With #naturalnails racking up over 3 billion views on TikTok, it’s no secret that this trend is taking over this season. “Many influencers jumped into their natural nail era in 2023, and for most people that looked like shorter, more manageable nails,” says celebrity manicurist, Kait Mosh, whose clients include the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Kelsea Ballerini, Justin Timberlake, and more. “What I’m seeing is a mass migration back to simpler nail art and one-color moments,” says Mosh.
We’ve seen the concept of ‘less is more’ throughout other beauty and fashion trends. To continue the look of fresh, healthy, and natural beauty, follow this minimalist style on your nails. Whether you’re too busy to hit the salon or want to save your money, here’s how to incorporate the natural nail trend into your routine.
What Is the Natural Nail Trend?
At the forefront of this nail trend, is your natural nail features—keep your nail colors and art simple. “Since the beginning of the quiet luxury and old money trend, this nail shape has been a must-have. Making less extravagant nails a key look to pair with this fashion and beauty trend. The short nail trend is usually worn in square format and not overpassing the edge of the finger,” explains Christina Kao, co-founder of Le Mini Macaron.
Many are turning to classic nail color shades to pair with this natural nail shape. But that doesn’t mean you’re limited on options—from beautiful brown colors to sheer neutral shades, there are many nail color possibilities for this nail look.
How to Recreate the Natural Nail Trend
The beauty of the natural nail trend is that this can be easily recreated at home. Perfect for people who are looking for a quick and easy nail routine, there’s three easy steps to achieve this trend yourself.
Step 1: Shape the Nail
The most important part to rocking the short nail trend is shape. Start by trimming your nails to their natural length. Kao says to follow the symmetry of your natural nails. “Cut your nails to make sure they don’t pass the edge of your finger and file them evenly to a square with round-ish edges,” explains Kao.
Shaping is key to making the fingers look elongated. Mosh recommends mirroring your cuticle’s natural shape when filing your nails for this trend. “Filing the sides [of your nails] will not only elongate your fingers, it will make application of polish much easier at home,” says Mosh.
Step 2: Moisturize Cuticles
A crucial step in the nail grooming process is applying cuticle oil. Massage cuticle oil to your cuticles for about 30 seconds one to two times a day. By properly caring for your cuticles, Mosh explains that you’ll avoid hangnails. This will also keep your nails looking healthy and hydrated.
Step 3: Paint Nails
From sheer, barely there nudes to bold burgundy reds, this natural nail trend is all about shape and simple paint colors. For nail painting at home, swipe one stroke down the center of your nail followed by one stroke on the left and ride side of the nail. Make sure to carefully cover all sides of the nail close to the cuticle. The amount of nail polish coats may vary depending on your preference, but one to three coats of color is recommended. Before applying a clear top coat, let the nails dry for about 15 minutes and follow with your favorite top coat to seal the nail polish and make your manicure last.
Natural Nail Polish Favorites
Here are five expert-approved nail polish favorites:
