So you're getting married. Congratulations! Your wedding to-do list might be as long as your arm, but I'm glad that you've landed here, because planning your wedding nails can be a lot of fun. However, with so many bridal nail ideas to choose from, where should you start? Well, I've enlisted the help of celebrity nail technician and Sally Hansen UK nail ambassador Michelle Class to talk us through everything that you'll want to consider for your wedding nails ahead of your big day. Plus, I've saved 25 wedding nail ideas that I think you'll love. But first, how do you get your nails in tip-top shape for your wedding?
What should brides-to-be consider for their wedding nails?
"When it comes down to deciding what nails to have on your big day, I would always recommend you choose something that feels like you," says Class. "If you're used to a short nail, don't go long just for the day and vice-versa—you don't want to look back and regret it," she says. "I always think your nails are that little bit of you that can still represent your vibe and make you feel happy," says Class. "If you wear nail art regularly, there are no rules not to wear it on your wedding day. If you love a colour, go for it—it’s your day!"
How should you prep for your wedding nails?
To ensure your nails are picture perfect, you'll want to put in some prep work. "Work backwards from the big day when making your nail appointments," advises Class. "I would book it in the day or two before the wedding and work back every two to three weeks, making sure you have at least four appointments in with your nail specialist so they can be in top condition for the special day." In between appointments, you'll want to use a cuticle oil, such as Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil (£8), to help keep your nails and the skin around them healthy.
What nail colours should brides choose?
There are no rules when it comes to your nails. However, Class recommends some shades if you're looking for a classic bridal manicure. "It's always best to wear a shade that complements your dress, skin tone and style," she says. "Sheer nudes, soft pinks, and creams are always a safe bet. Choose one that works against your skin tone as it will be the most flattering."
However, if you're looking for something more alternative, you could even opt for nail art or brighter hues. "Having a bespoke manicure for your big day is something special, like wearing a certain scent that will take you back to that day," says Class. "As we are edging into autumn and winter, I think a pop of colour could be a great look for a winter bride. You could even tie it in with your wedding flowers," she says. "Think deep wines, reds, even a dark navy for something blue! My go-to shades are Sally Hansen Miracle Gel 'Once Upon a Chiffon’(£8) and Dior Le Vernis Rouge 999 (£25)."
Ahead, I've rounded up the best wedding nail designs I could find. Happy scrolling!
1. Golden Accents
Golden accents instantly elevate a neutral nail look if you want to add a little more interest to your fingertips. Why not go for a different design for each member in your bridal party?
2. Minimalistic Calligraphy Nail Art
Wear your heart on your nails with a minimalistic calligraphy design. You could even personalise your design to your signifiant other's initials or the date of your special day.
3. Micro French Tips
When in doubt, a classic French manicure is a timeless choice, but I particularly love this fine French-tipped manicure.
4. Blush Tones
Blush pink is a classic bridal colour that suits everyone. I'm taking note of this "squoval" shape for elegant fingertips.
5. Neutral Pink
Long, almond-shaped nails elongate the fingers, and how pretty is this neutral pink?
6. Something Blue
If you have yet to find your "something blue," then why not add a touch to your wedding nails? A micro dot at the base of the nail gives it a nod without going OTT.
7. Glazed Nails
The "glazed donut" nail trend has been gaining momentum, but it just so happens to make a great wedding manicure to make your neutral nail colour even glossier.
8. Rose Quartz Nails
The rose quartz crystal is associated with love, so it makes an apt yet subtle design for wedding nails.
9. Shimmer
You can't go wrong with a sheer wash of pink with a delicate shimmer.
10. Iridescent Nails
I love this pretty seashell-inspired manicure.
11. Chrome Powder Nails
A chrome powder buffed on top of a neutral nail colour looks so pretty.
12. Short Pink Nails
Short nails look equally chic rounded and painted with a pretty blush pink.
13. Reverse French
For a twist on the traditional French manicure, why not reverse it?
14. Abstract Swirls
If you're big on nail art designs, try some abstract swirls in pink and white.
15. Oval-Shaped Pink Manicure
You just can't beat an oval-shaped pink manicure for your wedding day.
16. Neutral Manicure
Choose a shade that matches your nail plate for a natural yet perfectly polished wedding manicure.
17. Heart Nail Art
Want something a bit more fun? Try a micro-heart manicure.
18. Floral Nail Art
If you're wondering what J.Lo wore for her recent wedding, then behold this pretty nail art design.
19. Gold French Tips
I love this pretty yet subtle gold French tip. Make it personal to you by matching the chrome to the colour of your ring.
20. French Tips With Words
How cute is this teeny-tiny nail art written on the edge of the nail tips? Again, you could make this personalised to your special day with names, initials or dates.
21. Glitter Reverse French Tips
A slither of sparkling silver at the base of the nail bed is a pretty, unexpected twist.
22. Neutral Nails
A neutral hue is a fail-safe colour that you won't regret.
23. Bouquet Nail Art
Floral nail art is another twist for wedding nails. You could even match the flowers to the ones you might have in your bouquet.
24. Pink Ombré Nails
Pink ombré nails will always be an elegant wedding-nail choice.
25. Classic French Manicure
When in doubt, you cannot go wrong with a classic French manicure.
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