5 Subtle And Sweet Nail Ideas For Valentine's Day

You may be looking to book your nail appointment in anticipation of the day of love with a classic red and pink manicure in mind, but you might want to consider expressing your romantic side with a softer aesthetic than the bold, glittery hearts we typically associate with the holiday. After all, you never want to be too predictable, right? Something understated yet still festive could leave you surprisingly pleased come February 14, whether you're headed out for a big, romantic date or opt for a sweet and cozy night in.

Maybe you're head over heels for Valentine's Day, or perhaps you'd rather skip over the holiday completely. Either way, a sweet and subtle love-themed manicure mid-winter can be a lovely pick-me-up. From mini hearts and negative space to delicate cupids and unconventional Valentine's Day hues, there are a lot of creative avenues to take for the minimalist who isn't necessarily interested in a flashy manicure for Valentine's Day.

To incorporate classic Valentine's Day colors into your manicure in a new way, try a few unique swirls and swoops with some negative space — and perhaps a miniature, dainty heart or two. If you don't typically opt for longer nails, this may be the perfect occasion. And we have to say that we love festive jewelry, such as a heart ring, to complement a romantic set of nails.

If you aren't into traditional Valentine's Day colors, neutrals make for a beautifully subtle manicure that still stands well on its own. You'll want to include a symbol to represent the holiday to keep on theme, so take your pick from hearts, bows, arrows, doves, candy hearts, roses, or love letters for some extra romantic nail art. 

Incorporating an iconic messenger of love into your sweet and subtle Valentine's Day manicure is the perfect way to celebrate. You may initially be hesitant and want to veer far from any potentially tacky Valentine's Day symbolism, but a chic, minimalist nail design is just the way to go for this vibe.

Another option if you want to steer clear of bright reds, pinks, and purples is a delicate manicure featuring darker hues, like mini black hearts. An edgier version of sweet and subtle, this approach is festive yet versatile enough that you'll be able to continue rocking it after the holiday's over without looking like you're lingering on it.

For a subtle version of classic Valentine's Day nails, try heart-themed tips on a neutral base. Square, almond, round — festive red and white tips add just a hint of joyful allure to your mid-winter manicure and are sure to turn heads. We recommend some dainty rings to complement your beautifully subtle V-Day manicure.