1. Long, textured nails reign supreme
If you’re contemplating straying from your dependable French manicure, it’s never been easier to make an eye-catching statement with your nails. Auckland nail artist Tanya Barlow reveals the biggest requests she’s currently getting in salon are airbrushed designs, three-dimensional blobs and texture, and ’70s-inspired colour palettes. While Barlow says almond shape and length are always in style, the trend towards longer lengths is here to stay. “The longer the better; expect to see claws in every shape,” she says.
2. Embrace the 'Euphoria' effect
We’ve got Natalie Minerva — the artist behind the head-turning nails and nail art on television show Euphoria — to thank for many of the dominant nail trends of the moment, according to Barlow. “She brought long, square extensions with lots of silver chrome details to the forefront, as well as swirly, sage-green, muted designs,” says the nail artist. “We’ll definitely be seeing more of this.”
3. Y2k nails have arrived
You’ll either love it or loathe it, but it’s not just the fashion world that’s stepping back in time; nail trends are revisiting the early noughties too. “Long, square nails with a variation of a French tip and chrome details will be everywhere soon,” says Barlow. And if you like your manicure with a little — or a lot — of bling, pearls and diamantes are poised to make a big comeback. “I say this as I’m currently sporting a dark red nail with pearls and diamantes myself!” says Barlow. Nail art nods to the 2000s with cutesy butterflies, flowers, and a Totally Spies! aesthetic.
4. 'Bottega green' is still trending
The vibrant, saturated green that was catapulted to cult status thanks to now-departed Bottega Veneta creative director Daniel Lee reaches the nail world this season. “I’m seeing a lot of softer sage and grass greens, following on from how popular Bottega green continues to be,” explains Barlow. She notes that checkerboard designs are still everywhere, “but expect to see more variations of it, in creams and light browns, or pastel greens and purples.” As for metallic hues, Barlow says that gold is making way for silver accents, and we can expect more high-sheen chrome finishes like those seen on the runway at Dion Lee FW22.
5. Texture reigns supreme
While there are trends aplenty to embrace, Barlow says that the one she’s most excited about is texture: “I can’t get enough of using 3D gels over art and creating organic, lumpy-bumpy landscapes.” Such creations, says Barlow, can double as a built-in fidget toy or worry stone. “I love rubbing my nails together and making a racket!”
6. Your nails are your best accessory
With vivid manicures and out-there nail art taking centre stage, nails are akin to fashion accessories more than ever before. But with punchy colour, extreme lengths, and intricate designs dominating, regular upkeep and care are essential. “Nails are jewels, not tools,” says Barlow. “With the popularity of claws and extensions, it’s best to keep regular appointments booked with your nail tech, so you’re not left with nails that have been on for over three weeks. This can lead to pressure on the nail bed, and more devastating breaks and cracks.”
7. Don’t try this at home
While it’s easier than ever before to master the at-home manicure, some things are best left to the experts. “Stay away from at-home gel products and leave them to the professionals,” says Barlow, adding that over-curing or under-curing these products can lead to problems. Use cuticle oil as often as your hand-sanitiser — as the more moisturised your nails and cuticles are, the less likely it is that they will flake or break. When you do reach for the polish at home, remember good things take time. “Regular polish can take up to an hour to dry properly,” says Barlow. “Put your favourite film on when you start, so you’re giving them a chance to last.” And if you’ve been over-zealous with the polish, Barlow’s top tip for tidying things up is an old lip liner or an eyeliner brush dipped in acetone. “It makes a brilliant clean-up brush if you’ve flooded the cuticle with polish,” she reveals.
