Pink is a universally flattering shade that works at any time of year. We can all agree, however, that it looks especially good in the spring months, when the sun reappears and the flowers start to bloom. From frothy and feminine florals and cute bows and hearts, to full on camp (think 3D gems, jelly finishes and OTT tips), there’s a pink manicure to suit everyone. And if just you can’t decide, why not keep it simple with a classic (and pink-based) French?
Here are some of the best pink nail designs to try now.
The best pink nail polishes at a glance
- Nailberry Elegance Oxygenated Nail Lacquer, £16.50
- Biosculpture Nourishing Nail Polish in Elizabeth, £15.50
- Nails Inc Nail Polish in Pink Before You Speak, £9
- Essie Nail Polish in 24 in Stitches, £8.99
- OPI Nail Polish in Mod About You Pink, £14.90
- Chanel Le Vernis in Songe D’Ete, £29
- Manicurist Natural Nail Polish in Candy, £14
Also in this article
- Why is pink such a versatile nail colour?
- What are some trending pink shades for 2026?
- What are some of your favourite shades of pink to wear?
Keep it classic
Block colours are an easy and stylish place to start. The point of difference in this instance will be the shape. If you have short nails, stick to squovals for a pared-back, chic look. If you’re doing a French manicure, you can’t go wrong with ballet-inspired shades as your base. Contrasted with the clean white tip, it looks effortlessly polished.
If you opt for a single colour, try a glossy, sheer shade instead of something too opaque. It’s a modern way to wear pink and helps create the illusion of longer, healthier tips, too.
If in doubt, opt for this classic, suits-all design.
The palest pinks with a juicy jelly shine.
Trending, barely-there pinks work on all nail shapes and lengths.
Want a block colour? Try a hot pink to keep things bright and bold.
Pale pink makes a perfect base for delicate polka dots.
Pink tips and other tricks
Pink is a great shade to use when experimenting with coloured tips. To mix things up, choose a few different pink hues and alternate them – or ask your technician to dust over a pink chrome powder to add shimmer. For added dazzle, press on some nail jewels, stickers or studs to add interest.
“Cat eye nails are a unique type of nail design that features a shimmering narrow line on the nail, mimicking the appearance of an actual cat’s eye,” celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey previously told British Vogue. The effect is multidimensional and iridescent, as the colours shimmer when the light hits.
Mix solid shades with pink tips on a couple of nails, for a modern spin on a French.
Pink tips feel too boring? Add a delicate extra detail.
If a single shade feels too safe, play with a spectrum of pink shades, from baby pink to deep fuchsia.
Nail gems are an easy way to toughen up even the prettiest shade of pink.
Pretty prints and patterns
Bows and hearts are sweet and ultra-feminine. For those who are craving a little more edge, freestyle with a tie-dye, lizard or ombre effect.
Why not mix and match cute cherries and feminine florals?
Think of pink as a neutral, and add complementary colours like oranges, red or yellows.
Try an accent nail with a bold bow for just a touch of femininity.
This pink lizard effect is a pretty-meets-punk design that we love.
This hot pink take on the cat eye trend is even more dramatic than the Barbie pink set above.
Stars are always a good idea. We love this simple but striking design that uses the prettiest of pinks as a base.
Love a smiley but want to make it more feminine? Try shimmering silver on a base of pale pink.
Mix up your shades to create intricate floral designs that look fresh for spring.
Try Some Texture
If you’ve decided to fully embrace the kitsch side of pink, then anything goes. Polka dots, clouds, jewels and oversized 3D florals are all great options.
3D designs can look a bit much on every single nail, but this peachy pink base shade helps to soften things up.
For an extra mouth-watering touch, try some juicy droplets on your nail designs.
Opting for darker borders around each of your nails is a great way to make the colours pop. Bonus points for the cute polka dots here.
Committed to kitsch? Go all out with varying shades of pink and OTT embellishments. Not for the fainthearted.
Pink is a great shade if you want to try something dreamy and whimsical, like this cloud design with added embellishments.
This hybrid effect combines two of this season’s hottest nail trends.
