Nail art is not just for women. More and more men are discovering the joy and beauty of painting their nails and expressing their creativity and style through nail art. In this article, we will explore why nail art is becoming more popular and acceptable among men and some of the trends and inspirations you can follow and experiment with to create your own masculine nail art. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you will find some tips and advice on pulling off painted nails with confidence and challenging and redefining the gender norms and expectations imposed on you by society. Nail art is for everyone, and everyone is for nail art. Nail art is for the modern man, and the contemporary man is for nail art.
The Contemporary Journey of Modern Manicure
Nail art is neither a new phenomenon nor exclusive to women. Throughout history, men have adorned their nails with various colors, patterns, and symbols to express their identity, status, and culture. For example, ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and Chinese used nail polish to signify their social class and power. At the same time, warriors and noblemen in India, Persia, and Japan painted their nails with henna, gold, and lacquer to show their bravery and wealth.
In the 20th century, nail art became more popular and accessible to the masses, thanks to the invention of synthetic nail polishes and the influence of celebrities and fashion trends. However, nail art also became more gendered and stereotyped, as it was seen as a feminine and frivolous activity that was incompatible with masculinity and professionalism.
Fortunately, in the 21st century, nail art is undergoing a transformation and a resurgence as more and more men are embracing it as a form of self-expression, creativity, and style. From rock stars and rappers to actors and athletes, many male celebrities have flaunted their painted nails on stage, screen, and social media, breaking the boundaries and norms of gender and beauty. Moreover, nail art has become more diverse and innovative as men experiment with different designs, colors, and techniques to suit their personalities, moods, and occasions. Whether it is a simple solid color, a complex geometric pattern, or a flashy glitter effect, nail art can enhance and complement any look and outfit and make a statement and impression.
Redefining Gender Norms in Nail Art for Men
Nail art challenges and redefines the gender norms and expectations that society has imposed on men, which is one of the reasons why it is becoming more well-liked and acceptable among them. For too long, men have been told that they have to conform to a rigid and narrow definition of masculinity, that they have to be strong, challenging, and stoic, and that they have to avoid anything that is deemed feminine, soft, or emotional. However, these norms and expectations are not only unrealistic and oppressive but also harmful and limiting, as they prevent men from exploring and expressing their full potential and diversity.
Nail art is a way for men to resist and subvert these norms and expectations and to celebrate and affirm their individuality and identity. By painting their nails, men can show that they are not afraid or ashamed of their femininity, are confident and comfortable with their masculinity, and are open and proud of their sexuality and gender. Nail art is also a way for men to communicate and connect with others, as they can share their stories, feelings, and opinions through their nails and create a sense of community and belonging with those who appreciate and support them.
Inspiration for Masculine Nail Art
If you are a man who is interested in trying nail art, or if you are looking for some inspiration and ideas for your next manicure, here are some examples of masculine nail art trends that you can explore and experiment with.
Abstract Nail Art Design for Men
Abstract nail art is an excellent option for men who want to create a unique and artistic look for their nails. Abstract nail art involves using different shapes, colors, and textures to develop a design that is not based on any specific object or theme but instead on the imagination and creativity of the nail artist. Abstract nail art can be simple or complex, minimal or maximal, monochrome or multicolor, depending on the preference and skill of the nail artist. Some examples of abstract nail art designs for men are:
Splatter nail art: This design involves using a straw or a brush to splatter different nail polish colors on the nails, creating a random and messy effect resembling a painting or graffiti. Splatter nail art is easy and fun to do, and it can make a bold and edgy look for the nails.
Marble nail art: This design uses water or a sponge to create a marble-like effect on the nails, using different colors and shades of nail polish. Marble nail art is elegant and sophisticated, and it can give the nails a smooth and glossy look.
Geometric nail art: This design uses tape, stickers, or a thin brush to create different geometric shapes and patterns on the nails, such as triangles, squares, circles, lines, and dots. Geometric nail art is modern and stylish, and it can create a sharp and sleek look for the nails.
Rainbow Nail Art for Men
Rainbow nail art is a perfect option for men who want to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community or who simply love bright and colorful nails. Rainbow nail art involves using the colors of the rainbow, or any other combination of colors, to create a vibrant and cheerful design. Rainbow nail art can be done in different ways, such as:
Rainbow French manicure: This design involves painting the tips of the nails with different colors of the rainbow while leaving the rest of the nails natural or with a clear or nude polish. A rainbow French manicure is a classic and chic way to add color to the nails without being too overwhelming or flashy.
Rainbow ombre nail art: This design involves creating a gradient effect on the nails, using different colors of the rainbow or any other combination of colors that blend smoothly from one to another. Rainbow ombre nail art is a trendy and relaxed way to create a dynamic and dimensional look for the nails that changes with light and angle.
Rainbow glitter nail art: This design involves adding glitter or sparkle to the nails, using either glitter nail polish, a glitter top coat, or some glitter nail stickers in the colors of the rainbow or any other combination of colors. Rainbow glitter nail art is a fun and festive way to create a dazzling and glamorous look for the nails that catch the eye and attention.
ASAP Rocky’s Love for Contemporary Nail Arts
ASAP Rocky is one of the most influential and stylish rappers in the music industry, and he is also one of the most adventurous and experimental when it comes to nail art. ASAP Rocky has been rocking various nail art designs for years, and he has been inspiring and encouraging other men to do the same. Some of his most iconic and memorable nail art designs are:
Prada logo nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish and then adding the Prada logo in white or silver on one or more nails, using a sticker or a stencil. Prada logo nail art is a simple and elegant way to show love and loyalty to the luxury brand and create a sophisticated and refined look for the nails.
Cow print nail art: This design involves painting the nails with white or beige polish and then adding some black or brown spots on the nails, using a dotting tool or a brush, to create a cow print effect. Cow print nail art is a cute and quirky way to add personality and fun to the nails and create a playful and whimsical look.
Flag nail art: This design involves painting the nails with the colors and symbols of a flag, such as the American flag, the British flag, the Jamaican flag, or any other flag that represents the culture, heritage, or identity of the nail artist. Flag nail art is a patriotic and proud way to show respect and appreciation for the country or nation and create a bold and striking look for the nails.
Harry Styles’ Inspiring Nail Art for Men
Harry Styles is one of the most popular and talented singers in the music industry, and he is also one of the most daring and expressive when it comes to nail art. Harry Styles has been sporting various nail art designs for years, and he has been challenging and changing the stereotypes and norms of gender and beauty. Some of his most inspiring and memorable nail art designs are:
Rainbow flag nail art: This design involves painting the nails with the colors of the rainbow flag, a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community and a sign of diversity, inclusion, and pride. Rainbow flag nail art is a beautiful and meaningful way to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and create a vibrant and cheerful look for the nails.
Watermelon nail art: This design involves painting the nails with green polish and then adding some black seeds and some pink or red flesh to the nails, using a dotting tool or a brush to create a watermelon effect. Watermelon nail art is a sweet and refreshing way to add fruit and flavor to the nails and create a juicy and delicious look for the nails.
Mismatched nail art: This design involves painting each nail with a different color, pattern, or design, creating a mismatched and eclectic effect. Mismatched nail art is a creative and adventurous way to experiment, explore different nail art options, and make a unique and personalized look for the nails.
Steven Tyler’s Black Nail Art for Men
Steven Tyler is one of the most legendary and charismatic rock stars in the music industry, and he is also one of the most consistent and loyal when it comes to nail art. Steven Tyler has been wearing black nail polish for decades, and he has been making it his signature and trademark. Some of his most iconic and memorable black nail art designs are:
Black glitter nail art: This design involves adding glitter or sparkle to the nails, using either black glitter nail polish, a black glitter top coat, or some black glitter nail stickers. Black glitter nail art is a glamorous and edgy way to add some shine and drama to the nails and create a dazzling and stunning look for them.
Black and white nail art: This design uses a combination of black and white nail polish or black and white nail stickers to create different designs and patterns on the nails, such as stripes, checks, dots, stars, or skulls. Black-and-white nail art is a classic and chic way to create contrast and balance on the nails and to create a sophisticated and elegant look for the nails.
Nice Nude Nails
Nice nude nails are an excellent option for men who want to keep their nails simple, natural, and still polished and groomed. Nice nude nails involve using nude or beige nail polish or a transparent or glossy top coat to create a clean and smooth look for the nails. Nice, nude nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Nude matte nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a nude or a beige polish that has a matte finish, creating a soft and subtle look for the nails.
Nude French manicure: This design involves painting the tips of the nails with a nude or beige polish while leaving the rest of the nails natural or with a clear or glossy top coat. A nude French manicure is a modern and minimalist way to add some definition and shape to the nails without being too noticeable or flashy.
Nude ombre nail art: This design involves creating a gradient effect on the nails using different shades of nude or beige nail polish that blend smoothly from one to another. Nude ombre nail art is a stylish and cool way to create a dynamic and dimensional look for the nails that changes with light and angle.
Fiery and Fierce
Fiery and fierce nails are a perfect option for men who want to show their passion and intensity and make a bold and powerful statement. Fiery and fierce nails involve using red, orange, yellow, or black nail polish, or a combination of them, to create a design that is hot and spicy. Fiery and fierce nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Fire nail art: This design involves painting the nails with red, orange, yellow, or black polish and then adding some flames or sparks to the nails using a thin brush or a sponge to create a fire effect. Fire nail art is a fiery and fierce way to add some heat and energy to the nails and to create a blazing and burning look for the nails.
Tiger nail art: This design involves painting the nails with yellow or orange polish and then adding some black stripes on the nails, using a thin brush or a sticker, to create a tiger effect. Tiger nail art is a fiery and fierce way to add some personality and character to the nails and to create a wild and adventurous look for the nails.
Blood nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a black or dark red polish and then adding some blood drops or splatters to the nails, using a dotting tool or a straw, to create a blood effect. Blood nail art is a fiery and fierce way to add some drama and horror to the nails and to create a scary and thrilling look for the nails.
Animal Print
Animal-print nails are a great option for men who love animals and nature and who want to express their wild and free spirit. Animal print nails involve using different colors and patterns to create a design that resembles the skin or the fur of an animal, such as a leopard, a zebra, a snake, or a cow. Animal-print nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Leopard print nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a beige or brown polish and then adding some black or dark brown spots on the nails, using a dotting tool or a brush, to create a leopard print effect. Leopard print nail art is a trendy and fashionable way to add some texture and fun to the nails and to create a chic and exotic look for the nails.
Zebra print nail art: This design involves painting the nails with white or black polish and then adding some black or white stripes on the nails with a thin brush or sticker to create a zebra print effect. Zebra print nail art is a modern and stylish way to add some contrast and balance to the nails and to create a sleek and elegant look for the nails.
Snake print nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a green or gray polish and then adding some scales or stripes to the nails using a sponge or stencil to create a snake print effect. Snake print nail art is a cool and edgy way to add some detail and dimension to the nails and to create a smooth and glossy look for the nails.
Shimmery Surprise
Shimmery surprise nails are a perfect option for men who want to add some sparkle and shine to their nails and create a dazzling and stunning look. Shimmery surprise nails involve using shimmery or metallic nail polish, glitter, or foil nail stickers to create a design that is bright and eye-catching. Shimmery surprise nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Shimmery solid nail art: This design involves painting the nails with shimmery or metallic nail polish in any color, creating a solid and uniform look for the nails. Shimmery solid nail art is a simple and elegant way to add some shimmer and shine to the nails and create a smooth and glossy appearance.
Shimmery French manicure: This design involves painting the tips of the nails with shimmery or metallic nail polish in any color while leaving the rest of the nails natural or with a clear or nude polish. A shimmery French manicure is a classic and chic way to add some shimmer and shine to the nails and create a sophisticated and refined appearance.
Shimmery accent nail art: This design involves painting one or more nails with shimmery or metallic nail polish in any color while painting the rest of the nails with a different color or a clear or nude polish. Shimmery accent nail art is a trendy and cool way to add some shimmer and shine to the nails and create a unique and personalized appearance.
Galactic-Style Nails
Galactic-style nails are a great option for men who are fascinated by the universe and the stars and who want to create a cosmic and magical look for their nails. Galactic-style nails involve using different colors and effects to create a design that resembles the galaxy, the planets, the stars, or the moon. Galactic-style nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Galaxy nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish and then adding some white or silver dots or stars on the nails using a dotting tool or a brush to create a galaxy effect. Galaxy nail art is a beautiful and mesmerizing way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails and to create a stunning and sparkling appearance.
Planet nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish and then adding some circles or spheres on the nails using a dotting tool or a brush in different colors and sizes to create a planet effect. Planet nail art is a creative and fun way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails and to create a colorful and diverse appearance.
Moon nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish and then adding some crescents or circles on the nails using a dotting tool or a brush in white or silver to create a moon effect. Moon nail art is an elegant and romantic way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails and to create a smooth and glossy appearance.
Color Party
Color party nails are a perfect option for men who love colors and who want to create a cheerful and lively look for their nails. Color party nails involve using different colors and combinations to create a design that is vibrant and colorful. Color-party nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Rainbow nail art: This design involves painting the nails with the colors of the rainbow, or any other combination of colors, to create a design that is vibrant and cheerful. Rainbow nail art can be done in different ways, such as rainbow French manicure, rainbow ombre nail art, or rainbow glitter nail art, as mentioned above.
Neon nail art: This design involves painting the nails with neon nail polish, in any color, to create a design that is bright and eye-catching. Neon nail art can be done in different ways, such as neon solid nail art, neon French manicure, or neon accent nail art, as mentioned above.
Pastel nail art: This design involves painting the nails with pastel nail polish, in any color, to create a design that is soft and sweet. Pastel nail art can be done in different ways, such as pastel solid nail art, pastel French manicures, or pastel ombre nail art, as mentioned above.
Translucent polish
Translucent polish nails are a great option for men who want to create a subtle and natural look for their nails but still add some shine and polish. Translucent polish nails involve using translucent or sheer nail polish, in any color, to create a design that is barely visible but still noticeable. Translucent polish nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Translucent solid nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a translucent or sheer nail polish in any color, creating a solid and uniform look for the nails. Translucent solid nail art is a simple and elegant way to add some shine and polish to the nails and to create a smooth and glossy look for the nails.
Translucent French manicure: This design involves painting the tips of the nails with a translucent or sheer nail polish, in any color, while leaving the rest of the nails natural or with a clear or glossy top coat. A translucent French manicure is a classic and chic way to add some shine and polish to the nails and create a sophisticated and refined look for the nails.
Translucent glitter nail art: This design involves adding some glitter or sparkle to the nails, using either translucent or sheer glitter nail polish, a glitter top coat, or some glitter nail stickers in any color. Translucent glitter nail art is a fun and festive way to add some shine and polish to the nails and to create a dazzling and glamorous look for the nails.
Galaxy-style nails
For men who love the universe and the stars and want to give their nails a cosmic and magical look, galaxy-style nails are a great choice. Galaxy-style nails use different colors and effects to create a design that resembles the galaxy, the planets, the stars, or the moon. Galaxy-style nails can be done in different ways, such as:
Galaxy nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish, then adding white or silver dots or stars to the nails using a dotting tool or a brush to create a galaxy effect. Galaxy nail art is a beautiful and mesmerizing way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails, as well as a stunning and sparkling look.
Planet nail art: This design involves painting the nails with a black or dark blue polish and then adding some circles or spheres to the nails using a dotting tool or a brush in different colors and sizes to create a planet effect. Planet nail art is a creative and fun way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails and a colorful and diverse look.
Moon nail art: This design involves painting the nails with black or dark blue polish and then adding some crescents or circles on the nails, using a dotting tool or a brush in white or silver to create a moon effect. Moon nail art is an elegant and romantic way to create a cosmic and magical look for the nails and a smooth and glossy look.
A Stylish Guide on How to Pull Off Painted Nails with Confidence
Painting your nails can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be daunting and challenging, especially if you are a man who is new to nail art or who faces some criticism or judgment from others. Here are some tips and advice on pulling off painted nails with confidence and enjoying and embracing your nail art.
Choose a nail polish that suits your style and mood. Many nail polish options are available on the market in terms of colors, finishes, and effects. You can choose a nail polish that matches your personality, outfit, occasion, or mood. You can also mix and match different nail polishes or use some nail stickers or accessories to create unique and customized nail art. The key is choosing nail polish that makes you happy and comfortable and reflects your style and taste.
Prepare your nails properly. Before applying any nail polish, you should prepare your nails properly to ensure a smooth and flawless application and to prevent any damage or infection. You should trim and file your nails to your desired shape and length and buff them gently to remove any ridges or bumps. You should also carefully push back, cut your cuticles, and thoroughly clean and dry your nails. You should also apply a base coat to protect your nails from staining and chipping and to make your nail polish last longer.
Apply your nail polish carefully. When applying your nail polish, you should follow some basic steps and techniques to ensure a neat and even application and to avoid any streaks or bubbles. You should shake your nail polish bottle well before opening it and wipe off any excess polish from the brush. You should apply your nail polish in thin and smooth strokes, starting from the center of the nail and then moving to the sides. You should apply two or three coats of nail polish, depending on the opacity and the effect that you want, and wait for each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. You should also apply a top coat to seal and protect your nail polish and to add some shine and gloss.
Maintain your nails regularly: After applying your nail polish, you should maintain them regularly to keep them looking fresh and fabulous and to prevent any chips or cracks. You should avoid any activities or substances that can damage or weaken your nails, such as biting, picking, or peeling your nails or using harsh chemicals or detergents. You should also moisturize and nourish your nails and cuticles daily, using nail oil or a hand cream, to keep them hydrated and healthy. You should also touch up your nail polish or top coat as needed, or remove and redo it when it starts to fade or wear off.
Be proud and confident of your nails. The most important tip to pull off painted nails with confidence is to be proud and confident of your nails and to own and flaunt your nail art. You should not let anyone or anything stop you from expressing yourself and your style through your nails, and you should not let anyone or anything make you feel insecure or ashamed of your nails. Keep in mind that your nails are an integral part of you and that, similar to you, they are exquisite and remarkable. You should also remember that your nails are a way of communicating and connecting with others, and they can inspire and encourage others to try and enjoy nail art.
Conclusion
Nail art is a wonderful and exciting form of art and beauty that anyone can enjoy and appreciate, regardless of gender, age, or background. Nail art expresses yourself, your creativity, and your style, enhancing and complementing your look and outfit. Nail art is also a way of challenging and redefining the gender norms and expectations imposed on you by society and celebrating and affirming your individuality and identity. Nail art is also a way of having fun, experimenting with different designs, colors, and techniques, and discovering and exploring your potential and diversity.
If you are a man who is interested in nail art or who is already a nail art enthusiast, you should not hesitate or hold back from painting your nails or from creating and sharing your nail art. You should also not be afraid or ashamed of what others might think or say about your nails, and you should not let anyone or anything stop you from enjoying and embracing your nail art. You should be proud and confident of your nails and own and flaunt your nail art. You should also be supportive and respectful of other men who paint their nails, and you should create a sense of community and belonging with them.
Written by: Khushi Bhatia
Edited by: Aniket Joshi