Heads up! We may use affiliate links in this post. You'll never pay more, but we might earn a small commission if you buy - thanks for supporting us! See our full disclosure here.

I think my TikTok algorithm knows I’ve been saving medieval castle tours for hours (no regrets). But Pinterest’s 2025 predictions have revealed I’m not alone in this obsession – Castlecore is having its main character moment, with the platform reporting ‘medieval core’ searches soaring by an impressive +110%.

The Pinterest data paints a fascinating picture of this aesthetic renaissance with their tracking showing searches for castle house plans up by +45%, blue medieval dresses rising +85%, and users seeking everything from antique ruby rings (+50%) to chainmail necklaces (+45%).

And now, this centuries-old glamour is making its way to our fingertips!

It’s not hard to see why this trend has captured our collective imagination (if you’ve been as mesmerised as I have by the ethereal costumes in House of the Dragon, you’ll understand the appeal).

The aesthetic perfectly balances historical grandeur with modern sophistication – and honestly, who hasn’t dreamed of living in a castle?

From pearlescent finishes that echo castle corridors to intricate patterns worthy of a royal tapestry, these 18 Castlecore nail ideas capture all the magic of medieval artistry – while feeling thoroughly modern.

Perfect for those who dream of castle life but live in a city flat…

1.

Castlecore Nail Ideas
INSTAGRAM | nailsbypadena

Stiletto nails featuring a dreamy duet of nude pink bases and metallic gold tips, adorned with shimmering crystals. The design brilliantly captures medieval opulence with its molten metal effect.

2.

Gold Castlecore Nail Ideas
INSTAGRAM | nailsbypadena

A masterful play of silver and gold chrome effects creates an almost liquid metal appearance, reminiscent of a knight’s polished armour. The dimensional sculpting adds remarkable depth.

3.

red and yellow 3D medieval nails
INSTAGRAM | nailsbypadena

Striking scarlet designs with metallic silver filigree work, paired with olive-toned accents. The combination creates a gorgeous medieval stained glass effect.

4.

Silver 3D chrome nails
INSTAGRAM | nailsbypadena

Ethereal grey chrome nails featuring intricate baroque swirls and metallic orbs give the impression of ancient silver jewellery transformed into nail art.

5.

Gorgeous Castlecore Nail Ideas
INSTAGRAM | guirose.nails

An artistic blend of burgundy, gold, and religious iconography, complete with ornate crosses and Renaissance-inspired portraits set in gilded frames.

6.

Silver sword nails
INSTAGRAM | nailsbypadena

A collection of miniature silver swords and medieval weaponry, meticulously detailed on each nail against a translucent base. Simply magnificent!

7.

gold and black medieval nails
INSTAGRAM | guirose.nails

Black stiletto nails adorned with blood-red crystals that sparkle like castle chandeliers and golden chains, creating a luxurious dark fantasy aesthetic.

8.

Castlecore Nail Ideas
INSTAGRAM | guirose.nails

A striking combination of chrome effects with dramatic red gradients, finished with silver embellishments.

9.

Monochrome medieval nails
INSTAGRAM | guirose.nails

Elegant black and white geometric designs with silver studs, reminiscent of castle architecture.

10.

Red Castlecore Nail Idea
INSTAGRAM | guirose.nails

A rich burgundy-to-black ombré with intricate gold foiling and delicate scrollwork. Each nail looks like a piece of medieval manuscript come to life.

11.

Turquoise nails. Castlecore Nail Ideas
INSTAGRAM | studiodk_mx

A bewitching combination of shimmery teal and silver wirework, adorned with delicate swirls reminiscent of Celtic metalwork.

12.

A sophisticated blend of chocolate browns and gold leaf, with ruby-coloured crystals set in ornate metallic frames – rather like precious stones in ancient royal jewellery.

13.

medieval armor nails
INSTAGRAM | coyarose

A stunning interpretation of medieval battle armour, featuring a geometric pattern of black stripes across a nude base, meticulously studded with silver spheres. Each nail mimics the riveted steel plates of a knight’s protection, creating a sophisticated tribute to medieval armour craftsmanship.

14.

A dramatic marriage of emerald green and obsidian black, with lightning-like silver streaks creating an almost mystical effect.

15.

Blue and white Castlecore Nail Idea
INSTAGRAM | thegirlscodebeauty

Ethereal blue and white designs adorned with golden crosses and frames, channelling the aesthetic of royal chapel windows.

16.

burgundy Castlecore Nail Idea
INSTAGRAM | accentxnails

Deep wine-coloured tips with golden botanical motifs and intricate metalwork – each nail a tiny tribute to castle gardens.

17.

Medieval nails
INSTAGRAM | armouredstudio

A fascinating mix of silver armour-like textures with gemstone accents, creating an almost reptilian effect.

18.

Simple medieval nails
INSTAGRAM | nailsofwitchery

Elegant stiletto nails featuring silver swords against a nude base, with subtle crimson droplets – a sophisticated nod to medieval warfare.

Want to keep this for later? Save the image below on Pinterest!

castlecore nail ideas