8 Nail Design Inspirations for 2022

Out with the old, in with the new—nails, that is! Here at PROSE Nails, we’re always keeping an eye on what’s popular for manis + pedis. That’s how we keep your hands + feet looking classy all year long.

Can’t wait to see what we have in store for you in 2022? Join us for a sneak peek at some of the nail trends we’re predicting for the new year! (And get ahead of the game at your next appointment, too.)

1. Mismatched/Mix-and-Match


Credit: PROSE Nails Florham Park

Raise your hand if you have trouble picking colors during your manis + pedis! 🙋‍♀️ 🙋‍♂️
With so many vegan, cruelty-free colors to choose from, it can be hard to settle on just one or two. This trend is a lifesaver for those of us who can’t decide between our favorite shades.
Choose a complimentary palette or the whole rainbow – the beauty of this trend is that it allows for maximum creativity. Let your personality shine through!
 
2. Minimalist


Credit: Idalis – PROSE Nails Riverwalk

If you prefer a simpler look, you can’t go wrong with understated, minimalist nails.

Tired of busy nails? Time to declutter! In stark contrast to mix-and-match nails, minimalist nails will continue to make an appearance on hands + feet throughout the world in 2022.

Whether you go with neutral polish or a simple, understated design, there are lots of ways to work this look. Ask our Nail Artists for recommendations if you’d like to branch out!

3. Pantone Color 2022: Periwinkle

We’re in love with this soft, powdery blue: periwinkle the Pantone color of the year!

Along with periwinkle, six other shades of blue were announced as part of the trending colors for 2022, so keep an eye out for them in the fashion world.

This feminine, purple-tinged blue is as classy as it is playful. We think it works especially well for the cold winter months, when cozy sweaters and ice-and-snow tones are at their brightest.

4. 2000s Nostalgia


Credit: Chelsea – PROSE Nails Madison West

YTK who? We’re excited to see this blast from the past making a reappearance in 2022!

The 90s and 2000s comeback started a little over a year ago, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Smiley faces, flowers, and ying-yang nails are here to stay—for now.

Stickers are go-to accessories for Y2K nails, but we also expect to see bright, candy-colored polishes. Millennials, Gen Xers, and even Zoomers, don’t miss your chance to get in on the vintage fun!

5. Colorful Tips


Credit: Thuy – PROSE Nails Coon Rapids

Let your nails’ natural beauty shine—eye-catching tips accentuate clean + healthy hands and feet.

Get your color fix without covering the nails you’ve worked so hard to keep beautiful. Painted tips exude cool effortlessness (even when our skilled Nail Artists work hard to get them just right).

By the way, you don’t have to stick to one or two colors. So far, we’ve seen jewel-encrusted tips, textured tips, patterned tips, and much more. Feel free to mix things up!

6. Silver and Gold


Credit: PROSE Nails Denver South

New Year’s Day has passed, but these gorgeous metallic tones are here to stay through 2022.

We’re raising a toast to these timeless colors in 2022—not just one New Year’s Eve, but all year long. Silver, gold, and even rose gold will make appearances on hands + feet for the next several months.

The great thing about metallic polish is that it’s easy to style and pair with any outfit. Add a silver or gold accessory, like earrings, rings, or bracelets to complete the look.

7. Swirls


Credit: PROSE Nails Twin Cities

Is it getting dizzy in here, or is it just these nails? Mesmerize with cool, swirly designs this year.

Could this trend be the grandfather of the Y2K throwback? Channel the 60s and 70s with eye-catching swirls in your favorite colors.

Abstract nails gained popularity in 2021, and swirly nails feel like a natural evolution. We love the tie-dye, tortoiseshell, and lava lamp patterns that have come out of this trend so far!

8. French Manicures

Always classic. Always trendy. Always a perfect choice for any occasion—even when you’re staying in.

Don’t call it a comeback. French manicures have been around since our mother and grandmothers were getting manicures. Popularized in the 70s, this timeless “trend” shows no signs of disappearing in 2022.

Though French manicures are timeless, that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment! Talk to your Nail Artist about ways to mix things up: add a single glitter nail, change the tip color, or add an accessory.

2022 in Summary

Now that you’ve had a chance to peek at some of the upcoming trends in nail art, be sure to take your notes to your next mani-pedi. Our Nail Artists are excited to recreate these unique designs and bold takes on classic services, so don’t hesitate to ask!

P.S. If you fall in love with the colors we’ve used, be sure to visit the PROSE at Home store to pick up your very own Nail Poetry polishes. Shop at your local salon or visit our NEW online store!

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