Everything You Need to Re-Create the Buzzy Gradient Nail-Art Trend From Instagram
We'll never tire of fun nail-art trends, whether they're nostalgic, hyperrealistic, or incredibly intricate. Still, there's something equally beautiful about the more simplistic designs. Plus, they're way easier to re-create at home.
This is why we absolutely love the gradient nail-art trend (sometimes referred to as the "paint chip" look). Not to be mistaken with an ombré design on each finger, this manicure is made up of five different polish colors on each nail that are all a slightly different shade but still part of the same color family. Once carefully chosen, the colors are painted in an order that resembles a gradient effect across the hands.
The best part about this nail-art trend is that you can actually try it at home, without any fancy tools or needing the patience of a saint. The hardest part is choosing the ideal combination of five nail polish shades that are part of the same color group. It can be both confusing and time-consuming. That's exactly why we've done the hard work for you. We've chosen three of our favorite gradient nail art shade groups (blue, neutral-pink, and orange) and paired each design with five nail polishes, so you can easily re-create the look at home.
Read on to see our favorite manicures and the corresponding polishes to shop.
Denim-Colored Nail Gradient
For this beautiful denim-inspired gradient, the nail artist — who goes by Meg — used polishes from popular brand The Gel Bottle, which has hundreds of varied and beautiful shades. But if you don't have access to a gel manicure kit, we've listed our nail polish suggestions ahead.
Floss Gloss Nail Polish in Mrs Tony Montana
Orly Nail Lacquer in Forget Me Not
Peacći Nail Polish in Blue Grass
CND Vinylux Nail Polish in Blue Eyeshadow
Neutral Pink-Colored Nail Gradient
If you want to try out the trend but still want to keep your polish on the subtler side, this neutral-pink shade combination is ideal. For this particular manicure pictured, the nail artist sealed off the shades with a matte topcoat to give it a pristine, porcelain-like finish.
J. Hannah Nail Lacquer in Chanterelle Polish
Nails Inc Nail Polish in Beaumont Street
Nails Inc Nail Polish in Beaumont Street ($15, temporarily out of stock)
CND Vinylux Nail Polish in Arrowhead
Sunrise-Colored Nail Gradient
If this manicure doesn't scream Spring, we don't know what does. This sunrise-themed color combination uses a variety of hues starting at pastel yellow and ending in a deep neon-orange shade.