A plethora of decisions need to be made to curate that dream bridal look. Sure, the wedding lehenga takes the biggest piece of the pie, but it’s the little things that make or break your look. From the accessories to the makeup, everything is just as important. But one that you shouldn’t overlook? Nails. Though it might seem like a simple detail, it plays a pivotal role in elevating your attire and your pictures. Your bridal nails will not only add flair to your glam but it will also give a serious spotlight to two important aspects—your engagement ring and your bridal mehndi.
For years, metallic nails and French tips have been a go-to for brides. But your wedding nails are the perfect channel to get creative. Let your little nail beds become canvases for nail artist to create masterpieces. You can consider weaving in details that are special and sentimental to you. Personalise as you please, whether via your initials, favourite motifs or colour. Or you use it as an opportunity to let your personality shine. Want to go demure? Sure! Want to be extra? Why not. From statement blooms and graphic patterns, to mixed media designs and intricately ornamented nails, the choices are endless. The best part is you can switch them up for each outfit and each event.
In an exclusive with Khush, we got two manicurists, who has expertly sculpted, painted, and filed the nails of high-profile stars, to draw up stunning styles so you can polish up your bridal nail game.
Mehndi
For pre-wedding nails, Sharmila Thanki, founder and director of Tip & Top Nails Lashes & Brows, encourages brides to have fun with nails. “From colours to shapes, don’t shy away from letting your style shine through your nails. I love Polka Dots—ask your manicurist to create simple and chic designs with polka dots using a dotting tool. Stripes are big too—you can achieve clean and stylish lines with striping tape or freehand painting.”
Brides can also draw inspiration from the vibrant yellow palette, which is often a bride’s go-to for the mehndi. Up the ante with a gold leaf paper base topped off with romantic hand-painted blooms. “Realism in nail art has started picking up, and it’s a style I believe we will see more brides exploring with,” shares Sharmila.
Sangeet
Go for simple, clean manicures like a classic French manicure and soft shades with an unexpected twist here and there if you prefer something low-key to balance a KiraKira-friendly outfit. “Light pink is having a moment this season. Go for an Almond French nail,” predicts Sharmila. For a sangeet soirée, gorgeous off-white nails with 3D gold lunettes are winning choice too.
“If you want to be extra, as I urges brides to be—it’s your wedding day, after all, go for it! Intricately ornamented bridal nails with sequins, crystals and pearls are great. I love a matte finish too. You can also ask your nail artist to dream up a gradient manicure, creating a smooth ombré-like effect from pinky to thumb. Or blend two or more nail polish colours to create a gradient effect,” adds Sharmila.
Wedding
“For a bride wearing a red lehenga or sari, we recommend red polish with gold glitter and stone work nail art. Applying red polish on all ten nails or all ten nails with gold glitter might be too much. Therefore, a combination of some nails with red polish, some with glitter, and two nails with stone work nail art would look elegant and balanced. Or go for a muted palette with a touch of glitter,” shares Neelam of Looks Salon.
The staying power of the French manicure is undeniable. In 2024, it has spawned into dozens of different colourful designs, but with the same timeless DNA. If you’re a bride going traditional with your wedding look like a Benarasi sari, you’ll love the fresh take on the classic French manicure with a 1920s-inspired inverted update. If the sari is in a metallic palette, opt for a metallic paint too. Jewellery on nails will also be big in the upcoming wedding season, including real gemstones, solid gold embellishments and diamonds.
Reception
“For a bride wearing a pastel lehenga or sari, options such as red, pink, nude, nude pink, marbled French manicure, ombre nails, or unicorn chrome with a touch of glitter can be considered. This ensures a bridal look that isn’t overly heavy. These types of nails are versatile and can be carried off by anyone,” suggests Neelam.
“When it comes to shapes, Coffin, Round and Almond will be big this season,” she adds. She also points towards infusing the nails with a confetti blast for a formal occasion like the reception or cocktail party if wearing a classic gown in a solid shade. Think a French manicure in a pop colour sprinkled with a metallic lining. In contrast to this low-key look, there will be a wave for textured nails and more versions of 3D nails in 2025.
