The best nail art designs to try 

Nail polish has always been heralded as form of self-expression, but modern intricate designs are dialling it up a notch.

Nail art can refer to anything beyond a base colour polish, from detailed hand painted designs to the application of stamps, patterns, and stickers.

In recent years, nail art has skyrocketed in popularity and become more mainstream, which nail artist Lili Taylor credits to exposure from celebrities and influential shows.

“Most nail trends have been around before and they cycle back years later,” Lili says.

“Then you’ve got shows like Euphoria driving nail trends, with clients requesting looks for months after it airs.”

What nail art designs are popular?

Although landscape art and celestial prints were popular pre pandemic, nail art trends this season are more experimental, loud and three-dimensional, according to Lili.

“This season I’m predicting more stones and crystals incorporated in nail designs,” Lili says. “Textured nails are also having a moment, as are abstract designs.”

Nail artist Lucy Brownhill used to be anti-rhinestones, but is now embracing the style.

“I used to hate the look of rhinestones on a set of nails, however I have had to eat my words because now I think they can be the cutest addition to any manicure,” Lucy says.

Although Lucy’s a fan of more experimental designs, the majority of her clients are still requesting subtle, understated styles.

“Most of my clients love minimalist art such as little hearts, dots, flowers or swirls.

“The best thing about these types of designs is they’re easy to recreate at home with nail polish,” she says.

“A lot of clients come up with amazing ideas themselves; I have one girl who designs her nails in photoshop before each appointment.”

What does the nail art process involve?

Wet-look nails are another stand-out trend this autumn – a design Lili has mastered and encourages clients to try.

“I love the wet-look trend as I love anything textured,” Lili says.

“It actually involves a simple idea; heaping up clear gel and curing very quickly before it moves too much.

“Like a lot of nail art, it’s a simple idea, but also simple to get wrong.

“You have to perfect the timing of when you move it to create the droplet shape.”

Because nail art is unique and often done by hand, the process can be quite laborious and time consuming for the nail artist.

Lili says the time a full set takes to create is dependent on the detail required and how meticulous the nail artist is.

What nail formulations are used?

Pretty much any nail formulation can be used, however gels are popular because they’re easiest to manipulate and shape into different designs, Lili explains.

“The great thing about nail art is that there are so many creative ways to achieve all sorts of effects, and new ones get discovered as you play around,” Lili says.

“One nail artist’s interpretation of landscape or celestial art will be completely different to another’s.

“For instance, one of my favourite ways to add dimension to a sky design is by using an air brush; it gives such a lovely finish.”

Written by Charlotte Brundrett

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