Fans of purple nails (and those on the hunt for a fresh, chic manicure shade), pay close attention—there's a new star on the nail color scene. Meet mauve—a soft yet captivating shade that perfectly bridges the delicate space between purple and pink.
Mauve nails, with their vintage vibe and sophisticated edge, are set to be a major hit at your next manicure appointment, matching everything from minimalist designs and French tips to elaborate 3D effects and ombré fades.
Need some inspo? Here’s a roundup of the best mauve nail ideas trending on social media.
1. Simple Swirls
Instagram/ @overglowedit
Imagine grape-tinted, lava lamp-style swirls over a sheer, jelly mauve base—it’s everything you could want for a playful yet chic look.
2. Crushed Velvet
Instagram/ @lolo.nailedit
Velvet-finish nails deserve a top spot here, as this opulent trend has completely taken over our social feeds. It’s pure luxury in a manicure.
3. Mauve Mismatch
Instagram/ @heygreatnails
Like a cozy glass of mulled wine, this multi-shade mauve and berry design blends rich tones into a modern, inviting look.
4. Block Print
Instagram/ @heygreatnails
For those who crave a bold look, color-blocked nails are the way to go. Here, mauve pairs beautifully with cream and maroon for a sharp, chic aesthetic.
5. Smooth and Smokey
Instagram/ @gotg0ld
Ready for a bit of mystery? Try a smokey gemstone mauve set that exudes sophistication with just the right amount of edge.
6. Mauve Jelly
Instagram/ @gelcare.official
Don't own a jelly polish? No worries—just mix your favorite mauve with a clear top coat, and you've created your own sheer, jelly finish.
7. Mauve Marbled
Instagram/ @melanated.mani
This look uses red and grape swirls to add depth, movement, and visual intrigue to a soft mauve manicure—perfect for anyone looking to make a statement.
8. Muted Tonals
Instagram/ @heluviee
Why choose one shade when you can have them all? Skittle nails combine mauve with tan, brown, and cream shades for a perfectly neutral look.
9. 24K Mani
Instagram/ @melanated.mani
Add a touch of art deco elegance with a gold foil accent. A simple triangular decal brings a luxurious twist to this minimalist mauve look.
10. Matte French
Instagram/ @aliciatnails
For a contemporary twist on the French manicure, extend the tip line slightly further down, finishing with a matte top coat to bring that extra flair.
11. Mauve Chrombré
Instagram/ @heygreatnails
Here’s a meet-cute between chrome and purple for an ombré effect. This look blends mauve, berry, and burgundy for a gorgeous autumn-to-winter transition.
12. On the Bullseye
Instagram/ @chalkboardnails
Use a dotting tool to create half circles on your nail, layering from light to dark with different mauve shades until reaching the center.
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