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20 Fun Back-to-School Nails for Teachers and Nostalgic Parents
These easy to create designs definitely get an A+.
By 
At the beginning of a new school year, everyone wants to look their best, including teachers, students, and even parents who may be dropping their kids off in the morning. Halls and classrooms will be filled with new backpacks, school supplies, and carefully thought out first day of school outfits. But one accessory that may be an afterthought for teachers and parents is their nails. For teachers, cute back-to-school nail designs will not only make you feel like you can take on the school new year with confidence, but will also catch the eye of your students and others around the building. You can learn a lot about someone by their nails and no matter what your style is, whether that's minimal or intricate details, there's a nail look to fit everyone's taste.
But if you're a parent reminiscing about their school days, back-to-school nails will fill you with nostalgic thoughts and maybe even prompt some words of wisdom to give to your kids who are going back. These nail designs include apple art, chalkboard prints, and even crayon-inspired sets to spark creativity for the new school year. And if you're into more subtle nails, there's also cute twists on classics like French manicures, fall colors, and vivid floral designs. Whether you're looking for inspiration to take to your nail technician or you want to have a go at creating these designs yourself, these back-to-school nail ideas will get your excited about the new school year.
Colorful Crayon Nails
The 64-pack crayon box doesn't have to steal all the shine this school year. Add some color to your nails with this Crayola-inspired set.
Alphabet Notebook Paper Nails
When your student is packing their school supplies, make sure you have yours too — on your nails of course! These notebook paper nails are sure to bring back memories of your school days.
Science Nails
Throw on your lab coat and goggles before you decorate your nails with these science class-themed prints.
French Mani with a Back to School Twist
There's nothing more classic than a french manicure. Welcome your students or wave bye to your kids in the morning with a set featuring a painted pencil and apple design.
Handpainted School Nails
Even if you're more comfortable with shorter nails, you can still create these totally back-to-school themed nails on your hands with nail polish and a steady hand.
Negative Space Nails
Start the school year off on a note that's the opposite of this nail design. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or both, the pops of color are sure to brighten your day.
First Day of School Nails
Get the best of all worlds with these multi-designed nails, including a pencil, paper, chalkboard, and an apple that's painted with the shape of your nail.
An Apple a Day Nails
Channel your inner Snow White at the beginning of the school year with this apple centric set.
Fall Colors Nails
With the return to school also comes a new season: fall. Let your nails match the leaves trickling from the trees with this warm hued set.
Back-to-School Blues
If red nails aren't really your style, swap it out for a sparkly blue and add school-themed designs as accents.
Bookworm Nails
Get your students or children amped to read with these book nails. Don't worry if you're not a modern day Picasso, stick figures are also acceptable.
Rainbow Nails
These vibrant nails are definitely giving Lisa Frank vibes, and will make the perfect set to flaunt to celebrate the first week of school.
Pretty in Pastel Nails
We know it's not springtime yet, but these bright pastel nails will brighten up a room — even if it's a classroom.
Daisy Nails
While the beginning of a new school year is full of festivities, the newness can sometimes be overwhelming no matter if you're a parent, teacher, or just thinking about your former school days. Let these nails remind you to stop and smell the daisies.
Living Life Like It's Golden Nails
We could all use a little sparkle and shine in our lives. Having these shimmery gold nails will make you want to use all of the those new pens you just bought.
Picnic Nails
If you're still dreaming of summer, these picnic-inspired nails are the look you should go for.
Chalkboard Nails
This set gives a different meaning to "nails on a chalkboard."
Notebook Print Nails
Whether you love cows or you're just really excited about passing out brand new composition books this year, these fun nails are sure to spark up a conversation.
Orange You Glad It's A New School Year Nails
Get your kids and students excited for school by reminding them of their probable favorite part of the day: snack time. These simple nude nails are spruced up with orange art.
As the Associate Digital Editor for Woman’s Day, Kristen covers almost everything under the lifestyle umbrella, including holidays, food, and home. In her kitchen, you’ll probably find absurd amounts of rice, Twizzlers and oat milk. She also has over 50 playlists on Spotify, including a specific one for Drake’s best hits (read: all of them).
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