Okay babe dont even judge me but Ive been completely obsessed with new york nails lately and I swear its not just because Im planning a trip there next year (okay maybe a little). Like I love the city so much even though Ive only been once but that energy?? The skyline the taxis the whole vibe just screams cool and I needed it on my fingers asap.
New york nails are basically the coolest way to fake that big city energy even when youre just grabbing coffee in your hometown.
I obviously spent an embarrassing amount of time on Pinterest (what else is new) saving every single new york nail design that made me feel like I was walking down fifth avenue. Some of these are so perfectly NYC I get genuinely excited just scrolling through my saves. So if youre also ready to channel your inner city girl and want nails that make people go “wait are you from New York??” even when youre not here are the new york nails that are currently taking over my life and making everyone around me want to book flights.
Also quick stories because you know I love the tea: I wore the skyline ones to my friends going away party last month (she was moving to Brooklyn of all places) and everyone kept grabbing my hands to look at the tiny buildings and it was honestly the perfect send-off vibe. Another time I had the taxi yellow and black when I went to a rooftop bar here and this random guy literally stopped me to say “your nails are so New York” and we ended up chatting about the city for twenty minutes even though Ive barely been there.
10 New York Nails That Are Total City Vibes
Black Nails with White NYC Skyline Art
This white skyline on black is actual perfection. The tiny buildings look so crisp and iconic against the dark base.
Nails with Tiny Statue of Liberty Outline
Tiny Lady Liberty outline is genius. These are subtle but everyone knows exactly what it is.
Midnight Blue Nails with Glitter City Lights
Midnight blue with glitter “city lights” is giving major night skyline energy.
White Nails with Black “NYC” Lettering
Simple black “NYC” on white base is clean but bold.
Chrome Silver Nails with Skyscraper Silhouette
Silver chrome with black skyscraper silhouette is giving major Manhattan luxury.
Black and Yellow Nails Inspired by NYC Taxi Colors
Black and yellow taxi vibes are too fun.
Clear Nails with Mini New York Landmark Stickers
Mini landmarks on clear base look like theyre floating. These are light and perfect for summer or when you want something different. The transparent background makes them great for any season.
Graffiti-Style Nails with Colorful NYC Art
Colorful graffiti style with NYC elements is giving major street art energy. These feel artistic and cool like actual subway murals. My nail tech freehanded everything and I was obsessed watching her.
Skyline Ombre Nails with City Lights Glow
Ombre from dark to light with skyline and glitter lights is actual night city magic. These change depending on the lighting and look so realistic. Perfect for when you want the full NYC skyline vibe.
Black Nails with Gold Brooklyn Bridge Design
Gold Brooklyn Bridge on black nails is giving luxury city energy. The detail on the bridge is insane and looks so elegant. My favorite when I want something iconic but still classy.
New York Nails Questions I Get Asked All the Time
Are new york nails too themed for everyday? Kinda but thats why I love them! The simpler versions with just skyline silhouette or lettering are totally wearable though Ive been rocking them to work and nobody says anything they just think theyre cool.
Do new york nails look good on short nails? Yes absolutely! The smaller designs like lettering or tiny landmarks actually look better on shorter lengths. You dont need tons of space for the city vibe to come through.
What colors work best for new york nails? Black white silver and yellow are classic city vibes. Add glitter or chrome for that extra NYC sparkle but darker bases make the details pop more.
When is the best time for new york nails? Anytime you want to feel cool babe but especially when youre planning a trip or just missing the city. Ive been wearing them in winter and they still look fresh with holiday lights energy.
So yeah thats my current new york nails obsession in one very city post. If youre still doing plain colors youre honestly missing out these make you feel like youre walking down fifth avenue even when youre just running errands. Go get yourself some big apple energy on your fingers and thank me later besties.
Just a little note - some of the links on here may be affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you decide to shop through them (at no extra cost to you!). I only post content which I'm truly enthusiastic about and would suggest to others.
And as you know, I seriously love seeing your takes on the looks and ideas on here - that means the world to me! If you recreate something, please share it here in the comments or feel free to send me a pic. I'm always excited to meet y'all! ✨🤍
Xoxo Isabella
