Coquette Nails Are a Thing—11 Designs I'm Saving for My Next Trip to the Salon

If you've been on any form of social media lately, then you will have more than likely come across the coquette aesthetic. This ultra-feminine, girly and romantic trend has quickly made its way into the fashion world in the way of lace fabrics, bow detailing, pearl accessories, ballet flats and more, in a range of soft pink and pastel colours. The hashtag #coquetteaesthetic has over four billion views on TikTok alone, and lots of my favourite online creators and celebrities have been leaning into the style.
As someone who prefers a more neutral, pared-back aesthetic, I've been desperate to find a way to incorporate the coquette trend into my style more subtly, and I think I've just found the answer. That's right, say hello to coquette nails. After scrolling on Instagram, I came across so many stunning nail designs that perfectly lean into this trending aesthetic, from floral nail art to pearl nail embellishments and more. So, whether you're already a fan of the trend and want to match your manicure to your outfit, or if you want an easier way to try out the coquette trend for yourself, keep on scrolling for my favourite coquette nail designs that are perfect for the spring and summer months (we'll be there before we know it!).
11 Coquette Nail Designs to Try Now
First up is this stunning floral nail art. What I love about this is that you can keep your base colour neutral and let the pop of pastel pink do all the talking.
Bows are everywhere right now, so why not have them on your nails too?
The pastel blue and pink shades work together beautifully for this floral design.
If you want to make a bit more of a statement, 3D pearl embellishments are still delicate and pretty.
The perfect spring manicure does exist.
See how subtle pearl detailing can be?
If you're not a fan of pastel colours, why not try this gold bow nail art instead?
I think this has to be my favourite coquette nail design. I love the contrast between the pink and gold.
Dainty and delicate.
A bolder way to do pearls on your nails.
If you want something super subtle, simply opt for glossy pastel pink.
Products You Need for Coquette Nails:
This set from Nails. Inc comes with two pink nail polish shades and pearl nail stickers, making it super easy to re-create an embellished coquette nail look at home.
If you want to try any bow or floral designs, I recommend using a thin nail-art brush like this one from Manucurist.
Finally, don't forget to nourish your cuticles with some nail oil for a polished finish. This Kiko one features real rose petals and is giving me all of the coquette vibes.
Next Up: Calling It—These 5 Pretty Nail Colours Will Define 2024
Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.
As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.
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