The 2010s may have been the decade when nail art blew up (thank you, Instagram), but we have a hunch 2020 will be just as exciting in the world of manicures. From fresh takes on old favorites to totally new ideas, here are the best and boldest nail trends you can expect to see 2020, based on the runways, our favorite nail experts’ feeds, and more.
Expect cosmic, zodiac-themed manis to pop up faster than you can say “Mercury in retrograde.”
Less astrology-specific but equally on-trend? A pretty moon-and-stars setup, like this look from N.Y.C.’s Vanity Projects.
3. Shades of Blue
“Classic Blue” may be Pantone’s 2020 Color of the Year, but blues of all variations will be big, like this can’t-miss cobalt.
4. Shades of Blue
Celebrity nail artist Elle showed off a deeper teal shade if you prefer something on the mysterious side.
5. Thin French Manicure
The Alice & Olivia and Khaite (pictured) spring 2020 shows both featured models wearing French manis—only the traditional white line was super-thin. The effect? Extra lengthening, especially for short nails.
6. Thin French Manicure
Nail artist extraordinaire Tom Bachik’s take on the look is even more chic, thanks to a double line of contrasting black and white.
Related article: The Best Nail Art Ideas For Spring 2020
7. Milky Ombré
Who knew ombré could be so elegant? All you need to copy nail artist Mei Kawajiri’s subtle design is a buildable, sheer nail polish with a touch of shimmer.
8. Milky Ombré
Plus, it looks just as cool sans shimmer and the slightest touch of lavender.
9. Gradient Nails
The look you’re seeing all over Instagram is also the easiest. Simply choose five shades in a similar color family for a nail-art visual, without actually doing any art.
10. Gradient Nails
For a breath of fresh air, try emulating Betina Goldstein’s neutral take.
11. Plant Life
These days, our Instagram feeds are about 50 percent plants, 50 percent beauty looks. It was only a matter of time before we combined them both.
12. Plant Life
A touch of gold on otherwise naked nails feels unexpected (and elegant enough for evening).
Related article: Everything You Need To Know About The Baby Boomer Nail Trend
13. Long Acrylics
Long nails are back in full force. This time around, people are having more fun with designs, although neutrals look perfectly great too.
14. Long Acrylics
Even the Oscar de la Renta spring 2020 show featured peachy acrylics, courtesy of nail artist Miss Pop.
15. Crystal Manicures
Based on client readings, L.A.-based wellness expert Mazz Hanna creates custom crystal manicures—including the application of stones onto the nails. Very L.A., and also very cool. (She also did a collab with Orly for a DIY experience.)
