A closeup of hands showing detailed nail art featuring logos and designs painted on the nails
Credit:
lexi_nails_spa
The New York Knicks have made it to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, and fans are looking for any way to show their support.
An InStyle editor shares 10 Knicks-inspired nail looks to recreate before the next finals game.
As someone who's been in New York for nearly seven years, I can confidently say that the city's never felt this electric. The New York Knicks have reached the NBA finals for the first time since 1999, and the energy is at an all-time high. Fans are flooding the streets for watch parties, stadium seats are selling for upwards of $20K, and Knicks merch is everywhere you turn. Through it all, there's been an incredible sense of community and pride that's hard not to love.
Whether you're a die-hard fan, loving the courtside style, or just want to get in on the fun, a themed nail set is the perfect way to show your support. From bold 3D accents and bright team colors to modern takes on French tips, there's a look for every kind of Knicks fan. I've rounded up some of my favorite New York-based nail artists to bring you the best designs to take courtside or straight to your next watch party.
Keep scrolling for 10 Knicks-inspired nail looks to recreate before the next game.
Fingernails with clean manicure and the word New York written in script across them
Fingernails with clean manicure and the word New York written in script across them
Leaning minimal, opt for simple cursive lettering spelling out the best city in the world. A neutral base lets the black font stand out, while the almond shape adds a touch of elegance. It's an easy win for the Finals—but honestly, it'll look just as good long after the buzzer, whether you're in full blue and orange or just subtly repping year-round.
Hands with manicure featuring basketballthemed nail art designs adorned with rings
Hands with manicure featuring basketballthemed nail art designs adorned with rings
We must not forget that the World Cup also kicks off this week. If you're a sports super fan, this design doesn't make you choose just one sport.
Knicks-inspired nail designsKnicks-inspired nail designs
lexi_nails_spa
Square-shaped nails set the stage for a playful, color-coordinated star moment. One hand flips the script on the other—blue stars popping against orange, and orange stars shining back on blue—for a balanced, high-energy nod to team colors.
A closeup of hands displaying a nail design featuring basketball and New York Knicks logos
A closeup of hands displaying a nail design featuring basketball and New York Knicks logos
Spirited French tips get a game-day twist with one hand rocking blue tips and the other orange. Two accent nails on each hand feature a team logo and a basketball for the perfect courtside finish.
Hands with manicured nails showing a decorative blue and orange design placed on a spa business card
Hands with manicured nails showing a decorative blue and orange design placed on a spa business card
Criss-cross French tips give a fresh twist to a classic, layering blue and orange in intersecting lines for a subtle nod to team pride. The neutral base keeps it clean, while the criss-cross details add just the right amount of edge.
Closeup of hands showing a manicured design with multicolored patterns on nails
Closeup of hands showing a manicured design with multicolored patterns on nails
Go for a marbled swirl of blue and orange that feels like wearable art. Set on a neutral (nearly transparent) base with an almond shape, it's bold without trying too hard and works just as well beyond game day.
Hands with manicured nails painted blue and orange with artistic patterns
Hands with manicured nails painted blue and orange with artistic patterns
It will always be New York or nowhere! Square nails in bold blue and orange bring the energy, finished with detailed Knicks logos for a straight-to-the-point statement. It's clean, confident, and all about representing the city without saying a word.
Closeup of a hand with polished fingernails resting on a surface
Closeup of a hand with polished fingernails resting on a surface
Glittery orange takes center court with a full sparkle moment that catches every bit of light. It's bold, bright, and unapologetically fun, so you can never go wrong. Opt for glittery blue if orange isn't your thing!
Closeup of hands with basketballthemed nail art featuring orange and blue patterns and star designs with rings on fingers
Closeup of hands with basketballthemed nail art featuring orange and blue patterns and star designs with rings on fingers
A combination of basketball accents, team colors, auras, stars, and stripes come together for the ultimate maximalist set. You'll be able to dress up the simplest outfit with this spirited option.
nailzonmarz
Have you ever seen a 3D statement set like this? The claw shape brings serious edge, while vibrant, neon-like team colors and bold 3D accents turn every nail into its own mini sculpture. It's loud, proud, and the edgiest look in the lineup by far.