Pastel nail designs have been dominating my Instagram lately. From the classic and understated colorways to the vivid and unique twists, this style has a lot going for it and can work with any look. From a few simple shades you do yourself to an intricate design to show your nail tech, we’ve got you covered.
A growing trend for Spring and Summer with the soft and bright colorways. I might just be a sucker for the look but I think you could do the same style in a colder season for a nice contrast too.
We looked through thousands of designs to share our favorites with you. Covering everything from the simple to the stunning, there’s a look you’re sure to love.
Let’s start this list with something simple, shall we? Here are square nails in very light pastel colors to make your nails sophisticated and elegant.But if you like stiletto nails, you might want to try this gel manicure instead. Careful with the claws, though.How about spicing things up a little with some pastel french tips with inkblots? It seems like yellow, blue, and purple pastels go well together.Ok, you might want all your nails to experience some simple pastel french tips. Here goes an inspiration for your future reference.I like this set. Pastel colors can really put elegance in your nails. For these ones, though, I was obviously captured by the abstract lines.Gold foils over pastel… why not?! I bet you won’t be able to disagree if I say they are totally gorgeous. There goes your proof above.What’s your stand on these nails? Do you like your cheetah prints over your pastel colors? They all look beautiful. I suggest trying this style.Putting some gold glitters with the squiggles was a great idea. They gave life to the pastel colors, making the whole set more appealing.Is purple your favorite color? If so, these glittered nails will surely suit your preferences. Even if you want long nails, they will still look great.I saw a lot of posts that copied this style, and I wasn’t surprised anymore. They are undeniably charming, especially the blots of white and black add-ons.Who said that yellow in pastel won’t look bright anymore? That is clearly untrue as you can see. These yellow nails and those lovely flower designs are shining.These nails look a bit similar to the one previously mentioned, but without the glitters. The colors are different as well. Pastel pink and blue looks pretty, no?Ooh, can you see how these nails are rocking the whole ‘pastel nails’ concept? The ring fingernail has a pastel style unicorn nail art, perfect for those who like mystical stuff.Pastels in matte style are my favorite. I guess no matter what color, as long as it is pastel in matte, I’d definitely love it. Is that the case for you, too?Some like it simple while some like it fab. Some, however, like to have the best of both worlds… just like these nails. Not too plain, but not too superb. Just naturally shimmering!Everything I love is in this set. Pastel colors, gold foils, white abstract lines, and a matte finish… I couldn’t ask for more. You should try them as well!Looking for something cute? These adorable nails are ready to rock your world. The polka touch is nice, but my favorite would be the Easter egg-inspired yellow nail.I saw these pastel nails, and I knew it would be a crime not to include them. Kudos to the artist who has all the focus and patience in the world to produce these wonderful 3D nail designs.I am having a hard time internalizing how the artist made these. Another kudos, seriously. How can some people be so artistic? I am so in love with these pastel smokes in overlay style!Will you disagree if I say that this unique piece of nail art is splendid? Of course, not. Everyone will totally acknowledge the gorgeousness that these nails emanate. The glitters nailed it.Which do you think made these nails outstanding? Is it the set of pastel colors, the 3D water drops, or the design on each nail? I’d say it’s the whole package.Remember the first entry for this list? You can spice those nails up a little by using these stamps.A combo of pastel colors in squiggly nail art and silver glitter polish is what you need for some ‘posh and chic’ style. The design looks really good on stiletto nails, in my perspective.Pastel in ombre is just too awesome. I’m not sure I can handle it. I must. I love that sweet, little chick on her ring fingernail. She’s so pretty.Pink pastel for the young ladies who want a prim and proper vibe. I’m not sure if the flowers were handpainted. If they were, isn’t that just too awesome?Nail inspiration for our Minnie Mouse fans. This set is so adorable, especially the handpainted Minnie Mouse and polka dots drawings. Wait… handpainted? Oh, yes, they are!Pink for modesty; black for sexy. A well-mixed balance of conventional and contemporary. We believe in feminine supremacy! I really wanted to say that because these nails are powerful.Do you like it sweet or do you like it sweet? Sweet, of course! There’s no other option according to these nails covered in beauty and elegance.Simple but splendid? I got you, girl. Here are some sweet pastel lavender pastel colors with some simple heart nail designs. Sometimes less is more.Ooh. Pastel in the ombre effect is really increasing my thirst for things that emanate beauty. Aren’t these nails charming?!Cute bunnies for your pastel nails won’t disappoint. These bunnies are stamps, including the flowers, so it is surely going to be easy for you to DIY these nails.How about a bit of pastel in darker shades? Add pearls or gems for some flair.The stamps on her index are eggs, but they look like burgers. No matter. Love the design on her ring fingernail, anyway. It’s giving me Aztec vibes.Our bunnies are sleepy. I guess it’s because of the cozy feel that these pastel colors exude. I like the grey one; it looks rather refreshing.Check out these dainty flowers in pastel colors. It’s a good idea to have them on all-natural nails. Or you can opt for a white base if you want.Butterfly stamps, anyone?The artist said ‘blue waves’ although it feels more like I am looking at a flowing river, with those gold foils acting as rocks and pebbles.Flower power!Oh, I remember those baby angel characters from when I was little! They are so cute as well as the other patterns! But here’s what’s really surprising: these nails, all of them, are handpainted!! Wow, right?!Another set of handpainted nails using only white polish and a fine brush. I love the warm colors of pastels she used here.Were you looking for something outstandingly fabulous? Go for this design, especially if you like long coffin nails, pierced nails, and gold butterflies. Ok, that was too specific.Another round of breath-taking 3D and handpainted nails, foil and glitters, and ombre pastels. All incredibly amazing designs rolled into one. This is what you call a blast!Those polka dots are producing a bubble effect, don’t you think so?Easter-inspired stamps for your egg and bunny cravings. These designs are so captivating, they spell perfection.Another set of flower stamps was applied over pastel colors. This set is perfect for those with short nails.Won’t you let these clouds take you to nirvana? Baby blue and baby pink will always be the perfect color for clouds! Apart from sky blue, of course.Oh, but that doesn’t mean that clouds are not pretty in other pastel colors. Just check these nails, for instance. Adding the white crystals was a bright idea, in fairness.Stars and moon designs for a bit of magic! I love how these nails turned out.Pastel colors in glitter style. Love the shine!Aren’t these lovelies super cute?! Which one is your favorite? Mine’s the chick… and the sheep… and the bunny… and the flower. I love everything about it.
I do hope this has given you some ideas for pastel nail designs. There is so much you can do with this style and we’re really just on the tip of the iceberg here.
Our inspiration photos come from user submissions and open sources and we’ll always give credit. All of the fantastic styles belong to their respective owners. If we’ve got a credit wrong or you’d rather we don’t feature you – just drop us an email.
