We already dissected the best-dressed moments, but now it’s time to talk nails—because the Critics Choice Awards 2025 had some serious mani moments. While the red carpet is usually all about French tips and soft neutrals, a few celebs shook things up, proving that nail game is just as important as the fit. From floral masterpieces to moody shorties, here are five looks that stood out, made waves, and had TikTok talking.
1. Joey King’s Vintage-Inspired Iridescent Nails
Joey King went for a vintage-meets-modern nail moment, thanks to Thuy Nguyen (@thuybnguyen). The design had a soft, iridescent glow, adding just the right touch of shimmer to complement her Miu Miu dress.
It wasn’t your typical Critics Choice Awards neutral—this set had character, charm, and a little old-school flair.
And TikTok noticed. Nail enthusiasts couldn’t stop hyping up the design, proving that Joey’s mani was one of the night’s unexpected standouts. While everyone else played it safe, she went for something unique—and it paid off.
2. Cynthia Erivo’s Baby Blue Glazed French Tips
Cynthia Erivo switched things up with a glazed baby blue French tip moment, courtesy of Mycah Dior (@clawsbydior). Compared to her usual maximalist, charm-filled sets, this one was on the minimalist side—but still very Cynthia.
The sheer, pearly glaze gave it that soft but striking effect, proving that even her “subtle” nails come with a twist.
Fresh off her Golden Globes nail extravaganza, this was a refreshing change-up. Cynthia always keeps us guessing with her mani choices, and that’s what makes her one of the most exciting celebs in the nail game. Forget trends—she does whatever she wants, and it always works.
3. Lupita Nyong’o’s Dreamy Floral Mani
Lupita Nyong’o understood the assignment—and then took it to a whole new level. Instead of the usual neutral manis, she showed up with sheer, glittery white nails sprinkled with real dried flowers, courtesy of Vanessa Sanchez McCullough (@nailzbyvee).
The delicate florals added a soft, ethereal touch, making her mani look like a literal work of art. It’s giving pressed flower nails, but make it red carpet—unexpected, dreamy, and straight-up stunning.
And because Lupita is that girl; she made sure her nails and Chanel gown were totally in sync. The dried flowers matched her dress, making this one of the night’s most thought-out and creative beauty moments.
4. Margaret Qualley’s Dark Plum Shorties
The Critics Choice Awards red carpet is usually all about French tips and neutrals, but Margaret Qualley said nah and went with bold dark plum nails by Emi Kudo (@nailsbyemikudo).
Short, glossy, and straight to the point—proof that simple doesn’t mean boring. While everyone else kept it classic, she pulled up with a mani that felt effortless but still a little rebellious.
The deep shade next to her lavender silk chiffon and tulle dress? Chef’s kiss. No embellishments, no extra fuss—just a chic, moody nail moment that ate and left no crumbs.
5. Nicole Kidman’s Power French Tips
Nicole Kidman kept it classic with French tips and a sheer beige base. A true Critics Choice Awards staple, but when done right, it never gets old.
Clean, polished, and effortlessly chic—the definition of less is more. Thuy Nguyen (@thuybnguyen) made sure every detail was flawless.
Then there’s the Saint Laurent suit. Sharp, tailored, and oozing boss energy. This mani wasn’t here to steal the spotlight—it was here to seal the deal. Nothing flashy, just pure power dressing down to the fingertips.
From glazed tips to floral artistry, these Critics Choice nails proved that the red carpet isn’t just about the outfits. Which look was your fave? Sound off in the comments and follow us on socials for more beauty moments!