Let’s face it—even the most glamorous of us sometimes hit a “writer’s block” when it comes to our nails. Sure, adding a bit of sparkle to a ring finger or opting for a bold neon can up the manicure ante, but most polish trends simply don’t bring about awe-inspiring results.
So, if your fingernails are just plain boring you these days, don’t worry. We’ve got 15 manicure ideas for you that not only yield dazzling outcomes but are also easy enough for beginners to master on their own. For full step-by-step tutorials, be sure to click on the links below!
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Rock those glittering French tips
The secret to getting glittery tips with the most impactful shine? A mattifying silver base coat, of course!
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Ditch the polish for colorful Sharpies
Remember when you used to give yourself magic marker manicures in grade school? (Don’t even pretend like you don’t remember!) Well, this Sharpie nail hack is a SERIOUS step up from those recess doodles!
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Join the “matte” side
We love matte nails because a) they are utterly unexpected and b) they pretty much go with anything. Hey, they’re not for everyone, but they sure are for us!
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Put a spin on a floral classic
Sure, you can request a delicate flower to be added to your manicure at most nail salons, but they rarely come with the sophisticated edge of this understated black and white design.
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Customize your color
Why wear a color that millions of other nails are currently rocking when you can create your very own with polishes you already have in your makeup drawer?
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Go full-out glam the RIGHT way
“What is the right way to go full-out glam?” you may be asking. Well, let’s just say it involves painting as much glitter on those nails as possible!
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Show the holidays some love
It’s never too early to start planning your holiday manicure looks!
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Make your own water marble nail stickers
Yep, we have a brilliant workaround for this notoriously difficult manicuring technique—and the results are gorgeous. You can thank us later!
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Give yourself the trippiest manicure around
Nope, that’s not an illustration; that’s exactly what your nails will look like after you try this melted monochrome technique. Talk about hypnotic!
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Get electrifying nails
Did you know that an ordinary piece of scotch tape can help you achieve this razor-sharp thunderbolt design? No expensive nail kit required!
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Show your edge
The ‘90s-throwback shattered-nail look like you’ve never seen it before!
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When drippy polish is good polish
You wouldn’t believe it, but this dripping polish look is surprisingly versatile. Who knew something so creepy could also look so chic?!
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Start a buzz with this bumblebee nail art
Add a flash of spring to the cold season with this eye-popping, bumblebee-inspired manicure.
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Paint on perfectly straight stripes
All you need to achieve this look is a pair of scissors and your favorite polish!
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Add some sophistication to your wine night
We just can’t get enough of this merlot-inspired manicure. It’s a seriously refined spin on the old-school French tip look!
We don’t know about you, but we are really amped to show off these iconic polish looks. What are your thoughts on these revolutionary nail techniques? Have you tried on any of these looks before? What has been your all-time favorite at-home manicure?