Sarah Chue, celebrity nail artist
Christina Kao, manicurist and co-founder of Le Mini Macaron
01. High Heel Nails
This Korean nail trend plays with negative space in a bold, high-contrast way. It features a large stripe down the center of the nail that mimics the look of a high heel. While the design seems simple enough, there’s something about the way it looks on fingernails that makes it super eye-catching.
02. Dewdrop Nails
Also known as 3D blob nails, dewdrop nails are inspired by the droplets of fresh morning dew that collect outside. The nails feature clear, jelly-like domes that sit on top of whatever color you prefer. Keep it clear for a minimalist look, or opt for a bold hue like slime green.
03. Blush Nails
True to their name, blush nails mimic the natural flush of rosy cheeks for a soft and feminine mani. Christina Kao, manicurist and co-founder of Le Mini Macaron explains, “This style works with soft pink or peachy tones that make a gradient concentrated in the center of the nail, fading outward for a diffused, airbrushed effect.” It’s often paired with a glossy top coat to enhance the dewy, glowy vibe.
04. 3D Nail Art
If you’re down for a little texture on your fingernails, then dive into the K-Beauty 3D art trend. There are no boundaries here, and sometimes you’ll even see ultra-long nails decked out in crystals, gemstones, pearls, and beyond for the ultimate “wow!” moment. For something subtler and more wearable, a few embellishments are all you need!
05. Syrup Nails
This sweet spin on a manicure is glossy, low key, and chic. Sarah Chue, celebrity nail artist notes, “It has a translucent, jelly-like gradient that looks soft and natural. They resemble the sheer, glossy appearance of syrup, hence the name. You can apply single or multiple layers for your desired depth, super fun to play with and very customizable.” You can go with a muted brown tone similar to syrup, but this trend is more about the ultra-gloss, syrup-y finish and works with any color.
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06. Mixed Textures
Along with some of the “quiet” nail art trends emerging from South Korea, there’s quite a bit of loud maximalism happening via mixed textures, bright colors, and intricate designs. A nail trend we’re seeing emerge is this fusion of mixed textures and colors, where glitter, shimmer, pearl, gloss, and 3D elements swirl together to create a dazzling, tiny piece of art on each nail.
07. Velvet Nails
Velvet nails, also known as cat-eye nails, are also in high demand right now. This nail art trend uses a magnetic gel polish to create a shimmering, textured effect that mimics the look of a velvet-y soft fabric. Christina Kao says, “Depending on the angle of light, the nails shift in color and dimension, adding a halo effect.” This trend brings an ultra-luxurious feel to any manicure without requiring extra gems, length, or stickers. The way the polish catches the light makes your nails look mesmerizing, perfect for anyone who loves a little extra glam.
08. Gradient Nails
The K-Beauty spin on gradient nails is all about soft, dreamy transitions between colors by blending shades within the same color family. The result is a watercolor-esque, ethereal vibe. The finish is usually glossy, but you can add a hint of shimmer or glitter for more pizzazz.
09. Chrome Aura Nails
This K-Beauty nail trend combines soft gradient effects with a chrome finish. Sarah Chue explains, “The color is often placed in the center of the nail to mimic the ‘halo effect’ of aura nails, and to finish the look a chrome powder is gently rubbed onto the nails to give them a mirror-like iridescent glow.” This trend strikes a balance between minimalistic with a modern edge to it!
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10. Soap Nails
Part of the “clean girl” and “old money” aesthetic that’s been popular the last couple of years, soap nails are a minimalist nail trend inspired by the soft and milky translucence of a bar of soap (and the bubbles that appear when washing). Sarah Chue adds, “They have a sheer, pastel, or milky white base with a wet-look finish.” The result is a clean, delicate, and effortlessly chic manicure. They give off a ‘your-nails-but-better’ vibe similar to no makeup makeup looks, or skincare-inspired beauty trends.
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