The start of a new year brings a wave of change, and there’s no better way to embrace it than with a chic new look or aesthetic. For most people, this might mean upgrading your home, chasing those New Year’s resolutions, or creating a capsule wardrobe that’s perfectly you. But for manicure junkies? This means scoping out the hottest nail tends that will run the world for the year ahead.
Regardless of what vibe you’re looking for—whether it’s minimal and chic, feminine and cutesy, simple, or loud and vibrant—these nail trends do not disappoint. So, get inspired for your next manicure (and many more come) with one of these 14 nail trends, and step out in style all year long in 2024.
Nail Trends That Will Run the World in 2024:
1. Baby Blue Nails
If you think baby blues are strictly reserved for springtime, think again. Blue is set to be a big hit in the makeup realm this year, so it only makes sense that the trend would make its way into the nail world as well. And soft, muted blues evoke a playful sweetness everyone will love.
2. Chrome & Velvet Nails
Chrome and velvet nails are getting an upgrade in 2024. On top of a wider shade range, the nail world is also gifting us with more methods of application and finishes than ever before. Chrome powders, lacquers with a chrome finish, and press-ons will give you that high-shine metallic look, while magnetic polish will give you a velvet one.
3. Lip Gloss Nails
Your nails, but juicier. With this trend, you use a sheer base polish in a neutral shade and layer a clear glossy coat on top. The end result? A minimal nail look with a glossy finish that pairs well with any outfit for any occasion.
4. Coquette Nails
If balletcore and Barbiecore had a lovechild, this would be it. Coquette nails are all about adding bows and pearls to creamy whites and pale pinks to create an adorable feminine nail look.
5. 3D Art Nails
Nail trends have long been regarded as one of the best forms of self-expression, and 3D art nails really lean into that. This trend is all about textural designs, swirls, and glittering crystals—basically anything 3D on your nails.
6. Aura Nails
Similar to 70’s swirl nails, aura nails also embody an ultra-groovy vibe. While a nail tech will easily be able to achieve this look with an airbrush gun, you can also layer two or three polish colors then buff out the center with a nail file once they’re dry to create an aura look before finishing with a top coat.
7. Peach Nails
Between Pantone announcing Peach Fuzz as their 2024 color of the year and the hot pink craze that dominated last year, you can expect to see softer peach hues everywhere this year. In truth, this nail trend is perfect for a chic and simple manicure for the warmer months.
8. Electric Blue Nails
If you’re into bright colors, you’re in luck. Vibrant colors are trending for 2024, and electric blue is one of the best shades to hop on the trend with. Plus, this color can be worn all year-round, which definitely isn’t a bad thing.
9. Squoval Nails
Although shaping your nails can be a satisfying and rewarding process, it can also be incredibly tedious and time-consuming. Enter squoval nails: the low-maintenance nail shape that’s a cross between a square and oval. Not only is this trend a universally flattering, but it’s also a classic. Plus, it’s super practical because short nails are less likely to break.
10. Gold Nails
Silver had its moment last year, courtesy of Beyonce’s Renaissance Tour, but this year, gold is back on the scene. Regardless of which vibe you’re going for—whether it’s flashy metallic gold, muted gold, or simple gold accents—this nail trend screams “opulence.”
11. Mismatched Nails
This is one of those nail trends we didn’t know we needed. After all, why pick one when you can have them all? With mismatched nails, you get the best of both worlds with intricate designs, patterns and solid colors all mixed together. Since maximalism is key here, don’t be afraid to go all out and do whatever your heart desires—there are no rules, and you really can’t go wrong.
12. Glitter Nails
If a chrome or velvet look is too much for you, glitter nails are the perfect low-key alternative. To make the glitter stand out, apply a neutral polish and finish with a sparkly top coat.
13. Red Nails
Red is one of those classic shades that never goes out of style, and the versatile shade range gives you a lot to play with.
14. Classic French Manicure
Haven’t you heard? #mobwifeaesthetic is back (though if you ask me it never really left). So, embody Carmela Soprano this year with a classic French manicure.
