Pink is practically everywhere and we are here for it – if you needed any proof, look to manicure maven Harriet Westmoreland, whose Instagram feed is currently sprawling with 50 shades of pink, from strawberry milky hues (see her Reel tutorial below) to bubblegum pink, each as alluring as the next to inspire your upcoming nail design set. As the days get warmer and brighter, there's no better time to sprinkle some pink into your look - and there is no doubt it will keep your summer nails looking fresh. While deeper, muted shades certainly have their time and place, pink nails are the ultimate mood-booster, not to mention the colour gradients on offer from pastel pink to Barbiecore means there's a pink to suit every mood, and there's certainly no shortage of pink nail inspiration to try out.
A quick scroll through TikTok's #nails feed quickly reveals pink as a fool-proof choice for any type of design you could possibly conjure up. Acting as the perfect base for simple designs like the french manicure to more illustrious finishes like cat eye and 3D nails, pink nails has proven itself to be the perfect partner. And it's an A-list go-to, too. One of our favourite pink nail sets of the year came courtesy of Sydney Sweeney, who opted for soft pastel pink almond nails finished with cat-eye tips and 3D gold accents at last month's Met Gala. A true work of art, if you ask us.
Convinced? Scroll to see the best pink nail inspiration that Instagram has to offer - whether you're after some tips for your next DIY job or need some pointers ahead of your next salon appointment, there's an option for all, from gel nails and BIAB nails right through acrylic nails. Consider this your cue to think pink.
The best pink nail polishes at a glance
Best for hot pink nails: Nails Inc Nail Polish in U OK HUN, £9
Best for subtle pink nails: Nailberry Rose Blossom Oxygenated Nail Lacquer, £16.50
Best for milky pink nails: OPI Nail Lacquer Sheer Pink Nail Polish in Bubble Bath, £15.60
Best glitter pink nail polish: Essie Nail Polish in 514 Birthday Girl Gold Pink Glitter, £7.99
The Best Pink Nails To Add To Your Radar According To Grazia Beauty Editors
1. Stiletto Pink Nails
@dovenailsbysharon makes a case for long, sharp stiletto shaped nails teamed with a creamy pink polish. Consider us influenced. This shade would also work well with coffin nails.
2. Neon Pink Nails
More is more kind of gal? Look to highlighter-like neon hues. @bymaisiejayne serves up a lesson in achieving the poppiest hit of pink.
3. Pink Nails With Glitter
Right down to the nail shape, this set is Barbiecore to the very core, if you look closely you can appreciate the little sparkles, too. To replicate this nail shape ask your nail artist for almond nails.
4. Pink Coffin Nails
Long and flat at the top, coffin nails are a great way to elongate the fingers. @sweetpeanails is providing the ultimate manicure inspo.
5. Pink and Blue Nails
@jefanails proves that clashing colours are always a good idea. Dainty daisy nail art, jewel embellishment and a modern swirl design ensures this is a look that ticks off several trends in one. Bravo.
6. Pink Bubble Nails
If you're out and about with this set, everyone is guaranteed to ask for a quick glance at your hands.3D nail art is one of the hottest nail trends this year and these bubbles look so realistic.
7. Pink on Pink Smile Lines
Smile lines and french tips will never get old. A pink on pink ensemble is a nice way to spice up a minimal nail look, see the proof below...
8. Pink Heart Nails
Glossy nails meets Comme Des Garçons, this design is a fun way to play with pink and would be a cool option to trial at home with stickers or small nail brushes.
9. Barbie Pink Nails
Nail artist Jodie Alisha titles this set 'Barbie dream' and is glitzy, glam and pink as you'd imagine.
Best pink glitter nail polish
What the brand says: This high, glossy shine finish nail polish comes equipped with stunning soft pink shade and metallic glittery finish that will amp up any look.
What we know: Essie's affordable formulas don't compromise on high quality, which provide excellent coverage, long-lasting durability and easy application.
Renee Washington, digital fashion & beauty writer, says: 'A touch of glitter has never been so easy with Essie's beautifully muted polish - it's blended with just the perfect amount of sparkle.'
Pros
- Glittery finish
- Affordable
Cons
- Not as durable as a gel polish
10. Natural Pink Nails
A soft pink always looks good if you're after a barely-there nail colour. Essie's £7.99 nail polish in Ballet Slippers is always a failsafe choice if you want to achieve something similar to the look below.
11. Pink Floral Nails
Nothing is sweeter than a pink floral daisy-like design. You can add small flowers to each nail or go for a more intricate design with a larger flower on each nail.
12. Halloween Pink Nails
Who says pink polish can't be part of the perfect Halloween manicure? Just take this adorable ghostly manicure by @naileditbeauty - it mightn't be spooky, but it's definitely cute.
13. Pink French Manicure
Classic, elegant and suited to all nail shapes, this delicate pink French manicure by @chelslounails will never go out of style.
14. Pink Chrome Nails
Thanks to a certain Mrs Hailey Bieber, chrome nails show no signs of wanning. While yellow and silver have had their moments in the spotlight, it's time for the pink iteration to shine. Consider this one by Charlotte a classic - but with a modern twist.
15. Pink Acrylic Nails
Pink acrylic nails, anyone? These @nailsbyxojess are a beautiful option for those who love to combine a dramatic nail shape with a more muted hue. Add a dainty, star-shaped nail sticker for an extra touch of sparkle.
16. Pink And Orange Nails
Pink and orange nails make for the perfect bold colour combination. @bycheznails has nailed this statement manicure.
17. Pink And Black Nails
@bycheznails does it again with this black and pink set - it's the ultimate mix 'n match mani.
18. Pink and Gold Nails
Nothing says glamour like adding a touch of gold polish. This swirly gold-meets-pink design by @the.tipsy.nail.bar is the ultimate party season inspo.
19. Pink Marble Nails
Did somebody say pink marbled nails? Level up your next manicure with this sweet look by @polishedbykeyah - add an ultra-glossy top coat for a high-impact finish. Pink swirl nails are always a good idea.
Best for hot pink
nailsinc.com
What the brand says: 'Nails.INC has taken mani matters into their own hands to welcome their cleanest recruits yet: PLANT POWER. As part of an award-winning 73% plant-based nail polish collection, every trending shade is long lasting and quick drying. The revolutionary formula is 21 free (free from formaldehyde, acetone, parabens and 18 other nasty ingredients*), vegan, cruelty free and halal friendly.'
What we know: The conscious brand counts Victoria Beckham, Diane Von Furstenberg and Alexa Chung as fans, and its innovation formulas and instantly likeable shades have helped to keep Nails Inc at the top of the nail game. polish is part of the brands most kind and pure collections yet without compromising on colour quality or wear time.
Renee Washington, digital fashion & beauty writer, says: 'Vegan and cruelty-free, this vibrant polish makes for the perfect hot pink - without straying into the neon category.'
Pros
- Vegan
- Celebrity-backed brand
Cons
- Biab polishes tend to last longer
20. Milky Pink Nails
The perfect milky pink manicure does exist - @nails_by_herz's simple, natural take on the trend should be shared with your manicurist, pronto.
21. Pink And Grey Nails
Pink and grey combine for a beautifully muted manicure look that works well with all nail shapes. And remember - always follow up with a nourishing cuticle oil to keep nails looking fresh. @vr.nailss
22. Pink Almond Nails
@ellielouisenails proves that pink almond nails will always be highly requested in salons the world over. This vibrant hue is sure to make a statement.
23. Pink Heart Nails
The perfect options for a Valentine's Day manicure (or even a birthday manicure) @bycheznails has perfected this statement look. Use a fine, liner brush for the most precise finish.
24. Pink Nails With Jewels
@thegelhousemay have just inspired our festive-season manicure. Pink French tips and rainbow toned jewels look great when teamed with statement jewellery. More is more, afterall.
25. Barbie Inspired Nails
Gingham barbie nails? @bycheznails gets a big tick from us.
26. Pink And Yellow Nails
Pink can be merged with any colour and this pretty set is proof. Who would have thought that pink and yellow could look anything other than Mr Blobby. @bycheznails
27. Pink Glitter French Manicure
Princess pink French tips with a touch of glitter? @meganstorrynails shows us exactly how it's done.
28. Pink Nails With Pearls
Delicate, romantic and oh so dreamy, this ultra-feminine set by @setsbysenia is a thing of beauty.
29. Pink Daisy Nails
Another floral look (we can't get enough) these daisy nails by @lexi.loves.nails can certainly be worn beyond spring.
Best for subtle pink nails
What the brand says: 'Light as air, our delicate powder pink subtly yet stylishly lifts tips and toes. Warm and graceful, this single sublime polish looks stunning whether worn in the office, at a wedding or for an elegant daytime look.'
What we know: There is good reason why you'll find Nailberry in the very best salons. The multi award-winning L’Oxygéné polishes deliver a healthy mani and comes with a plethora of benefits such as: 12-free; water permeable; vegan; certified cruelty free; certified Halal; and gluten-free. Plus they come in a highly covetable shade range.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I've been using Nailberry for years as I prefer using water-permeable, breathable formulas and these polishes are some of the best. Long-wearing and high-quality, the Nailberry Rose Blossom Oxygenated Nail Lacquer comes with an array of benefits that satisfy my love of a clean manicure without compromising on my personal values.'
Pros
- Halal-certified
- Salon quality
Cons
- On the pricey side
30. Pink Coquette Nails
This pretty manicure by@nailsbycurlsteams bows and pink french tips with a neutral pink base. A sharp, square shape makes for the perfect edgy finishing touch.
31. Green and Pink Nails
If you don't yet follow @cult_manicura on Instagram, consider this your cue. Her work is classic and minimal, often with an unexpected twist. Who knew green and pink would make such a beautiful pairing?
32. White Pink Nails
After the perfect white meets pink milky manicure? Sheer, subtle and clean, @cult_manicura's set acts as the ultimate inspiration.
33. Graphic Pink Nails
This pastel manicure wouldn't look out of place in an episode of Euphoria - the cult show is renowned for its bright, bold manicures. @ricekittynails
34. Pastel Pink Nails
These pastel pink nails by @paintedbyjools boast the perfect hint of peach for a flattering touch of warmth.
35. Pretty Pink Nails
This elegant, pink set with just a hint of lavender ticks serious nude manicure boxes. @minxbeauty_beverlyhills are the salon behind model Nadine Leopold's elegant manicure.
@minxbeauty_beverlyhills
35. Nail Art On Pink Nails
Birthday nails, anyone? This adorable set by @minxbeauty_beverlyhills is a playful take on the pink nail trend. Those sprinkles? So sweet!
@minxbeauty_beverlyhills
36. Pink And Silver Nails
Silvery stars and a milky pink base combines for a classic manicure with a touch of glamour. @lj__nails added glittering diamantés for an extra touch of sparkle.
@lj__nails
37. Pink Halloween Nails
While we're not at spooky season quite yet, there's no better time to prepare. This scary set by @minxbeauty_beverlyhills is as glam as it is gory, plus the tapered, claw-like length adds a touch of drama.
@minxbeauty_beverlyhills
38. Pink Bow Nails
Bows have surpassed coquette core to be a staple aesthetic year-round, and this set by @thenaillologist proves just how much fun you can have with the look.
@thenaillologist
39. Pink Holographic Nails
@manis.by.morg is all about a high-shine finish and a soft, oval tip.
@manis.by.morg
For milky pink nails
www.opi.com
What the brand says: 'Sweeter than candy, this nail polish is a gorgeous nail colour that will complete any look. OPI have a selection of sheer and light SoftShades to tint nails with delicate soft colour. Looking for a bright bubble-gum pink nail polish? Why not explore our range of gorgeous light pastel pink nail polishes.'
What we know: OPI Nail lacquers contain no DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde, and boast up to seven days of wear. The brand's roster of neutral shades from Bubble Bath to Funny Bunny are often cited as the products behind some of our favourite celebrity milky manicures.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I have an insatiable penchant for milky nails and this OPI polish is the fast-track to achieving the look with little fuss.'
Pros
- Celebrity manicurist-favourite
- Lasts up to seven days
Cons
- Will take. afew coats to build the perfect pink
40. Pink Velvet Nails
@heygreatnails makes a play for a velvety, cat-eye finish with this look. While she says they are a homage to Valentine's Day, the manicurist also notes how the style can be worn on other occasions, too, and she's certainly on to something.
@heygreatnails
41. Pink And Burgundy Nails
Rich, feminine and luxurious, pink and burgundy make quite the colour combination, @heygreatnailsshows us how.
@heygreatnails
42. Pink Aura Nails
@simlynail's pink aura nails are an extremely alluring nail style, if you love an ombré finish, you'll likely love these, too.
43. Soft Pink Nails
@nailedby.johas nailed the perfect shade of natural pink with this set. The sheer base makes for a chic and polished finish.
44. Hot Pink Floral
Save these hot pink floral nails to your summer nail folder.
45. Pink And Brown Nails
This autumnal manicure by @nailsbypink_td teams rich, chocolate brown tones with a neutral pink base and baby pink accents. An almond shape makes for the perfect finishing touch.
46. Pink Floral Mix
This mix and match set by @nailedbyleilani is stunning and screams 'holiday-ready'.
47. Pink Alternate Tips
Of course @nailsbypink_td creates stunning pink nail sets. This time, with alternating designs on each tip.
48. Pink 3D Nail Art
3D flower nail art has continued to be one of the biggest nail trends and judging by this set it shows no signs of slowing down.
49. Fairycore
Consider fairy-core nailed! The soft pink base, cat-eye tips and 3D embellishment is as whimsical as it gets.
50. Pink Meets White
White and pink equals lush nails. Better yet, these are not extensions.
Main image credit: @pixi3nailz, @harrietwestmoreland, and @heygreatnails
Renee Washington, Grazia's Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie.