If you choose pink, for example, you might paint the first nail a soft and powdery hue.
Whatever you choose, you could expect the end look to be surprisingly chicalbeit quirky and colorful.
So ahead, discover 15 gradient nail ideas to inspire your next manicure.
@betinagoldstein
Use a toothpick dipped in white polish to create shapes that mimic the look.
Barbiecore Gradient
@lolo.nailedit
From a deep cherry red to the sweetestbaby pink.
this gradient manicure from nail artist @lolo.nailedit screamsBarbiecore.
@themimid/ Instagram
The designs are swirled into one another, featuring shades that range from yellow to red.
The muted pastels all but scream springtime while complementing any and every color you wear.
This set of multicolored nails looks especially chic when paired with gold accessories and fresh-faced hair and makeup.
@lolo.nailedit
Use candy-colored shades of robin-egg blue, sunshine yellow, and bubblegum-pink polishes to replicate this look.
Combine that trend with the polychromatic trend by opting for this muted avocado-inspired manicure.
We love how the shades of green are accented with a surprising pop of bright yellow.
Byrdie Tip
so you can get the most life out of a manicure, ensure your nails are healthy.
Electric Pastels
you’ve got the option to never go wrong with bright, glossy pastels.
We like how the salon utilizes this look with everything from neutral and/or subtle hues to bright watermelon pastels.
@oliveandjune/ Instagram
There’s a gradient nail to replicate all year long.
Swap pastels for more subdued neutrals, greens, and taupes when the weather gets colder.
Berry Beauties
It’s not just different colors you’re free to experiment with.
@jinsoon/ Instagram
Try mixing textures and finishes to find a combination you prefer.
We love the glitter accent in this manicure (although matte polishes or shimmers could work, too).
@shoreditchnails/ Instagram
@betina_goldstein/ Instagram
@lolo.nailedit
@shoreditchnails/ Instagram
@alwaysjudging/ Instagram
@paintboxnails/ Instagram
@julieknailsnyc/ Instagram
@betina_goldstein/ Instagram
@hannahbronfman/ Instagram
@oliveandjune/ Instagram