Credit: Getty
Nail salons are opening and it’s the perfect excuse to have fun with your first post-lockdown manicure.
Nail salons are officially opening up and so, there’s only one question: what should you get for your first post-lockdown appointment?
Over the last year, we’ve slowly filled our Instagram Saved folder with countless nail art posts – from the classic French manicure with a twist and ombré designs to shell nails and even party-ready sparkly nails (yes, we’re already hopeful for a festive December). But there’s one sitting at the top of our list.
Swirl nails have been cropping up on social media a lot recently and they’re the perfect design to try for your first appointment. The look involves drawing one or a few curved lines on your nails for a 60s, almost psychedelic finish.
The swirl can be as long as you like (from top to bottom, over a corner, anything), as thick as you like and any shades; it’s just about creating a fun and almost soothing-to-look-at finish.
While we’ll most likely be requesting this look at the salons, some may want to try it at home after a year of at-home manicures. If that’s you, you can either paint the swirls on with a detail brush or paint on rough lines and add in the curves with an acetone-soaked brush.
Convinced? Here, we round up some swirl art nail inspiration.
Swirl nail art inspiration
Outlined swirl nails
Opt for bright, bold colours and alternate the shades across your fingers. Adding an outline to your swirl adds more fun to the look.
Monochrome swirl nails
If you like the idea of using more than one shade but don’t want anything too busy, go for nail hues within the same colour palette.
French manicure swirl nails
Long-time fan of the French manicure? Put a twist on it and focus your swirls on the tips of your nails.
Pastel swirl nails
Pastels are big every spring and summer when it comes to nail art designs. Pick five shades: one for every finger.
Colour-clashing swirl nails
Pairing up red and pink has become the chic way to achieve colour-clashing. Choose one as your main shade and use the other for accent swirls.
Nude-coloured swirl nails
Paint your nails with a nude shade and add muted swirls for a subtle-yet-effective finish.
Floral swirl nails
When it comes to nails, we firmly believe more is more. Amp up your swirly nails with additional pictures, like flowers.
Main image: Getty
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