These 15 Valentine’s Day Manicure Ideas Are A Love Letter To Your Fingertips

Roses are red, ships have sails, it’s almost Valentine’s Day — do you know what you’re doing with your nails? While that prose might be a little off, the sentiment stands. Amidst the dinner reservations and outfit bookmarking, whether you’re deep in girls’-night coordination or planning a date (solo or otherwise), don’t forget: Your nails deserve a little love, too. So make time to pick out your perfect Valentine’s Day manicure.

Fortunately, there are plenty of V-Day nail ideas to choose from for every aesthetic and style. Are you more of a mani minimalist? Consider a solid red set in a short silhouette, a classic French manicure with subtle romantic details like kisses or hearts, or even a singular tiny, Valentine’s-themed accent over clear polish. On the other hand, if you’re eager to luxuriate in the holiday’s more opulent offerings, you can opt for rich velvet finishes, bold 3D accents like roses or candy hearts, metallic toppers, or airbrushed ombré designs. (And for the very bold, there are even manicures that mix several of the aforementioned elements.)

Ready to get the ball rolling? Then check out the curated selection of Valentine’s Day nails below. Find your favorite, then bookmark them for your next appointment or DIY session.

Pink Velvet

Velvet manicures have become a winter nail staple, and for good reason: They look cozy and lush, like you wrapped your nails in a luxe blanket. This vibrant pink hue is perfect for V-Day, while the short, square shape is super on-trend.

Rose Garden

Buy yourself flowers — and then put them on your fingernails. A pinky, brown-based nude makes for the perfect neutral base for 3D rose charms. Gold studs are the perfect unexpected finishing touch.

Kissy French Tips

This French manicure is sealed with a kiss. Nail artist Patrycja used a fine-lining nail art brush, red polish, and a sponge to stamp the smooches on these kissy tips, but you can achieve a similar look with nail art stickers.

Conversation Hearts

Take it back to your school card exchange days with these candy conversation hearts. Nail artist Aistė Haas used 3D gel to create the hearts by hand; you can do the same, or make it easy on yourself and book an appointment with a skilled artist instead.

Tiny Hearts

Hearts are a staple for Valentine’s Day. But if your style skews more minimal, then an over-the-top design is probably not your cup of tea. Enter this cutesy manicure. The almond shape and sheer color have a natural feel, while the tiny red hearts add just a dash of festive flair.

Passion Pink

Want to amp up a solid manicure? Consider this ombré set the look for you. The classic technique creates a seamless gradient of color that’s nothing less than alluring. For a festive approach, try using a creamy white and hot pink polish.

White Hearts & Rhinestones

Pink may not be your color, and that’s ok. You can still embrace the holiday with this festive manicure. It features floaty white hearts, tiny rhinestones, and even incorporates a classic French manicure. But perhaps the most enticing part of this design is its effortless feel.

Classic Red

The power of red knows no limitations, and this short manicure proves that (and then some). On perfectly groomed nails, the glossy scarlet polish exudes luxury. Even better? The bold pop of color will instantly spice up the rest of your look.

Queen Of Hearts

The subtleties of this manicure speak volumes. First, there’s the classic design in a tuxedo color palette. Then, there are the small hearts that outline the curve of the nail’s tip. The final look is an elegant set that works well beyond February 14th.

Checkerboard

Despite the intricate look of this design, it’s actually easy to DIY. As the artist shows, all that’s needed is a bright red polish, a paintbrush, and a steady hand. Once you’ve clipped and prepped your nails, use the brush to create a tic-tac-toe pattern. Then, simply fill in the spaces as desired and seal with a thin layer of topcoat.

Pink Gradient

Need a fun mani for your Galentine’s affair? Why not consider this candy-coated look? The medley of glossy pinks is perfect for a girls’ night out. But the real cherry on top is the color-coordinating hearts stamped in the middle of each nail.

Barely There

POV: You’re the ultimate manicure minimalist, but you love nail art. If that sounds like you, this is your perfect holiday look. The square shape and completely bare nails are the pinnacle of quiet luxury. But the single heart detail on the corner of the thumb gives it a festive feel that’s soft and sophisticated.

French Manicure

Even a classic French can get dressed up for the holiday. This set features cherry-red tips adorned with multi-color hearts. If you want to nail this look, opt for a longer length and a coffin shape. When paired with a deep French design, it has a sultry effect.

Glitter Dipped Tips

A glass of bubbly seems fitting for the evening — even if you’re staying in. This twinkling look feels like the manicure equivalent of a glass of champs. The natural shape and nude nail get a touch of sparkle with a light dusting of glitter. To top it off, try adding fun silver stickers.

Multicolor

Holiday manicures aren’t just about designs. This look uses a gradient of glossy colors in place of nail art. While you could use a mix of pinks, blending in shades of fuchsia and red feels festive. Keeping the nails short and opting for a gel polish will ensure you get a candy-coated look.