Nail artiseverywhereright now. From bright,colourful designs to dainty andpretty creations, it's safe to say we're spoilt for choice when it comes to inspiration for our nail appointments. With that in mind, though, is anybody else feeling a little (dare we say it) overwhelmed? Don't get us wrong. We're all for embracing our creative sides when it comes to our nails, but the minimalists inside of us are itching fora break from the colourful chaos of thenail trends of recent seasons. We hate to say it, but we're ready to embrace simplicity.
And no, that doesn't mean we want to wear our nails bare. Rather, we just want our nail designs to be easier to wear, more understatedand, most importantly, easier to maintain. Because while busy nail art looks great at first, after a couple of weeks of wear and tear, it's time to call the salon again. Simple nail designs, however, eradicate the risk of clashing outfits, work with seasonal transitionsandrequire less upkeep. So ifyou too are readyto dial down your nail choices, keep scrolling for 25 simple nail designs you're going to want to show to your manicurist.
Rainbow Nails
(Image credit: @THEMANICLUB)
Proving that rainbow nails don't have to be bright, we're head over heels for this tonal purplelook. If you're going for block-coloured polish, be sure to reach for a super-glossy topcoat to keep things looking chic and (pardon the pun) polished.
(Image credit: @HOLLYFALCONENAILS)
While we're used to seeing tonal, ombré rainbow nails, something about the clashing chaos of this manicure is screaming out to us.
(Image credit: @THEMANICLUB)
If full-blown rainbow nails aren't your thing, why not opt for rainbow tips instead?
(Image credit: @IMARNINAILS)
We couldn't be more in love with this design if we tried.Keeping the majority of the nail looking bare with a nude polish is the perfect way to dialdown an otherwise busy design.
(Image credit: @OLIVEANDJUNE)
Keep rainbow nails summer-ready by reaching for pink and orange sunset shades.
French Tips
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
Nothing says simple elegance quite like a classic French mani. Make like celebrity manicurist Harriet Westmoreland and keep your tips super skinny for a chic take on the timeless design.
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
OPI nail ambassador Iram Shelton calls this the 'Tuxedo French'. We love it.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
Just because your nail design is simple doesn't mean it can't be creative—and this cow-print French mani proves it.
(Image credit: @BUFFCS)
Dubbed the "double French," these outlined tips scream low-maintenance while looking inexplicably cool.
(Image credit: @OLIVEANDJUNE)
If there's one nail design we'reitching to try this summer, it's this rainbow French-tip manicure, ideal for thosewho like to live a simple life—just with a bit of colour.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
This look takesthe concept of the skinny French to new levels, and we love how dainty the tips of this manicure are. Plus, it'sgot us thinking of the countless ways we can incorporate pastels in our upcoming French manis—the possibilities are endless.
Dainty Accents
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
The simple mani reaches new heights with this design. Paint nails with a clear gloss, keeping any sort of design limited to one nail. This mint heart is unbelievably cute.
(Image credit: @BUFFCS)
Have you ever seen a chicer nail design than this? We think not. The best bit is it requires little effort to execute. Look for metallic stickers, and secure them in place with a coat of clear varnish.
(Image credit: @THEMANICLUB)
For another nail-sticker idea, paint nails in a natural-looking nude and use stickers to create something your free hand wouldn't be able to achieve.It's not cheating, we promise.
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
A skinny French with a dainty accent heart on the ring finger is a recipe for simple-manicure greatness.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
We'll admit this design isn't simple to create.However,if your nail tech has the skills, we're obsessed with how this intricate starfish accentgives offunderstated coolness.
Negative Space
(Image credit: @NAILARTBYQUEENIE)
This is how negative-space nail designs aresupposedto look.If you're asking us, this look totally redefines cool-girl nails.
(Image credit: @PARAGONNAILS)
If you struggle to keep on top of nail regrowth, this negative-space design will last for weeks without looking like you need a trip to the salon.
(Image credit: @NAILARTBYQUEENIE)
Block polish, French tipsand negative space? It sounds like a lot, but in practice, it's a simple, understated masterpiece.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
Create the illusion of a French manicure without any of the fuss by keeping tips and nail beds free from polish.
(Image credit: @NAILARTBYQUEENIE)
Black-and-nude nails are having a real moment, and this geometric design is the crème de la crème.
Nail-Bed Accents
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
Look closely, and you'll see the subtle metallic accents on the nail beds of the design. This is simple nail design at its finest.
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
How chic is this silver half moon?
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
Balance a bright French mani by incorporating a super-fine nail-bed accent in a matching polish.
(Image credit: @HOLLYFALCONENAILS)
The best bit about this design is that you really don't have to go to the salon to get expert results. Simply paint nails in a sheer nude and use a dotting tool to apply your spots.
(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)
A pastel French manicure with matching nail-bed accents? Sign us up.
(Image credit: @HARRIETWESTMORELAND)
The mini heart accent has been in the nail spotlight for the entirety of 2022 with nosign of steppingout any time soon. This simple design couldn't be any chicer.
Next up, I'm seeing these five nail designs all over Instagram, and I want in.
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As a nail art enthusiast and expert, I have extensive knowledge and experience in the field of nail designs and trends. I have been following the latest nail art trends, experimenting with different designs, and staying up-to-date with the industry for many years. My expertise in nail art allows me to provide valuable insights and recommendations for those looking to explore simple and elegant nail designs.
Nail Art Concepts Explained
This article discusses various nail art designs, including rainbow nails, French tips, dainty accents, negative space designs, and nail-bed accents. Let's explore each concept in more detail:
1. Rainbow Nails: Rainbow nails are a vibrant and colorful trend that allows you to express your creativity. The article showcases different variations of rainbow nails, such as tonal purple looks, rainbow tips, and sunset shades. These designs can be achieved by using block-colored polish or creating an ombré effect with multiple shades.
2. French Tips: French tips are a classic and timeless nail design that exudes elegance. The article presents different interpretations of French tips, including super skinny tips, tuxedo French, cow-print French, double French, and rainbow French tips. These designs can be achieved by painting the tips of the nails with a contrasting color or using stickers for added creativity.
3. Dainty Accents: Dainty accents add a touch of delicacy and charm to your nails. The article showcases designs with minimalistic accents, such as mint hearts, metallic stickers, and nude nails with sticker embellishments. These designs allow you to keep the majority of the nail bare while adding a subtle and eye-catching detail.
4. Negative Space: Negative space designs utilize the natural nail as part of the design, creating a modern and artistic look. The article features examples of well-executed negative space designs, including block polish with negative space, French tips with negative space, and black-and-nude geometric designs. These designs provide a balance between simplicity and creativity.
5. Nail-Bed Accents: Nail-bed accents focus on adding subtle details to the base of the nails. The article showcases designs with metallic accents, silver half moons, matching nail-bed accents with French manicures, and nail beds with dotting tool applications. These designs offer a unique and sophisticated touch to your nails.
Conclusion
Whether you're a nail art enthusiast or someone looking for simple and elegant nail designs, the concepts discussed in the article provide a range of options to suit your preferences. From vibrant rainbow nails to delicate dainty accents, there are numerous possibilities to explore. Remember to consult with your manicurist to achieve the desired look and maintain your nails with proper care. Enjoy experimenting with these beautiful nail designs!
