2023 was a wild and eclectic year for nails, filled with experimental and over the top designs inspired by innovative color and new science. But, what is in store for 2024?
CND Co-Founder Jan Arnold shares that we should expect a shift away from extremism and become more spiritual, virtual and trippy.
Below, Arnold shares her insight on 2024 expected nail styles, shapes and colors, 2023 trends that will continue into the new year and much more!
Q&A:
What styles and shapes do you anticipate being popular in 2024? Why?
Jan Arnold (JA): 2023 was a wild and eclectic year for nails, filled with experimental and over the top designs inspired by innovative color and new science. All nails were long, exciting and daring. 2024 will feature a shift away from extremism and become more spiritual, virtual and trippy. In terms of shapes, we will see medium to longer lengths with softened stiletto, coffin and almond shapes continuing to dominate.
- Spring: Think psychedelic, holographic, and pearlescent finishes that nod to an immersive, alternate reality.
- Summer: We will see translucency in color mixed with carefully curated bright, warm and cream palettes – for love, light and good fortune.
- Fall will merge nature and science for a versatile duality. Think muted earth tones mixed with optimistic bright finishes that evoke a futuristic feel.
- Winter and Holiday season will bring us regal refinement through textures and dimensions for a deep, glamorous festive season.
Are there any current trends that you anticipate lasting through 2024?
JA: Colors and tones will feature top notes and undertones that play in concert and in contrast, depending on how they’re paired. Creams and jelly colors will be mixed and showcase extremely well on longer length nails. Also look out for colors that are illuminated! Patterns and textures in 2024 will bring inspiration, motivation and calm to the wearer. Length and shapes serve as appropriate canvases for the level of design desired. Longer nails work well for more extravagance. Medium length for simple luxury. And super short for a cheap thrill. Extravagant details like overscale embellishments with rich and luxurious colors will be a perfect design for a festive night out.
Do you anticipate health treatments to continue in popularity? How do you see this trend within salons?
JA: Healthy natural nails never go out of style. A well-shaped and glowing nail feels good and makes us feel well cared for. Plus, there are so many new, incredible breakthroughs in the nail industry to achieve beautiful nails, including our new treatment called CND Strengthener RXx. For a full at-home nail improvement regimen, I recommend using Strengthener RXx with CND Cuticle Eraser to safely micro exfoliate cuticles, followed by CND SolarOil for a cuticle and nail conditioner.
What products and technologies are going to play a big role in the coming year?
Nail enhancements are stepping into the spotlight, assuring every salon client’s service is customized and suited to not only their style, but specifically designed for their nail type and lifestyle, assuring long-term and successful wear.
- Liquid & Powder offers the strongest and most dynamic length and shape, for even the most problematic nails. Look to new CND Odorless Sculpting Liquid and CND Perfect Color Powder to offer customizable options for transformational nail makeovers. Great for biters, ski-jump or fan-shaped nails.
- CND Brisa Gel can create crystal clear tips and elongated beds, while creating the toughest level of protection for nails needing strength and illusion. Look for CND Brisa Glass for truly crystal clear nails which are expensive-looking and incredibly durable – plus, they are perfect for embellishment and encapsulation.
- CND Plexigel is a lightweight and natural-looking option for enhancement and extension, as well as a quick fix for a broken nail when needed. Look to CND Plexigel Color Builder to match and compliment every skin tone for a go-to neutral base. From there, you can go wild with art!
About the Author:
Jan Arnold is the co-founder and style director of CND. Her father, Dr. Stuart Nordstrom, was the brilliant dentist and organic chemist whose discoveries launched the company in 1979. Her family built CND on a commitment to advancing the state of the industry through groundbreaking innovation and world-class education. Jan is a founding Board Member of Beauty Changes Lives (BCL), a foundation committed to elevating, educating and exposing the richness of a career in professional beauty. She led an effort to raise scholarship donations for aspiring nail professionals though the creation of the BCL CND Tippi Hedren Nail Scholarship Fund, which has raised $250,000 to-date along with $150,000 in Advanced Scholarships for active and licensed nail professionals.
