As much as we love the classic French manicure, lately we’ve been drawn to other imaginative nail tip designs that are just as beautiful—if not more so. Some elevated tip designs feature a double French silhouette or a dual finish approach, while others showcase color-blocked nail art, contoured tips, emoji inspiration, etc
The point is, no matter what your nail aesthetic preferences are, there’s always a nail tip design idea waiting to be discovered. To show you some of the many ways you can change up your French manicure, ahead you’ll find 19 tip design ideas that are currently making the rounds on Instagram.
Mermaid nail tips
Whether you love the legend of mermaids or have an eye for Art Deco designs, these intricate seashell-inspired nail designs are worth a look. Nail artist Brittney Ellen created this manicure using Lights Lacquer Nail Polish ($11) in shades like Unsweet Mermaid and Message in a Bottle, topped with Beyond the Sea Charm ($8 ). To make the application process easier for you, consider purchasing the Lights Lacquer Beyond the Sea Charms + Wax Pen Duo ($18), which includes a sticky wax pen that will help you pick up and place charms easily. easy.
Turtle shell tips
One of the most popular neutral patterns is tortoiseshell. When used in decorative French manicures, the print lends an ultra-chic, minimalist charm.
Jelly French advice is outlined
Transform traditional French tips by replacing classic white with multicolored jellies, then outline said jellies with a bright white border for high-contrast appeal.
Matte French swirl
This multicolored swirl manicure is a fun design on the tip of the nail, with each nail having the same color at the tip but in different swirls and waves. The matte finish ties it all together.
Black and white double French tips
At first, this black and milky white nail tip design reminds us of a double French manicure. But the inversion of the index finger gives an artistic feel to a Yayoi Kusama or an intriguing lava lamp—all while retaining the classic color combination. For this look, Ellen used Lacquer Nail Polish ($11) in the shades Tuxedo Mask and Clueless.
French metallic drip nails
For an eye-catching, artistic nail tip design, start with a metallic color combination, then apply it in an unexpected drip pattern. Add a black border to make it really stand out from your natural nails.
Purple Velvet Thien Dharma Tips
How impressive is this color-changing velvet manicure? The classic French manicure is elevated with bold shapes and light-reflecting gold charms that take the design to a whole new level.
Silver polka dot almond french tip
Another way to change up your classic French manicure is to add gems. Here, simple French silver earrings are paired with clear gemstones for a shimmering polka dot look. To DIY this look at home, you’ll need Cirque Colors Nail Polish ($13) in Sterling. Then, to highlight it, use Cirque Colors Razzle Dazzle Rhinestones ($10).
Two-tone French tips
Color lovers will enjoy this two-tone Skittle approach to the French manicure. When creating a two-tone nail design, simply choose the colors next to each other, then prep your nails with a neutral base. Once dry, use a nail tool to trim the tips of your nails (Orly Half Moon Guide, $7, is a popular choice) and using an ultra-thin nail art brush, carefully paint each color. Don’t forget the top coat.
Colorblock French Tips
Want to cover your nails in full color? Using a color blocking approach underneath a classic French head shape is a fun way to transform a classic look.
Emoji nails are inappropriate
Ellen is the queen of creating fun, colorful nail designs, and this reimagined French manicure proves it. Complete with a mushroom tip, a wavy plaid tip, and a double French lime tip, this mismatched mani has a lot to offer.
French advice does not match black and white
Black and white doesn’t have to be a boring color combination. When used in a unique nail tip design idea, it can create a dramatic contrast that brings a bold statement to any outfit. We especially love the silver star, round and rhinestone gemstones here.
Abstract high contrast wavy nails
This black and white wavy tip design is made much prettier with sage, turquoise, and peach accents. Since this isn’t a very neatly painted design, it might be easier to make your own.
French Baked Marshmallow Tip
This matte French manicure makes us feel warm and cozy with its toasted marshmallow beauty. To recreate the look, start with an ombré base, apply a crisp white top coat, and finish with a matte top coat.
Pink and purple French tips
@HEYGREATNAILS / INSTAGRAMThe French manicure trend outlined can be done in every color of the rainbow, and no matter which combination you choose, the results will be stunning. Case in point: This pale pink and purple glitter combo. Fun fact: This look was created with eyeshadow.
Mismatched animal print French tips
Animal prints are very trendy, but if you can’t choose one animal to highlight, choose all your favorites for wild nail tip design ideas.
Metallic Skittle French Tip
Sometimes, elevating a nail tip design idea is as simple as choosing an iridescent polish and coordinating gems on the cuticle. To recreate this look, you’ll need Cirque Colors Surfer’s Crush Collection ($99), which includes six polishes, colorful gems, and a variety of dried flower nail accents.
Chrome Silver Flame French Tip
We’re big fans of chrome, so these 3D silver flame tips are right up our alley. Although the silver flames are quite easy to paint, to achieve the 3D texture you will need to use a shaping gel base or get the help of a professional to do it for you.
Tips for drawing art in French
Every manicure turns nails into an artist’s canvas, but this colorful pointed French mani takes it to a whole new level. The diverse colors and shapes make this a particularly artistic nail tip design idea.
