In 2024, nail trends were embracing individuality with a blend of classic and futuristic styles. We're seeing innovative French manicures with micro tips, vibrant textures like matte and chrome, and a palette that transitions from deep, rich colors to bright, unexpected hues. Nail art now includes luxurious elements like crystals and 3D designs, while there's a shift toward sustainable gel options, making nails a playground for personal style and fun choices.
The Glazed Donut
Inspired by Hailey Bieber's sweet tooth @nailsbyzola, the glazed donut nail trend has been all about that sheer, glossy finish. Soft nude gel + glaze pearl chrome! It's like your nails are perpetually covered in a thin layer of edible glaze, which, if we're being honest, might just be the most delicious trend of the year.
Aura Nails
For those who missed the Y2K memo, aura nails are here to remind you. It's like your nails are experiencing an aura cleanse. Aura nails feature a soft, glowing gradient, mimicking energy fields around the nails. The design blends a bright color in the center that fades into a darker or complementary shade, creating an ethereal, radiant look. Popular with airbrushing or sponging, these nails often use vibrant or pastel colors for a dreamy effect.
Aura Nails
Naked Manicure
In a world where less is the new more, naked nails have been making a statement by not making one. It's the minimalist's dream: your natural nails but better, with a hint of polish that whispers, "I'm here, but I'm not trying too hard."
Chrome Everything
If 2023 was about chrome, 2024 said, "Hold my beer." Chrome nails have evolved, now featuring molten accents and darker, moodier tones for all seasons, because why not make your nails look like they're made of liquid metal?
3D Textures
From 3D nails to croc print, 2024 has been about adding dimension. It's like your nails are playing host to a tiny, tactile art exhibition. Imagine your nails as miniature sculptures, using texture gel and 3D, 4D gel to get those textured nails.
The Return of Red
Classic red never left the party, but in 2024, it's been given a VIP pass. Whether it's a deep, wine red for fall or a bright cherry for summer, red nails are screaming, "I'm timeless, deal with it!"
Brown is the New Black
From milk chocolate to deep cacao, brown nails have been the unexpected hero of the year. It's like your nails are saying, "I'm neutral, but make it fashion."
The French Manicure Evolution
The French tip has been on a journey, from floating to mismatched to downright rebellious with colors and chrome combined. It's like the French manicure grew up and decided to explore its wild side.
The French Manicure Evolution
Citrus Nail
This trend highlights vibrant shades like lemon yellow, lime green, and tangerine orange. Designs often mimic fruit slices or incorporate bold, juicy colors for a playful, summer-ready look.
Citrus Nail
Tortoise Shell
A nail art design that mimics the appearance of a tortoise shell, featuring a mix of amber, brown, black, and sometimes gold tones. The look is achieved through layering and blending colors to create a marbled, translucent effect. The pattern can be applied across the entire nail or as an accent design. This style has a rich, sophisticated feel and has become popular for its unique and versatile aesthetic.
So, there you have it, the nail trends of 2024. From the edible to the ethereal, proving once again that in the grand tapestry of human vanity, nails are the tiny, shiny threads that catch the light just right.
Nethan Nguyen is a 28-year-old licensed nail master artist with over 10 years of experience, owning a small nail salon in Pittsburgh, PA. Nethan has worked with clients like Hilary Swank and Karrueche, jojo. He recently earned second place in the creative chrome category from Nailpro's Master Challenge 2024.
