5 Hot Nail Trends for 2024
This year’s nail trends are all about self-expression and creativity. No matter which trend you decide to try, these expert tips will make sure you're nailing it.
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We love trying new and different manicures, mostly because they’re relatively low commitment. Sure, we could change our haircut or get a tattoo, but even the most out-there manicure will last a few weeks at most. And a polish change can be as easy as a swipe of a cotton ball.
Even better, most of the nail trends being predicted by experts for 2024 are pretty low-key and easy to recreate. Some of them continue 2023’s "clean girl aesthetic" and quiet luxury trends. But if you want to get a little more creative, you can explore 3D art and nail charms, too
As far as shape and length go, this year we’re seeing more short- to medium-length nails as opposed to sharpened talons. (Even Kylie Jenner has been seen with short nails.) We’re not seeing as many stiletto or coffin shapes, either, as most nail experts are loving the more practical squoval — a keyboard-friendly combination of square and oval.
It’s possible shorter lengths and neutral colors are a reaction to the recent years of bold shades on elaborate and expensive tips and extensions. Or maybe you just want to give your nails a healthy break. No matter which trend you decide to try, these expert tips will make sure you're nailing it.
Clean Girl Nails
The "clean girl aesthetic" has been around for a couple of years now, but it's not showing any signs of going away. Think minimalist, effortless, and glowy. It’s sometimes called “balletcore,” but even if you've never taken a ballet class, you can get into the trend with neutral shades on short nails. The important thing here is to think about the health of your nails over any bold shades or textures.
Nail colors to try:
Pop Art Colors
If subtle isn't your thing, pop art colors are trending this year, too. Think gorgeous bold fuschia, cobalt, and emerald in place of neutral shades. We love how this nail artist took pop art to the next level with a black border around neons.
Nail colors to try:
- Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish in That’s a Blazing!
- OPI Nail Lacquer in Exotic Birds Don’t Tweet
- Wet n Wild Fast Dry AF Nail Polish in Navy Blue Putting on Airs
Sheer Chromes/Jelly Nails
We embraced the trend of "jelly nails" last year — and it's still going strong. For 2024, the glossy look is best with sheer shades and iridescent chromes so that your natural nail color shines through. Model and influencer Kara del Toro calls out light pink chrome and ethereal vanilla chrome as a trend for this year. There’s also a fun mermaid vibe to the trend, looking to oysters and mother of pearl for inspiration.
Nail colors to try:
3D Nail Art
If muted shades feel a little boring, there’s a lot of exciting 3D nail art happening in 2024. Nail artists in Korea and Japan are spearheading the trend with new technology that takes it to the next level. Look for raised textures, charms, and even piercings, but especially bows and pearls for that trendy coquette style.
'90s Vamp
In case you haven't heard, '90s grunge is back, along with its messy, smoky eyes, and deep, blood-red nails. In the 1990s, Chanel's Vamp reigned supreme, but sadly the brand discontinued it. But don’t worry — Chanel replaced the shade with a look-alike hue, and there are tons of affordable dupes, too. It's up to you whether you wear it chipped or not.
Nail colors to try:
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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