The tight buns, the dainty shoes, the tulle skirts: Ballet has long served as a source of style inspiration, thanks to the elegance and grace we associate with the art form. And that inspiration flows all the way down to the fingertips.
Balletcore for your nails goes beyond the popular essie shade (though we love that one, too): It’s about embracing all things airy, delicate, and (usually) pink but making it personal. Ballet, like any other art form, is versatile. You can dive into the gothic romance of the Black Swan or the sweet enchantment of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Just use the dreamy hues and soft bows as a starting point for creating the look you want. Scroll on for 14 of our favorite balletcore nail ideas.
Make Your Pointe
These pointe-inspired tips are a spot-on interpretation of the trend. Consider switching things up and opting for soft pink tips to add dimension.
Ballerina Barbie
This matte-metallic manicure with shimmering cuticle accents is completely alluring. Take the hot pink sparkles all the way up the side of your nails for added drama, or stick to the traditional half-moon.
Peachy Keen
We love the subtle touch of glitter and peachy undertones of this soft pink manicure. For this set, creator Anna used Olive Ave Polish in the shade Blossom ($12).
Shine On
Layers of pink polish make this set sweeter than your average French manicure. With the addition of glitter tips, this mani is perfect for those looking to do balletcore the maximalist way.
Tippy Toes
The tips of this set immediately make us think of pointe shoes, so, of course, they caught our attention. Not ready to join the corps de ballet just yet? This design is a great way to tip-toe your way into the trend.
Sugar Plum Fairy
The smattering of fine fairy dust on these nails evokes “The Nutcracker” and the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy, and the glossy finish is reminiscent of dance tights. Taken together, we think this would make a gorgeous and understated holiday mani.
There’s No Place Like Chrome
Dance your way into balletcore with this baby pink chrome set. Hard on your hands? Request an extra layer of base gel before the top coat to avoid chips and cracks.
Peep Show
Dainty details make this delicate design lively and engaging. The repetition of the bows creates symmetry, and the hand-painted lace adds a pretty touch.
Take the Lead
This calming color whispers prima ballerina. It appears taupe in some lighting and mauve in others, but in every environment, it conveys luxury.
Give Me Everything
Squiggles, bows, pearls, and classic French tips: This set piles on everything balletcore in the best possible way. Plus, we love how the sharp white lines and 3D gel accents make us think of choreography.
Sugar and… Sugar
Sugary glitter screams winter solstice and brings gauzy trims to mind. This is the perfect balletcore mani to take you into the colder months.
Simple and Clean
The slightly cool-toned beige base of this manicure anchors the creamy geometric accent. It tells a simple but beautiful story (and proves minimalists can easily join in on this trend).
Tied With a Bow
Celebrity nail artist Diem Truong created this square milky mani—topped off with a balletcore-friendly bow—for Byrdie cover star Arden Cho.
