35 Purple Ombré Nails You Won’t Want To Miss

A fun and unique selection of purple ombré nails for every occasion. Okay now this is a nail trend we are excited about. If you’re active on social media then you’ve likely noticed Gen Z’s affinity for all things nostalgic.

Whether it was the lockdown that caused this or simply an outcome of their longing for “better and simpler” times, we aren’t complaining- because what did we get as a result? Purple ombré nails! 

So now that we know just how special this nail trend is, let’s get to the fun part! Here are this year’s top 35 best purple ombré manicures. 

1. Glitter & Marble Purple Ombré Nails 

Credit: Sarahlongs_Beauty_Boutique

Starting off strong, we have a purple ombré look that captures the height of glamour. If ombré isn’t enough for you, then mix and match several designs by adding a fun marble and diamond nail. 

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2. Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend Nail Design

Credit: Pretty_Kitty_Nails

If a simple sparkly polish wasn’t capturing your attention, then why not try a 3-dimensional diamond? The stunning purple ombré provides the perfect backdrop for this glamorous and very regal nail look.

3. A Mix Of Purple Ombré Nails 

Credit: K8_Nailsz

Sometimes, just a small touch of ombré is enough to make a statement. For this approach try painting some of the nails in one solid shade of purple, and leave one or two for the ombré effect. In contrast to the other nails, the ombré design will stand out even more.

4. Purple & White Ombré Manicure 

Credit: Xariyasnailsx

Another fun technique when applying ombré nails is mixing different colors. For a lighter and more refreshing appearance, provide the purple shade with a white base. For special occasions add a fun, sparkly design.

5. Reversed Ombré Nails 

Credit: Lerevenails.Uk

Contrary to what many believe, ombré can also appear in hues that move from darkest to lightest. This manicure utilizes a bright purple and almost glass-like polish to produce the ombré effect. And the glossy finish and sparkles are simply screaming “take me to a summer party”. 

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6. Purple Night Nail Design 

Credit: Mementonailstudio

The night sky is full of beauty and mystery- and this nail look isn’t giving anything less. The purple ombré is simply dreamy and the addition of the moons and stars is giving magician– in the best way possible.  

7. A Purple Christmas Gift Manicure 

Credit: Nailsbykristinac

In our opinion, nothing is ever too over the top when it comes to Christmas. That’s why this purple ombré-inspired nail is the perfect look for your next holiday party. Snowflakes, bows and sparkles? You can’t get more Christmas than that.

8. Fun Floral Nails 

Credit: Sassy_Sets

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, when it comes to beauty a floral design is timeless. Get your purple ombré nails spring and summer-ready by adding a white flower. Elevate the look even further by painting one of your nails in sparkles.

9. Edgy Purple Ombré Nails 

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Or, if feminine florals are not your thing, try out this cool and edgy ombré manicure. The way the pastel purple melts into a sea of black is giving nothing less than “I am feeling bold and dangerous”.

10. The Queen Of Purple Ombré Nails 

Credit: Kandykrylix

Ombré nails can be complemented in a variety of ways. We’ve shown you the look with marble, diamonds and flowers- but what if you want them all? No problem. With this manicure more is more.

RELATED: 30+ COW NAIL DESIGNS TO GO WITH ANY LOOK

11.  The Classic Ombré Nail Design 

Credit: Gemznails88

Purple is also a great color for the classic ombré nail look. Gradually moving the color gradient from a rich dark purple to one with a pastel hue will give each nail just the right amount of depth and simplicity. 

12. Beautiful Butterfly Manicure 

Credit: Jazzedandjelledbyjess

For the ultimate summer-feel go for an ombré nail with a cute butterfly design and sparkles. With its sweet and whimsical nature, this mani is also perfect for those who identify with the “Fairy Core” aesthetic. 

13. Dark & Mysterious Purple Ombré Nails 

Credit: Colorfullness_80

If you’ve been feeling a little moody lately and want the nails to match, then this dark and mysterious purple ombré design is calling your name. With its rich undertones and glossy finish, this manicure will definitely be turning heads.

14. Barbie-Inspired Ombré Nails

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On the contrary, if you’d like something a little more bright and cheerful, this violet ombré manicure is too cute. For the ultimate girly look, add some diamonds to the base of each nail. Did someone say Barbie?

15. Blue & Purple Ombré Manicure 

Credit: Jazzedandjelledbyjess

Blue is another color that compliments purple really well. For a cool and wintery feel, apply a white and blue ombré with sparkles to all but one of your nails. This is where you can get really creative and add in a purple marble design.

RELATED: 31 BEST MATTE NAIL DESIGNS 

16. Lavender Love Nail Design 

Credit: Beauty_Factory_Ongles

If we’re going to talk about purple ombré then we can’t forget lavender. Lavender is a bright and beautiful shade and just as the word also refers to a flower, this color is the epitome of summer.

17. A Dark Night Nail Art

Credit: Ericats.Claws

If you’ve been looking for the perfect Halloween nail look, or perhaps you’re just into all things dark and creepy, then you’re going to love this ombré manicure. Black and purple are classic dangerous and menacing colors. And we’re getting chills just looking at the full moon forest imagery.

18. Purple & Pink Ombré Nails

Credit: Angelajanvari

Is there a better color duo than pink and purple? These hues are fun and bright and give any nail look a flirty feel. For a minimalist effect, create a french tip ombré and apply a subtle white design to one of the nails.  

19. The Ombré Trio Manicure 

Credit: Patrycja.Blaszczyk.Art

Just when you thought ombré couldn’t get any better we introduce you to the 3-in-1 ombré look. Instead of just blending two shades, this technique uses a spinoff from the classic ombré and blends three. Oh and the pink, purple and blue combination? We can’t get enough of it.  

20. Pet Lover’s Nails 

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We already know black and purple look great together but adding nail art can take your manicure look even further. Oh, and did we mention that nail art can include mini paw prints inside of tiny hearts? Too cute.  

RELATED: 37 HOT PINK AND BLACK NAIL DESIGNS TO TRY RIGHT NOW

21. Purple Ombré Fairy Nails 

Credit: Adorenailcosmetics

This ombré is giving all of the magical and romantic qualities of a fairy. From the periwinkle purple and blush pink hues to the subtle sparkle detailing, this manicure has got us ready for a whimsical getaway. 

22. Aquamarine Nail Design 

Credit: Dezireem

If a beach vacay is in your near future then we’d definitely be considering this aqua ombré mani. The french tip is the ideal design for summer and the purple and blue shades are the perfect accent colors for your fav bikini.  

23. Mermaid Nail Art 

Credit: Ccdylanfan13 

Speaking of mermaids, this underwater-inspired nail look is another perfect manicure for the warmer weather. Who knew ombré and mermaid print could look so cute?

24. Purple Ombré Unicorn Nails 

Credit: Cozynailchateau

To continue with the mystical creature theme, who doesn’t love a good unicorn nail look? These pretty pastels are everything and you can’t have a unicorn-inspired mani without the unicorn glitter. 

25. A Silky Finish-Inspired Manicure 

Credit: Jackydatiles

Upgrade your ombré manicure with this square-shaped silky nail look. Bright, feminine hues are a refreshing alternative and small diamonds at the base of the nail give it that little touch of glam. 

RELATED: 40 CUTE AND EASY TOENAIL DESIGNS TO UNLEASH YOUR INNER ARTIST 

26. The Purple Crown 3D Nail Art 

Credit: Mellybelly311

If you couldn’t see the connection between royalty and purple before, this nail look will definitely change your mind. With a vast assortment of gems and diamonds, you’ll be feeling like a queen in no time.

27. Purple Ombré Sunset Nails 

Credit: Wildbeauty_Bycs

If the vertical ombré isn’t your style, don’t worry. The trend also looks great horizontal and looks even better as a french tip. Don’t forget those diamonds to bring the look to the next level. 

28. Sparkly Purple French Tip Manicure 

Credit: Rachelgomersall_Beautyartistry

You can never go wrong when it comes to sparkles but we are absolutely loving these ombré sparkly tips. The perfect representation of understated elegance. 

29. Minimalist Purple Ombré Nails 

Credit: Nailsxflka

Minimalism is a trending aesthetic and we are here for it. For a minimalist ombré nail choose a lighter gradient such as this pastel purple. For greater simplicity only add the color to the tips of some of the nails. 

30. Neon Ombré Manicure 

Credit: Luxebeauty_Loungex

For the ultimate throwback try these ‘80s-inspired nails. Wearing colors that were too bright and bold during this decade didn’t exist and this neon ombré manicure is serving us just that.  

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31. Cotton Candy Ombré Nails 

Credit: G_Donails

Pastel blues, purples and pinks will forever remind us of your classic cotton candy from the fair. Top your sweet-inspired ombré mani with some diamonds if you’re really feeling extra.

32. Purple Flower Nails 

Credit: Emis_Nails89

Tone down an ombré nail with a more subtle shade of purple. Blend it with a clear base for a light and refreshing effect. For a summery vibe, add a flower to one of the nails. 

33. Mom Love Nail Design 

Credit: Brendaveenails

Whether it’s Mother’s Day, your mom’s birthday or you simply want to honor her, this ombré nail will not disappoint. With hearts, diamonds and the word “mom” physically across your nails, you will be sure to make her feel special. 

34. Purple Modern Matte Ombré Nails 

Credit: @_mlshk_ 

Give your nails a modern makeover with this non-traditional ombré look. Instead of blending multiple colors on one nail, each nail is painted with a different shade of purple. To change things up even more, go for a matte finish. 

35. Purple Heart Ombré Manicure 

Credit: @naominailsnyc

Now if this ombré look doesn’t say unconventional we don’t know what does. In contrast to classic ombré styles, the magenta gradient around the peek-a–boo heart in the center of the nail is the focal point. This interpretation is fun and so cool. 

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FAQs

What Does Ombré Mean Exactly? 

We’re all familiar with the concept of ombré- we’ve seen it on hair, nails… even Instagram and Facebook Messenger have used the technique to elevate their app icons. But as often as we see it in our everyday lives, do we actually know what it is?

Ombré originally derives from French and denotes “shade” or “shadow”: If we look at the effect ombré makes when applied, this actually makes sense. At its essence, ombré is the blending of one color gradient into another. This is most often done by applying the lightest hues first, and then gradually moving toward the darkest. If you look at the point at which these colors blend, an almost shade-like effect is present. 

It sounds complicated, but when it comes to nails a DIY ombré manicure is actually quite simple. To achieve the look all you have to do is follow a few easy steps:

1. Create the nail shape of your choice
2. Apply a clear base coat
3. Apply the lightest shade in your ombré palette
4. Apply the remaining ombré shades (from lightest to darkest) onto a sponge directly beside one another 
5. Stamp the sponge onto your nail as many times as necessary (repeat step 4 for remaining nails)
6. Apply a clear topcoat

And that’s it! You’re done.

Why Purple?

Now you may be asking yourself, why purple ombré nails specifically. To return to the notion of “Gen Z” and “nostalgia”, bright purple was actually an “it” color during the ‘90s. We’ve already brought back bucket hats and cargo pants, we couldn’t pass up a chance to bring back purple. 

Interestingly, the color purple as a symbol of status actually dates much further back than the ‘90s. Historically, purple in nature was highly rare as it was extremely difficult to replicate. This is why over thousands of years the color purple has been viewed as “sacred” and is even the color that symbolizes royalty. 

Purple ombré in its most simple form is a timeless and classic choice. However, as we’ve seen, if you want to elevate your ombré manicure there is a vast and diverse range of techniques that will enable you to achieve this: diamonds, butterflies, flowers and contrasting colors to name a few. And the great thing is, with the steps provided at the beginning you can get the look right from the comfort of your home. So what are you waiting for?