French tip nails with rhinestones on ring finger

The wonderful world of acrylic nails is home to so many fun and innovative designs. Although they're frequently associated with extra-long looks, acrylics actually let you can experiment with different lengths and interesting styles, whether you want a short, square French manicure or a set of lengthy, neon-pink, stiletto-shaped nails. The possibilities feel fairly endless (and, at times, overwhelming), but this gallery of 60 images of acrylic nail art ideas can be a guide for your next appointment. 

You'll want to make sure the design is one you love because these types of manicures are long-lasting. Acrylics tend to be harder than gel, nail artist Brittney Boyce previously told Allure. They're created by mixing a powder (polymer) — usually clear, but the powders come in a range of colors — and a liquid (monomer) into a dough-like consistency that can be filed and molded. From there, a talented nail artist can create whatever your imagination conjures. 

And if you're worried about potential damage to your nails: don't be. The key to healthy nails with acrylics is proper removal with the right tools (like lots of acetone) and tons of time and patience. (This how-to guide has all the steps for at-home removal.) The right nail technician will be able to care for your natural nails regardless of whether you use acrylic powders, gel polishes, or gel extensions. So peruse this gallery full of acrylic manicures in square, stiletto, coffin, almond, and even lipstick shapes. We're sure that you'll be able to find exactly what you need for your next nail appointment.

French tip nails are classic designs that have stood the test of time. The core idea of the French manicure is painting the tip of the nail in a color that either complements or contrasts with the base color. These new ideas represent many different sides to the French tip manicure. Combining different manicure types makes nails stand out, as does a variety of nail art techniques.

Trendy polishes like gels and chrome nails are included here, along with fresh takes on the French manicure like glitter and embellishments. True nail addicts will find many pretty and fun ideas that will make their manicures stand out in a crowd.

49+ Super French Tip Nails to Recreate Your Favorite Looks

French tip nails are so popular because the basic look is so classic and elegant. French tip manicures look good on everyone from young to old. With the French tip manicure, wearers can be in touch with historical fashions or bring the look up to the moment. It’s all about the choices of polish and embellishments.

It is easy to do many of these designs at home. All you need are two different kinds of polish and a steady hand. There are many ways to make your look stand out when compared to the traditional manicure. Try mixing up the colors. Start by substituting either pink or white with a different color. You can also shake things up by mixing matte and glossy polish. Metallic polish is another way to make these looks pop.

Adding nail art brings another dimension to the French tip manicure. Many of these designs have nail art on the ring fingernail to set them apart from the rest. Practice your nail art skills with a toothpick or fine paintbrush and experiment with different designs. French manicures are one of the best looks for everyone to try.

1. Charming Short Nails with Skinny French Tips

Source: 5ivenails – instagram.com

Simple looks don’t have to be boring. This extra-skinny French manicure places a heavy emphasis on the natural health and beauty of the nail bed. The reemergent retro nail trend will have you feeling like a million bucks. Do we even need to mention how functional this chic look is?

2. Short French Manicure with Square Tips

Source: 5ivenails – instagram.com

This short, skinny nail concept is simply a reimagined French mani. A semi-translucent nude base will keep your cuticles looking fresh and tidy. Let an ultra-thin tip line generate extra negative space for you. If you aren’t feeling traditional white tips, opt for a colorful alternative. This is a perfect example of thin french tip nails.

3. Metallic Green French Tips with Nude Nail Beds

Source: basecoatstories – instagram.com

We’re pretty confident that the French would approve of this swanky green and gold depiction of their otherwise classic nail design. The clear, glossy base coat is the perfect backdrop for shimmering emerald tips. The dazzling style is ideal for ladies who are not traditional risk takers.

4. Shimmery Red French Tip Nails with Glossy Topcoat

Source: __abigails_nails__ – instagram.com

This glistening French manicure reminds us of Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. We would not be surprised to find out that this vibrant french manicure got some of its inspiration from the infamous Wizard of Oz props. The sparkling burgundy nail tips serve as a stark contrast to the transparent base coat. The look manages to be both striking and subtle.

5. Delectable Rose Gold French Tip Short Coffin Nails

Source: nailsbydesteny – instagram.com

Long, thin coffin nails are always a statement, and these french tip coffin nails are no exception. We cannot get enough of these iridescent rose gold nail tips and nude bases. The over-the-top acrylic extensions are an unexpected addition to seemingly nude nail beds. This captivating idea has us dying to book our next nail appointment.

6. Subtle Pink Ombre Nails

Source: tomboyswan.tumblr.com

Simiarly to french tip coffin nails, these pink and white nails are a lovely take on the classic French tip nail design. The base color is soft shell pink, progressing in a gradient to pure white on the french tips. These natural nails are worn at a practical, short length. This is an elegant design that will complement
any outfit from casual to formal.

7. Pink Matte and Chrome-Tipped Manicure

Source: instagram.com

This French manicure design starts with a coat of subtle pinkish-white matte nails polish. At the ends, there is a neat and controlled line of shining pink chrome. This updates the classic French tip manicure to fit in with today’s nail trends. This nail polish idea is great for anyone who wants a subtle but perfect touch to any outfit.

8. Gel French Manicure with Baby Pink Polish

Source: instagram.com

Beginning with a solid coat of a glossy baby pink polish, this gel French manicure is delicate without being fussy. The tips of the nails are painted very slimly for an updated look. This simple nail polish idea provides a sophisticated backdrop to the model’s jewelry. This would be a great look for a wedding or for any formal occasion.

9. Pink and White French Tip Nails with Casual Elegance

Source: nailsunny.com

These nails are painted with an all-over coat of palest pink. The white tips are painted on lightly for a fresh take on the French tip manicure. The nails are flared a bit at the tips for a different silhouette. These natural nails give the model a pretty, casual look that complements her classic style.

10. Subtle Nail Polish Idea with Pale Pink

Source: fashionladies.ru

These french tip nails have a classic oval shape. They are painted with a gentle coat of glossy baby pink. The white french tips are subtle and almost blend into the pink nail polish base. These natural-looking french tip nails are perfect for anyone who wants a time-tested look that fits in with today’s nail color trends.

11. Adorable Floral Nail Art Design

Source: nilminisaram.tumblr.com

This sweet French manicure idea begins with a classic pink and white base. The french tips are painted straight across for a neat look. On each ring fingernail, there is a line of subtle pink and brown cherry blossoms. This nail art is understated enough for anyone to wear. They provide a fresh and lovely accent to any woman’s wardrobe.

12. Edgy Long French Tip Nails

Source: instagram.com

For those who are going for a punk rocker look, this is an awesome black nail design. Two nails on each hand are done in a glossy shade of deepest black. The middle fingernails have a black base and silver glitter coat. The ring fingernails have a glossy pale gray polish with black French tips.

13. Pink and Gold Chrome French Tip Nails

Source: instagram.com

This gorgeous French tip nail design starts with a coat of glossy pale pink nail color. The french tips are done in a smooth, perfectly applied gold chrome polish. This look is great for brides, bridesmaids, or anyone who wants to look like a princess. It perfectly complements gold and diamond jewelry.

14. Unique Pink and Magenta French Tips

Source: instagram.com

With a base coat of cotton candy pink and fresh magenta french tips, this long nail design shows that a little pop of color can make all the difference to your French nails. These french tip nails are worn long and squared off at the ends. This color combination is fun and youthful.

15. Beautiful Pink French Tip Nails for You

Source: queen.gr

These natural-looking french tip nails start with an overall coat of blush pink gel polish. Their creamy white tips are subtly painted on. This white tip nail design is finished with the ring finger with a pretty matte textured finish. The matte textured nail provides a nice contrast with the glossy French manicured nails.

16. Shiny Pink and White French Tip Nails

Source: instagram.com

These designer nails are subtle and gorgeous. They are worn and trimmed close with natural tips. The contrast between the subtle shell pink base coat and the clear white tip makes this short french tip nails design lovely. This cute design would be great for any occasion, from work to formal. They combine practicality with style.

17. Gold Glitter Glam French Nails

Source: instagram.com

This creative design is a new spin on the french tip manicure. The nails are painted with an allover coat of blush pink which nearly matches the model’s skin tone. At the tips of the nails, a thick coat of glitter is painted on. The glitter gradually tapers toward the middle of the nail.

18. Squared Nail Tips and Shimmering French Manicure

Source: gophazer.com

This long nail design has squared-off oval tips. The base coat is a gentle shade of peachy pink and the tips are done in fresh cream. The tips are worn longer than in some similar designs. On the ring fingers, a smooth coat of glitter finishes the look. This is one of the prettier manicure types.

19. Shining Golden Stripes on a French Manicure

Source: instagram.com

Gorgeous gold stripes accent these French tip acrylic nails. The base coat is the palest shade of baby pink and the tips are white and squared off. It’s a great idea to match the features of your manicure to your jewelry, as the model is wearing. This provides visual interest to your manicure.

20. Subtle and Classic French Manicure

Source: bestartnails.com

This short nail design is a classic French tip manicure with a “squoval” shape. The creamy pale pink base coat provides a nice contrast to the soft white tips. This cute easy nail design is wearable by anyone and goes great with everything from jeans to work wear.

21. Pearlescent Pink and White Nails

Source: instagram.com

Pearly pink polish combines with white tips to create classy French tip nails. These nails are worn at a practical short length to look great on anyone. The ring fingernails are accented by a fabulous, textured all-over glitter coat. Any nail addict would love this sparkly, fresh look.

22. Rainbow Nails with Pizzazz

Source: instagram.com

For a trip outside the usual realm of French tip manicures, try these colorful nails. This cute easy nail design starts with a pale pink base coat. Different colors are swept on the tip of each nail for a rainbow effect. This is an example of fun-loving nail designs for all ages.

23. French Tip Acrylic Nails with Chevrons

Source: prettydesigns.com

This French manicure design starts with a soft coat of pale pink. The tips are painted in dramatic swooping chevrons. This gives the nail art design a twist of drama. This classy look would complement the dressiest outfit for a night on the town. It looks gorgeous with the model’s diamond jewelry.

24. Embellished Pink and Gold Nails For You

Source: yandex.ru

These French manicure nails have a baby pink base and shining white tips. They are worn long in the “squoval” style. These nails are accented along the line between pink and white with little beads of silver. This is a subtle nail art design that provides a pretty complement to silver or crystal jewelry.

25. Superbly Painted Pink and Iridescent Nails

Source: instagram.com

Iridescent polish highlights this cool French manicure idea. These nails have a gorgeously painted gradient between the blush pink base and the glimmering iridescent tips. This looks like a simple design on the surface, but a great deal of skill would be needed to get it right. This long nail design is squared off at the tips.

26. Cute Silver Glitter on French Tip Nails

Source: best-cool.com

A sweep of silver glitter across the tips keeps these natural-looking nails from being boring. The base coat is classic blush pink, and the tips are a soft white. This cute easy nail design would look nice on anyone. The youngest nail art lovers would especially enjoy wearing it.

27. Quick and Easy Nail Art Designs

Source: instagram.com

Super glossy blush pink polish is the base of this French tip manicure. At the tips, gold metallic polish makes an elegant accent. The beauty of this short nail design is in its simplicity. For a fresh take, you could put on a different shade of pastel polish as the base and try other metallics at the tip, like green and silver.

28. Blue and Silver Designer Nails

Source: bloglovin.com

These classy pale blue French tip nails are accented by silver metallic polish. They provide a nice contrast to all the pink and white French tip manicures out there. This manicure would be great for someone who wants the classic French look but is ready for a different color to shake things up a bit.

29. Classy Pink, White, and Glittery Manicure

Source: vk.com

This pink and white nail design has beautiful blush nail polish with soft white tips. The ring fingernail is accented with a matte glittery finish. This look is perfect for anyone who wants to give the traditional pink and white French manicure a bit of a twist. It is subtle enough to be great for work or a formal occasion.

30. Fantastic Pink and White Ombré Design

Source: instagram.com

Gorgeous candy pink nail polish blends into white tips with smooth, skillful ombré shading. This twist on the traditional French tip nails matches up with the latest trends. Ombré polish isn’t easy to pull off, but with some practice, you can do it at home. Try this look with a flirty sundress.

31. Tulips with a White Tip Nail Design

Source: instagram.com

This is one of the cuter nail art designs out there. A classic French tip manicure covers four out of the five nails. The ring fingernail is painted white, and a sweet pink tulip is painted on. Try mixing different nail designs together, like painted nail art with French nail elements. This tulip is simple enough that the home nail artist should be able to reproduce it.

32. Bejeweled French Tip Nails in Pink

Source: instagram.com

Starting with a coat of soft and glossy pale pink, these nails have delicate white tips. Each ring fingernail is accented at the base with beautiful crystals. These natural nails are cut square at the ends. This would not be too difficult to pull off at home with some tweezers and a bit of patience.

33. Unique Nail Designs with Gray and Gold

Source: instagram.com

These French manicure nails combine a perfect coat of gray matte polish with awesome gold chrome tips. This is one of the more creative nail ideas out there, as these colors are not often paired together. This manicure is dramatic and will get you noticed. These nails would be great for a dressy occasion or with an edgy outfit.

34. Soft and Perfect Gradient Nails

Source: armorgite.com

This understated look combines a subtle pink nail color with white tips. This gradient or ombré manicure requires a lot of practice to get right. In a “squoval” shape, these nails are practical for everyday wear. They look especially elegant with bridal jewelry and would be a sweet touch for your special day.

35. Pale Gray French Tip Nails

Source: instagram.com

These nails are done in a cool and neutral pale gray. They have perfectly applied white tips. These nails are cut in the practical “squoval” shape. This color combination is unique and can be worn with more conservative outfits while bringing an updated sense of fashion to your look.

36. Neutral Nails with a Touch of Glitter

Source: instagram.com

These cute nails have a coat of pale mauve polish with a narrow line of silver glitter painted just at the tips. This is a pretty and subtle way to wear glitter without being too flashy. This fun-loving manicure will complement your outfit and give you a little sparkle where it’s needed.

37. French Tip Nails Studded with Pearls

Source: berilokegulen.blogspot.hu

When adding embellishments to your nails, it’s fun to go all out and wear them on every finger. For those who would rather take a more understated approach, try putting them on just one finger on each hand. On a smooth coat of pale blush pink, these nails are studded with tiny pearls. This gives the nails dimension and shine.

38. Swirls on a French Tip Manicure

Source: vk.com

This natural-looking manicure starts with a glossy coat of clear polish. The tips are squared off in a “squoval” shape and are done in a bright white polish. On the ring fingernail, a hand-painted design of fanciful swirls takes center stage. The swirls have a touch of glitter for a fun and elegant look.

39. Mix and Match Manicure with Style

Source: instagram.com

This look combines a few popular nail ideas into a new design. All the nails except the ring finger are done in light bubblegum pink with a graceful white French tip. The ring fingernails are not painted in the French style. One of the fingers has an iridescent white polish and the other a gleaming pink. Combining types of polish gives a pleasing contrast.

40. Splashy Nail Design with Gold Glitter

Source: fashionblogger.ru

This manicure combines two different nail designs in one. All the nails except the ring finger have a matte white polish. The tips are done in gold glitter with large pieces. The big pieces of glitter give the effect of gold nuggets. The ring fingernail is done all over with the gold glitter.

41. Classic Look in Pink and White

Source: instagram.com

You can’t go wrong with the classics. This traditional manicure has a glossy coat of delicate pink polish. The tips are done in perfect white. The nails have a natural shape. These nails are understated and perfect for work or any formal occasion. Anyone would look pretty with this manicure.

42. Nails in the Palest Pink

Source: magazinedelledonne.it

Choosing such a pale pink color as the base of these nails gives the manicure a subtle and beautiful look. The tips are a smooth and glossy white. This manicure is gorgeous and understated. It would be a perfect bridal look for anyone who has a traditional sense of style.

43. Black Nail Design with Striped Tips

Source: instagram.com

This unique black nail design is for people who want to make an impression. All the nails except the ring finger have a gorgeous, glossy coat of purest black. The ring fingernails have a coat of subtle grayish white. The tips have a stripe of black and a stripe of metallic silver.

44. Matte and Metallic Mashup for You

Source: instagram.com

The contrast between the matte polish and the metallic pinkish silver tips makes this manicure stand out. Matte polish gives this manicure a different look than most of the French tip designs out there. These nails look very nice with gold and diamond jewelry. Try this look if you want to shake up your usual conservative manicure.

45. Shimmering Pink and White Manicure

Source: instagram.com

This popular ombré manicure is done in iridescent pink and white. The iridescent quality of the polish makes these nails gleam with beauty. This look is like a gorgeous pearl necklace for your fingers. Try it for a bridal look, or wear it every day to give your outfit a delicate shine.

46. Dramatic Black and Peach French Tips

These nails are done in a coat of glossy peach with splashy black French tips. The painted tips come to a point to set them apart from the usual French nail design. This bold look is ideal for anyone who wants to make a big impression. The colors are neutral but the design is not.

47. Classic Ombré French Manicure Design

Source: cuded.com

This popular look has a pink and white ombré design. The pink polish is so pale, that it’s hard to detect where the white actually begins. This fantastic look flatters everyone. It would be ideal for the finishing touch to a bridal gown, or it could be worn with just about anything.

48. Peach and White Ombré Look

Source: hubz.info

A twist on the manicure above features a delicate pale peach polish and white tips. The glossy peach and white colors are skillfully blended. This subtle manicure is great with any outfit. It gives anyone’s daily look a lift of color and style. These nails are worn a little longer for a fashion-forward impression.

49. Ombré and Nail Art Combined

Source: instagram.com

This look starts with dusty peach and white in an ombré style. The nails have more white than peach for a twist on the usual French tip manicure. On the ring fingernails, there is an intricate hand-painted design with fine white lines. These lines fall in gentle waves. It would take a great deal of skill to hand-paint a design like this one.

50. Rock and Roll Matte Black Manicure

Source: instagram.com

Source: instagram.com

These nails start with an overall perfect coat of black matte polish. The tips are done in glossy black for an appealing contrast. These nails are worn a little longer for dramatic effect. This manicure makes the punk rocker in anyone shine through. Wear them with black leather and silver jewelry.

51. Purple Passion in a French Tip Manicure

Source: vk.com

This unique look starts with a coat of glossy peach polish. The tips are done in a gorgeous deep purple. The ring fingernail is covered with purple polish. The nail artist has laid Mylar bits between coats of polish for an extra dimension of cool. These nails add a touch of fun and whimsy to anyone’s look.

52. Rose Gold French Tips

Source: instagram.com

Rose gold is a hot color right now. These nails take advantage of this trend. With an overall coat of dusty pink, the base color of these nails complements the rose gold metallic tips. Tone-on-tone color like this is a fashion-forward look for anyone to try. The contrast between the glossy base coat and the metallic tips makes this look special.

53. Stylish French Tip Manicure with Glitter

Source: instagram.com

These nails are done in a perfect, natural-looking French tip design. These nails are worn in short, practical ovals. On the half-moon of the nails, the nail artist has painted a semi-circle of glitter. This sets the look apart from the traditional style. This would be an easy way for anyone who doesn’t normally wear glitter nails to try the look.

54. French Tips Manicure with Bold Tropical Colors

Source: jewelpie.com

These nails have a coat of clear polish to start with, allowing the natural color of the nail to shine through. The tip nails are done in a variety of hot tropical shades, from hot pink to canary yellow. This would be an awesome look for a vacation or a summer day.

55. Sky Blue French Tips for You

Source: cuded.com

This subtle look has a coat of glossy peach polish to start with. The tips are done in sky blue with just a hint of glitter for dimension and style. This fun-loving look works with any kind of outfit, from casual to dressy. If your favorite color is sky blue, try this look today.

49+ Elegant French Tip Nails to Make You Shine

These French tip manicure ideas range from the traditional to the new, such as the french tip coffin nails or neon french tip. Some of the best ideas take the classic pink and white manicure and shake it up with colors and textures of polish. French manicures look great on everyone. There are ideas to blend subtly into an outfit as well as those that are meant to draw a lot of attention. Most of these manicure ideas wouldn’t be too difficult to try at home, but you could bring these photos to your favorite nail artist and recreate any of these looks.

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