National Mani-Pedi Day 2024: 5 Styles to Elevate Your Next Set
All fashion lovers know that your favorite fit is incomplete if your manicure and pedicure are not up to par. It's the perfect time to elevate your nail game as seasons unfold.
Whether you are a corporate baddie looking for a style that will transition easily from day to night or a bride preparing to walk down the aisle, nail designs have the power to speak to your personality and milestones.
Even as the fellas get in on the joy of having a fresh set, there are no limits to what can be achieved with the influence that comes in a tiny jar.
To learn about the latest trends from coast to coast, we polled Los Angeles-based nail expert the Nail Thug –who has been doing nails since 2016– and New York aficionado Gina Edwards, whose career spans 20 years. Her clients include Ayesha Curry, Nicole Kidman, and Vera Wang.
"I always feel like doing a manicure service is always the power of touch. So that person is trusting you with making them even more beautiful than they already are," Edwards said, when asked about her love of the nail industry.
BET got the latest scoop from the Nail Thug and Edwards on the five buzziest nail designs that will have your nails doing the talking for you.
Cat Eye Craze
When asked what is the trendiest style this season, the Nail Thug said Cat Eye designs are all the rage.
"Cat eye has not only evolved but it's continued to be at the forefront of all nail designs. The throwback design has taken on a life of its own "with a glittery form that's smoother and looks more like velvet."
French Tips with a Twist
With wedding season right around the corner, brides will be looking for styles that stand the test of time.
To achieve that, both stylists agree that a French manicure is key while making it personal.
The Nail Thug recommends a "fun looking French, that's not exactly French" by adding an ombre, or jewelry like pearls to complement the gown.
For the modern-day bride, Edward says instead of doing a classic white set, a "milky white will also look great" with "beautiful accents like a flower or crystals."
"That is something that is classic and 50 years down the road, you'll look back and be like "Oh my god!"
Chromed Out
'Tis the season for being outside and abroad. As jet setters globe trot internationally, travelers are seeking a set that will be durable.
For this reason, the Nail Thug says "Chrome will never fail you."
Edwards believes this aesthetic has gained notoriety because it "is super modern, super edgy, and very futuristic. People always look to the future like what's happening now and I just think the chrome is so intense."
Bold Hues
To really make a fashionable statement, the Nail Thug says Ferrari Red is the shade that will be turning heads. This one goes "all the way, all the time, every time."
Additionally, Edwards has seen a rise in vibrant colors like Baja pink, neon yellow, and jelly green this season.
Daring Graphics for Guys
Over time, there has been an uptick in men who like to get their nails tricked out. From rappers, athletes, and movie stars, men are pulling up a seat at the nail salon.
Edwards says her male clients "love a matte black."
For the Nail Thug, she remixes black nail polish by designing a black smiley face with a yellow base.
She also says guys prefer streetwear designs, including camouflage, textured black, fishnet backgrounds, and swirls.
To take male nails over the top, Edwards opts for a "deconstructed nail so it doesn't look perfect, like more of an unfinished manicure like it's been lived in [with] jagged edges.
