24 Stunning Purple Acrylic Nails: Long, Short, Matte, and Glitter Design Ideas

When it comes to purple acrylic nails, there’s so much versatility. From light and delicate to deep and dramatic, purple nails can fit any mood or style. Whether you’re into short square designs or long coffin shapes, there’s a purple nail design that suits your personality. Ready to find out which purple manicure is right for you? Let’s dive into some stunning nail ideas using a variety of shades and styles.

Bold Matte Purple Nails

These matte purple nails are a bold choice for anyone who wants their nails to make a statement. The flat finish highlights the richness of the dark purple shade, offering a sophisticated yet edgy look. Matte nails are not only eye-catching but also long-lasting, especially on short nails, making them both stylish and practical. For those who prefer a minimalist yet powerful manicure, this design is perfect.

Consumables:

• • Matte top coat: I recommend OPI Matte Top Coat for a durable, smooth finish.
  • Base coat: Essie Here to Stay Base Coat works wonders for lasting adhesion.
  • Purple nail polish: Zoya’s “Savita” has a stunning matte purple finish.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Use two coats of a matte purple polish.
   3. Seal with a matte top coat to lock in the look.

Sparkling Ombre Glam

This design features a purple ombre that transitions beautifully from a light lavender at the base to a deeper shade at the tips. The addition of glitter creates a magical sparkle, making this look perfect for a night out or a special event. The glossy finish adds a touch of luxury to these purple acrylic nails.

Consumables:

• • Purple glitter polish: China Glaze’s “Fairy Dust” for that sparkling effect.
  • Ombre sponge: Nail Art Sponges by Beetles help blend the colors seamlessly.
  • Purple polishes: Essie’s “Lilacism” and “Sexy Divide” for a gradient effect.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start by applying a base coat.
   2. Use the sponge to dab ombre shades, blending light lavender into dark purple.
   3. Finish with a glitter top coat and let it dry for that dazzling effect.

Zebra Accent Nail Art

For a funky, cute nail design, this zebra-accented look brings a pop of personality. The purple acrylic nails are smooth and shiny, while the zebra print on one nail adds a wild twist. This design pairs playful patterns with soft pastel purple shades, creating a look that’s chic and trendy.

Consumables:

• • Zebra stencil or nail art pen: Sally Hansen Nail Art Pens are precise and easy to use.
  • Purple polish: OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” offers a bright pastel purple.
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat ensures your design stays fresh for longer.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Paint your nails with two coats of pastel purple polish.
   2. Use a zebra stencil or nail pen to create the animal print on one nail.
   3. Seal with a glossy top coat to protect your artwork.

Purple Branch Detailing

If you love pretty nail designs with a touch of elegance, this purple branch nail art is the one for you. The base is a milky white, providing a perfect canvas for the purple acrylic branches. Tiny stones on the branches add depth and a bit of sparkle, making this design both artistic and graceful.

Consumables:

• • Nail art brush: Beetles Nail Art Brushes are perfect for fine detailing.
  • White base polish: OPI’s “Funny Bunny” for a smooth, milky finish.
  • Purple polish for detailing: China Glaze’s “Plum and Done.”
  • Rhinestones: Kiss Salon Secrets Nail Art Kit comes with everything you need.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply the milky white base color.
   2. Use a fine brush to paint delicate purple branches.
   3. Add tiny rhinestones for added texture, sealing the design with a glossy top coat.

Zebra and Purple Mix

Combining solid purple acrylic nails with black and white zebra patterns gives this manicure a wild yet refined look. The mixture of white and black stripes on two accent nails contrasts beautifully against the smooth purple base, creating a dynamic and playful nail design.

Consumables:

• • Zebra print stencil: Maniology Nail Art Stencil Set offers easy-to-use templates.
  • Purple polish: Try Essie’s “Play Date” for a vibrant purple.
  • Top coat: Glisten & Glow Top Coat adds a high-shine finish to this design.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start with two coats of purple polish.
   2. Apply zebra print accents using a stencil or nail art brush on selected nails.
   3. Finish with a top coat to make sure everything stays in place.

Shimmering Metallic and Matte Purple Nails

This stunning mix of matte and metallic purple nails combines a dark, glossy finish with a softer, more muted matte look. The contrast of textures in this design creates a visually engaging and pretty nail look that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of light purple splashes and thin black accent lines adds an artistic touch, making it a standout inspo for those who love to blend different elements in their manicure.

Consumables:

• • Purple metallic polish: CND’s “Grape Gum” gives a rich, reflective sheen.
  • Matte top coat: OPI Matte Top Coat to create the perfect contrast.
  • Black nail art pen: Sally Hansen Nail Art Pen for precision detailing.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
   2. Apply two coats of purple metallic polish to some nails and matte polish to others.
   3. Use a fine nail art pen to draw thin black lines and finish with a top coat for the matte nails.

Delicate French Tip with Glitter

This cute design blends light purple glitter with a black French tip, creating an elegant and playful look. The glitter adds dimension and a bit of sparkle, making the design perfect for anyone looking for something subtle yet eye-catching. The purple acrylic nails used here are both long and simple, giving them a refined and polished finish.

Consumables:

• • Purple glitter polish: Essie’s “Stroke of Brilliance” for a glittery effect.
  • Black polish for tips: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in “Black to Black.”
  • Base coat: Essie “All In One” for extra durability.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat and a sheer nude polish.
   2. Use purple glitter polish to paint the full nail, leaving the tips free.
   3. Finish by adding black tips using a fine brush and sealing with a glossy top coat.

Soft Pink and Purple Accents

For those who prefer a more delicate style, this short square nail design with soft pink and purple hues is the perfect balance of subtle and glamorous. The design also features small gold leaf accents, adding a touch of luxury to these purple acrylic nails. This is a great look for anyone wanting to achieve a more feminine, pastel-inspired design that remains chic and versatile.

Consumables:

• • Light pink base polish: OPI’s “Bubble Bath” for a clean and soft finish.
  • Gold leaf accents: Modelones Gold Foil Nail Art Kit for added glam.
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to seal in the design.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start with two coats of light pink polish as a base.
   2. Apply small gold leaf pieces near the cuticle area using tweezers.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat to keep the design smooth and shiny.

Purple Ombre Magic

This ombre design is a seamless gradient from light pink to dark purple, creating a mesmerizing transition that works perfectly for long nails. The glossy finish adds depth to the design, making it a perfect cute option for someone looking to add some flair to their purple acrylic nails. This nail art embodies the best of light and dark shades, making it versatile for both casual and formal settings.

Consumables:

• • Ombre sponge: Beetles Nail Art Sponges for smooth blending.
  • Light pink polish: Zoya’s “Jordan” for the base.
  • Dark purple polish: Essie’s “Dressed to the Nineties” for the tips.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat and two coats of light pink polish.
   2. Use a sponge to dab dark purple polish onto the tips, blending towards the base.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat to ensure a smooth, blended effect.

Bright Purple Almond Nails

For those who love a bold, bright pop of color, these purple acrylic nails in a sleek almond shape are a must-try. The vibrant, glossy finish makes these nails look effortlessly chic, and their simple design ensures they can be worn for any occasion. The smooth texture and striking purple color make this design both elegant and cute, while the almond shape elongates the fingers for a more refined look.

Consumables:

• • Bright purple polish: OPI’s “Purple Palazzo Pants” for a striking hue.
  • Base coat: Essie’s “First Base” for long-lasting wear.
  • Top coat: Sally Hansen’s “Dries Instantly” top coat for extra shine.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Begin with a base coat to protect the nails.
   2. Apply two coats of bright purple polish, making sure each coat dries fully.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat to give your nails a mirror-like shine.

Elegant Purple Rhinestone Nails

This purple acrylic nail design takes on a charming elegance with the addition of rhinestones and soft white heart accents. The smooth and bright purple finish contrasts beautifully with the rhinestones, making the design stand out. The heart details add a cute touch, making it a great option for anyone looking for a sweet yet sophisticated look.

Consumables:

• • Purple nail polish: Essie’s “Play Date” for a vibrant base.
  • Rhinestones: Kiss Salon Secrets Nail Art Kit for added sparkle.
  • Nail art brush: Beetles Nail Art Brushes for precision.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply two coats of purple polish.
   2. Use a fine brush to paint small white hearts on selected nails.
   3. Add rhinestones using tweezers, securing them with a top coat for long-lasting wear.

Shimmering Long Purple Nails

This design features long, coffin-shaped nails in a light shimmering purple finish. The subtle shimmer gives the nails a soft glow, making them a stunning choice for any formal or casual occasion. The length and shape of the nails give them a modern, sleek appearance, perfect for anyone wanting a pretty yet bold manicure.

Consumables:

• • Purple shimmer polish: OPI’s “Turn on the Northern Lights” for that perfect sheen.
  • Base coat: Essie’s “All In One” to enhance durability.
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to add shine and protection.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat and follow up with two layers of shimmering purple polish.
   2. Let each coat dry fully before applying the top coat to lock in the shine.

Gemstone-Inspired French Tips

These purple acrylic nails take French tips to the next level with a rich purple color and gemstone-inspired detailing. The gradient from a soft pink base to dark purple tips is elegant and eye-catching, while the addition of rhinestones and a half-moon design elevates the look. This design is ideal for a night out or any event where you want to make a statement.

Consumables:

• • Purple nail polish: Zoya’s “Belinda” for a deep, rich color.
  • Rhinestones: Modelones Nail Art Rhinestones for the gem accents.
  • French tip guide: Maniology French Tip Nail Guides for precision.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a nude pink base coat.
   2. Use tip guides to create a precise French tip with dark purple polish.
   3. Add rhinestones to create a gemstone-inspired effect, finishing with a top coat.

Soft Lilac Pastel Nails

These pastel purple nails are a delicate and versatile choice for those who prefer a more subtle look. The soft lilac shade is flattering on all skin tones and gives the nails a milky appearance. With a simple glossy finish, this design is perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions, blending elegance with minimalism.

Consumables:

• • Lilac nail polish: Essie’s “Lilacism” for that soft, pastel color.
  • Base coat: OPI “Natural Nail Base Coat” to ensure long-lasting wear.
  • Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a high-gloss finish.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply two coats of lilac polish over a base coat.
   2. Finish with a glossy top coat for a smooth, sleek finish.

Floral Purple French Tips

This nail design merges purple acrylic nails with floral accents, adding a touch of springtime charm. The delicate white and purple flowers are perfectly paired with purple French tips, creating a balanced and cute manicure. The floral detailing gives the nails a fresh, pretty look, making them ideal for seasonal or special occasions.

Consumables:

• • Purple nail polish: OPI’s “Purple with a Purpose” for the tips.
  • Nail art flowers: Amazon Nail Art Stickers in purple and white.
  • Top coat: Sally Hansen “Dries Instantly” for quick drying and shine.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start with a nude pink base coat.
   2. Apply purple polish to the tips using a French tip guide.
   3. Add floral nail art decals and seal with a glossy top coat for longevity.

Floral Purple Glitter Nails

These purple acrylic nails are adorned with a delicate combination of floral accents and subtle glitter. The use of 3D flowers adds a beautiful textured dimension, while the purple glitter enhances the overall pretty and cute aesthetic. The milky nude base creates a soft contrast against the vibrant purple and flowers, making this design perfect for anyone looking for a more intricate pastel look with an added sparkle.

Consumables:

• • Purple glitter polish: OPI’s “Show Us Your Tips” for that glittery effect.
  • 3D flower decals: Kiss 3D Nail Art Stickers for a textured finish.
  • Matte top coat: OPI Matte Top Coat for the perfect velvety look.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat followed by nude polish.
   2. Use purple glitter polish on select nails and apply flower decals using tweezers.
   3. Finish with a top coat to secure the 3D elements.

Colorful Floral French Tips

This vibrant purple acrylic nail design incorporates a fresh twist on French tips by adding playful floral details in pink and white. The combination of flowers on some nails with simple purple tips on others creates a balanced and cute look. The clear, glossy base highlights the floral art while keeping the nails light and airy, making them a great choice for any occasion.

Consumables:

• • Purple polish for tips: Essie’s “Gel Couture Flashed” for vibrant tips.
  • Floral nail art brush: Beetles Nail Art Brushes for detailed flowers.
  • Pink and white nail polish: China Glaze’s “Petal to the Metal” and OPI “Alpine Snow” for floral detailing.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Start with a clear or nude base coat.
   2. Use a nail art brush to paint purple French tips and add white and pink flowers.
   3. Seal with a top coat for added gloss and protection.

Pastel Zebra Stripes

For an eye-catching yet minimalistic look, these purple acrylic nails feature zebra stripes in soft, light purple and pink tones. The long almond shape enhances the overall look by elongating the fingers. This design offers a fun, bright twist on a classic animal print, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special events.

Consumables:

• • Light purple polish: Zoya’s “Violet” for the base.
  • Nail art brush: Beetles Fine Nail Art Brush for creating thin zebra stripes.
  • Matte top coat: OPI Matte Top Coat to give the design a subtle finish.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat followed by two layers of light purple polish.
   2. Use a thin brush to create zebra stripes with a darker purple or pink polish.
   3. Seal the look with a matte or glossy top coat depending on your preference.

Glittery Purple and White Mix

These purple acrylic nails combine glitter and white with a touch of pastel pink, creating a sparkly, pretty aesthetic. The glitter accent nail adds a pop of texture, while the soft gradient from white to purple creates a smooth transition. The almond shape gives a refined and elegant look, perfect for those seeking a simple yet glamorous manicure.

Consumables:

• • Glitter polish: China Glaze’s “Fairy Dust” for a shimmering effect.
  • White polish: OPI’s “Funny Bunny” for a soft, milky base.
  • Purple polish: Essie’s “Lilacism” for a pastel accent.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat followed by white polish on select nails.
   2. Use purple polish and a sponge to create a gradient on others.
   3. Add glitter polish for an accent, and finish with a top coat to seal the design.

Glossy Purple Glitter Glam

This glittery and glossy purple nail design is a dazzling choice for any occasion. The combination of bright purple shades and glitter gives the nails a luxurious, high-glamour finish. The purple acrylic nails are shaped in a long almond style, creating an elegant yet bold look. The glitter-covered nails add texture and depth to the manicure, making it a perfect design for those who love to stand out.

Consumables:

• • Purple glitter polish: Essie’s “Rock at the Top” for full-glitter coverage.
  • Glossy top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to keep the shine intact.
  • Base coat: OPI “Natural Nail Base Coat” to protect the natural nails.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat followed by purple polish on all nails.
   2. Apply two coats of purple glitter polish on accent nails.
   3. Seal with a glossy top coat for a high-shine finish.

Glossy Purple Glitter Nails

This set of purple acrylic nails is a show-stopper with its deep, glossy purple finish and light splashes of glitter. The dark, bold shade adds a mysterious touch, while the glitter gives it a playful, bright contrast. This design is perfect for anyone looking for a minimalist but striking look with a hint of simple glam.

Consumables:

• • Purple polish: OPI’s “Do You Have This Color in Stock-holm?” for a bold purple shade.
  • Glitter top coat: Essie’s “Set in Stones” for light, reflective glitter.
  • Base coat: OPI “Start to Finish” for a long-lasting base.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply two coats of deep purple polish to all nails.
   2. Add a glitter top coat for an extra sparkle and seal with a glossy finish.

Sculpted Purple Flame Stiletto Nails

For the adventurous, these long stiletto-shaped nails with sculpted purple flames are a bold statement. The glossy, raised flames against the light pink base create a dramatic, high-fashion look. This design is perfect for those who want a cutting-edge style with an artistic twist.

Consumables:

• • Pink base polish: OPI “Bubble Bath” for a soft base.
  • Purple builder gel: Young Nails “Lilac Vibe” for the 3D flame effect.
  • Nail sculpting tools: Beetles Nail Art Sculpting Kit for shaping the flames.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat followed by pink polish.
   2. Sculpt the purple flames using a builder gel and cure under a UV lamp.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat to seal and enhance the 3D design.

Lavender and Stars Nail Art

These long almond nails combine a soft purple acrylic nail base with white accents and tiny black stars. The celestial theme is both playful and elegant, making these nails versatile for casual or formal settings. The mixture of white and purple creates a beautiful contrast, while the stars add a whimsical touch to this cute design.

Consumables:

• • Purple nail polish: Essie’s “Go Ginza” for a soft lavender base.
  • White polish: OPI’s “Alpine Snow” for the accent design.
  • Nail art brush: Beetles Fine Nail Art Brush for the stars and other details.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply two coats of purple polish.
   2. Use white polish and a thin brush to create half-moon accents and stars.
   3. Finish with a top coat for a smooth, glossy finish.

Wavy Purple Swirls

This design features wavy, abstract purple and pink lines on a long coffin shape. The subtle shimmer in the base polish adds a soft glow, while the freehand swirls make the nails look artistic and trendy. The bright colors are perfect for making a bold statement, and the flowing lines give a modern, dynamic feel to the manicure.

Consumables:

• • Purple polish: OPI’s “Do You Lilac It?” for the base color.
  • Pink polish: China Glaze’s “Pink or Swim” for the swirls.
  • Nail art brush: Beetles Nail Art Brush Set for creating the swirls.

How to achieve the look:

1. 1. Apply a base coat and two layers of shimmering purple polish.
   2. Use a nail art brush to freehand swirl designs in pink.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat to ensure the design lasts.