Oh, love. Some of the greatest songs, movies, and books of all time have revolved around this topic. And now’s the time of year when Valentine’s nails will be everywhere for the holiday of l-o-v-e.
Like makeup, nails can elevate a look and spark a conversation. Thinking back to Valentine’s Day last year brings up memories of a second date with my boyfriend and it was the first time we held hands. Whether you’re going out for a romantic dinner, staying in with your significant other, celebrating with your best friends and family, or enjoying a solo zen moment, wearing Valentine’s nails is a fun ode to love.
This holiday serves as a lighthearted reminder to appreciate love, which can make a major impact on our quality of life. Love challenges us, feels mushy, and isn’t always perfect but, in my opinion, worth it. So much so, that it deserves pretty nails to match.
From classic reds and pinks to heart prints, swirl designs, and bold embellishments, there are limitless ways to show off your fingertips. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best Valentine’s nails done by nail artists around the world. Bookmark this page for inspiration and take it with you to the salon or try these styles at home.
The Best Valentine’s Nails in 2024 to Celebrate Love
Fluttering Hearts
Breaston, England-based nail artist Natalie Kirk of @nailperfectionbynatalie created this dreamy set. These shiny glazed nails include red, pink, and magenta heart decals that she precisely applied with Tweezerman tweezers. Sometimes love is the little things that mean the most.
Everything’s Coming Up Roses
Los Angeles-based nail artist Sam Pasaye of @nailartfairy created this set of classic nails with a twist. The rose designs are inspired by the coquette aesthetic (aka dreamy, girly, vintage vibes). Look closely and you’ll see the design of each rose is different, just like how real flowers are all unique.
Hearts and Diamonds
If you’re the type who wears your heart on your sleeve, you’ll love these Valentine’s nails. Pasaye went for something sweet and cute with French tips adorned with little red hearts and diamond embellishments. The small yet impactful details make this set special and wearable for any time of the year.
Classic Valentine’s Day Nails
You can’t get more classic than a red manicure. Perfect as Valentine’s nails, East Leake, England-based nail artist Vonny Tuckley of @nailcraftbyvonny created this shiny set. As someone who types a lot on my computer keyboard, I appreciate how these nails are not too long but the pointy tip gives the illusion of a longer length.
Sweet As Candy
London-based beauty guru Aamirah of @abrowngirlrecommends created this set that’s adorable as can be. Light pink tips and tiny red hearts give a fresh take to a French mani and can easily complement (not compete with) your Valentine’s Day outfit.
Pure Love
Nail artist and content creator Vivian Marie Wong, based in Australia, created this white set that feels like pure love. It’s all in the details: the sparkly base, white tips, and fluttering hearts!
Blush Pink Valentine’s Nails
Fun fact: these Valentine’s nails were made with a NARS blush. In her Instagram post, Aamirah of @abrowngirlrecommends noted, “I saw a blush nails reel but didn’t have pink nail powder so used @nailsbyalsn’s technique instead. Turns out, it’s pretty cute and easy!” Overall, love the creativity behind this set.
Black & White Twist
For an unexpected take on Valentine’s nails, this set takes on a different color palette from red and pink. Instead, Wong opted for black and white with this design that looks elegant and luxe. The hearts tie it all together with the holiday’s theme.
Pretty in Pearls
How adorable are these pearl embellishments? Watch how Wong created this set here and you’ll see the intricate work it took to apply each bead. The pop of red adds drama and boldness, just like love.
Graffiti Hearts
Art lovers, this one’s for you. Kirk created these Valentine’s nails with gel paint, gold chrome, and nail polish inspired by graffiti. The beauty of this design is that it’s perfectly imperfect. Each heart slightly differs in size and shape, making the design a truly unique one.
Pink Dream
Barbie pink is — and always will be — beloved so of course, this pink set is on the list. Wong added sparkles, hearts, and a bow to these iconic Valentine’s nails.
Hearts & Dots Valentine’s Nails
Another fun take on Valentine’s nails: this set by Bellacures nail salon in California. They placed sporadic hearts and polka dots on traditional light pink nails for a pretty, playful design.
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