"Typically, I stray away from nail art. I’ve rocked blob-like designs that were supposed to actually be flowers enough times to know that a solid color is a much safer bet to request in the nail salon. That is, until I stumbled across aura nails on TikTok—and they have a stronger grip on me than the Hailey Bieber’s chrome nails did in 2022.
If you’ve found yourself panic-googling “cheap Mother’s Day gifts” at the eleventh hour, CVS has a lineup of under-$25 gifts that are thoughtful, cute, and look way more expensive than they actually are.
Aura nails are a style of nail art that blends together multiple colors to create a glow-like gradient. Think: ombré nails, but rather than fading from top to bottom, they blend from the center, outward. Aptly named, they give an ethereal effect that’s reminiscent of an aura energy field. While the style began trending in 2023, given the endless quantity of color options and combinations you can incorporate into them, they don’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.
If you’re on the hunt for inspiration for your next manicure, these 17 aura nail ideas are calling your name. More of a DIY manicure girl? Fear not—we also included everything you need to create aura nails at home.
1. Pink & Purple Aura Nails
Looking for elevated bubblegum vibes for your next mani? Look no further than these aura nails. This set is eye-catching and fun with the ultimate girly color combination.
2. Sunrise Aura Nails
These nails embody the unbeatable views of a gorgeous sunrise on the beach to a T.
3. Barbie Pink Aura Nails
This design gives off the ultimate Barbie aura with its bright pink hues.
4. Dark Blue Aura Nails
Classic cobalt blue nails get an ethereal makeover with this stunning design.
5. Orange Aura Nails
This aura design is great for anyone who wants to channel fiery energy this summer (or anyone who wants to match their nails to their Aperol Spritz).
6. Black Aura Nails with Silver Outline
This edgy aura style would pair perfectly with a night out on the town in a LBD and heels.
7. Pink Aura Nails with Stars
For the girls who love a bit of sparkle, these aura nails are taken up a notch by incorporating subtle stars.
8. Multicolored Aura Nails
Colorful and bright, this aura nail design incorporates all of the warm shades of summer.
9. Jade Green Aura Nails
These aura nails have a more subtle gradient that’s perfect for anyone looking to dip their toe into the design.
10. Blush Pink Aura Nails with Gold Stars
For a more neutral aura nail look, try these blush pink tones with an added gold star for a whimsical touch.
11. Pink Lemonade Aura Nails
If there ever were the perfect spring manicure, it’s these pink lemonade-inspired aura nails.
12. Seashell Aura Nails
Capture the vibes of summer on the coast with these seashell aura nails.
13. Ocean Blue Aura Nails
Blue skies are ahead with these stunning blue aura nails that fade from cobalt to sky blue.
14. Dark Green Aura Nails
This subtle aura design will take your next green manicure up a notch.
15. Multicolor Chrome Aura Nails
In the mood for a pop of color? These multicolor chrome aura nails are calling your name.
16. Dusk Aura Nails
This dark plum and pink blend gives the ultimate moody aura.
17. Watermelon Aura Nails
These subtle, pink aura nails look exactly like watermelon slices thanks to their green French tips.
How to Do Your Own Aura Nails
More of DIY nail person? With the right tools and techniques, aura nails are achievable at home. Before you start, you’ll need your polish colors of choice, a basic makeup sponge, a nail brush, nail polish remover, and a top coat.
After you’ve gathered your materials, paint a solid-colored base coat onto your nails. Then, paint your next shade into a bullseye pattern onto the makeup sponge. Blot the sponge onto the nail until the shades are blended. This technique can get a little messy, so once you’re done, clean the edges with your nail polish remover and a Q-tip. Finish the look off with a shiny top coat for longer wear.
Isabella Kicklighter, Former Editorial Assistant
As an Editorial Assistant at The Everygirl, Isabella provides support to the editorial team, contributing to content creation across an array of topics from lifestyle, beauty, and wellness to career and finance. Isabella undertakes various responsibilities such as writing and revising content, sourcing images, and assisting in collecting all necessary materials needed for stories.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.