7 Unique Spring/Summer 2024 Nail Inspo Ideas
With the rise of the manicure transforming into an art piece rather than a simple maintenance task for cleanliness, it seems like the internet is constantly looking ahead for the next nail trend that pushes the limits of skill and design. Gone are the days of a cookie-cutter nail display that you could pick from in your local nail shops; manicures are now an opportunity for people to show their personalities through one more medium: their fingers.
The classic OPI Bubble Bath and Ballet Slipper combination will always be in our hearts and can always be a safe place to come back to, but if you’re looking for something a little bit more avant-garde that you can tailor to your own personal style, screenshot some of the inspiration below and take it with you to your next nail appointment.
1: High-Gloss “Junk” Nails
Photo credits: @nailsbyskyelinh (left), Alexandra Strong on Pinterest (right)
One may think of junk nails as a chaotic, charm-heavy, embellished manicure. While that may be true for someone who prefers that look, junk nails can take on the vision of whoever is wearing them. This highly-glossy, colorful junk nail is an excellent way to grab anyone’s attention. Playing with blooming gel, jelly nail polish, and 3-D gel all while layering different colors and finishes to the manicure will always create a statement, but the true cherry on top is a high-gloss top coat that will make the design’s colors pop as well as give the look an almost liquid effect.
2: Mismatched Colors, Matched Nail Art
Photo credits: mine (left), mine (right)
A personal favorite of mine is an easy, approachable way to create a unique manicure that does not require too much extra thought. Begin by picking a simple design that you like, and instead of following one specific color scheme, consider breaking up the design and adding a twist by changing the color for the other hand. The results are nails that are personalized to your own style with a funky twist.
3: Global Village Coffeehouse + Nature Nails
Photo credits: dulce ୨୧ on Pinterest (left), @nailzbyambz (right)
This one may be a little niche and specific, but the global village coffeehouse aesthetic is one of the most comforting and unique aesthetics to come out of the 90s/early 2000s. The nature-inspired togetherness blended futuristic themes with a sense of community, something that is often lost now in the age of technology and isolation. These nails are not particularly, specifically designed to be global village coffeehouse nails, but they do align with the colors and feel of cracking open a textbook in 1998. Nature-centered nails do not have to be boring or simple, and can be just as complex and vibrant as a set of neon nails; the design is simply more focused on the details and creating a warm, unique look.
4: A Touch of Neon
Photo credits: florfranzosi on Pinterest (left), mine (right)
In contrast to the natural, bohemian feel of global village coffeehouse nails, neon provides a different kind of “fun” nails. Often, people (including myself) are wary of trying out neon nails because they can be a bit stifling; it can be hard to style an outfit around too much neon. As an alternative, creating a nail look with just a touch of neon or, ironically, muted neon, can give a nice pop of color that does not overwhelm the eyes. Using neon as an accent color and matching it with more neutral, muted tones can create a playful vibrancy.
5: Negative Space with a Twist
Photo credits: tessheaton02 on Pinterest (left), isamiret on Pinterest (right)
Negative space nails were what originally called me into the world of nails. Years ago before I was comfortable with my own skills and playing with color, negative space provided a simple way to express myself through nails while not being too difficult. Now that I have been doing my nails for over 3 years, I still find myself called back to negative space nails. They are simple but can be configured using shapes, colors, and textures. Another benefit of this nail style is that they are doable on all different nail lengths from short to extra long.
6: Celestial, ethereal Nails
Photo credits: jennapinns on Pinterest (left), wragg6250 on Pinterest (right)
As trend cycles continue to chug along, we inch closer to becoming the light, airy, celestial beings that we wanted to be when we were younger. By leaning into celestial, ethereal nails, we use light, airy colors and lean heavily on moon and star motifs. In addition, iridescent chromes add a dreamy layer that transforms our nails into little pieces of the stars. This style of nail art is also versatile because although it is beautiful and unique, it utilizes elevated neutrals and does not overpower or overtake the rest whatever outfit, hairstyle, or accessories you wear.
7: “Natural” Nails with Spunk
Photo credits: luvrsdream on Pinterest (left), GlitteryAngelBlossom on Pinterest (right)
Some of us prefer not to be “loud” with our nails, and still prefer something more subtle yet eye-catching. Ditch just getting the same glazed natural nails this time and try something with a unique twist that can be paired with multiple outfits and aesthetics. Taking a simple nude manicure and pairing it with a high-contrast chrome or a subtle aura look can elevate a manicure without having to fully commit to colors and textures you may not be willing to have on your nails for 2+ weeks. This nail style is also highly customizable and can allow the wearer to choose how neutral they want to go; using muted neutrals can keep the nails subtle, or adding a pop of lime green or orange can elevate the look to more of a tropical feel.
Historically, nails have been utilized to show status and were often only utilized by the rich and powerful. Now we have the beauty of anyone being able to create the look that they want, sometimes even from home with their own supplies. So, take pride in your mani and allow it to be an expression of your own personal styles and desires!
