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Over the last few months, maximalist nail trends have been popping up left and right. Last week it was "embo" manicures, and the week before that, it was all about "bimbocore" nails. Just when it seemed like minimalist trends were officially taking a back seat, a new craze has taken over TikTok: "old money" nails.
The mostly neutral look is one part quiet luxury and one part sophisticated elegance, which really just means no one will be able to tell you have $800 in overdue parking tickets just waiting to be paid. Even if you'll never be able to say, "Sorry I'm in pajamas, but I just got off the PJ," à la Kanye West, your manicure can still make it look like private jets and elaborate European vacations are a possibility. Still, there's a lot of variation and fun to be had.
For everything you need to know about old-money nails, celebrity nail artist Vanessa Sanchez McCullough and Nailing Hollywood CEO Mazz Hanna are breaking down the trend. From what they are to how to get the look at home, keep reading.
What Are Old-Money Nails?
"Old-money nails are all about chic, classic colors paired with super-clean cuticle work," Hanna says. "Reds, soft pinks, and neutrals work very well for this trend." Sanchez McCullough agrees, saying, "Old-money nails represent class, elegance, and status. The perfect powerful red, the nude that complements your skin tone, a french manicure that's perfectly natural." It's a minimal, pared-down, timeless look that will go with every outfit in your closet.
While the trend is most often associated with neutral shades, rich red tones are also seen quite frequently. As for the shape and length, "Old-money nails look best on a nail that is a natural active length," Sanchez McCullough says. "A medium-length squoval or short soft square will look best."
How to Get Old-Money Nails
If you're visiting a salon, Sanchez McCullough says to ask your nail technician for a deep, rich red tone; a diffused french manicure; or a semi-sheer nude. Hanna suggests visiting a nail artist certified in Russian manicures since clean cuticles are a key part in achieving the look. "Ask for short square nails with rounded edges and opt for a color that pairs well with the aesthetic," Hanna says. "You'll get the best results if you bring a reference photo of the shape, length, and color that you prefer."
If you're planning to DIY at home, Hanna says it's important you start with clean and hydrated cuticles and hands. She suggests prepping the skin every night before bed with a hand lotion like the Retrouvé Dermal Defense Hand Cream ($55), as well as a cuticle cream like the Dior Crème Abricot ($30).
As for shades, Sanchez McCullough suggests Chanel Le Vernis Ballerina ($32) or Chanel Le Vernis Rouge Noir ($32), while Hanna says OPI Big Apple Red ($12) and Dazzle Dry Peacefully Me ($22) are her favorites for this trend.
Old-Money Nails Inspiration
If you're ready to book your next salon appointment or start DIY-ing at home, keep reading for some of our favorite old-money nail looks that you can check out for inspiration.
FAQs
The 'Old Money' Manicure Channels The Ultimate Quiet Luxury Vibe. Amid the noise of flashy maximalism, 'Old Money' nails are emerging as the epitome of quiet luxury. Picture classic colours, soft details and an allure that transcends the fleeting nature of trends.
What is the quiet luxury nail trend? ›
The Quiet Luxury Nail Trend is all about embracing a subtle and sophisticated approach to nail art. It's about ditching the bold and flashy and instead opting for delicate designs with muted tones and an overall sense of refined simplicity.
Are red nails old money? ›
Red is a color that has been associated with nobility, power, and prestige for centuries. It exudes timeless elegance that you never tire of. Whether it's lipstick, handbag, ballet flats, or the perfect manicure - red is the epitome of Old Money, as classic as it gets.
What are old money nails? ›
Amid the noise of flashy maximalism, 'Old Money' nails are emerging as the epitome of quiet luxury. Picture classic colours, soft details and an allure that transcends the fleeting nature of trends.
Which nail shape is more elegant? ›
If you prefer a classic and elegant look, you may want to choose a round or oval shape. If you prefer a more edgy or dramatic look, you may want to choose a square, stiletto, or coffin shape.
What colors scream old money? ›
Mainsail White: A timeless shade of white, exuding elegance and sophistication. Summer Sea Blue: Reflecting tranquil waters, it embodies opulence and relaxation. Sailor Red: A deep, proud red symbolizing maritime traditions and adventure.
What nail color looks rich? ›
"Rich girl" nails don't necessarily have to be nude in tone—they just have to be neutral to effortlessly go with everything. With this in mind, a subtle, shimmery white nail look can qualify as a "rich girl" manicure, too.
What color nail polish makes hands look younger? ›
Lighter Tones: Choose lighter shades of any color, such as pastels or light grays. Lighter tones help to brighten the hands and create a more youthful appearance. Sheer and Natural Finishes: Consider using sheer or natural finishes, like a sheer pink or a clear coat.
What is the classiest nail length? ›
Medium length nails are lively, sophisticated, and classy. They can be worn for any occasion; as these nails are practical enough for your everyday adventures, yet glamorous enough for your weekend festivities. To sum it up, medium length nails are absolutely essential for any nail enthusiast.
Which nail color looks elegant? ›
Beige or nude nails look elegant and classic, offering them a flexible option for any setting. These hues also give the fingers a more elongated, refined appearance.
Red Nails Theory is a theory that suggests that men are more likely to be attracted to women with red nails. The theory has been backed up by research, which shows that men find women with red nails more attractive than those with any other color nails.
Are red nails classy or trashy? ›
A classic red shade can also look good with just about any outfit, and doubles well as a day look for casual wear, and a night look for a glamorous twist. If you are drawn to this shade, you are confident and daring, but also classy. It is truly the shade that never goes out of style.
Do red nails age you? ›
The right type of red is a youthful shade you can pick. Pay attention to the following: Bright orange-red nails draw attention to your manicure rather than to your hands.
Are red nails a turn on? ›
Experts do, however, universally agree that red has a powerful effect on men. A 2008 study of 27 men with a median age of 20 found that men consider women wearing red more attractive and sexually desirable.
What is the rich girl nail trend? ›
The classic rich-girl nail is long and filed in a tapered square shape, which he says helps elongate your fingers. Next is the color choice: Stick with a full-coverage neutral shade that is either one shade darker or lighter than your own skin tone.
What is a muted French manicure? ›
However, the combo of sheer pink with an off-white created exactly the muted French look. The difference between the tones is almost undetectable. But you know when your nail grows past your finger, the tip looks lighter because there's no skin underneath? That's the role of the off-white polish.
