From the often velvet-covered chairs to the glass bottles of beautiful colour lined neatly on marble-effect shelves, there are many things that make a visit to the salon a magical experience. And in 2024 we intend to take full advantage of our appointment with our nail technicians. How, you ask? By opting for some stunning nail art.
Remember when nail art consisted of water-painted flowers and glittery dragons? Those were the days. However, after its short-lived moment in the early noughties, nail art really dropped off the grid for a little while. In stark contrast to the grandeur and excess of embellished talons and intricate patterns, for the last 10 years or so, nail trends and manicures have, for the most part, remained mono-tonal, simple and polished.
However, over the past year or so, we have noticed that nail designs have started to get a little more fun. From colourful nails to bold animal-print designs, it would seem as though we are all looking for new ways to up our mani game. You'll be pleased to hear that nail art is officially back, and it's chicer than ever.
"With so many people getting manicures regularly, it only makes sense that they're more open to experimenting with different designs," says nail artist Ashleigh Bamber. "Getting a manicure is no longer just a pre-holiday treat, it's an opportunity to lean into wider beauty trends and express your personality." When it comes to current nail art trends, Bamber notes that glass nails are a popular choice—an offshoot of the glass skin trend. "Even my clients who prefer natural nails have been experimenting with designs like colourful French tips, whereas those who like a bold design have been requesting 3D designs with gems," she adds.
From floral designs and fun French tips to intricate artistry and pretty glitters, keep scrolling for the chicest nail art to add to your inspiration board ahead of your next salon appointment.
Minimal Nail Art
(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)
If you're a neutral person at heart but want something a little more exciting, why not try an ombre effect?
(Image credit: @imarninails)
Muted tones and simple spots—we're in love.
(Image credit: @styleIdealist)
Karina proves that the accent manicure shouldn't be overlooked.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
The high-gloss finish on this easy-to-achieve look is the ultimate touch.
(Image credit: @BUFFCS)
If minimal designs are your bag, this one should be top of your list. A sheer, nude polish with gold sticker accents is beyond chic.
(Image credit: @THEHANGEDIT)
Why didn't we think of this sooner?
(Image credit: @ROSIEHW)
Is there anything Rosie Huntington-Whiteley can't pull off? This simple white-edge finish is seriously cool.
(Image credit: @browngirlhands)
Transparent nails are an emerging nail trend, and they look incredible with nail art on top.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
Switch up your manicure by utilising negative space on one or two accent nails.
(Image credit: @THEHANGEDIT)
Seventies-inspired nail art is having a serious moment. If you're not into the usual brights, this muted brown design is easy to wear and comes with all of the same retro fun.
(Image credit: @dollpartsmcr)
Some simple diamanté embellishment is a great way to enhance a star design.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
Update the classic red manicure with pink tips and half moons.
(Image credit: @claire_most)
Sticking to powdery tones, Claire demonstrates the most stylish way to do rainbow nails.
(Image credit: @thatgracegirl)
Give a bold black manicure a chic update by incorporating graphic shapes and negative space.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
We love the contrast of classic red with simple beige.
(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)
Opt for simple squiggles on each nail for a chic design.
(Image credit: @paragonnails)
Graphic and minimal, this nail art look is perfect for those with pared-back aesthetics.
(Image credit: @ROSETUCKERSOUTHPORT)
A subtle way to embrace glitter—and the season's trendiest metallic.
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
This would make such a chic Valentine's Day nail art design.
French Tip Nail Art
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
How chic is this? We wouldn't expect anything less from nail queen Harriet Westmoreland.
(Image credit: @hollyfalconenails)
A gold manicure? Yes pls.
(Image credit: @BAMBINAILSS)
A subtle pop of colour is the perfect alternative to classic white.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
This is such a pretty way to add some colour to your look.
(Image credit: @hollyfalconenails)
Linear nail art is still big for winter; make it feel fresh in a bright colour.
(Image credit: @fongminliao)
These neon-pink tips are sure to brighten your day.
(Image credit: @AMY_LAWRENSON)
We are loving the contrast of the nude base colour and the bright yellow.
(Image credit: @livingwithlotte)
These statement tips look great with an all-black look.
(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)
Sometimes simple is best.
(Image credit: @nailartbyqueenie)
A tasteful update on the classic French mani.
(Image credit: @imarninails)
These rainbow tips are the perfect way to have fun with your nails but keep things chic at the same time.
(Image credit: @imarninails)
The matte finish on this simple design makes all the difference.
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
Pay homage to your favourite designer with a logo mani.
Floral Nail Art
(Image credit: @haileybieber)
Hailey Bieber recently posted these nails, and we're obsessed.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
Dainty blue flowers look great as a negative space design.
(Image credit: @bambinailss)
Proving that floral nail art designs don't have to be "extra", we love this statement nail paired with colourful French tips.
(Image credit: @nnennaechem)
Sometimes the more colour, the better.
(Image credit: @BAMBINAILSS)
Don't fancy florals all over? Try an accent nail instead.
(Image credit: @celmatique)
Keeping the floral design at just the tip of the nails looks so cool.
(Image credit: @THEHANGEDIT)
Who knew yellow nails could look this good?
(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)
These retro floral nails are beyond adorable.
(Image credit: @THATSALEAF)
Not only is this green shade bang on trend for 2024, but the daisy detailing really levels things up.
(Image credit: @livingwithlotte)
These simple daisies can be achieved at home with a dotting tool.
Abstract Nail Art
(Image credit: @celmatique)
Bright flower power talons in a rainbow of bright shades? Sign us up!
(Image credit: @DOLLPARTSMCR)
Make your design 3D for a truly abstract effect.
(Image credit: @eggcanvas)
We couldn't be any more obsessed with this paint-like design if we tried.
(Image credit: @paragonnails)
The inspiration behind this nail art was chocolate. We dig it.
(Image credit: @dollpartsmcr)
According to Bamber, jewel-toned nails will be a key trend for autumn/winter 2024.
(Image credit: @thehangedit)
This design might look a little tricky at first, but once you dissect it, we promise it's not so difficult. Use manicure stickers to create a shape running along the bottom of the nail bed. Once dry, select a lighter or brighter version of the same shade and create a larger or smaller shape across the tip.
(Image credit: @heartzeena)
So abstract!
(Image credit: @celmatique)
These abstract nails are like works of art.
(Image credit: @IMARNINAILS)
There's something charmingly Y2K about this mismatch design, and we couldn't be more into it.
(Image credit: @stephaniebroek)
Use a fine-tipped brush to get this squiggle design. It'll be super easy to give a go at home.
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
Can't choose between dots or stripes? Go for both!
(Image credit: @imarninails)
Probably one for the experts, but we can't wait to take this design down to the salon eventually.
(Image credit: @nails_of_la)
These straight lines might look simple, but they're anything but easy to create. Note how the matte background makes them pop.
(Image credit: @PARAGONNAILS)
Switch up your swirly mani but opt for a slightly different design with clashing polishes on each nail.
Marble Nail Art
(Image credit: @imarninails)
Inspired by quartz gemstones, this stunning nail art will make you feel calm whenever you glance down.
(Image credit: @paragonnails)
How cool is this wavy effect?
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
I'm obsessed with this rose quartz nail design.
(Image credit: @buffcs)
Aura nails are one of the hottest nail trends right now.
(Image credit: @amy_lawrenson)
This iridescent look is out of this world.
(Image credit: @paragonnails)
These marble nails are so classy.
(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)
Show us something chicer than this glossy, tortoiseshell-inspired manicure. We'll wait.
(Image credit: @stephaniebroek)
Okay, who can teach us how to do this tortoiseshell design right now because we can't wait?
Micro Nail Art
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
Like everyone else, we're obsessed with bows right now.
(Image credit: @thehangedit)
Not great at freehand painting? Paint over confetti to get this cute finish.
(Image credit: @HOLLYFALCONENAILS)
You don't need to be a wiz at nail art to nail this design (pardon the pun). Paint your nails in a blush tone, apply smiley stickers wherever your heart desires and paint a clear topcoat to seal.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
Evil-eye designs are cropping up regularly on our feed. The precision might require an expert hand, but the chic results are well worth it.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
We are obsessed with these simple stars on bare nails.
(Image credit: @oliveandjune)
This '90s-style nail art with daisies and hearts is so sweet.
(Image credit: @imarninails)
Enhance squared-off nails with some graphic lines set against a blush base.
Glitter and Gold Nail Art
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
Gold foil makes for the perfect manicure accessory.
(Image credit: @browngirlhands)
The detail on this citrus-inspired manicure is impeccable.
(Image credit: @hollyfalconenails)
Another gemstone-inspired manicure to covet. We love the addition of this wave of sparkle to these simple nails.
(Image credit: @paragonnails)
You don't need to have super long nails to pull off detailed nail art; in fact, it can look all the more expensive.
(Image credit: @oliveandjune)
Sure, we're big fans of understated nail designs, but something about this bejewelled mani is calling out to us.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
Glitter isn't just for the festive season. This glitter-dipped mani works all year round thanks to its minimal nature.
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
Name a better colour combination than navy and gold.
(Image credit: @THEHANGEDIT)
This sparkles-and-glitter combo is a total work of art.
(Image credit: @amy_lawrenson)
We love the way the natural nail shines through with this sparkly look.
(Image credit: @THEHANGEDIT)
This halo manicure is next on our list to try, and it can be done at home. Use French-tip stickers to create the halo, and alternate which section you apply a glitter topper to on every nail.
(Image credit: @amy_lawrenson)
For those who want to add a little bit of sparkle, this pretty nude design is perfect.
(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)
This simple accent nail design is easy to create at home.
Bright and Bold Nail Art
(Image credit: @imarninails)
This watermelon-inspired ombre manicure is so fun.
(Image credit: @buffcs)
I love this pairing of checkerboard nail art and chrome in bright green.
(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu)
Assemble your favourite shades, and do small, light brushstrokes to create an abstract look reminiscent of modern art.
(Image credit: @DOLLPARTSMCR)
This design takes bright and bold to a whole new level.
(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)
Inspired by your pre-teen notebook, adorn your nails with doodles of stars, dots and hearts for a cute talon look.
(Image credit: @imarninails)
It would appear that cherries are the fruity nail art to flaunt right now.
(Image credit: @heartzeena)
How cute are these hearts?
(Image credit: @aude_julie)
The brighter, the better.
(Image credit: @heartzeena)
In our opinion, you can't go wrong with Skittle nails.
(Image credit: @alicezielasko)
If you find neon a little bit garish, this is the perfect happy medium.
(Image credit: @amy_lawrenson)
Oh so simple but oh so gorgeous.
(Image credit: @celmatique)
This pastel mani is embellished with letters layered on top.
(Image credit: @aude_julie)
Two-tone nails in bright colours look amazing.
(Image credit: @celmatique)
Yes, those are maps.
(Image credit: @bambinailss)
When you can't decide on a colour for your French tip, choose two.
(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)
Perfect for summer.
Shop Nail Art Products:
Templespa
FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH
The secret to making your at-home nail look look professional? It's all about the cuticles. Push them back with a cuticle pusher prior to nail polish and keep them looking pristine by applying a nail serum daily. Your mani will look far more professional.
Beauty Pie
Wondercolour™ Nail Polish Edit
Price shown is member price.
Beauty Pie's nail varnishes are long-wearing and this neutral hue makes a great base for nail art designs.
Blulu
French French Manicure Nail Stickers White Tip Guide
Taking on the French tip trend? These nail guides will give you seamless results.
Nails Inc.
Find Me in Fulham Quick Drying Nail Polish
A white polish is a must in any nail art collection, whether you're creating abstract swirls or flowers.
Sally Hansen
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel 2.0 Top Coat
This hard-wearing top coat will ensure your nail art stays put for longer.
CHANEL
Le Vernis Nail Colour
A classic Chanel red nail polish is a must for chic fingertips.
Amazon
Two Way Dotting Pen Marbleizing Tool Set
Create precise dots and shapes with a dotting tool.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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