Buzz
Photo: @sammismanis/InstagramWhile minimalist bubble bath nails and bold metallic nails have their moments, sometimes it's all about tapping into nostalgia, embracing vibrant hues, and spreading joy. Enter: smiley face nails, which are just as delightful and cheerful as they sound. This joyful manicure captures the essence of that sunshine-filled, ’70s hippy vibe—a look that had a resurgence in the ‘90s and is making a strong comeback. Loving it? Let these fun and uplifting smiley face nail designs inspire your next manicure.
1. Timeless Yellow Smiley Faces
It all started with those iconic yellow smiley faces, so you can't go wrong with a few of them. This cheerful design features splashes of yellow with a single happy face on each nail.
2. Positive Vibes Manicure
Bring on the positivity and let go of your worries. This adorable smiley face manicure showcases buttery yellow faces on a soft pink base, with the center nail proudly saying "No bad vibes."
3. Bold Colors and Smiles
Vibrant colors and joyful faces are a perfect match, as seen in this playful mani. It also includes glittering silver tips and white starburst accents, adding texture and depth.
4. Tangerine Flower Smiley Faces
Keep it extra sweet with a tangerine-colored manicure, then embellish a few nails with soft yellow daisies. Instead of traditional white centers, these flowers are adorned with cute smiley faces.
5. Neon Green Smiley Face Nails
For a show-stopping look, go for a bold base color like this neon green with a chrome finish and golden undertones. A few simple black smiley faces complete this daring style.
6. Pink & Orange with Negative Space
How awesome is this pink and orange manicure? Along with a few hidden smiley faces, it includes some flower-power accent nails and swirling patterns.
7. Melty Smiley Faces
A fun twist on the classic smiley face nails is the melted smiley faces, inspired by the iconic melting emoji. It’s a playful way to embrace the trend without taking it too literally.
8. Dripping Rainbow Smiley Faces
For a unique take on the melty smiley face trend, try this groovy manicure featuring dripping rainbow-colored faces and perfectly outlined stars. It’s a fun mix of cheerful colors and uncertain expressions.
9. Joyful Smiley Stars
Smiley face flowers are adorable, but what about stars? This totally '90s-inspired manicure features a mix of cheerful stars in a variety of fun colors.
10. Simple Smiley Face Nails
Keep your smiley face manicure minimalistic by starting with a clear base. Add a round smiley face at the center of each nail—switch up the colors for a rainbow effect—and finish with a glossy topcoat.
11. Bold Pink & Yellow Smiles
This is a true statement-making manicure. The bold combination of hot pink and bright yellow is guaranteed to keep you feeling upbeat wherever you go. The black outlines around the smiley faces make them stand out even more.
12. Subtle Toned Smiley Nails
On the calmer side, go for a neutral color palette for your smiley face manicure. Greige and cream blend together beautifully, enhanced by a mix of patterns, including squiggles, checkerboards, and of course, smiley faces.
