Ok, I can admit. I have completely come down with Wicked fever. My tickets are booked, I’ve hummed Defying Gravity all week and I can’t stop watching clips of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on their worldwide BFF press tour. I’m not sure if I am quite at the stage of dressing up to watch the film, like some people are, however a trend I can get on board with is Wicked-inspired nail art.
Leading the trend is Elphaba herself, with Erivo sporting an array of Wicked (geddit?) nail looks as she tours around the world promoting the film. And before you mention it, as far as I’m concerned with a heaven-sent voice like Erivo she probably doesn’t even do number twos, so that answers that (rude) question Dax Shephard.
For the premiere in London Erivo’s nails were created by Essex-based nail technician, Shea Osei, who has worked with the star for 15 years and is the mastermind behind the nails in the film too. Erivo is an OPI ambassador and clearly a nail addict, so where she goes the chances are it will be “Popular” (sorry, I couldn’t help myself.)
If you feel inspired then I’ve found 15 Wicked nail designs you can take to the salon.
Elphaba’s Glitter Air Brush Nails
I love this nod to the Wicked movie by celebrity nail technician Lucy Tucker, who counts Michelle Yeoh (who plays Michelle Morrible in the new movie) as one of her clients. The metallic, glitter and air brush finish ticks multiple trend boxes and the colour going from green to black feels very Elphaba.
“Something Bad” Marble Nails
Marble nails are massive for winter 2024 and these scream Wicked. The stiletto shape and the hyper shine finish will ensure these powerful tips get everyone talking.
Glinda’s Popular Pink Tips
If you’re more of a pink person then these Glinda inspired nails may just be the inspiration you’re looking for. The mix of glitter tips and cartoon-style sparkle make this design the thing of fairy tales.
“The Wizard and I” Like Subtle Gemstone Nails
If you want a nod to the trend but aren’t ready to go full on nail art then this soft pink shade with the hint of green and pink is the one for you. It is not only very “Wicked” it is also a perfect alternative to red and gold festive nails.
“Defying Gravity” in Green Glitter
This is giving party season Elphaba and I am all over it. I love that the glitter looks embedded into the nails rather than added on top to give it a magical finish.
“Thank Goodness” for Neon Nails
If bold and bright is your thing then this neon interpretation is the ideal nail art design for you. It uses the classic pink and green hues but gives them a modern, fresh update with the neon finish. The hint of nail art on top is an added bonus and it works with or without this on top.
“A Sentimental (Gold Star) Man”
This subtle pink and green design works for Wicked and the festive season. It is ideal for those with shorter nails are you don’t need a lot of space to create the artwork and for those who are just experimenting with nail designs.
“I’m Not That Girl” in Two Tone
If you prefer your hands to look uniformed but still can’t decide which side to be on then this is the nail look for you. The classic pink against the metallic green encompasses the whole Wicked vibe for me.
“The Wizard And I” Nail Art Design
If you’re into your nail art then this is the look for you. With one hand fully Glinda and the other team Elphaba you can decide on the day which you prefer flashing first.
“Defying Gravity” With Marble and Embossed Nail Art
Marble is really having a moment this year and this uses a couple of different techniques to show off the trend in all its glory. I love the three dimensional finish on the feature nails too, which takes this look up another level.
“The Wizard and I” Like Glitter French Tips
This may seem subtle, but the combination of the french manicure and glitter tip is a classic for this time of year so the added element of it being either green or pink gives it a 2024 update.
“Dancing Through Life” With Gold Embossed Edges
If you like a naked nail art design this is for you as it leaves lots of the natural nail shining through, but the embossed gold edge and coloured tip gives it the impact you’re after to really catch people’s eyes.
“One Short Day” in Pink and Green
Short nails always seem to get overlooked when it comes to nail art designs, yet this simple pink and green colour combination works for this length and makes your nails look fab too.
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Lauren Ezekiel (she/her) is an associate editor at PS UK, where she writes about all things beauty and wellness. With a degree in journalism she began her career in 2008. Lauren is obsessed with skincare, hair and makeup. A mum of two, Lauren is an advocate for the benefits of beauty and self-care for your mental well-being, which inspired her award-winning charity initiative We C U 2020. Her work has been published in Grazia, OK!, Health & Beauty, The Sun, Asda, Dare and Metro.
