A new school year is the perfect time for a fresh start—and a fresh set of nails. Whether you’re heading into high school or starting your final year, how you express yourself matters and your nails are just one fun way to do that.
In 2025, teen nail art is all about clean, creative and school-appropriate designs that let your personality shine without breaking the rules. If you’re looking for nail art for girls that balances fun with function, you’re in the right place.
Here are 10 trending school nail designs that are perfect for this back-to-school season.
1. Pastel French Tips
French tips are a timeless favorite, but this year, pastels are giving them a modern twist. Soft shades like lavender, mint green, peach or sky blue replace the traditional white tip, making your nails feel fresh without being flashy. They’re simple, pretty and go with everything in your wardrobe.
2. Notebook Doodle Nails
If you’re someone who’s always doodling in the margins of your notebook, why not bring that creativity to your nails? Think tiny drawings like stars, hearts or smiley faces on a neutral base. It’s playful, fun and makes a great conversation starter—especially when you’re meeting new classmates.
3. Checkerboard Patterns
Checkerboard nails are making a stylish comeback this year. You can go classic with black and white or mix it up with color combos that match your school or your mood. These designs are bold without being distracting, and they add an artsy edge to any look.
4. Minimalist Icons
If you like to keep things subtle, minimalist nail art is a great option. Tiny designs—like a pencil, flower, sun or moon—placed on a clear or nude base give your nails just the right touch of personality. They’re understated, stylish and totally school-friendly.
5. Glitter Accent Nails
Want to add a bit of sparkle without going overboard? Try painting most of your nails in a solid color and adding glitter to just one or two. It’s a low-key way to stand out and still stick to your school’s appearance guidelines. Soft pinks, greys or beiges paired with silver or rose gold glitter work especially well.
6. Emoji Nail Art
Emojis are still going strong in 2025 and they’re making their way onto nails. You can feature your favorite ones—like hearts, stars, cherries or smiley faces—on a light background. Keep the look fun but simple to make sure it stays appropriate for school.
7. Matte Finish
Matte nail polish has a smooth, modern look that’s super trendy right now. Choose colors like teal, mauve, navy or even olive for a cool and polished feel. Matte nails are great for school because they look stylish without being too shiny or loud.
8. Skittle Nails
If you can’t decide on one color, Skittle nails let you choose several. Each nail is painted a different color from the same palette—think pastels, soft neutrals or warm autumn tones. It’s a fun, easy way to add some color to your everyday school look.
9. Color Block Designs
Color block nails are bold, clean and very on-trend. Use two or three complementary colors to create simple shapes or split patterns across each nail. The result is modern and fun but still polished enough to wear every day. Think coral with grey, pink with white or navy and gold.
10. Tiny Stars and Moons
Celestial designs are still a big hit in 2025. Small stars, moons or constellation-inspired patterns look beautiful against deep blues, soft pinks or creamy nudes. These nails feel calm and elegant and they’re a great way to add a little magic to your everyday school outfit.
Tips for School-Ready Nails
Keep your nails short and tidy for a neat look that’s easy to maintain
Choose non-toxic or water-based polishes that are safe for regular use
A top coat will help your design last through classes, gym and everything in between
If your school has appearance rules, go for neutral shades with tiny accents to stay within limits
