While clean, barely-there manicures were the mainstay of 2023, with glazed, chrome nails showing up here and there, 2024 seems to be the year of fun and maximalism with metallic finishes, shiny embellishments, and cute-as-a-button bows being spotted on streets and runways alike—Sandy Liang’s SS ’24 show last year featured clear nails while Prabal Gurung’s show had models flaunting chrome accents and 3D tips. So, if you’re looking for nail art inspiration for the upcoming summer, let these ideas serve as a mood board.
Chrome continues to rule
What started as Hailey Bieber’s glazed doughnut nails, quickly grew into a trend for all things shiny. We predict the chrome obsession will continue through summer. Iridescent nails jazz up any outfit and can be tweaked however you wish—from in-your-face shimmering metallics to rainbow chrome and even pastel options. If you’d like a subtle chrome look, try adding just a bit of shine instead of painting the whole nail.
French manis get a colourful twist
French manicures have been around since forever, but if you want to switch them up and go for a more playful look, add a dash of colour to it. Vibrant tips are popping up everywhere on our feeds—think buttery yellows, sky blues, and delicious corals. You could pick just one shade or for some more fun, alternate shades or pick a different one for each fingernail, which is the more popular look.
Minimal manis are in
Free-handed lines, dots, and squiggles are showing up on nails, adding an abstract element to nail art. Remember, you don’t have to stick to just black, play around with colours and patterns, keeping the base plain. Add either a glossy or a matte top coat to finish the look.
3D embellishments are a popular choice
A single sparkling jewel has the power to take your manicure from good to amazing in an instant, and with textured nail art making waves, now’s the perfect time to take your summer nails up a notch. Sky’s the limit when it comes to 3D nails—be it pearls, studs, or crystals. Top it with an extra coat of clear polish for even more gloss.
Coquette core has made its way onto nails
Bows are everywhere, including on your manicure. Bows in different shades and designs are the ideal candidate for a cute summer manicure, especially if you get them in trending colours like blush pink and olive. You could even add crystals or a textural bow to dabble with the 3D trend.
An unexpected pop of red
According to the ‘unexpected red theory’, adding even a bit of red to any outfit or room instantly perks it up visually. While red manis are more common during the colder months, during the festive period, and Valentine’s Day, the fiery shade is gaining popularity this season and is all set to amp up the heat during summer, too. Instead of the deeper, burgundy reds, opt for hues that are brighter and warm-toned.
Feature image: Daria Solonska // Pexels
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