Just Got New Nails: Are Natural Nails Replacing Acrylics?
Image Courtesy: Everygirl Edit
“Just got new naiiiiilsssss, and they’re blur!” I’m sure by now we’ve all seen some variation of the iconic retired Bachelorette, Gabby Windey nail reveal. From blue, pink, French, and even “fermer’s market,” Gabby has given nail inspo to every kind of girl. She’s had short, long, designed, and natural— given to us with a fun twist on the color descriptions. The question now stands, which nails are here to stay, and which ones were just a fun experiment?
Image Courtesy: TikTok
Based on Windey’s nail trends, matching nails to the season is where it’s at. Bright colors for spring and summer and more muted tones for fall. Neutral nails are a transition period between the seasons when you need something that goes with everything. Gabby has done an even mixture of acrylic and natural; lately, she seems to be leaning more toward the shorter, natural nail instead of the elegant long almond, formerly known as the only cool girl option. Other TikTok influencers, like Ken Eurich, Halley Kate, and Jenna Palek, have also been embracing the natural nail with SNS or a coat of polish over the top. They still seem to be embracing bright colors to match the season, but they’ve shied away from their long nails of the past.
While natural nails are effortlessly cute and align well with the push towards all-natural that has been occurring over the last couple of years, can they beat the endless possibilities that acrylic nails offer? Any shape can be achieved with acrylic nails, while natural nails limit what you can work with. Some people also struggle with short or long nail beds that they can’t change unless given the extra length to work with. Nevertheless, natural nails contribute to healthier nail care and overall natural beauty.
Image Courtesy: Essie
With both styles, there is the benefit of design and color. Regardless of the length and shape, that part is entirely up to the individual. Right now, deep fall colors seem to be catching everyone’s eye, but I bet it won’t take long for bright red to return from the summer for the holidays. This year’s classic red nail might be on a short square nail rather than last year’s almond acrylic. The traditional french and pinky nudes are definitely here to stay as well, sometimes with a chrome overlay that maintains the class of the nail but adds a little sparkle. They’re the perfect nail for any event where you don’t want your nails to draw attention away from the rest of the look.
Whether you’re ready to lean into the natural nail or stick to acrylics a little longer, there’s nail inspo for every look. Gabby Windey is the perfect place to start, but if nothing allures you, don’t shy away from a shorter, nude look. Despite its simplicity, it’s the perfect effortless cool girl look to ring in the cooler seasons.
Strike Out,
Writer: Isabella Bowman
Editor: Layne Schulte
Graphic Designer: Emma Muersch
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