It's not lost on us how nail art has become a means of self-expression rather than just a swipe of polish. Last year, we saw luxe finishes (think: Hailey Bieber’s glazed donut nails), eye-catching prints, and bold hues. But what exactly will our manicures look like in 2023? Whether you are drawn towards more minimalist nail art or you’re in the mood to experiment with different textures and colors, this year’s nail trends have something for everyone to choose from. From airbrushed nails to baby French manicures, industry experts share their nail art trend predictions, below.
Chrome Nails
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FYI: Chrome nails aren’t going anywhere. “Subtle chrome will definitely continue to make waves as a trend after the popularity surrounding Hailey Bieber’s ‘Glazed Donut’ nails this year,” says Nadine Abramcyk, founder of Tenoverten. LeChat Nails educator Hemi Park agrees. “Everyone has been falling in love with chrome and metallic textures all over again,” says Park.
Clean Statement Nails
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Celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein says that clean, minimal nails still make a statement. “An example would be with delicate flake metallic gold on a beautifully structured manicure that’s flawlessly placed,” says Gernstein. Abramcyk also agrees. “‘Minimal chic’ is what nails are all about in 2023,” she says. “Think more neutral and clean nails, yet still adding some sparkle or dainty nail accents. Nail accents are a fun way to add a little spice to your minimalistic manicure.” For a sleek and neutral nail, Abramcyk recommends the Anne Polish and Canal Polish from Tenoverten.
Baby French Nails
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“French nails are always a classic look, but now it [has] reinvented itself with many different variations,” says Park. “Hairline French nails, or baby French nails will continue to trend.” Baby French nails a.k.a. a thin sharp line at the tip of the nail offers a subtle “pop of personality,” adds Park.
Textured Nails
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3D nails have been trending for a while now but textured nail art takes things to the next level. “This is when multiple textures are encased in separate layers to create dimension,” says Gerstein. You can also play around with the finish of your nails by mixing and matching matte polish with gel polish for a textured effect, she adds.
Airbrushed Nails
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"Airbrushing has been a tool in the nail industry for decades and slowly disappeared, but will be making a comeback as ombré nails [become more] popular," says Park. Now that more clients are asking for designs that require the perfect blending of colors—like ombré French manicures—artists will reach for their airbrushing guns to create a seamless, diffused effect.
