What Are Velvet Nails?

Here's a fun fact: the velvet nail trend may not be as new as we thought. According to Bustle, the style emerged in 2012 when Ciate London released a special kit that helped people create velvety nails at home. However, the trend didn't last long and would resurge in popularity eight years later. 

The fall and winter of 2020 saw the trend more widely used than ever given its cute appearance yet hassle-free application (via Glamour). By the time the holiday season came around, people had been at home for nine months due to the ongoing pandemic. Without professional nail salons, people were left to do their own nails, and style's simplicity made its popularity skyrocketed. People employed velvety greens and reds for Christmas, and in 2021 more golds and silvers are being seen.

Some people are even opting for velvet French tips instead of doing their entire nails in velvet colors, (vie Byrdie). These tips look stunning and provide perfect pops of colors rather than overwhelming the eye. People are also attempting two-tone velvet nails, either doing each hand in a different color or alternating fingers in different colors. Two-tone nails offer even more room for customization, with there being endless possibility for color combinations.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different looks and colors, and more than anything, have fun with it!