Acrylic nails, which mix a liquid monomer and a powder polymer to form a paste that is bonded to the natural nail, have had a renaissance as of late. So have acrylic's sister the gel extension (which use a different technique but the results are similar). They're both a great option if you're looking to experiment with elongated and fun nail lengths and shapes.
So whether you're looking to try acrylic nails for the first time or stumped on what cool design you should try next, we've got you covered. Ahead, the 15 acrylic nail designs we're loving from mani experts on Instagram. Bookmark one of the below for your next salon visit.
New Nudes
A nude manicure doesn't have to mean basic. We love the addition of abstract black, white, and silver shapes on these gorgeous almond-shaped nails.
Terrazzo Tips
You've probably already tried marble nails—so why not give Terrazzo a chance? We love the look as a whole nail or just an accent to a French mani.
Chrome Delete
The pairing of deep navy and subtle copper chrome makes our heart flutter.
Black & White Silhouettes
If it's good enough to hang on your wall, it's good enough to paint on your nails. These silhouettes are the perfect choice for art lovers.
Pink Neon Jelly
Sheer and seriously fun, jelly nails will still be going strong for summer 2021. Barbie could never.
Related article: The Best Nail Ideas For Spring 2021
Red Drip
These half-red, half-nude nails are stunning. The graphic shapes lend a retro, 1970s vibe.
Blinged Out
Acrylic nails are the perfect canvas for tons of embellishments. We would never stop staring at our hands with a sparkly manicure of this design.
Maze Runner
Get lost in this mesmerizing nail design. The purple lines and curves against a clear nail make for a really cool look.
Go Plaid
This preppy plaid manicure is exactly what we need to kill time ahead of the Gossip Girl reboot.
Glass Nails
Technically gel extensions and not acrylic, these clear nails were made for showing off on Instagram.
Related article: The Best Valentine’s Day Eye Makeup Ideas
French Update
Nail artist @LaLadyNails says brown French tips are the new white tips—and we agree.
Treasure Chest
This mani replaces jewelry. Place different shapes and designs on a silver sparkle acrylic nail for a serious statement look.
Dotted French Mani
Polka dots and the French mani are the two trends we didn't know we needed to blend together. Try painting on a lavender shade at the tip and then layering white polka dots all over the nail.
Fancy Swirls
Though simple in concept, this graphic swirled design is serious eye candy.
Sparks Fly
Jazz up an elongated nude nail with the addition neon yellow lightning bolts.
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.
Related article: The Best Nail Ideas For Spring 2021