Pink nail designs are having a major moment, in no small part thanks to the internet's current, all-consuming obsession with Barbiecore. So, here are all the blushy hues and styles currently adorning our (and we're guessing, your) nail Pinterest boards...
Though we thought blue nails were set to dominate summer's manicure trends, along with lip gloss nails, it seems everyone wants pink, pink and oh yeah, more pink. Even Hailey Bieber has traded in her 'glazed donut' nails for a 'strawberry glazed' manicure—and we're definitely not complaining.
So, from aura nails to Margot Robbie's IRL Barbie manicure, here's your guide to all the pink nail ideas you could possibly wish for—all of which are guaranteed to add a burst of summery vibes to your capsule wardrobe styling...
Best pink nail designs for summer 2023
Yes, this season is all about pink, in fact, according to Liana Thomson, an expert in consumer trends over at Nails.co.uk, there's been a significant surge in pink nail searches since June 2023 and it seems we have a certain doll to thank for it: "The correlation between the release of the Barbie movie and the rise in beauty trends associated with pink, is undeniable."
So, if you're looking for manicure ideas for your Barbie movie cinema trip, or you just want to channel her dream world vibes, here are the pink nail trends currently going viral...
1. Pink aura nails
Riverdale's Madelaine Petsch debuted this dreamy pink aura manicure this week and it's such a vibe and surprisingly easy to recreate!
Simply shape and paint your nails with a base, pink shade, or milky white (like Madelaine's) and then apply a clear coat. Before the clear layer dries, add a dot of darker pink in the center of your nail, allowing it to spread. You can also use a fluffy brush, or use a pink powder for more of a Korean blush nail effect. Here's an example...
P.S. before trying any of these looks, we'd recommend treating yourself to a cuticle oil, to give your nails a little TLC...
2. Pink Chrome nails
Of course, chrome nails are sticking around this summer and thankfully, they're pretty straightforward to recreate. Plus, they never fail to elevate an outfit and inject a dreamy pop of pink that would make Barbie proud.
@chloekorner ♬ save your tears sped up - autumn <3
@imtaramichelle pink chrome nails for spring 🌸 im obsessed!!
♬ original sound - kissounds
To copy this pink 'glazed' look—ala Hailey Bieber's nails—simply apply a bright pink shade and then dust over a pearly chrome powder, before locking it in place with a clear top coat.
3. Micro pink French tips
Now, taking inspo straight from Barbie herself, aka Margot Robbie, the pink micro French tip is everywhere right now.
To recreate her look, Thomson says to "begin by gently removing any existing nail polish and shape your nails to your desired length. Push back your cuticles for a tidy and refined look, whilst also promoting healthy nail growth.
"Next, it's time to apply a base polish, which plays a crucial role in protecting your nail bed and preventing any potential staining caused by colored polish. After this apply a natural, pale pink colored polish to all of your nails. Once dry, follow up with your statement part to the look: a thin micro-french tip on every nail. Margot Robbie has rocked both a hot pink and chrome tip in recent weeks for press tours and a premier of the Barbie movie."
Sharing her tip for the perfect French tip, Thomsom says to us a thin brush, "that you dip in your nail polish, but if you don’t feel confident in doing this freehand a great alternative is to use clear tape to get a smooth tip.”
4. Strawberry nails
You can definitely find a set of cutesy, strawberry nails on our summer wish list...
@glossytipped ♬ original sound - Danny
For this more intricate look, we'd suggest leaving it to the professionals and booking in with your fave nail artist but if you do want to give it a try, a set of thin nail brushes (like these Amazon ones) will help you replicate this juicy, vacay-ready mani.
5. Pink glitter nails
Pink glitter nails are also high up on the list of must-have looks for summer, again thanks to Barbie—we just can't get enough.
Whether you're a gel nail girl or prefer to use nail polishes, this look is super low-maintenance and easy to recreate. Just opt for a hot pink shade and use a glittery top coat to finish.
