Introduction
Hello, readers! Are you ready to elevate your nails to the next level? 2017 brought us a whirlwind of innovative and eye-catching gel nail designs that are sure to turn heads. From shimmering metallics to intricate geometric patterns, there’s a design for every taste and style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the captivating world of 2017 gel nail designs and provide you with inspiration and tips to create your own stunning manicures.
Enchanting Shimmers: Metallic Nail Art
Embody the radiance of a star-lit night with shimmering metallic gel nail polish. Silver, gold, and copper shades create a mesmerizing effect that instantly adds sophistication to your fingertips. Embrace the minimalist trend by painting all nails in a single metallic hue, or mix and match different shades for a more playful look. Add delicate accents, such as a thin gold stripe or a scattering of glitter, to enhance the allure.
Subtle Details: Geometric Precision
For those who prefer a more structured approach, geometric designs offer a clean and chic alternative. Create sharp lines and angles using contrasting gel polish colors to form triangles, squares, and stripes. Play with negative space by leaving certain areas of the nail bare, creating a modern and architectural effect. Experiment with different combinations of shapes and colors to express your unique artistic style.
Vibrant Hues: Ombre and Watercolors
Indulge in a symphony of colors with ombre and watercolor gel nail art. Ombre designs seamlessly blend different shades, creating a gradual transition that resembles a picturesque sunset. Use a makeup sponge or a damp brush to dab and blend gel polish colors, building up layers until you achieve the desired effect. Watercolor designs, on the other hand, mimic the fluidity of watercolor paints, resulting in ethereal and dreamlike nail art.
A Symphony of Studs and Crystals
Adorn your nails with a touch of sparkle and elegance using studs and crystals. Place delicate studs in a linear pattern along the cuticle or create a geometric design by adhering them in specific areas of the nail. For a more glamorous effect, opt for shimmering crystals in various sizes. Arrange them in a random pattern or create intricate designs that evoke the night sky or a field of flowers.
Floral Flourishes: Delicate Blooms
Bring the delicate beauty of nature to your fingertips with floral gel nail art. Paint intricate petals and stems using thin brushes and vibrant gel polish colors. Create realistic flowers by adding details such as shading, highlights, and even tiny buds. You can adorn a single nail with a statement flower or scatter smaller blooms across multiple nails for a charming and feminine look.
Intricate Lace: Timeless Elegance
Capture the essence of Victorian lace with intricate gel nail art. Use fine-tipped brushes to create delicate lace patterns, such as swirls, florals, or geometric motifs. Play with the opacity of the gel polish to achieve a sheer and delicate effect. Layer different colors and add small studs or pearls to enhance the design and create a truly opulent and timeless masterpiece.
A Guide to Gel Nail Designs: Putting it All Together
| Design | Technique | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Metallic | Use metallic gel polish | Add accents with glitter or stripes |
| Geometric | Create lines and shapes with contrasting colors | Experiment with negative space |
| Ombre | Blend different shades with a sponge or brush | Build up layers for a smooth transition |
| Watercolor | Imitate watercolor effects with light brush strokes | Use transparent gel polish for a watercolor-like finish |
| Studs and Crystals | Adhere studs or crystals to the nail | Use different sizes and shapes for variety |
| Floral | Paint delicate petals and stems using fine brushes | Add details such as shading and highlights |
| Lace | Create lace patterns with fine-tipped brushes | Use sheer gel polish for a delicate effect |
Conclusion
Explore the boundless possibilities of 2017 gel nail designs and unleash your creativity. Whether you prefer the allure of shimmering metallics, the precision of geometric patterns, or the vibrant hues of ombre and watercolors, there’s a design that will complement your style and elevate your manicures to new heights. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different techniques and combine elements to create your own unique and captivating 2017 gel nail masterpieces. And when you’re ready for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other articles on the latest nail trends and beauty tips.
FAQ about 2017 Gel Nail Designs
What are the most popular 2017 gel nail designs?
- Negative space designs
- Geometric designs
- Marble designs
- Glitter designs
- Ombre designs
What are negative space designs?
Negative space designs feature areas of the nail that are left unpainted, creating a contrast between the bare nail and the polish.
What are geometric designs?
Geometric designs use lines, angles, and shapes to create a modern and sophisticated look.
What are marble designs?
Marble designs resemble the look of real marble, with swirls of color and texture.
What are glitter designs?
Glitter designs incorporate glitter into the polish for a sparkly and glamorous effect.
What are ombre designs?
Ombre designs feature a gradual transition of color from one shade to another, creating a soft and ethereal look.
How do I achieve a negative space design?
Apply a base coat and then use tape or stickers to create the desired negative space shapes. Paint the rest of the nail as desired and remove the tape or stickers once dry.
How do I create a geometric design?
Use striping tape or a fine brush to create lines and shapes on the nail. Apply different colors of polish to each section and finish with a top coat.
How do I get a marble effect?
Apply a base coat and then dab on different colors of polish in a swirling motion. Use a toothpick or fine brush to blend the colors and create a marble-like effect.
What are some tips for applying gel polish?
- Prepare your nails properly by removing any existing polish and buffing the surface.
- Apply a thin coat of base coat and cure it under a UV lamp.
- Apply two thin coats of gel polish, curing each coat under the lamp.
- Finish with a top coat and cure it under the lamp.