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If you’re looking to shake up your nail game with a color that’s both fresh and fab, you’re in the right place! We’re talking all about lilac nails today—a hue that’s perfect for any occasion and every mood. I’ve been sporting this shade lately, and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer. So what’s in store? I’ll spill the tea on the top-notch brands you should consider, drop some inspo for designs that’ll make your nails a showstopper, and share my go-to hacks to make that lilac shine last for days. Ready to level up your mani? Let’s get to it!
Lilac Ombre
Ombre isn’t just a hair trend but a nail sensation. Lilac ombre nails offer a gradient effect, typically starting with a darker shade at the base and fading into a lighter lilac at the tips. It’s trendy, modern, and surprisingly easy to DIY if you have a makeup sponge.
Lilac & Glitter Glam Nails
Want to add a sparkle to your lilac nails? Glitter accents create an eye-catching effect on one nail or all ten. The glitter can be the same lilac shade for a monochromatic look or a contrasting color like silver or gold for added drama.
Lilac & White Stripes
Lilac and white stripes offer the perfect balance for those seeking a bit more excitement without going overboard. I recommend opting for a delicate stripe over a bold one; it enhances the lilac without overshadowing it. It’s a nautical, clean look that spells summer fun and spring freshness all in one.
French Lilac Nails
We all know the classic French manicure, but replacing the traditional white tips with lilac is a fantastic twist. It maintains the sophistication of a French manicure while adding a pop of color that’s sure to turn heads.
Lilac Waves
Incorporate wavy designs with a lilac base for a playful yet polished look. It’s like having little pieces of abstract art at your fingertips, offering movement and fluidity in a compact space.
Lilac Zebra Nails
Take a walk on the wild side by adding black zebra stripes to a lilac base. It’s an adventurous look that combines femininity with a touch of edginess, perfect for those who like to make a statement.
Tiny Metalic Hearts on a Lilac Base Nail
This is for the romantics out there. Tiny hearts on a lilac base can add a sweet, loving touch to your nails. Go for contrasting colors like red or white hearts to make them stand out, or keep it monochromatic with lilac hearts on a lilac base.
Lilac Marble Effect Nails
If you’re after a look that’s as unique as you are, marble effect nails are the way to go. With a base of lilac, the swirls of whites and darker purples create a stunning, natural pattern that mimics the beauty of marble. Trust me, it’s an eye-catcher and a conversation starter; it’s like having little works of art on your fingertips.
Negative Space Lilac Nails
This design capitalizes on the areas of the nail left unpainted, creating a stunning visual effect. With a lilac base, the negative space can form geometric shapes or even letters if you feel adventurous. It’s a modern, edgy style that still feels clean and elegant.
Crescent Moons With An Accent Of Lilac
Also known as a “Ruffian manicure,” this style involves painting a small crescent at the base of your nail in a color contrasting with the lilac. It’s simple but sophisticated, offering a modern twist on traditional French tips. You can even switch it up by having the crescent at the tip of the nail instead.
Lilac Nails With Elegant Lines
Think of it as minimalist lines’ cooler sibling. Twin lines, parallel or intersecting, add a geometric edge to your lilac nails. You can opt for lines in the same color family or go bold with contrasting shades. Either way, it’s a simple design with a significant impact.
Lilac Ombré Nail Perfection!
Let’s start soft, shall we? Light lilac shades ooze elegance. Think Easter egg hunts and cherry blossoms—this look is an instant mood booster for spring. I pair these shades with light, flowy dresses for that ethereal vibe.
Coffin Lilac Ombré Nails
Coffin nails are drama incarnate, and when you add a gradient from soft pink to lavender, it’s like a soap opera on your fingertips. This shape elongates your fingers, making your hands look slender and elegant.
Short And Sassy Lilac Ombré
Who says short nails can’t join the party? Add a color splash with greens and pinks, and why not throw in some floral art on an accent nail? Short nails have just as much to say; boy, do they say it loud!
Almond Nails With Deep Lilac Tips
Almond nails are the high heels of nail shapes—always classy. Pair them with a purple orchid ombré; you’re the epitome of sleek elegance.
Butterflies and Pearls On Lilac Nails
If you’re in the mood for maximalism, butterflies and pearls are your best friends. It’s a whimsical look that’ll have people stopping you to look closer.
Lilac And Pink Ombre Nails
First off, imagine a mani that looks like a cotton candy dream. Blend light purple and pastel pink shades, focusing primarily on the middle finger for that magical ombré blend. A few diamonds and rhinestones later, and voila! Last summer, I rocked this look for a garden party, and it was an absolute hit!
The Butterfly Effect: Lilac Butterfly Nails
Let’s dial up the notion with this next one—fading pink into lilac and accenting with delicate butterfly decals. This one’s got “fairytale” written all over it. Butterfly decals are easy to apply, so don’t worry if hand painting isn’t your forte.
3D Drama: Lilac Flower Nails
If 2D designs aren’t enough for you, let’s take it to another dimension. Start with a lavender base, then go wild with 3D flowers, swirls, and maybe even a glitter bomb on an accent nail. This mani is a conversation starter, guaranteed.
Milky Lilac Ombré Nails
We have the Milky Nyx Ombré. Picture a dreamy milk-white base fading into a sumptuous deep purple at the cuticles. This look is so soft and ethereal that it’s perfect for those special events where you want to shine.
Blush Lilac With Paach Nails
You know how some weeks are just mani-busters? If you’re looking for something that can outlast life’s chaos, consider Builder Gel Ombré. We’re discussing a sweet fade from lavender to an ethereal pale pink. I wore this one on a two-week vacation, and let me tell you—it stayed impeccable!
Blush Lilac Nails
Do you need more time to decide about your purples? You don’t have to settle for just one. Go for a gradient that flaunts a variety of shades, from lilac to plum. It’s like a little purple rainbow on your fingers!
Glitzy Comic Lilac Ombre Nails
Special occasion, or need a mood boost? Bring on the glitter. These nails are so eye-catching they practically deserve their own zip code.
Cute Pink and Lilac Ombré Nails
If long nails are your jam, feast your eyes on this: alternating gradients of pink and purple. Amp it up with rhinestones and a holographic accent nail. I sported this at a friend’s wedding, and I can’t even count the number of compliments I got!
Solid Lilac Beautiful Color Blocking
You can’t go wrong with a solid lilac polish when it comes to timeless elegance. This color alone speaks volumes and suits almost every occasion. My go-to brands for solid lilac are OPI and Essie; they offer excellent coverage and durability. Solid lilac nails are the perfect canvas for future designs but stand boldly on their own, offering a muted yet captivating appearance that works wonders for both day and evening events.
Lilac With Gold Band Nails
This combination screams luxury and sophistication. The lilac base provides a lovely canvas, and the gold tips elevate the look into something extraordinary. It’s my go-to for special occasions or whenever I want to feel like a million bucks without breaking the bank.
Polka Dots
This retro-inspired style is cute, playful, and oh-so-fun. With a lilac base, you can go for white or even black polka dots. It’s an easy design to execute at home with the end of a bobby pin or a specialized dotting tool.
Minimalist Lines
Consider adding thin lines over your lilac base for a contemporary, minimalist take. Whether vertical, horizontal, or diagonal, these lines in white or metallic shades add an edgy sophistication to an otherwise simple color.
Lilac & Lavender Duo Nails
Pairing lilac with its deeper cousin, lavender, creates a harmonious duo-tone look. It’s subtle enough for work but stands out enough to garner compliments. It’s a favorite for those needing help picking just one purple shade.
Checkerboard Lilac Nails
Think of it as your classic black-and-white checkered pattern, but softer and sweeter. The lilac and white squares offer a quirky yet chic design that is perfect for those who want to stand out subtly.
Pastel Rainbow
If you love colors, why not combine lilac with pastel shades like baby blue, mint, and soft pink? The result is a pastel rainbow that’s harmonious yet bold, perfect for when you’re feeling exceptionally cheerful.
Half-n-Half
Divide each nail into two halves, one in lilac and the other in a contrasting color like white or black. It’s a unique style that adds a modern flair to your nail game.
French Manicure With Lilac & Matte
Switching up the finish can create an entirely different look. Matte lilac nails offer a velvety, luxurious appearance that feels modern and understated. Matte finishes are having a moment, and combining this trend with lilac nails is a match made in heaven.
Lilac Nails With Rhinestones And Glitter
Sometimes, less is more. Placing a single gemstone on each lilac nail can add just the right amount of bling without overpowering the design. Go for a classic diamond-like stone or even a tiny pearl to give your nails a touch of elegance.
Metallic Lilac Nails
If you love a bit of shimmer, metallic lilac nails are the way to go. The metallic sheen gives the color depth and dimension, adding a futuristic flair to your look. It’s a sensational choice for evening events where you want to catch the light—and some compliments.
Cross Hatch
This style involves painting short, intersecting lines across the nail, creating a mesh or grid effect. It’s visually striking, and when executed well, it can look like intricate nail art that took hours, even if it’s relatively simple to achieve.
Cherry Blossoms With Lilac Accent Nails
Cherry blossom designs are intricate but worth the effort, especially if you want to make a statement. With lilac as the base, the pink and white blossoms pop beautifully. It’s an elegant design that captures the essence of spring and evokes feelings of renewal and beauty.
10 Brands That I Love To Use For Lilac Nails
- OPI: Known for its durability and vast range of colors, OPI’s lilac shades are always a hit. Their formula is often enriched with nourishing ingredients, which is a win-win.
- Essie: A favorite among many for its affordability and quality, Essie offers lilac shades that are easy to apply and long-lasting.
- Zoya: If you’re looking for a more natural option, Zoya’s polishes are free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. They offer gorgeous lilac shades that don’t sacrifice quality for safety.
- China Glaze: Their lilac options are beautiful and are known for their resistance to chipping. Great for those who are hard on their nails!
- Sally Hansen: From their Miracle Gel to Insta-Dri lines, Sally Hansen offers lilac polishes that are budget-friendly and quick to dry, making them ideal for those who are always on the go.
- Chanel: On the luxury end, Chanel’s Le Vernis line offers lilac shades that exude sophistication and class. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality is top-notch.
- Deborah Lippmann: Known for its rich, creamy formula and intense pigmentation, Deborah Lippmann offers some stunning lilac options free from harmful ingredients.
- Butter London: This brand offers 8-free polishes, meaning they lack eight of the most harmful chemicals commonly found in nail polish. Their lilac shades are rich and long-lasting.
- Nails Inc: Particularly known for their superfood-infused formulas, Nails Inc offers a range of lilac shades that are as nourishing as they are beautiful.
- CND Vinylux: Ideal for those who skip the salon but want a long-lasting manicure, their lilac options promise seven-day, chip-resistant wear.
What Are The Design Ideas That Work Well With Lilac Nails?
Oh, where do I even begin? Lilac is such a versatile color that the design options are almost endless. Here are some fabulous design ideas that pair exceptionally well with lilac nails:
- Floral Accents: Given lilac’s soft, springy vibe, floral designs like roses or daisies complement it beautifully.
- Geometric Patterns: Think triangles, squares, or even honeycomb designs. Geometric patterns can add an edgy contrast to lilac’s feminine aura.
- French Tips: Classic or reverse, French tips in white, gold, or a contrasting color like black can make your lilac nails pop.
- Marble Swirls: Using shades of purple, white, or even gold, you can create a marbled effect that’s totally Insta-worthy.
- Negative Space Designs: These designs, where nail areas are left unpainted, shine with a soft color like lilac as the base.
- Animal Prints: Believe it or not, lilac can serve as a stunning background for zebra or leopard prints, adding a fun twist to the design.
- Ombre: Fade lilac into another shade—like a darker purple or a lighter pink—for a gradient effect that’s subtle yet impactful.
- Rhinestone Accents: A little bling goes a long way! Add a small gemstone or two for a touch of sparkle that elevates your lilac nails.
- Metallic Stripes: Silver or gold stripes can lend a futuristic touch to your lilac nails, making them stand out in a crowd.
- Glitter Tips: A bit of glitter at the tips can give a festive twist to your lilac nails—perfect for holidays or special occasions.
- Polka Dots: Whether it’s same-color lilac dots or a contrasting color like white, polka dots are playful and cute.
- Water Decals: These are perfect if you’re short on time but want a detailed design. There’s a water decal for every mood, from butterflies to intricate patterns.
- Half-Moons: A half-moon design at the nail base in a contrasting color can add an exciting dynamic to your lilac nails.
- Mandala Patterns: These intricate designs can look stunning on a lilac backdrop, especially in white or metallics.
- Twin Tones: Combine lilac with another pastel shade, like mint or peach, in diagonal, vertical, or horizontal partitions for a fresh and modern look.
Lilac is a gorgeous canvas for many designs, from the simple and subtle to the intricate and eye-catching. Experiment a little, and don’t be afraid to get creative; lilac is a forgiving shade that pairs well with many designs. So grab your tools and get painting!
10 Tips To Make Lilac Polish Last Longer In 2023!
- Proper Prep: Start with clean, dry nails. Remove any old polish and swipe your nails with some acetone or alcohol to remove any oils interfering with your polish adhering correctly.
- Base Coat: Take this step; a good base coat protects your nails from staining and provides a smooth canvas for your color, helping it to adhere better.
- Thin Coats: Apply your lilac polish in thin, even layers. This allows each coat to dry correctly, reducing the risk of dents or smudges. Two thin coats are generally better than one thick one.
- Cap the Edge: Run the brush along the tip of your nail after applying each coat. This seals the edge and helps to prevent chips.
- Top Coat: A good top coat is your best friend when it comes to extending the life of your mani. Some even contain UV inhibitors that prevent color fading.
- Quick-Dry Sprays/Oils: If you’re impatient like me, a quick-dry spray or oil can speed up the drying process and add another layer of protection.
- Avoid Water: Keep your hands out of water for at least a few hours post-manicure. Soaking nails can cause the polish to lift. Use gloves when doing dishes or cleaning to further protect your mani.
- Daily Maintenance: A thin layer of top coat every 2-3 days can extend the life of your manicure. Keep some cuticle oil handy; hydrated cuticles and nail beds are less prone to chipping.
- Be Mindful: Sometimes, the little things—like using your nails to open soda cans—chip away at your polish. Being a little extra careful can go a long way.
- Quality Matters: Investing in a quality polish can make all the difference. Cheap polishes may have a different staying power or pigmentation than their more expensive counterparts.
Check Out This Video On Lilac Nails
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! Lilac nails are far from a one-trick pony; you can jazz them up in many fun and elegant ways. Whether you’re into metallics, stripes, or even a bit of gemstone glitz, a lilac look is perfect for you. My personal fave? Lilac with gold tips—trust me, you’ll feel like you’re walking the red carpet whenever you wave hello. Remember, the key to a jaw-dropping mani is quality polish and patience. Don’t rush the drying time; good things come to those who wait! So, grab your favorite shade of lilac and get ready to unleash your inner nail artist. Happy painting!
Feature Image Photo @nailholic.studio via Instagram
