In January, we're easing into things. February is all about Valentine's Day, and March is mad for all things green. By the time April rolls around, it's time for Easter and all its events. But before diving into another holiday-themed manicure, why not take a moment to appreciate the month's other offerings? Come April, the flowers are blooming and the weather is finally warming—and your manicure should deliver that same energy.
Bright colors, bold techniques, floral designs, and pastel-colored Frenchies are just the tip of the iceberg for the season's nail looks. 'Tis the season for embracing a fantastic, fresh manicure, and with the list below, you'll have plenty of options. Read on for 21 gel nail ideas to ring in April.
01of 21
Mixto Nail Art
Choosing just one kind of nail art is hard. If you're the indecisive type, take the pressure off and opt for a set of mismatched designs instead, including flames, smiley faces, and checkerboard prints.
02of 21
Peach Nails
While there's no denying the draw of nail art, a solid manicure in a springy shade can be just as lovable. Enter this soft peach color. The subdued hue tones down the intensity, giving it an understated appeal.
03of 21
Negative Neons
Negative space designs usually involve clean lines and neutral colors, like black or white. This manicure embraces the trend with neon shades for a distinctly spring vibe.
04of 21
Shamrock Ombré
March may be over, but that doesn't mean you have to give up your lucky green nails. Take a cue from this set and have your tech airbrush a shamrock hue over a nude. Then finish with a soft topcoat for satiny shine.
05of 21
Patterns & Sculptural Elements
The beauty of gel nails is that you can create a wide range of cool looks, including off-the-wall prints and sculptural elements. This look blends the two with an abstract design topped with brass-colored pieces. The result is contemporary meets artsy— or, put simply, the perfect combination for the Taurus season.
06of 21
Black Aura Nais
When the stars align in your life, you know it's for good reason. So, why not bring that same energy to your manicure while incorporating one of the biggest nail trends? Trust us, these black aura nails are like the manifestation of true cosmic happiness.
07of 21
Zebra French Tips
There's nothing wrong with classic French tips. But when you want something more adventurous, a zebra print is a good option. Paired with a creamy nude base and glossy gel shine, these nails are as eye-catching as they are fun.
08of 21
Sherbert Shorties
Since we're ushering in warmer weather, it only seems fair to embrace the season's treats. This melty sherbet manicure is a dreamy look fitting for spring.
09of 21
Neon Green French Tips
Keeping it simple is rarely a bad idea when it comes to beauty. That said, a pop of bright color is just enough to make the look exciting. The trick is to keep the rest of your manicure clean and basic.
10of 21
Field of Daisies
Daisy designs are a given come April. Still, this set uses them in a modern way, with different sizes and sparkly pink rhinestones in the center. The soft matte finish adds to its darling look.
11of 21
Milkbath Nails
Yes, the milky mani trend is still going strong. If you haven't tried it yet, this look is a great place to start. It's slightly milky with soft florals, finished with a glossy shine. Plus, the shorter length feels more approachable for newbies.
12of 21
Tortoise Shell Twist
Tortoise shell print is perfect for gel nails, and this twisty design (complete with mint tips) proves why. The chic contrasting colors look beautiful with the high-gloss finish.
13of 21
Balletcore French Manicure
We never get tired of a good balletcore mani—especially when it includes all the bells and whistles. From French tips to polka dots, ribbons, bows, rhinestones, and a soft baby pink color, it's the ultimate demure set.
14of 21
Sunset Ombré Nails
A stunning sunset might just be the original ombré. Coincidentally, that combination of golden oranges, wild reds, and vivid magenta creates just as beautiful a manicure.
15of 21
Crystal Ball Nails
This glittery grape jelly polish is the perfect base for a cool crystal ball manicure. The abstract white designs on top create a mystical and alluring effect without being too literal.
16of 21
Hot Pink French Tips
Squoval shaped, ombré French tips? This set screams Y2K nostalgia—and we can't get enough of it. To get the full effect, ask for a blend of hot and baby pink shades to create the tips. Then pair the look with your best lip gloss and rhinestone-rimmed sunglasses.
17of 21
Coquette French Manicure
If shades of pink and white aren't your thing, don't worry— you can still embrace a pretty coquette manicure. Instead of the traditional colors, this set uses pink-ish nudes and muted blue-grey polishes to create the beloved hyperfeminine aesthetic.
18of 21
Pearly Pink
A solid manicure in a shimmery pearlescent pink shines bright on its own. But if you want to up the ante with more sparkle, adding a smattering of pink rhinestones will do the trick.
19of 21
Cornflower Blue French
Almond extensions and French manicures go together like butter and jam. The combination never fails to deliver an elegant set and plays well with classic nail art like blueberries.
20of 21
Negative Space Nails
Looking for a natural gel look that will turn heads and go with everything in your closet? If so, this negative space manicure is the one for you. It combines crisp, clean lines with natural nails with a high-shine finish.
21of 21
Classic Blue Florals
Think of this set as the porcelain of manicure looks. The floral design mimics the art of blue-and-white porcelain and has the same elegant and polished effect.