If there’s one thing we can’t get enough of heading into prom season, it’s the endless scroll of stunning nail colors and red carpet inspiration. While the dress gets most of the attention, the right set of prom nails 2025 can make your whole look feel complete.
Whether you’re going full glam or keeping it simple with a twist, these celebrity-inspired manis double as flawless prom nail ideas that’ll have you looking—and feeling—like Hollywood royalty.
From glitzy gems to sleek French tips and glossy neutrals, here’s your ultimate guide to the best prom nail designs—all inspired by red carpet legends.
1. Gigi Hadid’s Golden Star Tips
Gigi Hadid showed up glowing at the Met Gala 2025, and her nails were just as radiant. She wore a barely-there nude base with soft gold painted tips, making the classic french feel elevated and new again. It’s giving red carpet prom nails with a golden-hour glow. If your prom dress has any metallic detail, this is one of the best prom nail designs to match it.
2. Sabrina Carpenter’s Pink Glazed Glam
Sabrina Carpenter’s Grammy night nails were a dreamy blend of pink glaze and sparkle. Her long, pointed tips were finished with a glossy sheen and diamond accents, perfect for prom-ready nails that feel luxe yet playful. A go-to look for anyone loving trending prom nails with a glam twist.
3. Nicola Coughlan’s Crystal Sprinkle
Going for shimmer without going full sparkle? Nicola Coughlan’s sheer nude nails with scattered crystals strike that dreamy balance. Her manicurist, Michelle Class, placed dainty clear gems over a neutral-toned polish, letting the shine take center stage without overpowering. This one screams prom-ready nails for a formal, fairy-core look.
4. Jennifer Lopez’s Chartreuse Glam
Bold, bright, and unapologetic—J.Lo’s chartreuse manicure by Tom Bachik is not for the faint of heart. This high-impact shade breaks free from classic pinks and nudes, offering a fearless twist on trending prom nails. It’s a statement color made for the spotlight, and perfect for someone who's all about being unforgettable.
5. Lizzo’s Chrome Negative Space
Lizzo’s manicures are never boring—and her chrome-and-clear moment was a futuristic dream.Her nail artist, Eri Ishizu, used high-shine mirror powders for that metallic sheen. The sections of bare nail created contrast and made the chrome pop even more. It’s a creative, stylish pick for anyone into cute prom nail looks with a modern vibe.
6. Madelaine Petsch’s Polished Chrome Neutrals
Madelaine Petsch kept things classic with long, almond-shaped nails in a soft neutral pink. The finish was ultra-glossy, clean, and effortlessly elegant with chrome French tips. If you're leaning toward elegant prom nails that go with absolutely anything, this is your inspo. Simple, timeless, and seriously photogenic.
7. Rihanna’s Red Flame Tips
Nobody does bold quite like Rihanna. Her flame-shaped red French tips by Maria Salandra are fierce, fiery, and exactly what the best prom nail designs are made of. They're edgy without being too loud, and the shape works beautifully on almond or prom nails medium length.
8. Cardi B’s Alien Bubble Nails
Only Cardi B could make the alien-core look this fabulous. Her nails, designed by Mei Kawajiri, combine bright neons, 3D swirls, and glossy gel bubbles. It’s a work of art, and for prom-goers feeling bold, it’s a next-level red carpet prom nails moment.
9. Demi Moore’s Flaming Hot Nails
Demi Moore channeled pure elegance at the Met Gala 2025 with rich red nails shaped to a clean mid-length. The glossy finish gave them that mirror-like shine, making this look an instant classic for anyone wanting elegant prom nails that never go out of style.
10. Madelaine Petsch’s Red Cat Eye Nails
Bold and fiery, Madelaine’s long red cat eye manicure is pure drama. The magnetic finish gives that glowing, 3D effect that moves with the light. It's one of the most striking prom nail ideas this season—ideal for anyone channeling glam with an edge. Pair with black, red, or metallics for serious prom-ready nails energy.
11. Halle Bailey’s Monochrome Mani
At the Met Gala, Halle Bailey’s nails mixed monochrome tones with crystal accents—striking the perfect balance between timeless and trendy. The look effortlessly fused vintage-inspired elegance with bold, fashion-forward details that felt completely of-the-moment.
It was bold, elegant, and one of the most memorable prom nail art moments of the season. Ideal for someone who wants their nails to do just as much talking as their dress.
12. Kim Kardashian’s Creamy Nude Gloss
Kim kept it sleek at Met Gala 2025 with ultra-long nails in a creamy nude shade and a high-gloss finish. It’s the definition of clean, minimal glam—perfect if you want elegant prom nails that still feel luxe. A timeless choice that pairs with literally any dress.
Whether you’re feeling crystal sparkle, soft pinks, bold reds, or full-on chrome, these celeb-inspired styles prove that your mani deserves as much attention as your heels and hair. And the best part? All of these ideas work beautifully for prom nails medium length, too.
So go ahead—save your favorite, text it to your nail tech, and show up to prom glowing from fingertip to toe. Let your nails bring the prom nail ideas of 2025 straight to the spotlight—exactly where they belong.
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