There’s something special about neon colors. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia factor for people who grew up in the 80s and 90s, or maybe these shades are simply permanently associated with feelings of happiness and fun. In any case, it always seems to come back as a fashion trend – and this also applies to manicures. Luckily, there’s no shortage of neon nail ideas, from subtle (yes, it’s possible) to completely over the top.
More minimalist nail styles like the glazed donut and micro French manicure are popular, but who better than Hailey Bieber to inspire everyone to try something up-to-date? When the Rhode founder was spotted at Coachella with neon green nails in April, everyone rushed to the salon and swapped out their favorite nudes for something a little more edgy.
Of course, you can try Bieber-style neon nails and stick with a solid color, but if you want to up the ante, TZR has rounded up a handful of inventive nail designs that will take your next manicure to the next level. Jewels, abstract patterns and even French tips: whether you prefer subdued, subtle manicures or bold, flashy designs that will surely appeal to you, you will find an option here for you.
Abstractions from the 90s
Neon had its massive moment in the ’90s, so why not make the most of the nostalgic style on your nails? Add some vivid pinks, blues, greens and oranges, then create a pattern by painting lines and dots in black and white.
Contrasting hearts
Want a simpler neon nail design? Choose contrasting colors and exploit one as the base and the other to paint the heart shape. Stick to just two or get bold by changing the combination on each finger.
See-through and shiny
Do you like the solid nail color trend? Try it with neon shades by applying watercolors covered with a layer of lucid glitter. Take it to the next level by adding black and white patterns for contrast.
French manicure with a lucid tip
If you just can’t part with your French manicure, consider giving it a radical twist by choosing your favorite neon base with contrasting clear tips. To add a touch of elegance, add some rhinestones – because who doesn’t like sparkle?
Blazing warm pink
Neon nails are already warm, but you can turn up the heat with a flame design. Start with a layer of sheer, shimmery pink, then add a bolder shade on top, painted in a fiery shape.
Orange jelly
Neon candy nails? Yes please! Layers of lucid, dynamic orange between super shiny, iridescent ones can create this delicious effect.
Solids and swirls
Can’t decide on one neon shade of your manicure? You don’t have to do that with this design idea that features all solid shades on one side and wavy lines over bare nails on the other.
Minimalist lines
Subtle neon nails may seem like an oxymoron, but it’s totally possible for those who want a pop of color without the drama. Start by cleaning your natural nails, then exploit a gaunt brush to draw a few minimal lines, alternating neon shades on each finger. Change the styles from straight to wavy to semi-circular for added interest.
Electric daisies
The triple daisy motif harkens back to the 1960s. You can paint the flowers in contrasting colors on bare nails or on another neon shade for ultra-bright tips that are sure to get noticed.
