Remember when nail art consisted of water-painted flowers and glittery dragons? Those were the days. However, after its short-lived moment in the early noughties, nail art really dropped off the grid for a little while. In stark contrast to the grandeur and excess of embellished talons and intricate patterns, for the last 10 years or so, nail trends and manicures have, for the most part, remained monotonal, simple and polished.
However, in the last 12 months or so, we have noticed that nail designs have started to get a little more fun. From colourful rainbow nails to chic gradient designs, it would seem as though we are all looking for new ways to up our mani game. You’ll be pleased to hear that nail art is officially back too, and it’s chicer than ever. Steering clear of busy designs and mind-boggling patterns, 2020’s take on nail art is simple, pared-back and understated.
From negative-space designs and muted statements to intricate artistry and pretty marbles, keep scrolling for the chicest nail art to add to your inspiration board right now.
How cute are these hearts?
We are obsessed with these simple stars on bare nails.
These bright-pink neon tips are sure to brighten your day.
Muted tones and simple spots—we’re in love.
The brighter, the better.
For a subtle take on nail art, try alternate pastel nails.
So abstract!
These rainbow tips are the perfect way to have fun with your nails but keep things chic at the same time.
The matte finish on this simple design makes all the difference.
Probably one for the experts, but we can’t wait to take this design down to the salon eventually.
In our opinion you can’t go wrong with a skittle nail.
If you find neon a little bit garish, this is the perfect happy medium.
These retro floral nails are beyond adorable.
These abstract nails are like a work of art.
We are loving the contrast of the nude base colour and the bright-yellow neon.
Oh so simple, but oh so gorgeous.
Use hole-punch stickers to help achieve this rainbow look.
For those who want to add a little bit of sparkle, this pretty nude design is perfect.
This iridescent look is out of this world.
Switch up your manicure by utilising negative space on one or two accent nails.
Pastel manis with letter embellishments layered on the top.
We love the way the natural nail shines through with this sparkly look.
These statement tips look great with an all-black look.
Gold foil makes for the perfect manicure accessory.
The high-gloss finish on this easy-to-achieve look is the ultimate touch.
These simple daisies can be achieved at home with a dotting tool.
Two-tone nails in bright colours look amazing.
We love the contrast of classic red with simple beige.
Name a better colour combination than navy and gold.
Switch up the direction of the stripes on each nail for a chic design.
We couldn’t be any more obsessed with this paint-like design if we tried.
Is there anything Rosie Huntington-Whiteley can’t pull off? This simple white-edge finish is seriously cool.
Okay, who can teach us how to do this tortoiseshell design right now because we can’t wait?
Use a fine-tipped brush, and this squiggle design will be super easy to give a go at home.
Yes, those are maps.
These sunflowers are a total work of art.
Not great at freehand painting? Paint over confetti to get this cute finish.
Why didn’t we think of this sooner?
You can use coloured nail tape to help get this look (or similar) at home.
