28 Chinese New Year nail inspirations and where to get them

With Chinese New Year right around the corner, everyone is getting into the mood for celebration.

Most of us are getting our hands tied with sprucing up our homes, while others are busy refreshing their wardrobes and primping their hair. On top of that, you’re also probably looking to get your digits done to go with your outfit.

To help you look ready for the Lunar New Year, we’ve gathered a ton of Chinese New Year nail looks for some much-needed inspiration.

You’ll want to stay with us till the end of the article too, because we’ve got the best nail salons for you to check out!

Related read: 8 nail salons that are skipping CNY surcharges – enjoy pampering treatments and affordable gel manicures

Chinese New Year nail designs: Adorable rabbits

Announce the Year of the Rabbit loud and proud with your new set of bunny nails. We’ve got

Peachy Miffy

The adorable character makes an appearance in this peachy design. Coupled with chubby carrots, this matte manicure is one we’ll be sporting long after Chinese New Year.

White rabbit

If you’re not one for reds and oranges, consider this ivory design that’s a little reminiscent of Christmas. Pair a cosy sweater texture with mini pearls for an elegant bunny design.

Seeing red

This classic red manicure sees an unexpected rabbit sitting at the tips of one of your fingers. The minimal design will make your friends and family take a second look at your digits. Give the red polish a sliver of silver or gold polish for an opulent look.

Chinese New Year nail designs: Auspicious red

Just like a red lip, a red mani is a power statement. We love a classic, glossy red polish, but with the addition of elaborate nail jewels or just a touch of gold, you can take your Chinese New Year nail designs to the next level.

A touch of gold

The metallic gold foil adds an edge to a crimson red Chinese New Year nail design.

Metallic moons

Amplify a bold red base colour with metallic moons at the base. Go for a gold sparkly colour like one of these, if you’re feeling fancy.

Red marbled nails

Marbling always looks chic on the nails, so why not go maroon to rev up the sophistication of your Chinese New Year nail design?

Cartoon nails

White details give your nails a 3D effect, so you can channel your inner Betty Boop with this cartoonish design.

Cherry bomb

Upgrade a bare or sheer nail look with the addition of ultra-cute cherries.

Kisses aplenty

Celebrate both the Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day with mini smooch patterns on your digits.

Tiger stripes

This bold, striped Chinese New Year nail design is sure to please the tiger moms out there.

Turn up the heat

This red flame manicure is sure to turn heads.

Chinese New Year nail designs: Pretty in pink

From a classic pink-and-white French mani to bold magenta nail art and everything in-between, a pink manicure knows no limits.

Whether you’re looking for something super simple or eye-catching and extravagant, Instagram is serving up some serious Chinese New Year nail design inspo.

The silver lining

Touches of silver foil lend a modern edge to a feminine pink manicure.

Wispy pink

In some alternate universe, we hope the skies are pretty in pink, like this stunning marbled manicure with tinges of wispy white.

Red accents

Why choose just one colour when there’s more fun to be had with two? Here’s a clever way to incorporate hints of red in your nails alongside a neutral pink.

A pop of neon

What’s better than a traditional pink and white french mani? A pop of neon orange, that’s what.

Seeing hearts

Hearts aren’t only just for Valentine’s Day. You can wear a romantic mani during CNY and all year long with this pink-based, heart-tipped look.

Ombre pink and gold

You can never go wrong with gold speckles, especially if it’s on an ombre pink manicure.

Flower power

We’re all for this pastel manicure with floral details. This look is subtle and oh-so-dreamy.

Chinese New Year nail designs: Zesty yellow and orange

There’s nothing like a bright burst of citrus to boost our mood and brighten our day. Check out these zesty nail designs that’ll put a spring in your step whenever you glance down at them.

Tangerine dream

Opt for a clear base and zest it up with bright tangerines.

Orange you glad?

Get your daily dose of vitamin C with this fruity manicure.

’70s-inspired florals

You might not have grown up in the ’70s, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the Woodstock vibes to your fingers.

Peachy keen

Whether you’re more into the fruit or the emoji, you can’t go wrong with these peach-inspired nails.

Between the creamy, peachy base and the bold floral art – what’s not to love?

Chinese New Year nail designs: Jade nails

Since it’s associated with the heart chakra, jade is believed to treat stress, anxiety, and improve blood circulation. This is why we’re seeing more jade nails circulating on the ‘gram – even Rihanna’s into it!

If you’re not one for a red or pink manicure Chinese New Year nail design, you’ll want to check out these creations ahead.

Add gold foil to the mix and you have an opulent take on the jade nail trend that surely won’t go unnoticed.

Jade and rose quartz

Adding a little rose quartz to the mix keeps this Chinese New Year nail design minty fresh.

Dark green nails

If you prefer a darker colour palette, consider these dark jade nails.

Crackled jade

These almond-shaped beauties look like purposefully shattered jade.

Green and gold

This stunning matte green Chinese New Year nail design is elevated with slivers of gold.

Where to get Chinese New Year nail designs in Singapore

The Nail Social

Singapore’s first socially-conscious nail salon, The Nail Social uses only non-toxic, eco-friendly, and fair-trade polishes that are safe for use on children and expectant mothers.

They also donate a portion of their proceeds to provide vocational training and employment for marginalised women – talk about style with a slice of altruism.

With iPads pre-loaded with movies, books, games, and podcasts as well as drinks, snacks, and a complimentary glass of wine for you to enjoy on Fridays and Saturdays, you’re in for a real pampering treat.

The prices for nail art varies depending on the design, so be sure to book in advance.

Address: 42A Haji Lane, Level 2, Singapore 189235 |
333 Kreta Ayer Road, #01-14, The Social Space, Singapore 080333
Contact: Find the full list of contact numbers on the website
Opening hours: View the opening hours on the website
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kiyone+LIM

Elaborate, whimsical hand-drawn creations are a speciality over at kiyone+LIM, with everything from water-coloured hues to milk cartons making an appearance on nails. It shares a space with 1tto+LIM, one of the trendiest Japanese hair salons in town.

These lovely nails don’t come cheap, though. Prices start at S$2 per nail for nail art designs and S$80 for a manicure by a junior nail artist, but we think it’s well worth it!

Address: 325 New Bridge Road, Level 3, Singapore 088760
Contact: 6834 3193
Opening hours: 10am – 9pm (Tue to Sat) | 10am – 6pm (Sun & PH) | Closed on Mon
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8Twenty8 Nails

Located right in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, 8Twenty8 Nails is a nail salon that offers delightfully Instagram-worthy Chinese New Year nail designs, from cracked marble to steel-tipped talons.

They also pride themselves on the little luxuries you can indulge in while getting your nails done, such as hydro-massages and premium Jacuzzi jet-basins to soak your nails in.

The prices for nail art vary depending on the design, so call up early to enquire.

Address: 50 Tras Street, #02-01, Singapore 078989
Contact: 6225 1828
Opening hours: 10am – 8pm (Mon to Fri) | 10.30am – 8pm (Sat) | Closed on Sun
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The Nail Artelier

Situated in the eclectic, vibrant Kampong Glam neighbourhood, right at the entrance of Haji Lane, lies The Nail Artelier. Dubbed an “art-centric” nail salon, you can expect beautiful masterpieces here. The salon’s customised nail art portfolio ranges from sweet florals to embellished offerings, so there’s something for everyone.

Nail art is priced at an additional S$3 per nail. Be sure to make an appointment soon – limited slots are often snapped up fast.

Address: 666 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188800
Contact: 6298 8028
Opening hours: 11am – 8pm (Mon – Sun)
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The Nail Artistry

An unassuming space with floor-to-ceiling windows, The Nail Artistry is furnished with plush seats and a huge TV screening the latest blockbuster.

The manicurists are flexible with requests, but be sure to check out the salon’s Instagram page for innovative and trendy designs. If you’re feeling peckish, there’s also a café on the premises that offers light bites such as bread, croissants and cakes, and coffee.

The Nail Artistry’s services start from S$20 for an Express Manicure.

Address: 27 East Coast Road, Singapore 428749 |
1 Maju Avenue, myVillage, #01-23, Singapore 556679
Contact: View the full list of contact numbers here
Opening hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon to Fri) | 10am – 9pm (Sat, Sun & PH)
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Manicurious

Specialising in intricate nail art designs, Manicurious is the parlour of choice for those in search of unique, one-of-a-kind nails. Think dizzying geometric patterns and hyper-realistic renderings of our favourite animations.

We also appreciate the soothing ambience comprising vintage-inspired armchairs, speciality teas, and a wide selection of magazines.

Manicurious’ services start from S$18 for an Express Manicure.

Address: 41 Beach Road, Singapore 189680
Contact: 6333 9096
Opening hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon to Sat) | 11am – 8pm (Sun) | 11am – 9pm (PH)
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Nails & Good Company

A nail spa that’s committed to providing socially responsible nail care services to their customers and the community, Nails & Good Company emphasises the use of less-toxic nail polish – something that is greatly overlooked.

Apart from gorgeous Chinese New Year nail designs, the salon also prides itself on implementing stringent hygiene practices to put your mind at ease.

Prices start from S$35 for an Express Manicure.

Address: 10 Tampines Central 1, Tampines One Shopping Mall, #05–K1, Singapore 529536
Contact: 6260 3889, 8634 8781
Opening hours: 11am – 9pm (Mon to Fri) | 10am – 8pm (Sat & Sun)
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