Whenever I ask anyone which era of beauty they love the most, they always say the ’90s. As a beauty editor, I totally get what they mean. It seemed like everyone was having fun with their hair, nails and makeup back then, and I’m so happy that some of the biggest ’90s trends are having a revival this year. Yep, that’s right. From blue eyeshadow to frosted lips, it’s time to get out those bright colours and fun formulas as we’re embracing all things vintage in 2024.
As much as I love ’90s hair and makeup, I’ve been curious about which ’90s nail trends we can expect to see making a comeback this season. I don’t know about you, but I’m bored of milky nails and matte black shades and I’m ready to inject a little bit of life into my manicure. After researching some of the biggest ’90s nail trends, it’s clear to me that some have already started taking over, while others are sure to dominate this spring and summer.
So, if you want to know which of these throwback nail designs I’m predicting will be everywhere in 2024 (and which ones I will definitely be trying to bring back myself), keep on scrolling…
9 ’90s Nail Trends I’m Bringing Into 2024:
1. Glitter
The ’90s was definitely the start of the glitter nail trend. Back then, it was all about chunky glitter polishes and maximalist designs, but these days we have toned things down a little and are opting for sparkly French tips and more subtle finishes.
Get the look:
H&M
Nail Polish in Standing Ovation
At just £4, you can’t go wrong with this H&M nail polish.
2. Fun Nail Art
One thing I love about ’90s fashion is that it was all about experimenting with prints and colours, so why not do that with your manicure as well? Forget the “clean girl” aesthetic, as this year I’m all about embracing fun, over-the-top nail designs.
Get the look:
Lottie London
Lottie X Chaun Legend Stay Press’d- Swirls for the Girls
These press-on nails are giving me all of the retro vibes.
3. French Tips
French tips were huge in the ’90s, and this “dated” nail trend is definitely having a comeback. However, these days it’s all about making the lines as thin as possible for that “micro” French tip look.
Get the look:
These pens will make doing your French tips at home so much easier.
4. Square Nails
Although square-shaped nails were big in the ’90s, they have been out of fashion for a while now, replaced with more curved, almond-shaped designs. However, they are having a comeback this year and I’m personally a big fan of the clean, structured shape.
Get the look:
Margaret Dabbs London
Crystal Nail File
Get that sharp, square finish with this crystal nail file from Margaret Dabbs.
Frosted eyes, frosted lips, frosted nails…yep you guessed it, metallic tones are back and better than ever. The best thing about this ’90s nail trend is that you can choose any colour you want, whether you like something bold or a little bit more neutral.
Get the look:
Nailberry
L’oxygéné Nail Lacquer – Stargazer
How stunning is this shade from Nailberry?
6. Tie-Dye
Who remembers wearing tie-dye everything back in the day? I was a huge fan of this ’90s trend, and as someone who wants to wear more maximalist nail designs this year, I will definitely be bringing this manicure back.
Get the look:
Le Mini Macaron
“Les Brushes” Nail Art Brush
Use a range of nail brushes to help get that tie-dye effect.
7. Half-Moon Designs
I thought that this “half-moon” nail design was super modern, but as it turns out, it was quite popular back in the ’90s. I love how chic it looks, and it’s a nice change from classic French tip nail art.
Get the look:
This pen is perfect for drawing your “half-moon” shape.
8. Bright Red Nail Polish
Red nail polish has always been in style, but interestingly enough a lot of fashion icons opted for this shade in the ’90s. This is such an easy trend to recreate and will work all year round.
Get the look:
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Colour, 147 Incendiaire
Chanel’s red nail polish is high up on my wishlist.
9. Animal Print
Last but by no means least, this year it’s all about animal prints. This ’90s trend has already taken over the fashion world, and now it’s coming for our manicures (and I’m not mad about it). From zebra print to cow print and leopard print, the options are endless.
Get the look:
Sosu Cosmetics
False Nails Call Me
Keep things simple with these press-on nails.