Before you default to your usual French tips or classic red polish for your next manicure, there’s a new nail-art trend you should know about: geode nails. A sophisticated evolution from the marble-effect nail-art trend that has dominated the past few years, geode nails incorporate artistic patterns and a hint of gold for a stunning finish. The best bit? They couldn’t be easier to re-create at home. 

Much like crystals, geodes are natural rock formations that are believed to hold different energies able to assist with balancing moods and calming stress, as well as providing a focus for meditation. While geode nail art isn’t quite the real deal, we like to think they can embody some of their natural healing powers nonetheless.

Taking inspiration from semiprecious stones such as amethyst and rose quartz, geode nail art replicates the banding and coloration found in the natural rock formation by using different shades from the same color palette painted in squiggly, smokelike lines. To finish, a light trace of gold or metallic details along the main bands elevates the look and gives it that classic geode finish. 

All you need to create the look at home is a fine-tipped brush and a couple of nail polish colors. Paint your base layer as normal and, while it’s still wet, draw squiggly lines on top, using a different color. Blend out some of the lines so they are not so fine, or swirl and mix the two polishes together until your get the look you want. Let nails dry and clean your brush before adding in the gold accents to keep them crisp.

For full coverage of your chosen geode color, like nail artist and creator Isabel May did, use your brush to keep swirling and blending the polish into your base coat, making sure to cover the entire nail bed rather than one section.

Once you’ve nailed the basics of the application, the possibilities are endless. We love minimal nails with dainty gold-outlined geode windows like nail artist Mikki Gulley created, as well as the way Instagram nail artist Boheme Beauty paired geode windows with a gold reverse French manicure. 

For those who are feeling confident, you could also try geode tips à la nail artist Nia Ho, who chose a luxurious amber hue against a soft, milky nude base coat. 

Or you could try Nia’s negative-space look, where she painted geode-like rings onto otherwise naked nails in alternate shades of green and gold—stunning!  

For more nail art inspiration, check out these cute Valentine’s Day designs, as well as the tip-and-mix nail trend that’s taking over Instagram. 

This story originally appeared on Glamour U.K.

Pale-pink nails topped with arcs of stark white along the tips have long been known as a French manicure. After briefly falling out of favor, the classic look has fully had its revival, and nail artists have started to tweak it with patterns, brights, and creative color schemes. These fun twists now have a new name in the nail-art world: the American manicure. 

Well, I take that back. The moniker isn’t actually new, but it’s taken on a new definition. Manicurist Tom Bachik first heard of the American manicure back in the ’90s after graduating from nail school. (Now you can catch him decorating the tips of Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, and Olivia Rodrigo.) At the time the American manicure was basically a French manicure with tips painted a less intense white with a more natural, skin-tone-flattering base. “A great way to achieve this was to polish the white first, then apply the neutral shade over the whole nail, including the white,” Bachik recalls. “It softened the look.”

Back then, Bachik also heard people referring to monochromatic French manicures as American manicures. For example, baby-blue nails with navy-blue tips. In both cases, he believed the term was a marketing tactic in the ’90s. However, with nail art trends sprouting on a daily basis in 2021, thanks to social media, calling alternate takes on the classic French manicure an American manicure just makes sense. 

These days American manicures are mostly done with subtler tones, nail artist Lolly Koon tells Allure. A sheer, natural-color base—or simply a clear coat—is painted on to look more like the actual nail. This change also flatters each individual’s complexion in a more subtle way than the striking pink of traditional French manis, Bachik explains. 

As for the tips, manicurists often reach for a creamy, off-white polish for the latest American manicures. He most recently graced the nails of Lily Aldridge with the look for the 2021 Met Gala (as seen above), as well as J.Lo’s for a fashion event in Venice. 

A marker for showcasing your personality while also adorning yourself, coffin nails are here to stay. If you’ve decided to swap out your go-to shape to give it a spin but are looking for some fall acrylic nails inspiration, read on. From jeweled tips to a classic french with a tropical twist, we’ve rounded up 10 of the cutest coffin fall nails to bookmark for your next salon visit. 

Icy Tips

These transparent tips by Brooklyn-based artist Melissa Samuel look good any season, rain or shine, but pair especially well with crisp weather and dark blue skies. The 3-D droplets added to create a wet look take the manicure to the next level. 

French With a Twist

A classic french manicure will always be in style. But if you’re over the white tips and want something a little fresher, try opting for a striking blue. If you’re still wishing it was summer, add some florals and watch your nails transport you far, far away to a luscious holiday escape. 

Or if you prefer to turn up the heat and embrace the pumpkin season of it all, this flaming french mani is the perfect blueprint for your next set. The overlapping lines create an almost reptilian effect that will be sure to draw all eyes on you. If you’re looking for the best shade, check out these fall-perfect colors.

Prints On

Emilie Heathe partnered with artist Gina Edwards to create the tongue-in-cheek nail looks for the debut Pyer Moss couture show. Inspired by African-American inventions like the super soaker, Edwards played with large prints and custom decals.

Sparkly Decals

Mixing metals doesn’t just apply to your jewelry—it can work for your nails as well. The key is to also play with shapes so the different elements can really get their shine. Take notes from Maria Sanchez, who created dimension with gold lettering accented by pearl baubles. 

Another way to add some sparkle? Don’t limit yourself to the nail bed. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a couple of dangling gems to your tips? This mani created by Edwards was made to be admired. 

Neutral With an Edge

Sometimes it’s best to go back to basics, like this glossy mani. The muted color is also a great transitional option for those who are exploring or new to the extra added length.

But if you want to upgrade your neutrals, a color block is always a good way to go. Toria Elem mixes it up by added a chocolate brown marble affect to the accent nail.

An easy way to upgrade your color block to the next level is to play with lines—like a pointed French, or a diagonal split. To finish it off and give it a romantic edge, add some gold leafing to the edges.

Ballerina Coffin

For an even more pronounced coffin shape, experiment with the ballerina coffin. The tapering happens higher up on the nail, giving you claws for days. 

Flip Manicure

We’ve neglected the backside of our nails for far too long. If you really want to switch things up, a flip mani is your best bet. Watch for the pleasantly surprised looks when people catch a shimmering underside of your nail as you wave good-bye. 

Another cute flip manicure, this set turns bedazzling on its head. Decking out the underside allows you to have the best of both worlds—muted on the top, a party in the back.

Precious Gems 

There’s something soothing and almost mystical about a gem-inspired mani. This amethyst set by Las Vegas-based nail tech Giselle will take your hands to new heights, not to mention they look incredibly chic. Gold accents really make everything better.

Turns out these nails look really good next to a marble print. If you’re looking for direction on how to tie the different designs together, see this set: a couple details like gothic lettering and metallic flakes bring everything into balance. 

Mixed Prints

Sometimes you can’t choose just one—so pick them all! This super cute mixed print mani combines thick swirls, a cascade of gradient dots, and a glitter base. Sounds a bit crazy but turns out it looks amazing. 

But if you’re into a theme, a childhood fave—like the Toy Story one seen here—is one idea. The blue skies, Woody’s plaid shirt…this modern take is sure to inspire countless nostalgic thoughts.

Retro Lines

It’s like your aunt’s favorite dress from the eighties, with a modern refresh. Add some gold hoops and a bright red lip and you’ll be ready to hit the town. 

13. Use a specialized base coat.

Speaking of glitter, did you know there are now peel-off base coats that work wonders for removing tough-to-get-off textures? They’re particularly game-changing if you want a little sparkle on the weekends but can’t show up to the office on Monday with your nails looking like a Katy Perry concert. Try UNT Ready for Takeoff Peelable Base Coat.

14. If you’re in a rush, pick a sheer shade.

“If you’re running out the door, choose a sheer because it’s dummy-proof,” says Rita Remark, Essie global lead educator. “Just one coat works to give your nails new life.” (May we suggest the ever-popular Ballet Slippers? Queen Elizabeth is a fan; just saying.) But if you’re going with full-on color, make sure to stick to the basics: a base, two coats of polish, and a topcoat. Otherwise, you’re opening your quick job to ever faster chips and peels.

15. Treat your nail care like skin care.

Ever wonder how those women with long almond nails keep them from breaking? “It requires constant care and TLC,” says Remark. That obviously sounds like a lot of work, but think of it like this: “During your nighttime routine, add a step to take care of your nails. So when you’re done with your face, put on cuticle oil after that.” It helps to keep a bottle of it right next to your bed.

16. Take your time. 

If you’re not waiting at least one or two minutes before applying another coat of color or a topcoat, you’re not giving the solvents in your polish enough time to evaporate (which, ultimately, is what dries your nails). Edwards describes it this way: “You know how there’s a difference when you cook something in the microwave versus when you cook it in the oven? It holds the flavor in more when you take the time to use the oven. The same can be said for your nails. The longer you wait between coats, the more it’ll keep your color locked in.” Use your iPhone timer if you really need help slowing yourself down.

17. Simple nails often make the biggest impact.

Talk to any pro artist and they’ll agree: You don’t need a lot of bells and whistles to make a statement. Naomi Gonzalez-Longstaff loves creamy pastels, especially soft pinks; Rose Velez-Miggins likes a mixture of pale shades and earthy tones that flatter all different skin tones; and Choi is all about androgynous colors (think greige and browns) with a squoval (squarish oval) tip. (See the best versions of all of them here.)

18. An edgier look is as easy as applying a topcoat.

“I love applying a matte topcoat to my designs lately,” says nail artist Betina Goldstein, who’s Insta-famous for her minimal—but stunning—take on nail art. “It adds a bit of edge and sophistication to any minimal design or polish. A simple black dot on a nail with a matte topcoat transforms what could be childish into a more chic look.”

19. Seal off your nails. 

Nicks and chips tend to happen most at the tip of the nail, and yet the majority of us forget to give that part a little extra topcoat love. Try this trick; it acts like Saran Wrap for the polish on that area: “Take a topcoat and run a horizontal swipe of it over the bottom edge of your nail after you do your last coat,” says Edwards. Let it dry, and repeat one more time.

20. Don’t sleep on gems or crystals.

Can’t paint your nails? Don’t bother. Slick on a shiny topcoat like Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel or a sheet nude like Chanel Ballerina, then use a silicone dotting tool or tweezers to place tiny embellishments on your nails. “Adding small pearls, gems, or accents is very easy, and you do not need to be very savvy with the paint brush,” says Goldstein. She recommends also using nail glue first to secure the stone, then capping it on top—along with a topcoat over that—to ensure it doesn’t get caught in your hair.

21. When in doubt, there are always press-ons.

Another option if you need to paint your nails in pinch: Skip the dry time and go straight for press-ons, like Kiss imPress. “The prep is the key,” says Edwards. “You want to make sure your nails are free from oil. So buff your nail, get rid of the shine, and push back your cuticles. If you have even the smallest amount of cuticle over your nails, it’ll continue to grow and can pop off the nail.” (See more of the best press-on nails, here). 

Lindsay Schallon is a writer in New York. Follow her on Instagram @lindsayshcallon. 

From checkered nails to manicures that look like literal blocks of ice, there have been no shortage of cool nail trends lately. And now heart nails are the latest design that’s poised to take off. 

Now, you might be thinking heart nails aren’t exactly new, and you’d be right. Anyone who’s been to the nail salon around Valentine’s Day can vouch for that. Rather, there’s a very specific genre of heart nail designs that have been popping up on our feeds lately, particularly inspired by cool-girl phone case brand Wildflower and 2000s TV revivals.

We’re calling them heart beams—one look at them, and you’ll see why. The multi-layered cuties make us nostalgic for late afternoons spent obsessing over action-packed cartoons with strong female leads and are quickly becoming as classic as a French mani.

So what is it about these hearts that have us wanting to wear them over every finger? “It’s customizable to each person, which makes each set fun,” says Montreal nail artist Victoria Gabreau. “I think it also has a little bit of nostalgia for people who grew up watching The Powerpuff Girls and popular y2k trends.”

The first person to request this playful riff on heart nails at Gabreau’s salon wanted to match her favorite Wildflower case, the nail artist recalls. “We did a mismatch set with some brown French tips and the beaming heart in different shades of browns,” she says. “At that point, I feel like the beaming heart wasn’t as big.”

Take a look at all the coolest girls you know and chances are they have something in common: they’re all rocking checker nails. In the past few weeks, it’s been impossible to scroll Instagram without seeing the graphic pattern incorporated into French tips, retro florals, and mismatched manis. Blame it on the popularity of The Queen’s Gambit or Lisa Says Gah, the fashion darling of the moment, but there’s no doubt it’s happening. 

And by “happening,” we mean it’s everywhere. No longer limited to board games or classic Vans, the pattern has been popping up on home goods, clothing, and phone cases with fun twists like poppy pastels and wavy edges. In fact, it’s having such a moment, it’s a corner stone of what fashion fans have cheekily coined the “Avant Basic” aesthetic—think Paloma Wool matching sets, Wildflower phone cases, and colorful carpets. 

When it comes to nails, twists on the pattern are equally as playful. One of the most popular versions, first posted by content creator Lauren Ladnier and frequently copied across the app, features the pattern in swooping French tips and varying colors. The color palette and off-kilter lines make it feel almost groovy and ’70s, but the graphic print keeps it feeling modern and cool. 

Part of the pattern’s appeal is its versatility. Done in black and white, it looks clean and classic—or even emo, depending on the circumstances. Paired with flowers it’s psychedelic, like a Spongebob Squarepants background come to life. And covering a whole nail, it’s total Nascar vibes, in the coolest way possible. 

If you’re skilled with a detail brush, check out the tutorial, below. For the rest of us, either leave checker nails a pro or go for press-ons. Both Chillhouse and Etsy’s extensive sticker selection can help you easily get the look.  

And if you’re not feeling the time or patience it takes to get checker nails, you can always take the trend to your closet. Trust us, there are a ridiculous number of great ‘fits to be made. But if you need a good starting point, shop some of our favorite checker pieces, below. 

Bella Cacciatore is the beauty associate at Glamour. Follow her on Instagram @bellacacciatore_.