We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
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
Get excited for math class with these grid nails. Plotting graphs and functions never looked so chic.
Smiley Faces
There's nothing better than getting a smiley face on your assignment. Channel that energy into bright yellow tips.
Very Hungry Caterpillar
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.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Geometry Nails
This geometric nail design is the perfect way to get students excited to learn about shapes.
Emotional Faces
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
Comic books are a back-to-school essential. Make them super inspiring by adding phrases like "think big."
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Dainty Stickers
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.
Astronomy Class
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.
Apple Red
There's no school symbol more iconic than an apple. Channel every teacher's favorite fruit with deep red nails.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Gold Stars
Every student wants a gold star. Not only do these nails evoke feelings of a job well done, they also look sophisticated.
Fruit Snacks
Recess might be everyone's favorite time of day, but snack time is a close second. These sweet nail designs look downright delicious.
Positive Vibes
Smiles and stars are sure to brighten everyone's mood. Add them to your nails as an uplifting reminder.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pencil Nails
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
Here's one way to remember everything on your back to school shopping list! Chalkboard, notebook and rule designs reign supreme in this manicure.
Science Nails
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.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Bookworm Nails
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.
Homework-Inspired Nails
Here's one automatic way to get an A+ (we kid, we kid).
Daisy Nails
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.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Polka Dot Nails
No post-lunch slump here. These bright, rainbow-colored nails are the ultimate afternoon pick-me-up.
Crayon Nails
Everyone's talking about crayon nails. We are 100% hopping on this colorful trend.
Amanda Garrity
Amanda Garrity is a lifestyle writer and editor with over seven years of experience, including five years on staff at Good Housekeeping, where she covered all things home and holiday, including the latest interior design trends, inspiring DIY ideas and gift guides for any (and every) occasion. She also has a soft spot for feel-good TV, so you can catch her writing about popular shows like Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart and more.
Katie Berohn
ELLE Beauty Editor
Katie Berohn is the Beauty Assistant at Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day and Prevention magazines, all part of the Hearst Lifestyle Group. She graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a major in journalism and minor in technology, arts, and media, and earned her Master’s Degree at NYU’s Graduate Program of Magazine Journalism. In addition, Katie has held editorial internships at Denver Life Magazine, Yoga Journal, and Cosmopolitan, a digital editorial internship at New York Magazine’s The Cut, a social good fellowship at Mashable, and has freelanced for HelloGiggles. When she’s not obsessing over the latest skincare launch or continuing her endless search for the perfect shade of red nail polish, Katie can be found in a hot yoga class, trying everything on the menu at New York’s newest restaurant, or hanging out at a trendy wine bar with her friends.
