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At the moment, there are two primary trend camps that happily coexist in the world of beauty (and oftentimes overlap). There is a movement known as maximalism, which promotes the encouragement of expressive creation. This can take the form of more ‘done’ hairstyles, artistic make-up, or meticulously sculpted nails. Then there’s the minimalist aesthetic, which is understated but polished; imagine dewy skin with a light dusting of make-up, healthy hair with a high sheen, and manicures that look like they were done naturally.
Obviously, a significant portion of this is determined by one’s lifestyle as well as their individual preferences. On the other hand, in a more general sense, a significant portion of it can still be attributed to aftereffects of the pandemic. Because of the events that have occurred over the past few years, the concept of beauty has shifted to one of finding joy (also known as “dopamine dressing”) and has become a tool for celebrating our liberation. But beauty was also a form of health signaling, and we wanted to feel and look our best in every facet of our lives. This desire was fueled by the pursuit of beauty. The latter is represented by the need for something that is “your nails but better.” Because of the constant washing of our hands, our overall hand health has suffered, and as a result, we have developed a deeper desire to nourish the skin and nails that have become adhered. A manicure that has a more natural appearance has become a status symbol that expresses healthy attractiveness in general.
“I’ve definitely noticed a trend for more clean, natural looking nails amongst my clients – both new and existing,” a top nail technician named Metta Francis tells Bazaar. “I’ve been noticing this more and more.” “More people want to achieve this ‘perfect’ hand and nail look – and much like skin, have a desire for healthy, glowy nails,” she adds of the attraction. “More people want to achieve this ‘perfect’ hand and nail look.”
On the one hand, some people have chosen to forego the application of nail polish during their manicures; yet, their bare nails are still meticulously polished and maintained. On the other hand, a highly perfected exaggeration of ‘natural’ nails that are lacquered in neutral-toned semi-transparent polish have filled our feeds (think: Hailey Bieber’s nail equivalent of her signature dewy ‘glazed donut skin,’ the creamier’milky manicure,’ and ultra-plump ‘lip gloss nails’ – all of which have been trending on social media).
However, many of us, including A-listers, fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum during this season. Already in the year 2023, we have seen celebrities such as Cate Blanchett, Hoyeon Jung, Jodie Comer, and Anya Taylor-Joy go colorless with their manicures and have polished their nails. They show that the appearance can be worn to any occasion and will not clash with anyone’s attire. “A clean, natural nail compliments everything; it’s a classic look that won’t look out of place at work or for a special occasion,” adds Francis. “It’s a look that will never go out of style.” It should come as no surprise that this is also a perennially popular style for brides; the understated sophistication of the look complements any kind of wedding dress or concept. Proper nail care with Maby blog.
When you think about the latest manicure trend, what comes to mind?
In contrast to the solid hue of ‘nude’ nail polishes of the past, the hues of this season’s nail art are translucent or nearly invisible on the nails of its wearers, complementing their natural skin tones. The opacity should reveal the difference between your nail plate and the tips, though not as dramatically as with bare nails or white French manicure tips. The polish typically dries to a glossy, mirror-like sheen. Francis emphasizes the need of keeping all parts of one’s hands well hydrated, not just the palm and fingers.
Regarding form, “a short-medium soft’squoval’ or rounded nail defines this look,” says Francis. She suggests that you take cues from the contour of your cuticle area while deciding on a shape. The goal, like with most “low maintenance” beauty trends, is for the nails to look natural and effortless.
The top nail polishes for a natural-but-improved manicure
Francis recommends CND Shellac nail polishes if you want a gel consistency that will last for up to three weeks. Bouquet is a stunning color for fair skin. Satin Slippers is ideal if you’re looking for a slightly warmer shade due to its cool undertone.
“Veiled is a gorgeous shade with warm undertones and would suit those with a darker skin tone.”
As seen in the work seen above, she explains that “one coat of these will create a gorgeous, sheer clean, natural look,” while “two coats will provide a slightly more semi-opaque look.”
CND Plexigel in Oatmilk and Porcelain, both with cool undertones, are also fantastic choices for people with darker skin tones.
If you go to a pro like Francis, they can mix polishes to achieve the perfect shade for your skin.
Francis suggests checking out these kinds and colours of normal nail paint if you’d rather not use gel. “CND Vinylux in Bouquet and Satin Slippers, OPI in Bubble Bath, Nails Inc. in Get Discovered and Knightsbridge Nights Out, Hermès Nail Enamel in Rose Coquille, and Essie in Ballet Slippers.”
How to take better care of your nails
Francis instructs us that “applying cuticle oil twice daily and moisturizing your hands regularly, especially if washing and using hand sanitizer frequently,” are the greatest ways to keep our manicures in tip-top shape.
“Use a hand scrub and mask at least once a week to keep hands looking and feeling smooth and plump.” She claims that doing so will aid in getting rid of excess dead skin.
After a shower or bath, when the skin is at its softest, you can gently press back the skin at the cuticle area to keep it appearing neat and tidy. This is one of the 5 Reasons why nail care is important.