Beauty
18 Clear Nail Designs, From Translucent French Tips To 3D Details
Who said naked nails had to be boring?
When it comes to glossy manicures (created at home or at the salon), crystal clear nail polish is most often reserved for base layers and diamond-like top coats to finish off a freshly painted look. Though as of late, expert celebrity manicurists in the industry and nail art lovers alike have been getting quite experimental with clear nail designs, pushing their colorful lacquers to the side.
On the maximalist end of the spectrum, clear mosaic nails (aka colorless tips topped with mismatched jewels and gems) have been all but taking over — especially for the cool fall months.
What’s more, A-listers like Megan Fox, Halle Bailey, and Doja Cat have been exploring the daringly textured look, no doubt adding their influential stamps of approval.
On the other end of the spectrum, of course, lies the total mani minimalists who much prefer an understated look for day to day. Their current M.O.? Adorning clean, bare tips with a few protective coats of clear polish in the name of the aptly named “naked nail” movement.
From natural French nails that match every vibe to more out-there 3D details and Y2K-inspired silver gems, here are clear nail designs that embody the rising manicure trend.
Silver Stars & Swirls
With sheer color on your nail beds and clear, almond-shaped nail extensions — this star-covered set is all things rocker chic.
Clear Aura Nails
Take notes from celebs such as Sydney Sweeney, Megan Fox, and Halle Bailey — all of them are fans of the buzzy aura nail trend. Try colorful version of the look on long, clear tips.
Bedazzled Clear Nails
Opt for a mosaic manicure filled with colorful gems that pop against a crystal clear base.
Whimsical Mosaic Mani
More of a maximalist? With gems, pearls, and stones of every color, this mosaic manicure is all things whimsical and fun.
Gilded Nail Cuffs
For an elevated manicure that screams sophistication, adorn clear nails with subtle gilded cuffs near your cuticles.
Clear Nails With Stripes
After swiping on clear polish as your base, decorate your nails with ultra-thin white stripes for an eye-catching abstract look.
Y2K Silver Cross Nail Art
If you want to add a simple design to naked nails, try adding a single silver gem on an accent nail.
Three-Dimensional Texture
Filled with 3D texture and embedded pearls, this unique manicure is serving serious mermaidcore vibes.
Black Flames
Flame art in lieu of a classic French tip creates a whole lot of edge (especially atop clear nails).
Total Alien Superstar
With alien-esque patterns and silver stars, this mani is no doubt fit for Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour.
Marbled Quartz Nails
Akin to a luxe piece of white quartz, this marbled set takes the clear nail trend to new heights.
Daring Heart-Shaped Cutouts
For crystal clear nails that will make others look twice, opt for trendy cutouts on your tips (which are perfect for adding dangling nail jewelry, too).
Glamorous Gold Foil Nails
Gold flakes placed right where your natural nails meet the clear extensions create a truly seamless (and stunning) look.
Itty-Bitty Dots
For the major minimalists who still want a bit of uniqueness on their clear nails, these itty-bitty raised dots do the trick.
Holographic Hints
A sheer wash of clear polish with holographic reflects is sure to catch the light.
Crystal Clear Texture
Created to mimic the look of rushing water, clear textured tips are sure to make waves.
Fine Lines
For a bit of modern art on your nails, opt for perfectly-painted symmetrical lines in any hue you’d like.
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