If you get your nails done regularly, you’ve probably experienced the slight panic of flipping through what feels like endless color options. To alleviate some stress, you might stick to simple colors and designs to get you in and out of the salon quickly. While more understated manicures are chic and easy—why stop there? Your nails can be a fun and creative way to show your personality and style, and our top picks of natural nail designs give you the best of both worlds.
If you’re anything like me, it might have taken you a while to explore different nail options outside of pinks and neutral tones. OPI’s Bubble Bath nail polish was an easy go-to whenever I was stumped on what color to choose. But opting for easy designs or embellishments atop your favorite shades can be a great way to step out of your comfort zone, and many designs are easy to DIY at home (just remember to use a UV lamp for gel polishes). “The first thing I always suggest if you’re looking to try something new is to add a bit of color,” says professional nail technician Tori Delanís. “You can ease into it with simple designs like abstract lines, which are still chill but unique enough for the people who don’t like all the extra stuff.” You can even play around with your favorite classic designs, like a French manicure, by swapping in different nail colors.
So, whether you are a manicure minimalist or looking to venture into more playful styles, we’ve scoured the internet and talked to professionals to find your next set. With the endless possibilities out there, you can always find a way to elevate your next set. But in case you need to spark some inspiration, here are 10 nail designs you can try out.
Euphoria Inspired Mani
Since the series premiered, Euphoria-inspired beauty trends have taken over our social media feeds, and these nails are the perfect way to join the fun. This look adds sparkle and texture to a sheer, natural pink background for an understated take on the typically loud Euphoria trend. Similar to the show’s makeup looks, glitter, pearls, and other sparkly embellishments complete the look we’re sure Euphoria’s Maddy Perez would wear.
All About Embellishments
It’s funny to think that sometimes, the best polish designs don’t actually require too much polish at all. This manicure is all about the embellishments, using multicolored stones to create a unique design. Even if you prefer more minimal designs, using a variety of small stones allows you to maintain the essence of the chic smile manicure.
Summer Florals
If you are prepping for your next beach vacation, consider this your sign to get a new manicure for the occasion. These vibrant yellow French tips with floral accents are perfect to get you in the summer spirit.
Half n’ Half
Just because a design may be easy to achieve doesn’t mean it won’t make a big impact. These half-and-half nails are bold and chic, with a simple thick black stripe on each finger.
Vanilla Chrome Mani with Crystals
If you’re color-averse, opt for embellishments instead. This soft white chrome shade is beautifully paired with tiny crystals that line the cuticles.
Shimmering Golden Outlines
This golden shimmering manicure is an elegant way to elevate your natural nails. Even though the thin outline looks simple at first glance, adding a glittery iridescent shade as the base for this design adds depth and a bit of intrigue. The combination of the glowing shades also catches the light beautifully in the sun, making your manicure the main attraction wherever you go.
Abstract Mani with Polkadots
Abstract lines are an easy DIY, especially because there’s really no right or wrong way to execute this design. Try a fun color, like this forest green, and add some polka dots for added drama.
Matte Abstract Nails
While a shiny new set is great, matte nails deserve some love, too. Combining lines and dots creates a stunning 3D effect that might make you a matte nail convert.
Natural 3D Designs
If you aren’t in the mood to add color to your nails, you can easily make them more interesting through texture and shape. Keep your natural base and add a clear builder gel to create your design. This allows you to play with various designs and styles without venturing too far out of your comfort zone.
Very Cherry
Another easy DIY design is adorable tiny cherries. Achieve this look with two tiny dots of red polish and connect it with strokes of green to create the stems. If you want to make the cherries pop, add classic white tips underneath.