If there's one nail color that I think should have a permanent spot in your manicure rotation, it's blue. Stay with me here: Soft baby blue and powdery pastels are practically made for spring, bright cobalt and turquoise are right at home in summer, and deep navy and sapphire offer a sophisticated switch-up from other moody fall shades we tend to reach for once temperatures drop. And it seems that manicure fanatics are catching on: "I've definitely noticed more clients choosing blue shades this season, especially dusty blue, navy blue, and deep teal," says nail artist Viktoriia Voloshyna. "I think these colors are a great alternative to the traditional fall shades like burgundy and brown."
From delicate French tips and dreamy aura designs to dimensional chrome and gemstone-inspired finishes, blue nail designs have serious range. With so many different color options, they're versatile enough that they can blend with whichever fall outfit you're wearing or act as a stand-out accessory. Think of it this way: A sheer, milky blue can be just as understated as your favorite nude, while a glossy cobalt or velvet-finish midnight blue makes a statement all on its own. Whether you're drawn to minimalist nail art or prefer something a little more elaborate, here are the chicest blue nail designs worth saving for your next salon appointment.
Deep Blueberry
Simple, straightforward, and right to the point: These deep blueberry nails are proof that a single-color mani can be just as dramatic as some intricate designs.
Ocean Blues
Can't give up summer quite yet? Heading somewhere warm and tropical? Just like a vibrant fall mani? This look is ready no matter the occasion: It features the seemingly ever-trending aura design and all the shades of blue.
Reverse Frenchies
I'll always say yes to a French manicure, but switching it up with a reverse Frenchie? Perhaps even better. Using a thin nail art brush, swipe a bit of this electric blue shade along your cuticle line and you're in business.
Cornflower Blue Negative Space
A little negative space adds a lot of intrigue to your mani—just take a look at this cornflower blue design. Though this one features clear arches, you can also create the look using other shapes, from triangles and diamonds to circles and swirls.
Shades of Blue
One of my favorite ways to dress up a French manicure is by opting for a seasonal shade on the fingertips instead of classic white. In this case, you don't have to choose just one shade—choose your five favorite blues for an ombré-like design.
Outside-the-Box Blue Chrome
Add a little oomph to your blue nail design by topping it with chrome powder. This is a fun take on a glazed donut mani, all grown-up for fall and finished off with both blue and white for a creative French design.
Sculptural Tips
Dripping, metal-like tips add so much visual interest to your manicure. Add in a deep blue shade and this is the perfect sculptural design for fall, winter, and beyond.
Beaded Beauties
If you prefer a totally unique manicure, this beaded beauty is for you. Intricate blue beads, rhinestones, glitter, and pearls atop long almond-shaped nail extensions make for a truly one-of-a-kind design that will certainly stop traffic.
Shimmering Swirls
Take your cat eye mani to the next level with this multi-dimensional swirling design. The mesmerizing look is subtly glam and unlike any other blue nail design out there.
Written in the Stars
Turn to the starry night sky for your next blue manicure inspiration. Each fingertip features elements like stars, half moons, constellations, and more.
Galactic Cat Eye
Inspired by the galaxy? This mesmerizing midnight blue cat eye manicure will have you staring at your fingertips both day and night.
Magical Mani
Blue cat eye French tips topped with gilded, shining gold makes for a magical-looking manicure. This is the perfect way to elevate your nail design while still keeping it easy to wear for everyday.
Moody Aura
Add some depth and moodiness to your aura nails this season with a black base and blue for the aura part of the design. You can pair almost any two shades together, but the blue-on-black really pops.
Drops of Denim
A good blue manicure doesn't have to be entirely blue. Proof: This mix-and-match design that features denim blue, Frenchies, and tortoise shell print.
Contrasting Blue French Tips
Colorblocked blue French tips? Yes please. Choose two contrasting blues to create this vibrant manicure that anyone who loves this color is sure to fall in love with.
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