Nail Art Designs

Types of Nail Art Designs

With so many different types of nail art designs to choose from, the options are endless. Depending on her profession, lifestyle and personal tastes, a woman may choose something very simple, or she may opt for something intriguing and wild. Either way, the result is one that's unfailingly eye-catching. The following is a list of several different types of nail art designs:

Themed Nail Art

Independence Day, Halloween, Christmas, even your favorite cartoon – they all have a place on your fingertips if you choose to give your nails the theme treatment. Themed nail art is a quirky, playful way to show off your personality. Generally, themed nail art is excessively colorful and noticeable. If you're shy, you may well shy away from this outgoing form of nail art!

French Manicure

If you're a bit of a reserved gal, a French manicure may be just what the nail technician ordered. This clean, polished look is always stylish and appropriate, no matter what the occasion. The classic French manicure is a pale pink (or very sheer) painted nail with a white tip. Newer French manicure designs have emerged of late, and while they echo the general feel of the classic, they offer a twist – the white tip is often blended with a more decadent hue, resulting in a more eye-catching look. Again, this amps up the color factor quite a bit, so even if it's not quite as noticeable as a Valentine-themed nail, it's certainly sure to turn heads!

In the Details

If you've ever taken a close look at certain types of nail art designs, you've probably noticed some interesting details – shiny bits and pieces, perhaps something glittery, maybe an unusual texture. Skilled nail artists are accomplished in bringing nails to life, and they do so utilizing a variety of materials. Many of them are often unexpected, but they somehow seem perfectly appropriate when the design is complete. Here is a list of various materials used in nail art design:

• Rhinestones: Glass-faceted rhinestones are an attractive addition to any design. Glass stones with a metallic flat back offer excellent color reflection. They are available in a variety of sizes, with the smallest size appropriate for fingertips and slightly larger sizes perfect for toenails.
• Decals: Decals are a dream come true for inexperienced gals who want to dress up their nails a bit. Available in a variety of forms, decals are usually simple to apply and always fun to work with. The following types of decals are available:

1. Transfers: New to nail art design? Start with transfer stickers to try out a few looks. These press on and pull off easily. More experienced users may opt for water transfers. To apply, moisten the back, press it onto the nail and seal it with a top coat.
2. Foils: Your nails will resemble little jewels with the addition of a gleaming foil transfer. Available in a wide variety of hues, foils are applied on top of a foil primer. They are then pressed with a cotton ball (or foil sealer), then peeled back. This is a tricky process that's best left to a professional – at least for the first few tries!
3. Lace: Applied similarly to transfers, lace decals lend fingertips a soft, romantic look. Try a sheer lace overlay on a pale pink nail for a pretty springtime look.
4. Metallics: Bold and dramatic, metallic decals add a funky touch to fingertips. From shiny stars on midnight black nails to vivid floral prints on a light background, the metallic look is unique and fun.

• Piercings: Pierced nails? Say it isn't so! This is one piercing, however, that won't hurt a bit. If the nail is long enough, the tip can be pierced and filled with a small stud or hoop. This look, while funky, requires some restraint: try one piercing on one tip – just one! Remember, be careful when running your hands through your hair or cooking.
• Glitter: This youthful detail is especially popular amongst pre-teens and teenagers. That's due in part to its playful quality and in part to its ease of application. Simply blend a top coat with a fine glitter powder (nail-appropriate, cosmetic-grade glitter powders are readily available) and paint over the nail. Glitter powder can also be used on more complex nail art designs.

The Professionals

Turn to the professionals for a sharp, no-nonsense nail art design that's guaranteed to last. Visit The Nail Directory for a list of nail salons in your area.

Nail Art Supplies

Nail art design supplies are readily available at beauty supply stores, including the following:

• Sally Beauty Supply
• Trade Secret