

After forgoing in-salon manicure and pedicure appointments for a year, it's fair to say that as far as spring 2021 is concerned, nail art, nail color, and nail living is back in full force. During the past year, some of us have embraced and mastered the art of the full-blown at-home manicure, whether it's with good old fashioned lacquer, or slightly more intricate gel nail kits. Others among us have ventured back into the salon—with our vaccination records proudly in our back pocket—ready to see what our favorite nail artists cooked up during quarantine. Spoiler alert: The designs we're seeing are optimistic, impressive, and not overly complex.
Below are 12 inspired designs from some of the best manicurists in the country, and most take no more than a bottle of nail polish and a little patience. Whether you want to try a full set of opaque cream coats in varying tones, or you're ready to get ambitious with stained glass patterns, tortoiseshell finishes, or even tie-dye wonders (!), there's plenty of inspiration for every level of commitment. Ahead, the 12 best spring 2021 nail designs you should definitely try now.
Springy Pastel Nails
A post shared by Boise Nail Artist (@ajl.nails)
A photo posted by on
Manicurist Ashley Lane has an easy tip for these slightly sheer pastel-toned tips. Simply mix a little top coat into your favorite cream base for a more transparent, watery effect.
Simple Striped Manicure
A post shared by Alicia Torello (@aliciatnails)
A photo posted by on
"I can't do nail art" says every in-salon devotee, ever. But you can, and you will—especially if you invest in a striper brush, which is less than $5. Start with a clear base coat, then layer over thick wefts of coordinating hues.
Jelly Nails
A post shared by Jessica Washick (@jessicawashick)
A photo posted by on
Jelly nails is a fancy way of saying invest in some translucent, pre-glued press-ons like these from Pattie Yankee, then paint them with your favorite sheer lacquer. Looks fancy, isn't hard, tyvm.
Verdant Green Nails
A post shared by Amy Le (@amyle.nails)
A photo posted by on
This is a fun, free-form idea for the nail art trepidatious. Gather up a few tonal colors—pinks and reds work work. blues could be nice, or an array of nudes. Start with a light-toned base coat, then paint on swirls and daubs as you see fit, allowing each shade to dry before adding another.
Fruity Tips
A post shared by IMARNI NAILS (@imarninails)
A photo posted by on
I personally could not paint itty bitty kiwis, strawberries and cucumbers on my nails. BUT! My very talented nail artist could, and once I get my second shot, I'm bringing this inspo image to her ASAP.
Abstract Flower Mani
A post shared by Ami V PressOn Maker / 💅🏾Artist (@amivnails)
A photo posted by on
If you haven't tried press-on gel nails from Mani Me, now's the time, and this sketchy botanical design by New York City artist Ami Vega is a great place to start this season.
Speckled Nails
A post shared by Canishiea J. Sams (@nailsbycanishiea)
A photo posted by on
If these earthy, moody two-toned speckled nails got you in your feelings—but also like, a little worried that you couldn't pull of anything that spectacular, this tutorial could help.
Gold-Rimmed Mani
A post shared by Cassandre Marie (@cassmariebeauty)
A photo posted by on
Random swoops, streaks and dabs of color look purposeful and very Miami cool when outlined in a thin ribbon of gold sparkle.
Tricolor Tips
A post shared by 𝕸𝖎𝖈𝖍𝖊𝖑𝖑𝖊 𝖂𝖔𝖓 (@califreenails)
A photo posted by on
Girls with long acrylics, we see you, and so do these tri-striped nails with a creamy nude base.
Tie-Dye Nails
A post shared by Nails By Fariha Ali (@nailjob)
A photo posted by on
Tie-dye: Not just for sweatpants, anymore. Dabs of acrylic powder made these swirly wonders possible.
Color, Blocked
A post shared by Natalie Pavloski (@nataliepnails)
A photo posted by on
If intricate and detail-oriented tasks calm your existential ennui, these are the nails for you. Swipe, dry, and relax.
Tortoiseshell Nails
A post shared by Isabel May (@isabelmaynails)
A photo posted by on
Itty bitty iridescent flakes from Magpie Beauty gave these swirly tortoiseshell nails their dimensional finish.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
Hannah Morrill is a writer and editor based in Portland, Maine. She’s an avid reader, an indifferent face-washer and a sunscreen/retinol evangelist.
-
Despite It All, King Charles Absolutely “Refuses” to Strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of Their Duke and Duchess of Sussex Titles
The reason is poignant.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Prince Harry Will Miss Britain’s “Wedding of the Year” Because of Continued Rift With the Royal Family, Royal Expert Reports
The groom, the Duke of Westminster, is one of Prince Archie’s godparents.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Princess Kate and Two of Her Kids Shake Off a Rough Week By Visiting the Set of Kate’s Favorite TV Show
As one does when one is the Princess of Wales!
By Rachel Burchfield
-
The 9 Best At-Home Gel Nail Kits of 2023
Press-on nails got a *major* upgrade.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 24 Best Summer Nail Colors for 2023, According to Nail Pros and Editors
Bright shades aren't your only option this season.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
Exactly How to Whiten Your Nails, According to Experts
RIP nail stains. You won't be missed.
By Samantha Holender
-
How to Do an At-Home Pedicure in 4 Easy Steps
Treat yourself to some well-deserved self-care.
By Tatjana Freund
-
The 9 Best Dip Powder Nail Kits, According to Beauty Editors
Long-lasting, shiny, chip-free nails coming right up.
By Samantha Holender
-
How to Remove Acrylic Nails: An Expert Guide
That was easy.
By Chelsea Hall
-
The 14 Best Glitter Nail Polishes for a Little Extra Sparkle
Because we'll never grow up.
By Samantha Holender
-
Ella+Mila Nail Polish Deserves a Spot on Your Vanity
By Julia Marzovilla