Ah, the 90s. A decade of grunge fashion, slap bracelets, and dial-up internet. But it wasn’t all about low-rise jeans and Furbies. Nail art also had its moment in the sunshine, bursting onto the scene with bold colors, funky designs, and a whole lot of fun.
If you’re feeling nostalgic or just want to rock a totally rad look, then this guide to 90s nail art is for you!
Grunge Glam:
- Neon Explosion: The 90s were all about embracing color. Think neon pinks, electric blues, and lime greens. Paint each nail a different shade for a true commitment to the era, or alternate colors for a fun twist.
- French Twist: Don’t ditch the classic French manicure just yet! Give it a 90s edge with brightly colored tips instead of the traditional white.
- Glitter Gal: No 90s look is complete without some sparkle. Apply a coat of chunky glitter polish over your favorite base color, or create a French manicure with a glittery tip.
Pop Culture Paradise:
- Cartoon Craze: Loved rocking Lisa Frank trapper keepers? Channel your inner child with nail art featuring your favorite cartoon characters, from Hello Kitty to the Powerpuff Girls.
- Frantic French: Inspired by the hit sitcom “Friends,” paint your nails different shades of the same color family for a mismatched yet totally 90s vibe.
- Space Age Shimmer: Metallic polishes in silver, gold, and copper were huge in the 90s. Take inspiration from sci-fi movies and create a futuristic, metallic manicure.
Beyond the Polish:
- French Tip Flames: Take your French manicure up a notch with flame decals or stencils.
- French Tip Flowers: For a more whimsical touch, add tiny floral decals to the tips of your French manicure.
- French Tip Wavy Lines: Feeling funky? Ditch the straight line of a traditional French manicure and create a wavy line with your polish instead.
Tips for Today:
While some 90s trends might be best left in the past (cough, crimped hair, cough), 90s nail art is making a comeback in a big way. The key is to embrace the fun and funky spirit of the decade while adding a modern twist.
Here are some tips for rocking 90s nail art today:
- Keep it clean: While the 90s were all about bold colors and patterns, don’t forget about clean lines and application. A messy manicure can take away from the polished look you’re going for.
- Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Combine different 90s trends to create your own unique look.
- Modern touches: Update your 90s nail art with a matte top coat or by adding metallic accents.
With a little creativity, you can rock a totally rad 90s nail art look that’s perfect for the modern day!