26 Simple Nail Ideas to Save for Later
Sometimes, less really is more. Simple nail designs are clean, effortlessly stylish and perfect for those times when you want a set that looks put together without doing too much.
And simple definitely doesn’t mean plain or boring. From neutral nails and soft sheer shades to delicate French tips, glazed finishes and minimal nail art, there are SO many ways to keep things simple while still making your nails feel special.
Whether you’re a nail tech looking for fresh nail inspiration, or you’re searching for simple nail ideas to take to your next appointment, we’ve rounded up 26 simple nail designs worth saving. Expect everything from easy nail art and minimalist designs to subtle details that can make even the simplest set stand out.
Ready for some new nail inspo? Keep scrolling for 26 simple nail designs to inspire your next set 👇
P.S. See a design you love? Learn how to create it inside NTO’s Members Club, with tonnes of exclusive tutorials from industry leaders.
Micro Dots
Fancy some minimal nail art? This green micro dot set is giving us allll the inspo this January.
Tortie Tips
Simple but stunning, this tortie French tip is perfect for a low-key new year set.
Glazed Chrome
We can’t do a simple nails roundup without including a glazed chrome. It’s timeless, chic and a go-to for a simple nail look.
Silver Spiral Nail Art
Silver dots and spirals = instant January chic.
Nude French Tip
Nothing says fresh start like a barely-there nude French.
Glazed Polka Dots
Soft, shiny and dotted with detail — glazed polka dots just hit different.
Micro Black Polka Dots
A fresh mani, a fresh month. Try tiny black dots for a sleek and minimal set.
Cloud Croc
We’re living for these chic white croc nails. It’s almost a mix between croc print and fluffy clouds.
Plain n Simple
Sometimes there’s just nothing like a super sheer manicure. Think your nails but better.
Silver Polka Dots
Say yes to mini metallic dots this January.
Silver Cuffs
These silver cuffs are a total 10 out of 10.
Metallic Waves
It’s giving metallic waves, it’s giving minimal. We’re loving this set.
Tortie Tips
Subtle but stunning, these tortie tips are showing us how simple nails are done.
Sparkly French
A subtle shimmer french tip is a go-to this January. Consider us inspired.
Silver Detailing
Keep things understated this month with silver detailing on just one nail.
Micro French
Micro french tips and January just go hand in hand. We don’t make the rules!
Simple Sheer
Say yes to neutral nails allllll month long. We love this shade.
Pearly Chrome
This pearly chrome finish is never going out of style, thank goodness.
Chocolate Tips
Mix up your frenchies and go chocolate brown for the slow season.
Teeny Tiny French Tip
Yep, we’ve found it! We’ve found our inspo for our next appointment. These tiny frenchies are *chefs kiss*.
Neutral Tips
We’re loving the simple vibe of this set. Recreating immediately.
Chrome French
Put a twist on your French tip and add a swipe of chrome, you won’t regret it.
Your Nails But Better
Introducing the definition of less is more. It’s a YES from us.
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