12 Bridesmaid Nail Ideas to Complement Any Wedding Theme
Are you getting ready to support a loved one on that special day? We've got just the thing to make sure your nails are going to shine! Choosing the perfect nail look for a wedding is fun, but it can also be a tad overwhelming with all the choices out there. We're here to help you find bridesmaid nail ideas that complement the bride's vision and reflect your style and personality. Whether you're aiming for classic elegance, chic, or something playful, we have the inspiration you need!
Best Nail Colors for Bridesmaids
No two weddings are alike. They have the same color theme, but there will always be variations due to the season, the dresses, and the setting. Although it's a safe bet to choose a neutral color for nails, it's not required unless the bride requests a plain nail look. The best bridesmaids will always consult with the bride about what nail color and theme to follow.
A safe rule of thumb is not to outdo the bride with your manicure. When in doubt, go with a French manicure in a neutral shade like peach, milky white, or pale pink. All these colors are classics that are trending this year. Alternatively, wear a color that matches the bridesmaid dress.
Best Nail Designs for Bridesmaids
A simple manicure with neutral colors doesn't have to be boring. Our article’s goal is to inspire you with brilliant bridesmaid nail ideas and beautiful designs.
For example, instead of traditional French tips, you could wear floating French tips or a reverse French manicure. Additionally, you could include extra details like a glazed finish, pearls, and rhinestones.
Lip gloss nails are a perfect example of sophisticated bridesmaid nails.
Lip Gloss Nails
If you wanted to do lip gloss nails at home, you could start with a sheer jelly gel. A buildable polish will allow you to deepen the color with additional coats. Wipe off the inhibition layer with rubbing alcohol (if the surface feels sticky) and smooth on a coat of chrome powder. Polish it till it gleams, then add a layer or two of top coat.
Lavis C03 Sundaze Gloss Collection
Chrome Nails Powder
Glazed
Which Type of Polish Is Best for a Bridesmaid?
The four most popular types of nail polishes are lacquer, gel, dip, powder, and acrylics. Each has pros and cons.
- Lacquer: The least expensive option is straightforward to apply at home but also the least durable. You'll need to get your nails done with lacquer on the day of the wedding or the day before at the earliest. Then, it's wise to carry a bottle of touch-up polish in your bag. If you use a high-quality top coat, you’ll get about a week of wear, depending on how much you use your hands. On the upside, lacquer comes in a bazillion colors and styles, from sheer to glitter.
- Gel: A gel manicure is a top choice for both bridesmaids and brides as it lasts 2 to 3 weeks. This means you could schedule the nail appointment for two or three days before. Not everyone is set up for this at home because it requires a nail lamp to dry. However, this restriction allows the artist as much time as they need to complete a design. Gel polishes are low odor and come in a wide range of finishes, from magnetic cat eye, to opaque, glitter, and glow-in-the-dark. You can also choose matte or glossy top coats.
- Dip powder: These nails last a month or more and can be done a few days before the wedding. All the same, they require a special process that's best done in a salon. On the bright side, there are extensive options for dip powder colors and effects, including confetti. Also, dip powder can build short extensions.
- Acrylics: These nails are the OG queens of nail art. Not only can they create long extensions and build sculptures, but they come in a mind-boggling range of colors and styles. Acrylic nails will also last for a month and can be backfilled instead of removed. Nevertheless, there is a learning curve, and we recommend visiting a salon for this manicure.
In summary, if you're on a budget, lacquer is the most economical option. Do your nails right before the wedding, and be prepared to touch up chips and smudges.
Otherwise, gel manicures are the most popular choice as they are extraordinarily versatile and quite durable.
Reverse French Manicure
Here's an attractive yet subtle variation on a French manicure. The smile line follows the cuticle instead of curving around the tip. This design uses a chrome polish, but you could use a shade that matches the dress or wedding colors.
The base color is a little trickier to select. There are nearly infinite nude polishes that you could use. The trick is to match your skin undertone.
Nail Prep Ahead of the Wedding
If you want your nails to look fabulous for the wedding, start early. Become obsessive about using moisturizer each time you wash your hands and apply cuticle oil day and night. Try nail slugging. That's where you coat your hands in a thick emollient cream and sleep with gloves on. The more hydrated your skin and nails are, the easier it will be to whip them into shape for the big day.
Moreover, it's wise to purchase a bottle of lacquer and a top coat that matches what you'll be wearing. If you want to win an award for Best Bridesmaid Ever, also obtain matching polish for the bride’s manicure. Bring those along with a nail file and cuticle oil. Then you’ll be ready for mishaps and ring closeups alike.
Micro French
Here are your nails, but better, luxury-style. Just a hint of gold on the tips makes this manicure magnificent. Nail striping tape and a thin brush will make it turn out flawless. Hint: Rip off the tape before curing the polish to prevent damage after it's dry.
Emboss Gel - Gold
Floating French Tips
Floating French tips are trending this year. The design includes a line across the middle of the nail instead of a curve at the tip. You could also call this look a negative space design.
Ombre Boomer Nails
Ombre your French tips with a slick gradient between pink and white. While you’re at it, dress them up with a few crystals or pearls.
Rhinestones
Microdot
This would be so cute for a Valentine’s Day wedding! Instead of drawing the hearts, it’s easy to use nail stickers for uniform results. After two layers of top coat, the sticker edges disappear. Hint: use tweezers to apply them and test the look before the wedding.
Nail Stickers
Line Art Gel
Sparkles and Pearls
Try a milky white polish with a pearly sheen. It’s an in-style look this year.
LAVIS Glitter G01 - 01 - Gel Polish 0.5 Oz - Galaxy Collection
Swirls
Pink and white are safe neutrals for almost any wedding. The swirls are just for fun!
Lavis Builder Gel
White Outlines
Take an ordinary French mani and make it subtly more special.
Soft Florals
Gradient Rainbow for a Pride Wedding
It wasn’t all that long ago that two brides or grooms couldn’t join in matrimony. Now, you can honor love and celebrate the happy couple with a sparkling pastel rainbow manicure to celebrate how times have changed.
LX3 Pastel Flow Collection
Conclusion
We hope your creative juices are flowing after viewing these bridesmaid nail ideas. If you need color inspo, check out our new arrivals with the hottest shades this season. Remember, you can get free shipping on orders over $100!
