V-day manicure inspo to help you really *nail* the aesthetic

This magnetic look is bound to catch some attention, so manifest your love with this velvet-inspired Valentine’s Day manicure. The bonus? You can even click through to nail artist Zola’s Insta to see exactly how she created the look. 

Image Credit: @nailsbyzola

This tiny touch of red will make your heart grow three sizes. It’s the most elegant way to create a red heart nail look, while still looking ultimately elevated.

Image Credit: @nailsbyshige

This inspo is for those who are totally on board with V-day, but would rather keep it classy (at least in the streets, as opposed to in the sheets). A bright red nail compliments any outfit, but add just a touch of pink pearlescent shimmer and you’re onto a winner. 

Image Credit: @julieknailsnyc

The aesthetic that’s completely taken over TikTok needs its own nod to Valentine’s Day. Mob Wives have their man’s backs no matter what, and honestly we’re here for that ‘BIG’ love. An oxblood mani with a little heart cut out might be a close call for life imitating art in the context of the world of The Sopranos, but who wouldn’t want to play pretend IRL? 

Image Credit: @betina_goldstein

Like the (incredibly tasty) candy hearts, this look will always be a winning option. If you’re leaning ALL the way into Valentine’s Day, this heart-dotted inspo will set your heartbeat racing. 

Image Credit: @nailsbycaroline_

Whether you’re giving off an avoidant attachment style, or a serious love for the intergalactic, this chrome-coated mani will send you to space. And in the most elegant, V-day way possible. 

Image Credit: @jessicawashick

Oh the classic (and incredibly luxe) French mani. Is there a more failsafe look? We think not. So why not let your V-day nails incorporate that simple stylish white tip with a simple nod to the season of love?

Image Credit: @nailsbyluuce

Pinks and reds don’t do anything for you? That’s totally understandable; the ultra-romanticised V-day inspo isn’t for everyone. Instead, take a cue from this monochrome gothic-inspired look. Understated elegance, all while totally on theme.

Image Credit: Pinterest 

Pastels and hearts just have that same vibe. So what better combo than to pair your fondness for V-day with a last hit of summer colours in this seriously sweet mani?

Image Credit: @_studio.m

This limited edition set will have you seeing pink! Sure 2023 was all about the perfectly pretty in pink manis, but we think there’s still plenty of room in our hearts (and on our nails) for more shimmering pink shades. With two colours to pick from, you’ve got plenty of choice to mix and match or alternate in the lead up to love day. ‘Pink In Bio’ offers the softest pinky shimmer while ‘Spring Break The Internet’ ramps up the colour in a bold look-at-me glittering pop of hot pink. The best part? Both shades are from OPI’s Infinite Shine range, meaning these colours are designed for long-lasting wear. 

$34.95 at Adore Beauty
$34.95 at The Iconic
$34.95 at Myer

Want to get in the spirit of love? The pretty little hearts and dreamy reds taking over the feeds around you are oh-so-sweet but may not ultimately be your vibe for multiple weeks. Well, now you get to embrace the femininity short-term with Acrylique’s press-on nails. The seriously easy to apply set will have you seeing hearts everywhere, and when you’re ready to see the end of all the lovey-dovey simply (and gently) lift the nails off (and even keep them for next V-day!). 

$44.95 at Acrylique