

14

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Baby Pink With Red Heart Tips

@MPNAILS/INSTAGRAM

Who says hearts are only for Valentine’s Day? Wear a romantic mani all year long with this pink-based, heart-tipped look.

15

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Pink Galaxy

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

In some alternate universe, we hope the starry sky is pink rather than black. This manicure lets you embrace all the celestial vibes while seeing the world with rose-colored glasses.

16

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Neon Pink Gradient

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

Gradient nails are the perfect way to wear multiple shades of your favorite color. This one focuses on bright and joyful pinks, with a single green nail to coordinate with the model’s eyeshadow.

17

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Pink Geode

@NAIL_UNISTELLA/INSTAGRAM

Crystal lovers, rejoice. This marbled pink and white geode-inspired nail art is swoon-worthy.

18

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Pink and Pastel Swirls

@CHILLHOUSE/INSTAGRAM

With a neutral pink base, these multicolored pastel swirl details pop for a fun look that’s perfect for spring.

19

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Ombré Pink With Specks of Gold

@AMYLE.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

You can never go wrong with perfectly placed gold foil, which adds the perfect amount of sparkle to this rose-toned ombré.

20

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Pink Logomania

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

Whether you’re a Dior fanatic or a Supreme queen, you can easily rep your favorite luxury brand on your nails in shades of pink.

21

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Pearly Pink

@PAULINAWADOWSKA_MAKEUP/INSTAGRAM

Simple, rounded, and with just the right amount of shine, these pearlescent nails will go with any look.

22

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Reverse Pink-on-Pink French

@NEONAILIRELAND/INSTAGRAM

Break the rules and give a fun twist to a French manicure with this alternating light-and-ark pink nail design.

23

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A Touch of Sparkle

@LOLO.NAILEDIT/INSTAGRAM

Never say no to sparkle, even just a little. For those looking to subtly rock the pink nail trend, these iridescent nails give all sorts of pink pastel vibes when the sun hits.

24

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Tie Dye Pink and White

@LIQUOREDANDLAQUERED/INSTAGRAM

Tie-dye is so hot right now, in both the fashion and beauty world. This perfect combo of pink and white is making us feel groovy, baby.

25

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Pink With Small Gold and White Stars

@LUUNULANAILLAB/INSTAGRAM

This mani will not only have you seeing stars—you’ll look and feel like one, too.

Byrdie Tip

When DIY-ing this style, try gold nail sticker stars to get a perfect star shape.

26

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Pink Flamingo Nails

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

Nothing says summer (or vacation) like a manicure inspired by your favorite pool float.

27

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Leopard, Foil, and Pink

@CHARSGELNAILS_/INSTAGRAM

Another take on a pink and leopard scheme, this bold black and gold foil leopard print sits perfectly atop a baby pink base.

28

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Light Pink With Metal Moon

@AMYLE.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

One simple accent can take your mani to a whole new level. A charm is like jewelry for your nails, and we love how this moon pops against the simple pink polish.

29

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Pretty Polka Dots

@AMYLE.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

Polka dots are always a good idea—especially when they’re this cute. Alternate dotted nails with solid ones for a balanced look.

Byrdie Tip

To achieve the perfect polka dot, use the end of a bobby pin.

30

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Shimmery Pink Outline

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

A thin, hot pink tip and a shimmery outline around the cuticle make a subtle statement.

31

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Pink With Subtle White Curve

@DRYBYLONDON/INSTAGRAM

When it comes to nail art, sometimes, less is more. Case in point? This look.

32

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Pink Tortoiseshell

@NAILSBYRAVI_/INSTAGRAM

This design puts a bold twist on a classic pattern, creating a tortoiseshell pattern in pink rather than the traditional brown.

33

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Rose Quartz

@AMYLE.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

Gemstone-inspired nails are all the rage, and with this pink and white pairing, it’s like having real rose quartz on your nails.

34

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Two Pink Tones

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

If five different shades of pink (gradient nails) feel a bit too busy for you, try using just two shades, alternating nails, or painting two in a row the same shade.

35

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Pink and Purple Clouds

@NAIL_UNISTELLA/INSTAGRAM

Call it tie-dye, clouds, or geode-inspired. Whatever it is, we’re so here for it.

36

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Neon Pink With Yellow

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

Neon pink nails are an easy way to make a statement. Bonus points if you match your eyeliner to your nails.

37

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Metallic Pink

@JESSICAWASHICK/INSTAGRAM

This high-shine lacquer looks stellar with the sweetest touch of pink crystals.

38

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Barbiecore

@HEYGREATNAILS/INSTAGRAM

The Barbiecore obsession is real, and the easiest way to hop on the trend is with your nails. We think Barbie would approve of this pink glitter swirl design.

39

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Pink Ombré

@JESSICAWASHICK/INSTAGRAM

Pink and nude are the natural-looking way to achieve an elevated ombré.

40

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Sheer Pink

@JESSICAWASHICK/INSTAGRAM

If saturated shades just aren’t your style, opt for a lovely, sheer pink that almost looks like your natural nail.

41

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Hot Pink

@JESSICAWASHICK/INSTAGRAM

The mani of Regina George’s dreams, we love how this bright shade is sure to pop against any skin tone.

42

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Just Peachy

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

Peachy pink dreams are made of these. Sometimes, all you need is one pastel shade to make a statement.

43

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Pink Sunrise

@BETINA_GOLDSTEIN/INSTAGRAM

This fabulous design utilizes a rich pink background with a red “sun” rising over each nail.

44

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Classic Gradient Pink

@KIONE.G.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

The gradient style is almost like ombré, but instead of the hues changing on each nail, here each nail gets its own color.

45

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Negative Space Half-Moons

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

Negative space manicures still seem to be the nail art look du jour (and we can’t complain).

46

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Pink Heart Statement Finger

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

Valentine’s Day or not, we love these cute little hearts.

47

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Pinky Nudes

@OPI/INSTAGRAM

The perfect manicure to match your favorite rose-toned nude lipstick, we love how this neutral gradient creates subtle interest.

48

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Barely-There Pink

@OLIVEANDJUNE/INSTAGRAM

Olive & June’s Nail Polish in TT ($9) is one of team Byrdie’s favorite pink shades of all time. For the freshest-looking mani, use the brand’s fan-favorite Cuticle Serum ($30) and massage into the cuticles for healthy growth.

49

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Pink Lemonade

@NAILSBYRAVI_/INSTAGRAM

What better way to signal the start of summer than with pink lemonade-inspired nails? Here, a pretty pink base gets topped with thin slivers of lemon slices and bold yellow arcs. The result is sweet but still sophisticated.

50

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Bold Pink and Black

@NAILS_OF_LA/INSTAGRAM

The edgy nails on Megan Fox are giving the much-needed drama we want for an unexpected pink manicure.

51

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Watermelon Pink

@YO_KESHH/INSTAGRAM

These pink nails give off watermelon vibes without being too literal. Next time you’re at the nail salon and are looking to switch up your nails for the summer, ask to airbrush hot pink polish in the center and complete it with a lime green French tip.

52

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Tropical Pink Flowers

@NAILTHERAPY.CO/INSTAGRAM

A tropical pink getaway, but for your nails! Take a vacation whenever you look at your hands by adorning your nails with cute gel designs inspired by the Hibiscus flower.

53

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Pink Slime

@ANGELSNAILZ/INSTAGRAM

Add pink slime droplets at your next nail appointment. To create the trompe l’oeil effect, opt for a nude pink base and ask your nail technician to cure clumps of pink gel on top.

54

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Pink French Tip With Cheeky Cherries

@NAILTHERAPY.CO/INSTAGRAM

Spruce up your French manicure by opting for pink tips. If you’re looking to take the playful spin even further, use a thin nail brush or stickers to add a fun cherry design all over.

Byrdie Tip

Use your favorite pink polish to achieve the perfect pink French manicure. Nguyen recommends PLA’s Executive Sweet (a bright, bold magenta), What in Carnation? (a light pastel pink), and The O.G. (a classic light pink shade)—all priced under $13.

55

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Old-School Pink

DIGITZBYDEV/INSTAGRAM

The designs on these pink nails are full of nostalgia and will give you a guaranteed trip back to the early 2000s.

56

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Candy Crush Pink

@AMYLE.NAILS/INSTAGRAM

This adorably delicious-looking manicure is so enticing that you may be tempted to take a bite. To achieve this candy crush look at home, paint your nails with a pink polish of your choice. Dip a nail sponge in orange and dab away to create a subtle ombré.