SPRINGTIME NAILS

Words: Foyin Ogunrombi | Photography: Supplied + Instagram

Ever found yourself struggling to choose between three very similar shades of beige at the nail salon? Or getting stuck on an Instagram Explore Page full of nail art and acrylic mania? With spring around the corner, experimenting with nail trends is a fun and easy way to be bold and adventurous. We’re tempted to try these four nail trends for a fresh flash of cool, from completely transparent to tie-dye swirls. Plus, have you seen our local nail tech game? Get thee to the ones who know best.

Spotted: Selena Gomez and Gigi Hadid’s nails. We’re taking notes and embracing the new season with fingers full of fruit. The trend ranges between literal and all over (ie, as much fruit as you can fit onto your fingernails) to more subtle hints of a particular fruit as an accent. Since it’s a springtime mood, look towards tropical and citrus fruits for inspiration.

After the jelly sandal resurgence in 2013, we now present jelly nails – a translucent or transparent base with the addition of nail art such as glitter, rhinestones and flowers. If you wish to get more creative, opt for a stained glass mirror effect using different coloured tips or reflective particles in your nails.

Tie-dye is having a fashion moment, so it was only a matter of time before it spilled over into nails, too. Most notably seen on Kylie Jenner, tie-dye nails work well even for those who aren’t a fan of acrylic nail enhancements. Marble-inspired nails also work to add an almost-seamless blend of colour onto your manicure. Try ombre, a full set or an accent on one nail.

Often we save bold and bright colours for a singular accent fingernail on each hand, but this season, be bold and experiment with coloured tips, ombre or outlined nails. The latter are a current favourite, which lend themselves perfectly to both short and longer nails.