How to create retro nails
Throughout the years, many trends have come and gone, but it doesn’t mean you can’t still love them. If you’re looking for fun retro-inspired nails, all it takes is a unique twist on an old design to show off a fun vintage look.
No matter if you’re looking for a simple nail design, a vibrant color or tools to shape your nails in a specific style, there are plenty of products available to help you achieve a stylish, retro look.
What exactly are retro nails?
Retro is a term used to refer to a style or fashion that was popular in the past. As far as nails go, the possibilities are endless. Turning to designs and nail colors from the past is a great way to find timeless looks. You can even combine several looks together, especially if you’re somebody who likes to make a bold, unique statement. For example, you may consider drawing on your 1990s nail-art skills to create a 1960s-inspired pattern or add polka dots over your base color for a 1950s flair. If you’re in a rush, nail polish stickers are a great way to achieve a quick, retro look.
Easy retro nail ideas
For a fun twist on a classic
The “half-moon” look was popular in the 1930s and has had moments of being trendy in recent years. Essentially, a half-moon is created by outlining the part of your nail closest to your cuticle (it’s always lighter in color and a crescent shape) and painting it a different color than the rest of your nail (think reverse French manicure with a twist).
A timeless French manicure
A French manicure isn’t as retro as it is timeless; nevertheless, this is a retro style that continues to evolve throughout the years. People have incorporated colors, nail jewels and other designs into their French manicures. The classic French manicure is done by tracing the tips of your nail in white and applying either clear or nude polish to the rest of your nail. This was very popular in the 1970s and ’80s when a natural look was popular. When in doubt, a French manicure is always a classic.
Bold colors
A bold red manicure was a staple of the 1930s. Women often paired their fiery nails with red lipstick. Later, in the 1950s, a slightly deeper red jewel tone became a popular nail color choice that still commands attention today.
Softer shades
Shiny, pearl shades were very popular in the 1960s. They are considered subtle and feminine as are muted pinks and other neutral tones.
Neons and nail art
The 1980s and ’90s were filled with vibrant neon nail colors, such as greens, yellows and pinks. Nail art also became trendy in the 1990s (all the way through to the 2010s) when people began to expand their style beyond simply painting their nails and began adding glitter, stickers and wild patterns.
Dark nails
Dark colors, including edgy shades like maroon and black, became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Dark colors can be subtle, or very expressive, depending on the person sporting them.
Everything you need to get retro nails
Teoyall Nail Art Brushes: available at Amazon
Having five nail art brushes (with different sizes of tips) will help you create flawless designs, such as half-moons, polka dots, flowers and any other retro look you have in mind. Best of all they are small, easy to store and affordable.
Eternal Collection Five-Piece Set: available at Amazon
This set of neons and more subdued corals is perfect if you’re looking to achieve 1980s-inspired neon nails. These polishes could also be used (with nail art tools) to create ’60s-inspired floral designs.
Essie Nail Polish Glossy Shine in Classic Red: available at Amazon
This shade is similar to the red that was considered modern and elegant in the 1930s. Although red is a timeless color, the specific shade can vary, but this one definitely has a retro feel to it.
Sally Hansen Hard as Nails: available at Amazon
This beautiful iridescent pearl color is very much inspired by the 1960s. It’s subtle yet shiny and gives a barely-there look.
Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color: available at Amazon
As dark as it gets, this black-out shade is perfect if you’re looking for a 1990s grunge look. You could also use it as a base color, and try some nail art tools to create patterns or designs.
Sally Hansen French Manicure Pen: available at Amazon
This fine-tip white nail art pen was designed to make French manicures easier than ever. All you need to do is use this product like a pen to draw your fine white line on the tip of your nail, making it perfect if you’re hoping to achieve a classic, retro minimalist look.
HNYYZL Nail File and Buffer: available at Amazon
This set is essential to ensure you have all that you need to shape your nails and keep them looking neat. It includes three double-sided nail files, a buffer, a buffer block sponge, a nail brush and a tool to clean up your cuticles.
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Courtney Love is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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