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Once you’ve got her backpack, textbooks and first day of school outfits all picked out, there’s just one thing left: back-to-school nails! Sure, it’s not on any back to school shopping lists, but these cute nail styles are perfect for the family that loves to go the extra mile with these sorts of things. We promise, it’ll be worth it just to reminisce when looking back at old first day of school pictures.
Whether you’re the mother of a student, a teacher, work at the school or simply just an enthusiastic mom, these easy back-to-school nail art ideas will give you the inspiration for a the most festive nails on campus. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a nail art expert, these fun and colorful manicures are super easy to recreate. So grab your favorite fall nail colors and get to painting before the first day of school — because after all, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
Graph Paper
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Get excited for math class with these grid nails. Plotting graphs and functions never looked so chic.
SHOP GREEN NAIL POLISH
Smiley Faces
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There’s nothing better than getting a smiley face on your assignment. Channel that energy into bright yellow tips.
Very Hungry Caterpillar
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Everyone’s favorite Eric Carle book makes great nail art inspiration. Whether you’re teaching the metamorphosis process or just want a fun nail design, this look is perfect for back to school.
SHOP NAIL DETAIL BRUSHES
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Geometry Nails
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This geometric nail design is the perfect way to get students excited to learn about shapes.
SHOP GEOMETRIC NAIL STICKERS
Emotional Faces
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The start of a new school year can bring about a lot of different feelings. Let kids know all of them are valid with these emotive tips.
Superhero Slogans
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Comic books are a back-to-school essential. Make them super inspiring by adding phrases like "think big."
SHOP SUPERHERO NAIL STICKERS
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Dainty Stickers
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Nothing says back to school like plastering a new notebook in tons of expressive stickers. Turn your nails into a sticker collage by picking out your favorites.
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Astronomy Class
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Shoot for the stars — or at least, put them on your nails. Even if you can’t go on a field trip to the planetarium, you can make your fingers galactic.
SHOP PLANET NAIL STICKERS
Apple Red
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There’s no school symbol more iconic than an apple. Channel every teacher’s favorite fruit with deep red nails.
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Gold Stars
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Every student wants a gold star. Not only do these nails evoke feelings of a job well done, they also look sophisticated.
SHOP GOLD STAR NAIL STICKERS
Fruit Snacks
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Recess might be everyone’s favorite time of day, but snack time is a close second. These sweet nail designs look downright delicious.
SHOP FRUIT NAIL STICKERS
Positive Vibes
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Smiles and stars are sure to brighten everyone’s mood. Add them to your nails as an uplifting reminder.
SHOP SMILEY STICKERS
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Pencil Nails
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Here’s a simple and sweet manicure — with a back to school twist. Opt for a pale pink polish, and then add a pencil or paper statement nail on your ring finger.
Back to School Essentials
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Here’s one way to remember everything on your back to school shopping list! Chalkboard, notebook and rule designs reign supreme in this manicure.
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Science Nails
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If science is her favorite subject, this manicure is a no-brainer. Go for a simple blue or black base, and then use a white detail pen to create some scientific images.
SHOP WHITE NAIL PEN
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Bookworm Nails
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Your avid reader might want her nails to match her passion. You can find decals or use a steady hand to draw a reading owl and stack of books.
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Homework-Inspired Nails
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Here’s one automatic way to get an A+ (we kid, we kid).
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Daisy Nails
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Savor the last few weeks of summer with these ditzy daisy nails. Sprinkle a few dotted blooms on a few (or all!) nails for a flowery look.
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Polka Dot Nails
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No post-lunch slump here. These bright, rainbow-colored nails are the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up.
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Crayon Nails
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Everyone’s talking about crayon nails. We are 100% hopping on this colorful trend.
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