Everyone is going bare in L.A., but it's not what you think. We're not talking about topless beach protests or Carrie Bradshaw's infamous Brazilian bikini wax (although it is worth re-watching the Escape From New York episode if you have a chance) — but instead, the city's love affair with all things negative space, which just hit a fever pitch.
Over the past few months, we've spotted a massive uptick in half dips, modern French manis, and glitter tips. Now, it seems as if the top salons have taken it a step further with what some call "base coat nail art," which is basically minimalist nail art painted over a clear coat — that's it.
Tiny flowers, chic dots, simple stripes of color done with artful precision — the possibilities are infinite. Call your favorite salon for an appointment — or grab a striping brush and some clear tape — and get ready to expose that nail bed. Check out some inspiration, ahead.
This delicate art guarantees your hands will be getting a whole lot of double takes throughout the day.
The Drybar founder got her nails adorned with the cutest little rainbows we've ever seen. We know what mani we'll be going into Pride Month with...
We tried not to make a "this manicure is out of this world" pun here, but it's just too good.
Dotting deep, inky polish at the base makes a buffed manicure look so cool. Bonus: You can definitely do this yourself with a toothpick.
It was game over when we discovered nail artist and Olive & June manicurist Hang Nguyen's page — her gorg base coat paintings are works of modern art.
Olive & June's long been our go-to for trendspotting, and the salon has been posting negative spaces almost exclusively lately. This hack is great inspiration for those with white spots or unwanted coloring on their nail beds: It's a perfectly-matched nude above the colorful line.
This should get you in the L.A. mindset — no matter where you live.
Essentially a throwback to '90s nail art, this flower-dotted French manicure from Marie Nails gives us major Clueless feels.
These pastel tips are giving us classic spring vibes — and we're here for it.
This look checks off two trend boxes at once: negative space and geode nails.
Feeling confident in your ability to work with striping tape? Then we'd like to present celeb nail artist Whitney Gibson's take on the trend for your DIY consideration.
Beachy tips made for the weekend.
Proof you can have short nails and nail art.
The women at Nailing Hollywood (the top nail artist-only agency for the industry) are turning out rad versions, too.
A minimalist's springtime dream...
Not into a bare base? Copy one of the top nail artists in the game, Steph Stone, and fake it with a nude.
A French manicure gets the coolest update from nail artist Madeline Poole.
Ten fingers, all of which are festival ready.
I am woman, hear me roar.
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