Halloween costumes can be difficult to figure out, but you know what's even harder to pin down? Halloween nails. They have to strike that perfect balance between being on theme while still being evergreen. Long nails covered in orange pumpkins might be great for the holiday, but once the calendar shifts to November, your nail art immediately feels a bit gaudy and cheesy. To help remedy this problem, we scrolled through Instagram for 12 Halloween nail art designs that you'll be able to wear all fall and winter long.
These Serpent-Inspired Nails
A black and white color theme paired with a negative space design gives this snake-themed nail idea a modern feel.
Recreate it with:
These Black and Gold Nails
Consider this gold-studded manicure for your Halloween nails. The subtle accents give this French manicure a witchy update.
Recreate it with:
These Orange-Striped Nails
If you're against the idea of pumpkin or candy corn nail art, this sleek and multi-hued design is a great way to remain on theme without being kitsch.
Recreate it with:
These Animal-Themed Nails
Regardless of what feline you decide to dress up as on Halloween, these mismatched animal print nails will be on theme.
Recreate it with:
These Red Nails
Blood drops get a little gory, but this subtle design keeps your nail art on theme for the holiday without being too extra.
Recreate it with:
These Colorful Tips
Repurpose your colorful French manicure for Halloween by adding several subtle stitch designs to up the spooky factor.
Recreate it with:
These Celestial-Themed Nails
This shimmery yet understated nail look gives off a whimsical vibe fit for any sparkly Halloween costume.
Recreate it with:
These Retro-Inspired Nails
Pair your ’70s-themed costume with Halloween nail art that's just as retro as your outfit. These multi-colored wavy tips are so on trend, you'll be able to wear them long after October 31st.
Recreate it with:
These Galaxy-Themed Nails
Dress up an otherwise simple negative space design with a vampy, purple shade and intergalactic accents.
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These Pink Nails
Rather than opting for traditional Halloween shades (think: orange), why not choose a more unexpected shade like pink? It's a creative aesthetic shift from your classic Halloween hues.
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These Ghost-Themed Nails
Want a design that leans more minimalist? This low-key ghost nail art idea is right up your alley. It's not too overt, but it's still right on theme.
Recreate it with:
These Orange and Black Nails
This design is a perfect example of how to incorporate orange and black into a manicure without it screaming 'Halloween'.
Recreate it with:
Top photo (left to right): Courtesy of Instagram/@nailartbysig, @enterthenailrealm
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