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Meet the luxe-looking nail trend that goes with everything and suits everyone

Right now, beauty falls into two main trend camps that happily coexist (and often overlap). There’s the maximalist movement, allowing for expressive creation – whether with more ‘done’ hairstyles, artistic make-up, or intricately designed nails. Then there’s the minimalist aesthetic, the visual equivalent of ‘clean beauty’ which is pared-back but polished; think glowy skin with low maintenance make-up, healthy high-shine hair and natural manicures.

Much of this can be linked to the effects of the pandemic. On the one hand we’re joy-seeking via beauty and with it celebrating our post-lockdown freedom. On the other we’re health signalling, wanting to feel – and look – well in all aspects of our life. The desire for your-nails-but-better is symbolic of the latter. After collectively compromising our hand health thanks to repeated cleansing there’s now a greater want to nurture our skin and nails.

“I’ve definitely noticed a trend for more clean, natural looking nails amongst my clients – new and existing,” leading nail technician Metta Francis tells Bazaar. “More people want to achieve this 'perfect' hand and nail look – and much like skin, have a desire for healthy, glowy nails,” she says of the appeal. Plus, whether dopamine dressing or wearing calming tonal palettes, the look is never incompatible with an outfit or event. “A clean, natural nail compliments everything; it’s a classic look that won’t look out of place at work or for a special occasion.” Of course, it's a mainstay trend for brides, too – the simplicity and elegance serves to enhance any wedding dress and theme.

Unlike the block colour of a traditional ‘nude’ nail polish, for this trend nail colours – matching the wearers’ skin tone – are semi-transparent. The opacity should show the contrast between your nail plate and the tips, but in a much subtler way than if your nails were naked or painted with a French manicure. The polish should have a high-shine, glossy finish. In line, “hydrated hands, including the skin around the nails and cuticle are key” says Francis.

In terms of shape, "a short-medium soft ‘squoval’ or rounded nail defines this look," Francis adds. “When trying to decide on which shape to go for, mimic the shape of your cuticle area,” she advises. “The intention is for the nail to look natural and effortless” – although ironically, it’s not.

If you opt for a gel formula, which will last up to three weeks, Francis favours the CND Shellac nail polishes. “Bouquet is a gorgeous shade on lighter skin tones. It has a cool undertone so if you’re after a slightly warmer shade, Satin Slippers is perfect.

“Veiled is also a gorgeous shade with warm undertones and would suit those with a darker skin tone.”

A post shared by Metta (Mets) • Mobile nails & nail art in London 💅🏽 (@nailsbymets)

She explains that “one coat of these will create a gorgeous, sheer clean, natural look while two coats will provide a slightly more semi-opaque look” – as used in her work, pictured above.

In addition, “CND Plexigel in Oatmilk is an incredible shade for darker skin tones, as is Porcelain, which has cool undertones.”

A benefit of seeing a professional like Francis is that they can create custom shades to suit your skin tone, by layering polishes.

If you prefer regular nail polish over gel, Francis recommends looking at the following brands and shades to find one that mirrors your skin tone. “CND Vinylux in Bouquet and Satin Slippers, OPI in Bubble Bath, Nails Inc in Get Discovered and Knightsbridge Nights Out, Hermès Nail Enamel in Rose Coquille, and Essie in Ballet Slippers.”

Francis schools us that you can best maintain your mani “by applying cuticle oil twice daily and moisturising your hands regularly, especially if washing and using hand sanitiser frequently”.

At least once a week, “use a hand scrub and mask to keep hands looking and feeling smooth and plump.” This will help to reduce dead skin build-up, she says.

“You can also gently push back the skin at the cuticle area after a bath or shower, when the skin is softest, keeping this area nice and clean-looking.”

Below, see some of Bazaar’s favourite takes on the trend to try yourself or to show to a pro:

A post shared by Harriet Westmoreland (@harrietwestmoreland)

A post shared by Kim Truong (@kimkimnails)

A post shared by Harriet Westmoreland (@harrietwestmoreland)

A post shared by Bridolog (@bridolog)

A post shared by taylor | nail artist (@nailsbytaylorjustine)

A post shared by Kim Truong (@kimkimnails)