NailsPublished: January 19, 2025
Published by Riomarcely Rodriguez
When it comes to classic nail colors, the first that probably comes to mind—besides neutrals and soft pinks—is red. But every now and then, it’s nice to switch things up just a little, which is where mixing red nail polish with another timeless favorite, the French manicure, comes in.
Depending on the shade and shape, they can give off so many different aesthetics. A cherry red feels romantic, while brighter shades have more of a carefree feel. For those who can’t resist a little extra, red French tip nails work so well alongside gold accents, little gems, or even 3D accents—all three of which are everywhere right now. It also goes without saying that red can bring out the best in complementary tones like pink and contrasting ones like blue.
It’s proof that sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest impact. Below, see 12 of our favorite red French tip nails to try now and forever.
1. Tip the Scales
The French manicure above is as simple as it gets. Cherry-colored tips over a nude base give the traditional look a tiny update, which can be recreated using OPI’s Big Apple Red. For a slightly darker iteration, go with a wine red or berry tone.
2. Holiday Tipped
Red French tips on acrylic nails are such a stunner no matter the time of year. Especially on almond nails, the red-pink contrast really stands out just enough without being in your face. A glossy top coat completes the otherwise simple look—no extra frills required.
3. Seeing Double
Katie Lockett’s double French tips are a little remix on tradition. Two red arcs running parallel prove there’s no such thing as too much of a good thing while flipping the arcs toward the cuticle—hello, reverse French tips—gives the look an entirely fresh spin.
4. Petal Pushers
Another foolproof way to take a classic red French tip up a notch is by adding 3D accents. In this particular instance, pink daises of varying sizes make for a spring-appropriate design. It’s easy to achieve, too: You’ll need a nail stamp, a steady hand for touch-ups, and a few floral appliques to seal the deal.
5. Burning Desire
If you’re thinking of ways to turn up the heat on your nails, flames are certainly one direction to go. Plus, dialing it back is totally an option. The manicure above reserved the flames for an accent nail, letting the French tips do their thing.
6. Star Power
Gold accents always bring out the best in red, especially for a Valentine’s Day or special occasion-worthy manicure. Tiny gold stars sprinkled across the nails, for example, tie everything together in the cutest way possible.
7. Cherry On Top
If you love 3D nail art, the French manicure pictured here has it all—bows, pearls, and glittering cherries to bring out the fun in an already bright red on long square nails. Though heavily decorated nails might not work for everything (or everyone), you can’t argue with how fun they are.
8. Golden Ticket
If a full gold manicure feels like too much, start small with outlines and scattered star accents. The design here feels like a welcoming departure from standard French tips, with abstract blocks of color being introduced as a creative alternative. That being said, they’d be right at home for festive occasions like Christmas or Chinese New Year.
9. Rough Around the Redges
Textures have entered the chat. With 3D red tips that trail down the sides for an elongated effect, the design transforms what might’ve felt a bit plain otherwise. Oh, and they’re wrapped in a high-gloss coat.
10. Love Struck
Who knew flames could look this good? Sculpted into a heart, the accent nail delivers all the heat. Elsewhere, the red French tips are balanced by a rhinestone just above the cuticle. It more or less proves a single color palette can still make a statement.
11. Petals and Gems
Floral accents that literally look like tiny jewels are a brilliant way to spruce up any manicure. Nail artist Victoria Houllis gave red French tips a glamorous spin with rhinestones shaped into daisies. It’s something you can easily do at home with a little time and patience.
12. Astral Accent
Chrome thrives on attention, even in small doses. Just take a look at the red French tips here shimmer with golden stars, each arranged in various shapes and positions to give each nail its moment.
Published by Riomarcely Rodriguez
