The 80s were all about bold colors, creative patterns, and unapologetically expressive fashion. Nail art, in particular, was no exception. With a renewed interest in retro trends, many of the unique and vibrant styles from this era are making a stylish return. If you’re looking to give your manicure a retro twist, these classic 80s nail art styles are worth trying out.
Neon Splatter Nails
Neon splatter nails were everywhere in the 80s. Bright splashes of neon colors, like pink, green, and yellow, added an electric vibe to any outfit. This nail style involved using a toothbrush or small tool to flick the paint, creating a random, eye-catching pattern. It was a look that screamed fun and rebellious energy. Now, it’s back in fashion, offering a playful twist for those who love a pop of color.
Geometric Patterns
Geometric patterns were a staple of 80s fashion, and they translated perfectly onto nails. Squares, triangles, and zigzag lines, often combined with contrasting colors, made this style visually striking. It’s a design that adds structure and symmetry to the nails, making them stand out. Today’s versions are a bit more refined but still stay true to the retro roots with sharp lines and vivid shades.
Striped Nails
Striped nails were a huge hit in the 80s, often featuring multiple bold colors stacked in horizontal or vertical lines. These stripes could be thick or thin, creating a graphic and dynamic look that was easy to customize. Today, striped nails are back in a modernized way, with people experimenting with metallics, pastels, and contrasting neons to recreate this nostalgic style with a fresh twist.
Bold Negative Space
Negative space nails were also part of the 80s nail trend, where parts of the natural nail were left exposed to contrast with bold patterns or vibrant colors. The contrast between the bare nail and bright colors made for a striking look. Today, this style is making a comeback, with modern updates like geometric shapes and minimalist designs that give it a more sophisticated vibe while maintaining that classic 80s energy.
Polka Dots
Polka dots were a playful addition to 80s nails, often done in bright or pastel colors. Simple to create, this style involved dotting nails with different sized circles using a dotting tool or even a toothpick. It added a cute and whimsical feel to any look. Polka dots are back, but now you’ll see them in more subtle tones for a sophisticated twist on this retro favorite.
Animal Prints
Animal prints were an 80s obsession, from clothing to nails. Zebra and leopard patterns were the most popular, usually painted in unnatural colors like hot pink or lime green. They were bold and daring, adding a wild element to any manicure. These prints are now trending again, but with a more modern touch using neutral palettes and metallic accents.
Rainbow Gradient
The 80s were all about mixing colors, and rainbow gradients were a big hit. This style featured a smooth blend of multiple hues on each nail, creating a vibrant, ombré effect. It was a playful look that represented the free-spirited vibe of the decade. Now, it’s back, adding a nostalgic yet trendy feel to everyday wear.
Color Blocking
Color blocking took center stage during the 80s, combining contrasting shades in angular shapes. This style made use of neon pinks, blues, and greens to create dramatic and eye-catching designs. It was bold and fearless, just like the fashion of the time. Modern color blocking keeps the essence but swaps out neon for more muted tones, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Abstract Squiggles
Abstract squiggles were a way to embrace the weird and wonderful spirit of the 80s. Artists used thin brushes to create wavy, irregular lines in contrasting colors on each nail. This style looked chaotic, but in a fun and stylish way. It’s a design that’s coming back as a minimalist nod to the 80s, often paired with nude or clear bases to keep it sophisticated.
3D Gems and Studs
3D nail art started gaining popularity in the 80s, with gems, studs, and small decorations being glued onto nails for a more extravagant look. Back then, it was all about going big and bold. Now, 3D nail art has made a return, but in a more refined way. Today’s versions are subtler, using smaller gems and focusing on placement for a delicate, sparkling effect.
Glitter Tips
Glitter was a must-have in the 80s, and it showed up everywhere, including on nails. Glitter tips were a simpler alternative to a full glitter manicure, adding sparkle just at the ends of each nail. It was glamorous without being over-the-top. This style is back with a twist, using multi-tonal glitters to add depth and dimension.
Bold French Manicure
The French manicure got a radical makeover in the 80s, switching out traditional white tips for bright, bold colors. Hot pink, electric blue, and neon green tips were paired with clear or contrasting bases. It was an edgy take on a classic look. Today, this style is making waves again, allowing for a creative blend of modern and retro.
Metallic Marble Nails
Metallic marble nails were a luxurious trend during the 80s, combining swirling patterns of metallic shades like gold, silver, or bronze. This gave nails a sleek, high-shine effect, mimicking the look of marble or precious stones. Modern versions of this style bring in more advanced techniques, but the metallic sheen and swirled effect still pay homage to its 80s roots.
Graffiti-Inspired Nails
Inspired by the street art movement that exploded during the 80s, graffiti nails were a bold and creative form of self-expression. Using splashes of bright colors, abstract shapes, and even hand-drawn lettering, this style reflected the rebellious spirit of the era. Today, graffiti nails are making a comeback with a modern edge, incorporating sleek lines and vibrant colors to create a high-fashion, art-inspired look.
Pearlescent Nails
Pearlescent nails were a major trend in the 80s, featuring a shimmery, iridescent finish that reflected light in various soft colors, like pinks, blues, and purples. This look gave nails a delicate, almost ethereal glow and was popular for both everyday wear and special occasions. The pearlescent trend is making a return, with updated formulas that offer an even more luminous, mirror-like finish, perfect for adding a touch of subtle elegance to your nails.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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