Nails are the true blank canvas of the human body. Ever changeable and front and center, a good manicure can be the perfect accessory, a dramatic fashion statement, or an easy conversation starter. But today’s manicures are no longer just simply polish and top coat. Acrylic, Gel-X, dip powder—the technology is only getting more advanced. Now, enter the newest nail trend on the block: 3D Nails.
“I’ve always loved non-traditional nail designs,” says California-based nail designer Pitrizz Gangcuangcoz. “Adding texture and 3D elements to sets just elevates your nail game and it becomes part of your personal style. Your nails are your best accessory!”
With these nails, there is no shortage of designs available when you’ve got all three dimensions to work with—the sky is literally the limit. Check out InStyle’s favorite 3D nail looks below.
Under the Sea
If The Little Mermaid had 3D Nail art—we’d like to imagine that she’d be sporting this incredible design. This chrome, textured look is sure to turn heads and fins.
3 Rolls to Go!
You have to see to believe these super cute sushi roll inspired nails. Just don’t eat them!
Put a Bow on It
Sometimes, one 3D nail is all you need to stand out—like this set with a neat little accent nail bow.
Don’t Feed The Plant!
This trippy botanical set is perfect for year-round wear. It’s the perfect garden set, if your perfect garden includes some unusual plants.
But Wait, There’s More!
At first glance it’s a French manicure—look again, and you’ll see that an accent nail is doing some heavy lifting, with a 3D flower that elevates the look to something brand new.
Prints and Petals
“I’m loving the animal print and 3D blooming gel flower combination,” says Pitrizz. If you can’t choose between the two, choose both!
The Not-So-Hidden Pearls
Yes, these are beautiful, no you can’t turn the pearls into jewelry after—we know, we want to also.
Your Own Personal Koi Pond
The set so cute you’ll never want to let them go. Plus, the textured water droplets take this look to the next level.
Pedro Pascal Fan Club
Pedro Pascal nails. While you could have any celebrity’s face adorning your nails, we agree that Pascal was the iconic choice.
We’re Still Bejeweled
Sometimes when it comes to nail art, more actually is more. Especially when it comes to this gorgeous set that has everything you could want, and then some.
Seeing Green
Yes, this pinky nail has its own piercing, and yes we are green with envy over it.
Time for Dessert
Nails so sweet they are hard to believe—they quite literally have a cherry on top.
Nailsssssssss
These snake eye nails are sure to cause a slithering scene. Texture and cat-eye come together for truly unbelievable look here.
Curiouser and Curiouser
We’re absolutely mad for these Alice in Wonderland-inspired 3D nails
Cherry Bomb
These 3D cherries and cheetah print are at the top of our mood board right now.
Neon Everything
This cute French look is best defined by the caption that @aimeebellabeauty gave: “These nails are calling for an Ibiza trip.”
See it to Believe it
This set is truly unbelievable, down to the mini charm necklace on the thumb. It’s safe to say we’re begging to customize these for ourselves.
Signs Point to Yes
Have a question? Why not ask your incredible new set of Magic 8 Ball nails. The answer is always that you are fabulous.
Sweater Weather
When playing around with nail textures, it’s important to remember that anything is possible—even a cable-knit sweater.
Spiders and Snakes
This seasonal set is perfect for Halloween…but if spiders and snakes is your vibe, then we recommend this look all year long.
