While neutral and subtle manicure designs are dominating this year’s trends, tortoiseshell nails is the one statement look making its way into our hearts and subsequently, onto our fingertips…
Tortoiseshell is one of those prints that never goes out of style. In fact, we’d even go as far as to say it’s the accessory equivalent to a white T-shirt. So, it only makes sense that the mottled pattern is coming for our manicures – and topping the 2024 nail trends. And while you might be hesitant to try such a bold design, the look can actually be adapted to suit everything, from classic French tip nails to short French tips.
So, for anyone looking to match their nails to their favourite sunglasses or claw clips (we love a bit of coordination), here are five ways to wear the timeless print…
What are tortoiseshell nails?
Now, before we dive into the looks to recreate, you might be wondering what exactly a tortoiseshell nail look entails.
As the name suggests, this manicure trend looks to replicate the spotted effect of tortoiseshell, using an array of warm, brown and amber hues. The end result is a chic, eye-catching design that is surprisingly versatile – and easily elevates any outfit.
Our tortoiseshell nail staples
OPI Nail Polish Start to Finish 3 in 1 Treatment
RRP: £16.90
This nail treatment works as both a strengthening base coat
Essie Expressie Nail Polish Quick Dry Formula
RRP: £7.99
This is the perfect warm caramel shade to blend with your darker tones, to create that iconic, spotted effect.
Rimmel London Super Gel Nail Polish
RRP: £9
Another staple for creating a tortoiseshell look. We’d also recommend adding a few thin nail art brushes (like these, from Amazon) to use with your chosen colours.
Nail prep and care are key for a long-lasting nail look, so on top of your tortoiseshell nail polish collection, we’d recommend investing in one of the best nail strengtheners, as well as a nourishing cuticle oil.
5 of our favourite tortoiseshell nail looks
1. Full-on Tortoiseshell nails
Think of this manicure as an extension of your favourite accessory style. It offers an almost marbled effect, which is of course eye-catching but thanks to its warm and neutral colour palette, it’s still fairly subtle – compared to that of reflective chromes or floral designs.
We just adore this look for the winter months as it will compliment your coats and knits so well but, as it takes inspiration from a timeless pattern, you can wear this manicure trend all year round also.
To recreate, we’d suggest investing in a few thin nail brushes or dotting tools (like this set, available at Amazon). As for achieving the pattern, we’d suggest choosing three complementary shades that vary in depth – from a light amber to a dark, chocolate brown. Then apply your chosen base shade and before it dries, dot on your darker browns and allow them to bleed out slightly. Then top with a glossy top coat.
2. Tortoiseshell French tip nails
If you’re minimalist nail lover but still want to try out this trend, we’d recommend a tortoiseshell French tip.
We’d recommend starting a clear, nude or slightly pink base coat, before creating your tip with an amber shade, using a thin brush. Then take your dotting tool to create the iconic, brown marbled-like effect.
3. Tortoiseshell feature nail
If you’re already a lover of dark brown nails, adding an animal print feature nail – specifically a tortoiseshell one – is the perfect way to elevate and change up your manicure.
You can either opt for brown French tips or a block brown shade on four of your fingers, leaving just one nail free for your speckled design. This offers a more subtle look than having the design on every finger – and will be quick to do at home.
4. Tortoiseshell Micro tips
This tortoiseshell can also easily be adapted to a micro Frenchie style and while creating the tip might be a tad fiddly, it’s actually quite a forgiving option for those who haven’t quite nailed the tortoiseshell pattern.
As the design area is so small, you can get away with just a few dots of diffused brown. There is also the option of adding a full-feature nail, for those feeling more confident.
5. Short Tortoiseshell nails
This trend looks especially chic on short and “squoval” nails, offering a statement but not so in-your-face effect, as opposed to long, almond or stilettos nails.
Simply shape your nails to your desired finish, apply your base shade and start the process of dotting on your two dark shades, allowing them to bleed out, before locking them in with a high-shine top coat.
