Looking for the top nail trends and tips for the prom? Nails pull the whole look together and add something special to the night. The right set will complement the dress, highlight the makeup, and bring in a pop of color that makes everything feel complete. After all, prom is a moment of transformation, and the manicure is part of the magic.
What the Pros Suggest for Prom Nails
How do you decide on a prom nail design? One idea is to coordinate with the prom theme, like vintage glam, enchanted garden, or living in the future. Others build a manicure around the dress, whether to match or contrast it.
Some prom nails put personality front and center. That might mean feminine, romantic, edgy, or just plain fun. Instead of matching, it's about feeling like yourself, just turned up a little. The point is to make the mani feel like it fits you.
Here are the popular nail trends for prom night.
Classy Classics Updated

When you want the focus to be on your ensemble instead of your fingertips, consider a classic look like nude nails or a French manicure. However, if you want to steer clear of looking too traditional, add a twist like double French or reverse French tips. Metallic highlights like these sheer nails with gold outlines bring out the sparkle in your dress and jewelry.
Moreover, let’s be realistic. Most prom goers don’t have an unlimited budget. A gorgeous but simple look saves money while still uplifting the overall look.
LAVIS Builder Gel

Another option is to stick with sheer shades but make them more enchanting with shimmery cat eye polish. It’s downright addicting designing nail art with cat eye polish and a magnet! There are so many shapes for arranging the glitter, from slashes to hearts and flowers.
Here the butterfly wings add a charming touch that will make you smile every time you look down at your hands. Though these are hand-painted, a glossy top coat can make high-quality nail stickers a lovely addition to any manicure.

Magnets

Floral Nails

There are endless ways to do floral nail art for prom nails. You could wear 3D blooms on bling nails or freestyle petals in colors that match the dress or shoes. Here the artist created an attractive contrast between the matte design and the glossy metallic outlines.
What about nail shapes for prom? It’s the same rule as before. Match the theme, your outfit, or your personality. For example, oval or almond nails are ideal for classic or vintage styles. They are also right in sync with today’s fashion. Meanwhile, edgy square tips and stilettos will make a power statement.
Chrome Everything

While we’re on the topic of modern fashion, glazed nails are still very much in style. Whenever you need to dress up a manicure, a chrome glaze will give it star power. What’s more, it’s super easy to glaze gel polish with chrome powder. Sprinkle a few rhinestones or charms and suddenly everyone wants a closer look at your glazed pink nails. But the look is low-key enough that it won’t take away from the dress that was so hard to find.
In fact, pink nails go with pretty much every pastel color you could wear. If possible, paint your nails a shade darker than your dress.
Chrome Powder

LDS Rubber Base Gel

Here’s a mashup of chrome nails with floral nail art for prom. Notice how the flower nails are sheer. That’s a very chic touch.
Can you picture what dresses would look beautiful with this manicure?
For a Dark Dress

If you’re wearing a dark gown, metallic nails are gorgeous. Coordinate them with jewelry in gold or silver themes.
However, you can also lighten things up with cream-colored polish and an upbeat design like hibiscus flowers.
Jewel Tones

Emerald, ruby, purple, or sapphire gowns are dramatic all on their own. Complement them with red nails or dark jewel-toned polish.
Also, explore possibilities like these fairy-themed nails with chrome accents, pearls, and plenty of texture.
Neon Nails

We’ve seen a lot of interest in neon polish lately. It’s got lots of energy for this special time of year! Hot pink, lime green, and electric blue are stunning accompaniments to a black dress for prom. They can also liven up a white ensemble, especially in an abstract design like these prom nails. Or play with a tie-dyed gradient for a retro theme. No matter what, neon nails will be extra memorable.
LDS Color Craze Collection - NEON

When Your Prom Manicure Looks Like Jewelry
Luxurious looks like gemstone nails are hot right now. Instead of accessorizing with actual gold and silver, you can decorate each fingertip with a rich, elegant effect.

This includes rhinestones and glitter nails for extra sparkle. Prom is a celebration so why not go all out!

Red Nails

Red nails are bold, timeless, and flattering for everyone one. They can suit both warm and cool-toned gowns to pair beautifully with almost any dress color. Can you picture what suits your scheme: would it be glossy cherry red or ombre burgundy and black? You can liven things up even more with color blocked red and pink nails!
Black is Back

That little black prom dress will let you wear virtually any shade of polish with it. Moreover, black nails can reveal a lot about someone’s personality. They can go goth, rocket into the future, or hint at hidden depths. Glossy black feels rich while matte has an air of mystery. Have a peek at these beauties with silhouetted roses on an iridescent golden base.
Conclusion
Make your prom nails an unforgettable part of a night to remember. We hope you find the perfect design to fit your vision! What’s more, we’re here to help your dreams come true. You’ll find discounts in our store that will make you smile, plus free shipping deals and more.