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    1. Beauty

    Whether you’re in a relationship or acing the apps—let these 9 nail looks serve as inspiration for your next date night

    Your next date? Make it with your nail tech

    Jazzria Harris's avatar
    By Jazzria Harris
    Published 10 February 2025 In Features

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Date night nails
    (Image credit: Getty Images)
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    • Shop the best date nail nail polishes
    • Date night nail inspiration
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    Date nights can be tricky occasions to prepare for: you want to strike the right balance between looking effortless and also like you made an effort. You want to opt for a look that shows your personality but in a way that feels authentic and, to top it all off, you want to feel confident and feel like your best self when you step into the room. Whether you’re in a relationship and taking some time as a couple or setting out on a first date, the same rules apply, so it’s worth taking the time to plan your date night look so you’re prepared for when the day (or night) arrives.

    While you most likely have your outfit fully planned out and your make-up practiced and ready, there may be one area you haven’t thought of: your date night nails. Whether you want to show your playful side with some nail art, prefer a timeless nail colour or simply want to try out the latest nail trend, there’s no better time to book your next nail appointment. Keep scrolling to see the date night-approved nail looks that prove it…

    Shop the best date nail nail polishes

    Sephora Collection Nail Polish in Red Carpet

    Sephora Collection Nail Polish in Red Carpet
    £4.99 AT SEPHORA

    Manicurist Nail Polish in Pale Rose

    Manicurist Nail Polish in Pale Rose
    £14 IN MANICURIST

    The Gel Bottle Be Mine Top Coat

    The Gel Bottle Be Mine Top Coat
    £21.54 AT THE GEL BOTTLE

    Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Lacquer

    Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Lacquer
    £24 AT SEPHORA

    Date night nail inspiration

    1. Micro hearts

    A post shared by Mateja Novakovic (@matejanova)

    A photo posted by on

    For an understated take on Valentine’s nails, we’re obsessed with these micro hearts and red tips. Not a nail art expert? Try a nail stamp or sticker to achieve a uniform heart shape with ease.

    2. Give them sparkle

    A post shared by Melanie Graves (@overglowedit)

    A photo posted by on

    These embellished nails are the whole moment—perfect for pairing with a little black dress for date night.

    3. Go nude

    A post shared by Julia Diogo (@paintedbyjools)

    A photo posted by on

    Nudity might be something that naturally occurs if the date goes well, so why not extend the look and go nude on your nails? A light pink-toned shade will give a classic look that will look chic long after the date has ended.

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    4. Claret red

    A post shared by Mimi-Jo Robshaw | Lash and Manicure Specialist (@mimijobeauty)

    A photo posted by on

    Want to opt for one of winter's trending nail colours? This dark red tone taps into the romantic mood yet still feels incredibly wearable.

    5. Little kisses

    A post shared by Alison • nailsbyalsn (@nailsbyalsn)

    A photo posted by on

    For lovers of a manicure theme, these cute kiss print nails are the perfect romantic look.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

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    6. Chilli heat

    A post shared by Alyx Lippiatt (@alyxlippiatt)

    A photo posted by on

    Want to turn up the heat on date night? These fun micro chillies are the cutest way to do so. Pair with a nude base for maximum impact.

    7. Baby French

    A post shared by Harriet Westmoreland (@harrietwestmoreland)

    A photo posted by on

    For a timeless look, it doesn’t get much better than Harriet Westmoreland’s baby pink French manicure.

    8. Disco gems

    A post shared by Shoreditch Nails (@shoreditchnails)

    A photo posted by on

    Don’t save the sparkle just for special occasions, these multi-coloured disco nails are a fun choice for whatever you have planned.

    9. Cherry blossoms

    A post shared by emily zheng • chez nails (@bycheznails)

    A photo posted by on

    Topping off our date night nail inspiration is a set that proves you can buy yourself flowers (even in manicure form). Whether you’re single, dating or in a relationship, this pretty cherry blossom manicure will ensure compliments roll in.

    Jazzria Harris
    Jazzria Harris
    Freelance Fashion & Beauty Writer

    Jazzria Harris is a freelance fashion and beauty journalist with over 8 years experience working in the industry. At just 4ft 11, she’s an expert in petite dressing and previously wrote the column Jazz’s Short Stories giving tips and advice on dressing for petite proportions. Her wardrobe staples are a great black blazer, a hardworking slip skirt and of course a great pair of heels (for the extra inches, of course). Jazz has written for publications including ELLE UK, heat magazine, Eliza, Women & Home and more.

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