Contents
My interest in nail art has rapidly grown. The small amount of real estate available on our nails would not seem like it would lend itself to much in the way of artistic expression, but boy, would you be mistaken. Icy nails, abstract art, and wild print combinations that pull off unexpectedly are just a few examples of the ways in which artists from all around the world push boundaries every day. In my opinion, nail art is a unique kind of expression that speaks volumes about the wearer. It’s a reflection of their background, environment, and personal tastes. Everyone has their own distinct sense of style, but when it comes to the latest trends, the internet has brought us all closer together.
I Love Your Nails is a behind-the-scenes look at the latest nail art trends from across the world, as seen through the eyes of the artists who make them. I asked nail technicians in different places across the globe about the nail art trends they see most often, the equipment they use most often, and the current colors they can’t get enough of. In addition, I’ve identified a few universal trends. Have a peek down below; you never know what kind of style ideas you could come up with. Have a safe trip, you nail explorers! Visit the Maby blog to discover the most trending nail today.
Colorful and psychedelic is now on-trend in London
Despite England’s reputation for gloom and unpredictability, this year’s London nail forecast is looking rather bright. Sabrina Gayle, a celebrity nail artist based in London, has said that summer features a wide range of hues, from bright to pastel. “3D ornamentation and textured nails are two of 2023’s most exciting new trends.”
And that’s not all! The creative community is currently undergoing a retro-inspired revival. “Some of the more interesting patterns I’ve seen combine dreamy 1960s mushrooms with cheerful face rave patterns from the 1990s. Nail techs either paint these on by hand or use a combination of nail decals and bases that look like optical illusions to make them. Very awesome!”
Gayle like to utilize gel-X extensions, which are light and flexible, like press-on nails, for any manicure styles she makes. Also, they have a far more natural feel than acrylics. She continues, “Several companies, from Aprés Gel-X Extensions to Beetles Gel Kit, have produced gel extensions at varying pricing points.” The technique helps your nails stay healthy and natural, yet they come off as easily as a gel manicure.
She finds that Savita Liner Brushes and Beetles Nail Art Liner Brushes work well for her creations. “My go-to liner tool is a brush I’ve owned for over a decade, and that comes with a tiny bottle of acetone and a wooden handle (my comfort zone). I use this astonishingly little brush to draw, mix, and dot.”
Nails of LA founder and celebrity manicurist Brittney Boyce claims that large things are in style in the city of angels right now. She explains, “Nail art with bold colors and designs is all the rage.” Nail art here reflects the bright disposition of the locals.
What are some upcoming local trends in terms of design?
The culmination of a neon jelly! “Semi-opaque neon sunglasses, especially with a French tip, are totally in style right now. It seems like you’re all set to relax on the water’s edge. You may go with just the tips or amp up the style with some decals.” Emoji designs in bright colors like Barbie pink and citrus yellow are also taking over the metropolis. “Nail decals or freehand applications are also viable options. Putting a little glimmer into the emojis is one of my favorite ways to spice things up.” Boyce’s other favorite thing to do is make abstract checkerboard graphics, which are really chill and very L.A. “Vans, with their iconic checkerboard patterns, are an iconic LA skater brand in my mind. Personal additions, such as partial application or a melted smiling face, make it more entertaining for me.”
Since there are so many possibilities and Nails of LA decals are so simple to apply, she utilizes them to create many of her looks. She recommends Orly’s Builder in a Bottle for jelly tips. She explains, “It’s a terrific foundation for a sharp end.” To create your own unique semi-opaque neon, you may also add any neon color to it. She enjoys a nice chrome moment just as much as she enjoys wearing colorful, statement nails. “Chrome nail polish is edgy and futuristic. It’s skyrocketing in popularity thanks to its shiny, almost holographic sheen.” So you can’t miss 12 Chrome Nail designs you need to see your nail tech about right away.
According to famous manicurist Julie Kandalec, glazed donut nails are all the rage in New York City because of Hailey Bieber, but she’s also seeing floral nail art and negative space designs becoming popular. She reveals that a lot of people enjoy retro nail art, color combinations like pink and orange, and “supermodel nails” (perfectly groomed cuticles and a sheer, milky nude gel lacquer.
She recommends CNDs Over the Top Effects in “Off the Chain” and the company’s Shellac No Wipe Top Coat for achieving the glazed donut effect. “Ava Dean Beauty’s Ursula Turquoise Nail Lacquer is this beautiful, saturated Tiffany-esque turquoise that’s fantastic for a lady’s vacation to the Caribbean and has excellent coverage,” she raves of one of the summer’s most popular manicure colors. She also adores the Of Quartz shade of nail polish by KB Shimmer. “It’s multicolored micro-glitter in the shape of a rose, and it’s just stunning. Put another way; I can’t take my eyes off this hue!” Furthermore, Kandalec utilizes OPI’s Silly Bunny, a timeless color perfect for layering and creating supermodel-worthy milky white tips.
Nathalie Hammar, a nail artist in Sweden, says she’s seen a few trends that are also present in London. This summer, she adds, “We’re seeing a lot of ’90s influenced patterns,” such as swirls and abstract art in strong neon hues. The traditional French tip is also experiencing a major revival.
She always uses Light Elegance Perfect Pink 1-Step Lexy Line UV/LED Gel as a base for her works. “As a foundation, it’s fantastic. It provides a gorgeous, natural-looking background color and is very user-friendly. Afterward, I apply the patterns with gel paint or very colored gel polish.” Gel polishes that reflect light are also popular among her clientele. “Brilliant by Didier Lab is my favorite brand of nail polish, especially the summertime hues of yellow and coral. They are stunning in every way.”
Hammar shares Boyce’s fondness for all things chrome. “I use it as much as my clients will allow me,” she says. “Aurora Chrome by Social Claws is my fave of all time,” I said. Hammar enjoys using Moonflair crystals and three-dimensional flowers as decorative accents. Even while some of Hammar’s favorites aren’t sold in the US, you can still get in on the trend with our recommendations based on what’s popular in Stockholm.