For fans of Doctor Who, celebrating the series goes far beyond watching episodes. From cosplay to collectibles, fandom is all about finding creative ways to express your love of the Doctor’s adventures. Nail art is a fun and unexpected way to bring a touch of Gallifrey into everyday life, combining bold colours, metallic finishes, and sci-fi inspired designs. Whether you’re preparing for a convention, a themed party, or just a weekend rewatch, these ideas will help you travel through time and space—without leaving your manicure behind.
Preparing the canvas
Every great nail design starts with healthy nails. Smoothing the surface with a nail buffer ensures polish applies evenly and lasts longer. Buffing also gives nails a natural shine, so even if you prefer minimalist looks, your hands will look neat and polished. For those planning intricate designs, a smooth base is essential to make colours pop.
TARDIS blue
No Doctor Who manicure would be complete without a nod to the iconic blue police box. A deep cobalt shade captures the instantly recognisable look of the TARDIS. Accent one or two nails with white windows or tiny black details for a subtle but unmistakable tribute. For beginners, even a single feature nail in TARDIS blue makes a statement.
Dalek metallics
The Doctor’s most famous foes may not be friendly, but they certainly inspire bold style. Daleks are perfect inspiration for metallic nails. Gold, bronze, or silver polish with dotted embellishments mirrors their distinctive armour. Pair metallics with a matte black accent nail to echo the look of their eyestalks and panels.
Galaxy gradients
Doctor Who is all about the mysteries of the universe, and galaxy-inspired nail art captures that theme beautifully. Blend shades of navy, purple, and black, then layer on flecks of glitter to create a cosmic effect. Add tiny white dots for stars, or a swirl of turquoise for a nebula-inspired twist. This look works well on its own or combined with accent designs like the Seal of Rassilon or Gallifreyan circles.
Subtle fandom nods
Not every fan wants fully themed nails, and that’s fine. Subtle details can be just as effective. Try painting all nails in sleek black and adding a single accent design: a sonic screwdriver stripe, a minimalist clock face, or a Dalek dot pattern. These small touches show off fandom pride without being too obvious.
A manicure fit for a Time Lord
Nail art is more than decoration—it’s a playful way to celebrate the stories and characters we love. By starting with a smooth base, experimenting with bold TARDIS blues and shimmering metallics, and adding cosmic details, your nails can become tiny canvases of fandom. With Doctor Who-inspired designs at your fingertips, every day feels like an adventure through time and space.