The 35 Best Prom Nail Ideas to Complete Your Look

Prom nails

Prom season is upon us! While dress and shoe shopping is one of the first things that comes to mind, the next should be your hair and makeup—including your nails! No special event outfit is complete without pampering yourself at least a little bit, and what better way to do that than to go and get a manicure? Whether you prefer to remain on the simple, subtle side, or you want to go all out with colors (red, black, white, blue, you name it) or designs, there's something here for everyone in our list of the best prom nails

For many high school students, prom is their first chance to dress up in a fancy outfit and show off just how well they clean up. As exciting as the aspect may be, we understand that sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming as well. Not to worry! If you're a bit lost on how to complete your look and need inspiration for your nails, you've come to the right place. These creative and unique nails for prom will give you plenty of ideas. 

Related: ‘I Tried Sephora’s $75 Makeup Lesson—Was It Worth It? Here’s My Honest Review'

35 Best Prom Nails

1. Gold Accent

<p>Unsplash</p>

Unsplash

Neutral yet bold, this set would be perfect for prom!

2. Black Swirls

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iStock

Wearing black and want to tone down your look just a little? These black swirls are perfect!

3. Baby Blue Lengths

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iStock

Why not go the extra mile for prom? This set will definitely help you achieve the lengths of your dreams.

4. School Pride

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Unsplash

Why not alternate your nails with your school colors and show off your school pride?

5. Shiny Lavender/Grey

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Unsplash

This color combo is an understated manicure that provides the right amount of interest.

6. Beautiful Blues

<p>iStock</p>

iStock

Make a fun yet chic statement with baby blue tips on your prom nails.

7. Glitter Geometric

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Unsplash

This art deco-inspired set is definitely giving us Great Gatsby vibes and we aren't mad about it!

8. Pretty in Pastels

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Unsplash

This sweet and subtle set will go with so many different prom outfits, and will be great long after the event!

9. Iridescent Chrome

<p>Canva</p>

Canva

Step up your neutral game and add some iridescent chrome for the perfect amount of excitement.

Related: 40 Spring Nail Designs That Will Brighten Up Your Day

10. Floral Extravagance

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Canva

Why not display your love of artwork through your nails this prom season? The colors and design of this set are to die for!

11. Classic French Tip

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Canva

Clean and refined, it's a classic for a reason!

12. Purple French Tip

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Canva

Any color could be used in place of purple for this set that takes that classic French tip to the next level.

13. Neutral Marble

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Canva

Want a neutral set with a little extra something? Add a bit of marble effect to your nails!

14. Unexpected Butterfly

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Canva

The accent nails on this set that combine to make a butterfly are giving us perfect spring prom vibes!

15. Gilded Midnight

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Canva

Deep navy is a gorgeous color, and the added gold gives a little extra thrill.

16. Black and Leopard

Show off your wild side with a hint of animal print.

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Canva

17. Turquoise Charm

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Canva

Thinking about cowboy boots with your prom dress? This turquoise set is perfect for you!

18. A Pop of Red

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Canva

Whether your dress is the same shade, or you simply love a pop of color, this set will surely do the trick.

Related: What Is the 'Red Nail Theory'? Why Some People Think It's Helped Taylor Swift’s Love Life

19. Off-White Elegance

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Canva

Short and sweet can't be beat!

20. Marble Effect

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Canva

Black white and gold is such a classic combination. Adding the length of this set and the marble effect makes them that much more exciting!

21. Bright Lavender

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Canva

Can you say "lavender haze"? What better color is there for spring than a bright and vibrant lavender?

22. Glitter and Feathers

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Canva

Keep it subtle but fun for the big dance with this glittery nature-inspired set.

23. Dazzling Designs

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Canva

A lavish manicure is always a great choice for events like prom!

24. Offset Colors

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Canva

One hand can be the color of your dress and the other can match your date's outfit!

25. Lace Detail

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Canva

Lace on your dress? Add lace to your nails!

26. White Designs

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Canva

White, glitter, and rhinestones go together like prom and flowers. For a bold yet understated accessory, add these sparkly nails to your outfit!

27. Almond Ombre

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Canva

Add a bit of pizzazz to your neutral nails with this modern take on a French tip.

Related: For Peep’s Sake! 35 Easter Nail Designs To Upgrade Your Spring Mani From Boring to Egg-citing

28. Pretty in Pink

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Canva

A simple, clean manicure is never a wrong choice.

29. Long Neutral Almond

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Canva

This set is the perfect combination of classy neutral with added excitement from the length!

30. Subtle Rainbow

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Canva

Show off your pride or your love of colors with this vibrant set!

31. Aquamarine Dream

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Canva

These nails would be the best addition to a mermaid-style gown.

32. Bold Stiletto

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Canva

Be the best kind of "extra" with these stunning nails!

Related: 151 Graduation Instagram 'Cap'-tion Ideas to Celebrate Getting Out of School for Good

33. Gold and Cream

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Canva

These colors are subtle and classy together and the added pearl embellishment sends them over the top!

34. Bejeweled Ring Finger

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Unsplash

Adding just a pop of jewels to your nails can have a stunning effect.

35. Simple and Chic

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iStock

Chic, soft pinks are always in style. And we love the extra details on the ring fingers!

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