PSA: there’s a new graphic nail art trend coming for our winter manicures. First it was polka dots, then it was stripes, now it's checkered nails. Yes, checks have officially entered the chat (or should I say, taken over my feed in recent weeks) with nail artists serving up a whole host of tartan, checkerboard and crosshatch-inspired nail art designs ready to provide inspo for your next nail appointment.
If you’re wondering where to start when it comes to choosing a chic checkerboard mani, I’ve got great news for you. My in-depth research (AKA hours of scrolling) has revealed that with this trend, truly anything goes. Christmas nail lovers can lean into the festive feels with tartan-inspired looks in tones of burgundy and green, while those who prefer minimal manicures have to see nail artist Iram Shelton’s monochrome checkered French tips. For those who like to have a little fun with their manicures, I’ve seen winter-approved takes on gingham and playful mix-and-match designs, while metallic finishes prove that checkered nails can easily be taken into party season, too.
What I’m trying to say is, however you choose to approach them, checkered nails are officially in. So if, like me, you’re looking at your sad block-coloured manicure right now, it’s time to book that nail appointment and give your nails a switch-up. Here’s a little inspiration to get you started…
Checkered Nail Inspiration
1. Two Toned
Chocolate brown shimmer and sky blue is a combo that shouldn’t work, but somehow does in this chic tartan check by nail artist Queenie.
2. Feeling Festive
Looking for Christmas nail inspiration? Save this dark-red set for the big day.
3. Make It Monochrome
These black-and-white checkered tips offer a more understated look.
4. Burgundy Bows
This burgundy manicure is so pretty thanks to the addition of bows and gems.
5. Crossed Out
This clever crosshatch design is a work of art.
6. Moody Hues
I love the more muted tones of this mani for a heritage-style check.
7. Cherry Tartan
This red checkered set offer an upgrade on a festive red manicure.
8. Fruit Mart
Save this cherry-and-checkerboard look for when spring rolls around.
9. Single Handed
A checked manicure for the non-conformists.
10. Sparkle and Shine
The perfect checkered party season nail look.
11. Go Green
Checks, swirls and colour blocking, this manicure has it all.
12. Mix In Metals
Add metallic touches to upgrade your checkered nail look.
13. Totally Tartan
Don’t stick to classic tones, this tartan mani feels fresh in shades of pink and green.
14. Muted Tartan
Kylie Jenner's latest checkered manicure by Zola Ganzorigt is perfect for those who prefer an understated look.
The Best Products for Checkered Nails
A base coat should be the first step in any at-home manicure.
This set includes seven brushes, ideal for creating a range of checkered nail designs.
Finish with a top coat to ensure your design lasts as long as possible—Essie Gel Couture Top Coat is the best.
The perfect burgundy tone for a festive tartan checkered manicure.
Black will add dimension to any colour checkered nail look.
-
Forget Red—Experts Say These 10 Chic Nail Trends Are Taking Over This WinterCelebrity manicurists spotlight moody hues and textured designs.
-
I've Finally Tired of Pink Nails—This Is the Chic Polish Shade I'm Wearing for the Foreseeable FutureEarthy tones are in.
-
This Has Been OPI's Best-Selling Fall Nail Color for Decades—TikTok Says It's Especially Relevant in 2025Search volume has grown 83% month over month.
-
Heads-Up: Every Stylish New Yorker Is Already Wearing This Rich-Looking Manicure TrendNot burgundy, not black.
-
It's Official: Dua Lipa's Red Halo Nails Are the Coolest Way to Wear a Fall-to-Winter ManicureIt's simple and chic.
-
My Milky-Pink Nail Polish Is So Perfect, People Assume It's a Custom Combo—Here's the RevealHint: It was seen at Sandy Liang and the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
-
8 French Tip Nail Designs That Are Autumn-Coded, Expensive-Looking, and So Easy to CopyPlus, how to create them.
-
Hailey Bieber's Velvet Snowflake Manicure Is the Trend I'm Taking Straight to the Salon in NovemberSuddenly, I'm excited for winter.
