The square nail — crisp, modern, and endlessly adaptable — continues to reign as one of the most flattering nail shapes heading into 2026. It’s sleek enough for the boardroom, yet bold enough for any party invite that drops into your inbox. But how do you make this classic silhouette feel new again? This year’s trends are all about expressive designs, contrasting textures, and color stories that say I’m polished, but playful. Whether you love short, medium, or long shapes, there’s a version of the square manicure that will feel completely you. Let’s explore some of the most inspiring ideas and designs trending now.
Sophisticated Black and Nude Crisscross
There’s something timeless about the pairing of black and nude — especially when balanced with sharp geometric lines. This square manicure is all about precision: glossy jet-black nails paired with a nude base intersected by delicate black gridwork. It’s minimalist yet striking, ideal for anyone who gravitates toward simple but statement-making designs. I love how this pattern elongates the fingers, making it perfect for those with shorter nail beds or who prefer short to medium lengths.
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Color Palette: Nude beige base with jet-black accents creates instant sophistication.
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Finish: High-gloss coating that reflects light for a mirror-like shine.
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Design Feature: The crisscross pattern adds visual structure without overwhelming.
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Practicality: Works beautifully for professional settings, pairing seamlessly with monochrome wardrobes.
To elevate this look further, I’d add a single soft metallic accent nail — perhaps a champagne shimmer — to break up the stark contrast. But steer clear of glitter-heavy toppers; they’ll distract from the sleek architectural vibe that makes this style shine.
Midnight Luxe with Animal Accent
For 2026, black nails get an exotic twist. This look balances mystery and playfulness with sleek long glossy nails and a single accent in leopard print. It’s confident, slightly wild, and surprisingly versatile — think evening cocktails, winter fashion events, or that spontaneous city getaway. The shape? Square and sculptural, ideal for anyone who loves that defined edge but wants to keep things effortlessly chic.
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Color Play: Deep onyx black contrasted by beige leopard spots.
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Length: Works best on medium to long nails for full visual impact.
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Texture: Mirror gloss finish adds a luxurious depth.
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Accessories: The gold and silver rings amplify the polish’s opulence — a great styling note.
If you want to soften the vibe for everyday wear, try swapping the leopard for a French tip in taupe or brown. But don’t skip the high-shine top coat — it’s the secret to keeping your nails looking editorial-level fresh.
Red Elegance with Modern French Twist
Classic red never goes out of style — it just reinvents itself. This look features glossy crimson nails edged with a bold white French outline, giving the traditional red manicure a graphic, contemporary punch. The square shape keeps everything clean and tailored, while the reflective finish screams confidence. I find this perfect for summer parties or romantic dinners — it’s timeless with a daring edge.
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Base Color: Vibrant cherry red, glossy and unapologetic.
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Detail: White border creates contrast and modernity.
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Best Length: Medium works perfectly to balance drama with wearability.
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Occasion: Ideal for both work events and nights out — it’s the ultimate crossover style.
To push this look further, a touch of gold foil on one accent nail could add a couture twist. Avoid pairing it with neon tones though — keep it elegant and let the red take center stage.
Timeless Soft Pink French
This is the manicure equivalent of a silk blouse — understated luxury. The pale pink base with crisp white French tips embodies everything elegant and refined about square nails. It’s one of those ideas that never fades, making it a safe bet for brides, office days, and minimalist dressers. The soft gradient and creamy texture flatter every skin tone, adding just enough glow without looking fussy.
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Color Story: Barely-there pink base paired with bright white tips.
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Finish: Subtle gloss for that fresh, clean aesthetic.
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Shape: Balanced square, neither harsh nor overly tapered.
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Practicality: Goes with everything from business suits to cozy knits.
If you crave a little more personality, add micro pearls along the smile line for subtle sparkle. Just resist over-accessorizing — this look’s charm lies in its simple, fresh restraint.
Playful Pink Accent with Black Heart
This cute combo of inky black and blush pink is giving bold-meets-sweet energy. The alternating glossy black nails and single pale pink accent, stamped with a tiny black heart, strike that balance between edgy and romantic. It’s perfect for those who love minimalist art details but want to keep their designs simple. The square shape adds structure to what could otherwise be a playful look — think “cool-girl Valentine’s Day.”
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Main Shades: Contrast between high-shine black and milky pink.
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Design Focus: Tiny heart motif — delicate yet expressive.
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Best For: Short to medium nails for maximum comfort and style.
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Mood: Soft rebellion with a touch of charm.
To make it pop for summer, try swapping the heart for a tiny star or metallic accent. But avoid matte top coats here — the glossy finish is what keeps this combo looking modern and intentional.
Matte Cocoa Perfection with Marble Detail
Neutral lovers, this one’s your moment. Matte brown tones are emerging as one of the designs trending now 2024 and continuing strong into 2026 — rich, grounded, and incredibly versatile. This particular square look blends smooth mocha shades with a single marbled accent nail that mimics natural stone. It’s earthy but sophisticated, the kind of inspiration that fits perfectly into both fall and minimalist wardrobes.
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Palette: Shades of cocoa, taupe, and ivory veining.
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Finish: Velvety matte — modern, tactile, irresistible.
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Highlight: One marble-effect nail gives dimension.
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Season: Especially perfect for late autumn and ideas summer transitions.
You could elevate this look by adding a thin gold or green French tip Inspo line for contrast. Avoid over-layering glosses or gems; they’ll clash with the soft matte texture that defines the appeal here.
Romantic Burgundy and Heart Art
There’s always room for romance in nail art, and this deep red and white pairing captures that mood perfectly. The alternating nails feature glossy burgundy, tiny hearts, and delicate silver studs — playful yet polished. This style embodies designs trending in 2026: mix-and-match motifs, creative ideas, and personality-driven details. It’s a look that works beautifully for date nights, holiday parties, or anyone in their soft-girl era.
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Base Colors: Deep wine red and creamy white backdrop.
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Details: Mini hearts and gems placed symmetrically.
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Finish: Glossy for an almost glass-like shine.
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Length: Medium or long nails enhance the visual balance.
If I were to adjust anything, I’d tone down the gems for a subtler version — maybe just one accent nail. Otherwise, this look is pure love in manicure form, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to winter wardrobes.
Chocolate Drip Aesthetic
If sophistication had a flavor, this would be it—think glossy dark chocolate melting over blush pink frosting. This brown and pink pairing feels indulgent yet wearable, giving strong dessert-core energy without going overboard. It’s a nail design that suits colder months beautifully and flatters both fair and deeper skin tones thanks to its contrast. Ideal for café dates, creative workplaces, or those cozy summer evenings when you want your nails to look edible.
Details I love:
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Color palette: Creamy blush base with rich cocoa swirls — a modern, edible-looking combo.
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Texture: High-shine, 3D-like glossy drips make the art pop in the light.
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Shape: A true square with defined corners, perfectly balancing the playful design.
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Practicality: Works best in medium length — long might overpower, while short won’t capture the pattern’s charm.
Stylist’s tip: Pair these nails with gold jewelry or neutral knits. Avoid overly patterned outfits—let the nails steal the show.
Cat-Eye Playfulness
I can’t resist a set that feels like wearable personality, and this one is pure charm. Black glossy designs meet soft nude bases, each nail featuring adorable cat faces with glowing yellow eyes. It’s not only cute, but also surprisingly simple to style. Perfect for animal lovers or anyone who enjoys playful details with an edge.
Details I love:
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Color palette: Jet black contrasts with soft pink nude — a timeless, balanced duo.
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Accent nails: The cat art keeps it fresh, modern, and irresistibly Instagrammable.
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Occasion: Great for casual days or night-outs—bold but not overbearing.
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Length: Looks best on medium to short nails to keep it fun, not feline-drama.
Stylist’s tip: Keep accessories minimal; delicate silver or black rings complement it perfectly. Avoid adding extra glitter—it would compete with the cat detailing.
Mocha French with a Heart
Who said the French manicure had to be predictable? This one adds a brown twist and a minimalist heart accent that feels soft, romantic, and chic. It’s an ideal pick for brunches, soft office wear, or early summer afternoons when understated elegance just works.
Details I love:
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Base: Nude beige for a natural glow.
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Tip: Soft brown French tip Inspo that elongates the hand visually.
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Detail: Single-lined heart—subtle yet full of personality.
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Shape: Tapered square gives it that refined finish without sharp harshness.
Stylist’s tip: Add a dainty gold bracelet or beige clutch for harmony. Skip heavy rings—they’ll draw attention away from the delicate design.
Sleek Noir French
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a Bond girl, these nails are your answer. The black French is back—and sharper than ever. Paired with a glossy nude base, this simple yet bold design fits seamlessly into both professional and nightlife wardrobes.
Details I love:
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Tone: Classic nude meets glossy black tips — the ultimate contrast.
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Length: Medium, striking that sweet spot between wearable and dramatic.
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Occasion: Perfect for business events, fashion weeks, or evening cocktails.
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Aesthetic: Strong lines add confidence and poise to any outfit.
Stylist’s tip: Add a red lip or statement eyeliner for extra flair. Avoid patterned nails on top—it’s elegant because it’s restrained.
Sparkling Winter French
These are the nails that twinkle like frost at sunrise — dreamy, refined, and season-perfect. With a nude base fading into glittering white and silver tips, this design feels fresh yet timeless. The best part? It transitions from day to night effortlessly.
Details I love:
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Color palette: Nude blush to icy shimmer gradient.
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Texture: Smooth finish with fine glitter for subtle sparkle.
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Season: Ideal ideas summer to winter — light-catching yet versatile.
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Length: Best for short or medium nails for ease and elegance.
Stylist’s tip: Combine with a silver bracelet or pearlescent clutch. Avoid pairing with metallic clothing to prevent sparkle overload.
Metallic Champagne Elegance
Golden hour, but on your fingertips. These nails feature a soft nude base and French metallic designs at the tips — delicate, refined, and universally flattering. Perfect for weddings, dinners, or any event that calls for quiet luxury.
Details I love:
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Base: Transparent beige with high-gloss finish.
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Tips: Metallic rose gold—modern yet neutral.
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Versatility: Complements jewelry in both gold and rose tones.
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Vibe: Polished sophistication for any inspiration board.
Stylist’s tip: Ideal for minimalists. Add only one statement ring. Skip neon accessories—they’d break the harmony.
Matte Woodgrain Mood
For those craving something bold yet earthy, this one’s pure brown artistry. The matte finish paired with thin, woodgrain-like streaks turns each nail into a micro sculpture. It’s a design that’s trending among artists and creatives looking for tactile textures and depth.
Details I love:
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Color: Shades of mocha and coffee with dark, organic linework.
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Finish: Soft, matte, perfectly autumnal.
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Occasion: Excellent for creative events, fall ideas, or simply daily chic.
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Shape: Squared edges enhance its graphic quality.
Stylist’s tip: Pair with suede accessories or neutral coats. Avoid glossy top coats—it kills the matte magic.
Midnight & Blush Balance
Contrast never looked this polished. The black high-gloss nails are grounded by one shimmering pink accent, striking that sweet balance between edgy and feminine. Ideal for both minimalists and statement-lovers who like clean contrast.
Details I love:
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Palette: One-part mystery, one-part softness — black + pink.
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Texture: Shiny, almost mirror-like finish.
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Event: Great for winter holidays or evening dinners.
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Length: Works wonderfully on short or medium nails for everyday wear.
Stylist’s tip: Accent with a pale pink sweater or white blouse. Avoid over-accessorizing — this combo already speaks volumes.
Timeless Olive Gloss
There’s something deliciously understated about this muted olive manicure — the kind of Short square nail look that whispers sophistication rather than shouting it. The smooth, mirror-like finish feels like a modern evolution of minimalism — sleek, bold, but not trying too hard. This tone sits somewhere between green and khaki, which makes it unexpectedly versatile: cool enough for summer, yet grounded enough for autumn’s cozy textures. The style flatters both lighter and deeper skin tones beautifully, elongating the fingers thanks to the perfectly squared-off shape.
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Color: Deep olive gloss with a creamy undertone — think muted army green with a high-shine top coat.
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Shape: Classic square tip — crisp edges that highlight nail symmetry, ideal for medium or shorter lengths.
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Length: Medium — balanced enough for daily wear but long enough to stay elegant.
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Accessory pairing: The chunky gold ring adds just the right contrast — warm metal meets cool green, a perfect equilibrium.
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Texture: Smooth, gel-like finish that reflects light beautifully and looks luxurious under both indoor and natural light.
If I were styling this set for a full outfit, I’d pair it with a beige trench and gold hoops — timeless, easy, confident. I’d avoid overly patterned clothing, though; this color deserves to stand out against clean textures. A simple manicure like this proves that elegance can exist in restraint — the key is the finish, not the fuss.
Wild Chocolate Glam
There’s no denying it — the brown nail trend is having a serious revival, and this Long square set with tortoiseshell art accents captures that energy flawlessly. The glossy espresso nails contrast beautifully with the caramel-and-black leopard pattern — a nod to high fashion’s animal-print obsession. This look radiates confidence and glamour, making it perfect for parties, date nights, or simply those “I feel expensive today” moods.
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Color Palette: Deep chocolate, amber, and honey tones blend into this ultra-rich design.
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Designs trending: Tortoiseshell tips, matte-gloss interplay, and layered neutral hues — all over runways right now.
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Shape: Sharp, tapered square edges that accentuate longer fingers.
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Accessories: Multiple gold rings with black gemstone accents — vintage-inspired yet on-trend.
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Mood: Bold, confident, unapologetically chic.
Personally, I’d keep makeup neutral when wearing this look — maybe a nude gloss and a swipe of brown eyeliner. Don’t add busy prints or neon clothing; the nails already steal the spotlight. To soften the vibe for daytime, swap the rings for delicate gold bands — you’ll still keep that “fashion editor off-duty” energy.
Celestial Sparkle
There’s something whimsical about this nude-pink base with celestial designs — tiny stars, moons, and glitter flakes that twinkle in soft light. It’s the kind of Cute and romantic nail inspo that feels dreamy but wearable, the perfect ideas summer manicure for weddings, engagement parties, or even festival weekends. The soft square shape gives the whole look a graceful finish, balancing the shimmer with subtlety.
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Color: Transparent blush base, overlaid with silver and lavender micro-glitter.
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Art: Celestial motif — moons and stars aligned delicately like jewelry for your fingertips.
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Shape: Gently squared for that polished-but-not-too-sharp silhouette.
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Ring: Vintage-style diamond band — enhances the ethereal glow.
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Overall Vibe: Feminine, light, magical — a manicure that feels like a love letter to fairytales.
If I were to tweak this look, I’d add a thin French outline in pale lavender to frame the nails softly — just enough to modernize it. What I wouldn’t do? Add rhinestones. The minimalist shimmer is already doing the work. This one’s made for someone who loves quiet luxury with a hint of stardust.
Creamy Grid Chic
Minimalism gets a modern twist with this milky-white manicure, featuring a subtle plaid accent on one nail. It’s that kind of medium-length design that feels architectural yet soft — an aesthetic dream for someone who loves clean lines and neutral palettes. The grid gives a clever nod to geometric art, while the creamy ivory base makes it wearable from boardroom to brunch.
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Color Scheme: Milky white and blush beige, finished with a glossy top coat.
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Designs trending now 2024: Gridded lines and minimalist patterns — proof that simplicity is the new statement.
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Shape: Classic square with slightly rounded corners for softness.
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Accessory: A delicate diamond band adds sparkle without overpowering the calm palette.
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Mood: Elegant, structured, effortlessly modern.
If I were styling this for a full look, I’d suggest pairing it with a crisp white shirt, gold hoops, and a sleek bun. Skip anything overly glittery or metallic — this manicure thrives in understatement. Add a matte nude lipstick to complete the “architectural chic” aesthetic.
Monochrome Romance
There’s something forever-timeless about a white manicure — clean, refined, and quietly confident. This look adds a playful twist with tiny black heart accents on the ring and pinky nails. It’s the definition of simple yet adorable — the kind of short nail look that works with every outfit and occasion. Think of it as minimalist inspiration with a touch of flirtation.
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Color Story: Crisp white paired with small black heart motifs — contrast done right.
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Shape: True square, giving each nail a uniform, structured appeal.
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Art: Micro hearts — minimal and ultra-trendy for 2026.
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Length: Short, practical, and polished for everyday wear.
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Mood: Sweet, confident, and endlessly versatile.
If I were to enhance this, I’d maybe add a pink heart for spring or a red one for Valentine’s week — just enough color to refresh it. What to avoid? Heavy embellishments. The beauty of this set lies in its clean simplicity. Pair it with soft knitwear and dainty silver jewelry for a chic contrast between sweet and sophisticated.
Square nails are back — not as a retro throwback, but as a canvas for expression in 2026. Whether you prefer earthy tones, glossy neutrals, or celestial sparkles, the shape offers structure, balance, and that polished finish every manicure lover dreams of. Which ideas would you try next — the green French tip inspo, the brown designs trending, or something completely your own? Tell me below — your next nail obsession might start right here.
