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Photo by KT Merry
If you happen to be a 2024 bride, listen up: The classic bridal mani is back and better than ever this new year! More specifically, brides everywhere can expect to see a surge in minimalist designs and a departure from over-the-top embellishments when it comes to wedding day nails.
According to Hang Nguyen, a nail artist represented by Nailing Hollywood, “In 2024, bridal nail trends are all about timeless beauty, focusing on classic and sophisticated styles that enhance natural beauty without excessive embellishments.” CEO of Nailing Hollywood, Mazz Hanna, further adds, “In 2024, bridal nails will trend more towards timeless elegance and simplicity, largely inspired by the ‘Old Money Nails’ and the ‘Off Duty Model’ trends we saw in 2023. Brides will likely opt for styles that complement their overall look without being overly extravagant. The main focus will be on enhancing natural beauty.”
Meet the Expert
- Mazz Hanna is the CEO of Nailing Hollywood, a talent agency that represents the industry's leading nail experts.
- Hang Nguyen is a nail artist represented by Nailing Hollywood.
Interested in learning more about the specific designs that are set to dominate this year of minimalist nails? Ahead, here are the top five bridal nail trends for 2024 weddings.
Natural Nude Nails
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Photo by Masson Liang Photography
For those getting married in 2024, natural nude nails are a trend to consider when planning out your day-of beauty look. This style is completely customizable, depending on skin tone and nail shape, and gives off an understated look that can align with most bridal aesthetics.
“Nude shades like soft beige, blush, or pale pink work well,” shares Hanna. “You can achieve this look by opting for sheer, neutral nail polishes. These shades give brides a polished appearance while allowing their engagement ring to shine as the centerpiece.” Nguyen adds, “Natural nude nails will trend in 2024 due to their elegant simplicity. Use sheer nude shades that match your skin tone for a clean and polished look.”
Dior Vernis Muguet is a favorite of Hanna as it's "buildable and gorgeous on a variety of skin tones," while Nguyen prefers Essie Wild Nude, a light tan nail polish that features a wash of white and looks great on any skin tone.
Light Pink Nails
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Photo by Janet Lin Photography
For a classic bridal shade that will dominate in 2024 (and, frankly, for years to come), look no further than light pink nails. They’re feminine and soft, and won’t pull focus away from your dress. “Light pink nails are going to be a popular choice in 2024 for brides who want a more romantic and delicate look," shares Hanna. "Pastel pink shades create a soft and feminine aesthetic. You can achieve this by using pale pink gel polish or opting for a sheer pink nail color.”
For a jelly-esque pink in a sheer shade, you can’t go wrong with Gelcare Rosehip Oil, a top choice for Hanna. “It makes nails look healthy and has a plump and juicy effect on the nail," she explains. Nguyen, on the other hand, prefers OPI Mod About You, a modern light pink nail polish that features a subtle shine and baby pink hue. You can also check out Olive & June's Wedding Collection Set that has 10 beautiful shades in pink and neutral colors.
Classic French Nails
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Photo by Cinzia Bruschini Studio
While French manicures never disappeared from the bridal beauty space, we expect to see even more brides lean into this classic design when getting their nails done for their special days. “White tips with a sheer pink or nude base exude elegance,” shares Hanna. “You can achieve this by opting for a sheer neutral or pink base and white tips. It's a versatile option that suits a variety of wedding themes and dress styles.”
Opt for OPI Bubble Bath when choosing a color for the base of your design, as you can’t go wrong with this cult-classic shade that’s available at most nail salons. As for the French tips, consider OPI Alpine Snow which is a crisp white nail polish that's perfect for creating a stark contrast.
Barely-There Nails
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PHOTO BY CLAIRE MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY
If you’re the type of person who doesn’t like nail polish or simply prefers clear polish, allow us to introduce you to barely-there nails—a trend you can certainly lean into for your 2024 nuptials. “These nails are sheer and almost translucent, giving a fresh and clean look,” says Hanna. “Achieve this with a sheer pink or neutral polish or even just a clear coat.” The key here is to keep your nails and even nailbeds looking clean and moisturized, which can be achieved with cuticle oils and the regular use of hand cream. It's simply your nails, but better!
Translucent with a touch of color, both Hanna and Nguyen recommend Manicurist Active Glow, a treatment polish that provides nails with a rosy glow. However, if you’re looking to lightly enhance your natural nail color, Dior Nail Glow is all you need. It tints the nailbeds and is one of Hanna’s favorite options.
Pearl Accent Nails
Photo by Emily Gude Photo
If you want to lean into classic manicures but add a little pizzazz, pearl accent nails should be on your radar. As long as you don’t go too over the top with application and keep them minimal, pearl embellishments have the ability to transform your bridal mani into something of your dreams. “Incorporate pearls as nail art, with options like pearl-embellished nail tips or a single pearl accent on each nail,” says Hanna. “Pearlescent nail polish or chrome powder can also be used as a fun twist for this look.”
Unsure of which pearl embellishments to use? Prudiut Pearl Stickers are self-adhesive pearls that are available on Amazon and have some great reviews. Additionally, a fun shade to pair with pearl accents, or even to wear on its own, is CND Shellac Pearl Top Coat, which features a pearlescent finish that may even come off as champagne nails.