SIZE GUIDE
As the old saying goes, "The devil is in the details", and when it comes to nail art, truer words have never been spoken.
The 7 Nail Trends That Are Going To Dominate 2020
For despite the size of the canvas, a good nail polish or manicure has the capacity to instantly change how we feel about our look. And unlike hair updates, manicure makeovers requires far less maintenance (with the added benefit of being quickly reversible, should we find it doesn't spark joy).
It's a good philosophy to keep in mind, especially with 2020 promising an array of new nail trends worth trying in the new decade.
THE TOP NAIL TRENDS FOR 2020
Want to update your look? Here, we look at the seven nail trends set to take the lead in 2020. Scroll on to see them all.
The 'Virgin' Manicure
Although the exact meaning behind the name remains unclear, you can expect to see the 'Virgin Manicure' pop up a lot more in 2020. Named by Kiev-based salon MVK, the look is characterised by a base of clear or nude-coloured nails featuring very fine, graphic line art, as seen here via MVK nail artist, Yulia Stetsiuk.
Image via @mrs_yuli
Seaglass Nails
Coined and created by nail artist Jessica Washick, seaglass nails are the new season answer to last year's jelly nails. Although inspired by their predecessor, seaglass nails feature a more opaque colour and finish, thanks to a matte top coat.
Image via @jessicawashick
The Clean Manicure
A healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to the traditional shellac or polish, the 'Clean Manicure' is poised to be one of the biggest beauty trends of 2020. Free from the harsh ingredients typically present in conventional manicures, this polish-free procedure uses natural formulas, including a strengthening keratin treatment, to give the nails a refined, glassy finish.
Image via @jessicawashick
Colour-Blocked Nails
Colour-blocked makeup is set to be one of the leading beauty trends in the new decade, so it's no surprise that colour-blocked nails are going be right up there alongside it. Taking a variety of forms, expect to see everything from subtle contrast lines curving along the cuticle, to standout sections of vibrant colour.
Image via @paintboxnails
The Skittle Manicure
Another colourful contender set to dominate 2020? The 'Skittle Manicure'. Characterised by each nail being painted a different shade, either following a tonal spectrum or a mixed bag or rainbow hues (hence the name), the finished result is playful and highly Instagrammable.
Image via @betina_goldstein
The Double-Cornered French Manicure
The French manicure is all set to continue its 2019 resurgence in 2020, thanks to leading nail artist Betina R. Goldstein's 'double-cornered' revamp on the classic technique. Much like the traditional French manicure, it features a nude base with a white tip, however, this version also features a fine white line along the base of the cuticle for a chic, mirrored effect.
Image via @betina_goldstein
Bejewelled Nails
Bejewelled nails have been not-so-quietly on the rise for a while now, and 2020 is likely to see a continuation of this trend. From light-catching crystals (as seen here on Selena Gomez) to subtle pearl motifs, ornamental accents will run the gamut across maximal look-at-me designs and low-key luxe.
Image via @tombachik