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Coquette Nails: The Ultimate Guide to TikTok’s Most Romantic Nail Trend
Feeling ready to ditch the minimalist manis? Coquette nails – the internet’s most charming nail trend – is turning everyone’s fingertips into tiny works of romantic art.
If you’ve scrolled through Pinterest or TikTok lately, chances are you’ve stumbled upon designs featuring delicate bows, pastel hues, and intricate pearls.
With over 7 billion TikTok views, this dreamy aesthetic is set to dominate the beauty scene for 2025.
But what exactly are coquette nails, and why is everyone talking about them?
What Are Coquette Nails?
Coquette nails draw inspiration from the coquette aesthetic, which blends old-school femininity with a modern edge.
The term “coquette” historically refers to a playful, flirtatious woman, and this style encapsulates that allure through design.
Think dainty French tips, pastel pinks, shimmering lilacs, and tiny details like hearts, flowers, and lace motifs.
But don’t be fooled by its vintage charm. Coquette nail designs feel fresh and contemporary, often incorporating trendy elements like 3D appliqués, glitter accents, and sheer jelly finishes.
It’s all very Bridgerton-esque, but with an edge that gives main character energy.
Quick Guide to Coquette Nails
Style: Feminine, romantic with a modern edge
Key Elements: Bows, pearls, hearts, pastel colours
Difficulty: 3/5 for basic designs, 4/5 for intricate patterns
Cost: £30-£80 at salons, £15-£25 for DIY
Duration: 2-3 weeks with proper care
Why Coquette Nails Were 2024’s Hottest Trend
While last year was all about glazed donut nails and minimalist manicures, 2024 and beyond is leaning into maximalism. And the coquette the nail trend embodies this shift perfectly.
Manicurists for celebrities like Dua Lipa and Nicola Peltz have embraced this trend, elevating it with personalised touches like monograms, rhinestones, and bows.
Earlier this year, pop queen of vintage glamour Lana Del Rey proved coquette nails can be effortlessly cool.
Taking to Instagram, she showed off a deceptively simple yet striking manicure that perfectly captures her signature aesthetic.
Her natural nails just had clear polish, but delicate charms scattered across each finger.
Think twinkling diamond bows, dainty pearls, and ethereal butterfly embellishments.
Lana debuted understated romance with just the right amount of sparkle and whimsy.
It’s no surprise that #coquettenails and #coquettenailsinspo are trending on platforms like TikTok, with millions of users sharing their takes on this charming style.
From soft blush tones to intricate pearl accents, it blends old-school femininity and modern creativity, perfectly captured in nail art.
Short Nails? Your Complete Coquette Guide
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need long talons for this trend. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec swears by these tricks for shorter nails:
Focus on one statement detail per nail
Opt for smaller bow designs
Use pearl accents strategically
Choose lighter base colours for an elongating effect
Why Are They Called Rich Girl Nails?
Coquette nails are sometimes referred to as “rich girl nails” because of their luxe, polished look.
The soft, pearlescent shades and intricate details exude sophistication, making them appear effortlessly expensive—even if you DIY at home.
DIY Coquette Nails: Your Shopping List
Essential Tools:
Base coat
Pastel polishes (pink, lilac, butter yellow)
Pearl stickers
Bow decals
Clear top coat
Fine detail brush
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcrowding small nails with too many elements
2. Skipping top coat over 3D decorations
3. Using thick polish for detailed work
4. Applying pearls without proper adhesive
Seasonal Coquette Nail Ideas
Winter 2024/2025
* Frosted pearl effects
* Snowflake accents
* Metallic bow details
Spring 2025
* Cherry blossom designs
* Pastel rainbow combinations
* Daisy chain patterns
Coquette Nails Q&A
Q: What nail colour is trending for coquette nails currently?
A: While soft pinks dominate, butter yellows and shimmering lilacs are gaining popularity.
Q: Why are they called rich girl nails?
A: The polished, intricate details give them a luxurious appearance, though they’re achievable on any budget.
Q: How long do coquette nails last?
A: With proper care, 2-3 weeks for gel designs, 1-2 weeks for regular polish.
Ready to Try Coquette Nails?
Start with a simple design like a pearl-accented French tip or a single bow detail.
Save the intricate 3D masterpieces for when you’re feeling more confident – or book a professional.
Remember, the best nail art is the one that makes you smile every time you look down at your hands.
Final Thoughts
As the clock ticks closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve, coquette nails are the ultimate accessory to complement your party look.
Whether you’re raising a glass of champagne or typing out resolutions, these designs will have you feeling glamorous and on-trend.
Are you ready to embrace your coquette era?
Check #coquettenails on Instagram or Pinterest for more inspiration.
