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The first date can be a complex thing. It’s your chance to check for chemistry, note red flags and make a real first impression, and we all know that nailing the look is a huge part of how the night will go. But what about nailing your nails? These days, an outfit isn’t complete without a manicure, and your first date nails have to bring it all together. Below, we get expert advice from a celebrity manicurist and explore the endless world of options for your first date mani inspiration.
What Are First Date Nails?
Not a trend in itself, we’re searching for first date nails not because we already have a style or look in mind. Instead, we want inspiration. Your first date nail look has a ton to do with your personality, what you want to say, and even where you’re going.
“I think this is a great time to get trendy and have fun if that’s your thing,” says celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec. “Be true to yourself, though. If you’re a classic girls-girl, there’s nothing wrong with putting that forward on your first date.”
As far as events go, the first date is playful enough for trendyfruit nails or matching your mani to your cocktail. And if you choose to go classic, elegant or extravagant, that can actually say a lot about what kind of person you might be like to date.
What Your Nails Say About You
“If you know that you’re extra, that you love 3D charms and jewels and going the extra mile, showing that on a first date can be a way of saying like, you know what you’re getting into,” Kandalec jokes. “You say a lot without words already, like if someone is wearing a Rolex versus a Fitbit, you know? Nails are the same way.”
Fruit nails might communicate a trendy free spirit, little snails and adorable garden nails might say you’re more laidback and fun. On the other hand, a clean French tip or simple nude polish can communicate grace and elegance.
“If you’re someone that flies by the seat of their pants and is always doing something new, going bigger with your nails in shape, like a long coffin shape, or in design, like chains and charms, says that sort of thing without you ever having to tell your date that you’re a free spirit,” Kandalec says.
First Date Nails Inspiration
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An Aura About You
Put your best aura forward with this trendy take on airbrush nails and set the vibe for your first date.
@julieknailsnyc
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Fresh and Fruity
If you’re head over heels for trendy nail looks, your first date is the perfect time to get playful.
IG bostonsnailsandspa
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Basic doesn’t mean boring with this set of chromatic nails that bring a glam edge to any first date.
Static Nails
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Rainbow French Tip
Perfect for an outdoor first date on a sunny day, capture the rainbow on your nails while keeping a refined and glamorous look.
@julieknailsnyc
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Rose Quartz Stiletto
If drama is your game, then stiletto is your shape.
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Feeling trendy? Butter yellow has taken the world by storm, and the understated but summery color is perfect for any mood.
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Shot Through the Heart
Is the chemistry overwhelming? This set of bright red heart nails says you’re a lover, not a fighter…unless you need to fight for love!
@julieknailsnyc
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Femme Fatale
A classic red manicure is an all-time favorite for a reason.
@julieknailsnyc
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Turn Up the Heat
Take red up a level with this adorable flame French tip manicure and let your date know you’re a fiery one!
IG: rachelsuenails
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Grab the perfect red for your first date with this rich candy apple color from essie.
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High Energy Groovy
The ’70s are back in a major way, and if you’re into color and abstract designs, this is the perfect way to take your first date to the disco.
@julieknailsnyc
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Blueberry milk, anyone? From big name trend to new neutral favorite, this shade of baby blue is flattering on everyone.
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Garden Party
Still reeling from Season 3? These Bridgerton-inspired nails perfectly capture all that we love about the show.
@julieknailsnyc
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Drama Queen
If you’re happy to admit that your standards are high and your taste for statement-making looks even higher, this chain manicure is perfect for you.
@julieknailsnyc
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Upscale Glitz
Gatsby called, he loves your nails.
@julieknailsnyc
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Embrace elegance with this gorgeous set of nude French tip press-ons.
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Neon Bright
Let your nails be as bright as you are!
@julieknailsnyc
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Take a dip in crystal waters and embrace your summer vibe with this bright turquoise. It’ll have your date ready to dive in!
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Polka Hearted
Want to hint at romance without going full Valentines? Try mixing up your color with this adorable set of blue heart nails.
