Coffin nails, also known as “ballerina nails,” are one of the more popular nail shapes in the mani world — for good reason. Not only do they look great and evoke the square-shaped tips of the ’90s and early 2000s (remember Britney Spears’ mani in her Toxic video?), but the lengthy tapered shape provides plenty of space for polish, art, charms, and designs. Why do you think nail art aficionados like Kylie Jenner and Cardi B are such fans of the shape?
In terms of achieving the look, experts generally advise keeping your nails long when sporting coffin nails. That’s because the length helps to distinguish the tapered ends, Rebecca Ludwig, professional nail artist and ManiMe nail artist community member, previously told Bustle. Otherwise, your nails could end up looking more like squares than coffins.
Longer nails also mean there’s room for nail art, and now that it’s summer, there are lots of colorful coffin-shaped styles to sport. “We’re seeing a comeback of Y2K fashion,” says celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann. Thus, she points to soft shades like periwinkle and shimmery turquoise (like her line’s The Woman in The Moon and Galaxy Far Far Away, respectively) as summer 2022 nail colors that pair well with an early aughts-inspired aesthetic.
With that in mind, read on for 14 summer coffin nail ideas perfect for lounging poolside.
1Neon Ombré
Channel long summer days with show-stopping sunset-inspired nails. In this case, orange is the new pink and works perfectly for a seasonal ombré design.
2Blue Skies
Celebrate the crystal clear blue skies of summer with something like this adorable sky scene on your mani. All you’ll need is a royal blue base and hand-drawn white clouds.
3Rhinestone-Studded French Tips
Chrome Hearts-esque cross nail designs are in style, so this summer, you can combine two Y2K-inspired trends in one: Recreate a classic chunky French manicure and adorn it with charms, gems, or an embellishment of your choosing.
4Chrome Turquoise
According to Lippman, turquoise is set to be one of the biggest nail colors of summer 2022. So why not be a pioneer of the playful hue and rock it with a chrome finish as 3D accents on your nail beds?
5Framed French Tips
This outlined pastel French mani is another ideal option for when you can’t choose just one color or finish. The eclectic look combines both sheer and matte colors for the ultimate Y2K aesthetic that looks perfect on coffin-shaped tips.
6Milky Mood
If you prefer a more minimalist mani, opt for a delicate milky hue. You can easily make the simple base more eye-catching with a sprinkle of jewels.
7Fruit Platter
Take inspo from a fruit platter and adorn your coffin nails with detailed drawings of oranges, berries, and apples (or whatever your faves may be) for a mani that screams summer.
8Skittles Style
Can’t choose one color? Not a problem. Recreate the rainbow, and paint each nail a different bright pigment for the ultimate summer set.
9Maximalist Tips
This coffin manicure proves that more is more: Mix and match different trendy nail designs — like yin-yang, checkerboard print, and florals — for a standout mani.
10Rose Quartz
You could also consider a rose quartz pattern for your coffin-shaped mani. The gorgeous combo of white and pink hues will look stunning with a summer wardrobe.
11Mermaid-Inspired
Channel all the mermaid vibes with trendy sheer turquoise, adorned with glitter and sea-inspired 3D gems.
12Lilac Vibes
Lippmann also sees lilac as a major nail polish trend this season. This coffin mani showcases the shade with a funky combo of florals, swirls, and glitter stripes for a playful yet chic nail set.
13Delicate Daisies
This minimalist mani is simple yet totally seasonal with its neutral base and delicately drawn daisies that provide a summery twist.
14Sunny Saffron
Saffron is so striking it doesn’t even need a design on it in order to make a pop. Simply paint your coffin nails this bold shade and you’re good to go (to the beach).
