The 'barely there' nail art trend is perfect for anyone who sucks at at-home manis
Nail art is one of the most expressive, experimental and exciting facets of the beauty world. It can be big, bold, and bright just as easily as it can be minimal and muted. It can be 3D (case in point last season's pearl-adorned nails at New York based designed Adeam) and it can even incorporate pieces of jewellery with studs and chains threaded through tips and really coming into their own.
And as with all trends, nail art evolves every season, with innovative new designs created by some of the most talented nail artists and influencers, who take reference from the world of fashion as well as the greater mood of the moment (let us remember the nail art trend involving the Purell hand sanitiser logo earlier this year).
After a year of loud headlines and overwhelming circumstances, it's little wonder that nail art has taken a calm, considered turn as we venture into the winter months. Now, the most popular designs are what we're calling 'barely there' - delicate brushstrokes that could easily be mistaken as a trick of the light, and subtle nudes and peachy pink colours that blend right into the skin.
Now only are the designs themselves refreshingly minimal, but they also showcase healthy, clean and cared for nails. In terms of the length and shape, there's so stiletto or coffin tips in sight, and the cuticles are always conditioned to perfection.
It's dainty, it's delicate and it's exactly what we need right now. Keep scrolling to see the very best barely there nail art looks by the pros...
Looking for more nail news and inspiration? Check out how to give yourself the ultimate at home manicure, how to take care of your cuticles with the best cuticle oils around, as well as these genius nail art stickers to cheat your way to the trend.
@betina_goldstein / InstagramChanel nail artist and jewellery designer Betina Goldstein is known for her always on-trend, fashion forward nail art. Although subtle, these chrome French tips are bound to be the subject of admiration.
@betina_goldstein / InstagramYou could easily mistake Betina Golstein's double corner French tips as a trick of the light, which is exactly what makes this look so elusive and elegant.
@gotlashedandnailedit / InstagramFans of rose quartz will love this delicate design by the pros at Got Lashes And Nailed It. The trick is an ultra fine brush and a light touch.
@harrietwestmoreland / InstagramThis inverted French manicure by nail artist Harriet Westmorland adds a sense of modernity to the traditional white tip and with it, a newfound elegance.
@petitejuls / InstagramAnother interpretation of the double corner look but this time using pastel shades with slightly more graphic edges.
@the_gelbottle_inc / InstagramOmbre nails aren't new, but this super subtle interpretation by nail artist Jayne Todman takes the trend to new levels. Keep colours muted and blend together for best effect.
@glamouruk / InstagramEvery month, GLAMOUR collaborates with London nail bar Townhouse to bring you the latest, on trend nail ideas and this month, it's barely there holographic stripes.
@naildit_pinner / InstagramBarely there nail art doesn't have to be confined to subtle stripes or watercolour-like lines. Take the work of nail artist Christina Pinnock - still understated but incredibly intricate floral paintings.
@imarninails / InstagramCelebrity nail artist Imarni's designs always spark wonder and amazement, but these fluffy clouds are simply heavenly.
