If you’re looking for a way to spice up your nails this season, you might want to try the tortoiseshell manicure. This nail design is inspired by the beautiful patterns and colors of tortoise shells, and it’s a hot trend right now.
The tortoise shell manicure isn’t only stunning, but also versatile and easy to create. You can use different shades of brown, black, and beige to create a natural and earthy look, or you can experiment with other colors like pastels, metallics, or glitter to add some fun and flair to your nails. You can also play with different shapes, sizes, and placements of the tortoiseshell pattern to create a unique and personalized look.
| this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase from one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. |
Here are some amazing tortoiseshell nail designs you can try right now. Whether you want a classic or modern twist on this timeless design, these ideas will inspire you to create gorgeous nails that are both trendy and sophisticated. Let’s get started!
1. Classic Tortoise Shell
If you want to go for a traditional and elegant look, the classic tortoise shell manicure is the perfect choice for you. This design features a neutral base color like beige or light brown, and irregular patches of darker brown and black to create the tortoiseshell pattern. You can use a thin brush or a nail art tool to create the patches, or you can use stickers or decals for a quick and easy application. Finish off with a glossy top coat to make your nails shine and protect your design.
The classic tortoiseshell manicure is a great option for any occasion, as it matches well with any outfit and style. You can also customize it by changing the base color or the size and shape of the patches to suit your preference.
2. Pastel Tortoise Shell
If you want to give the classic tortoise shell manicure a soft and feminine twist, you can opt for pastel shades like baby pink, mint green, or lavender. These delicate colors will make your nails look sweet and chic, and they’re perfect for springtime.
To create the pastel tortoise shell manicure, you can follow the same steps as the classic one but use lighter shades of brown and black for the patches. You can also mix and match different pastel colors for a fun and colorful look.
Pastel tortoise shell nails are a great way to add some charm and whimsy to your nails.
3. Metallic Tortoise Shell
If you want to add some glam and sparkle to your nails, you can go for a metallic tortoise shell design. This design features metallic hues like bronze, gold, or copper for the base color and the patches, creating a shimmering and luxurious effect.
To create the metallic tortoise shell manicure, you can use metallic nail polish or nail foil to achieve the desired look. You can also use a matte top coat to create a contrast between the shiny and the dull, or a glossy top coat to enhance the shine and depth of the design.
These nails definitely make a statement and will help you stand out from the crowd, and it’s ideal for special events or parties.
4. Ombre Tortoise Shell
If you want to combine two trends in one, you can try the ombre tortoise shell manicure. This design features a gradient effect from cuticle to tip, using two complementary colors such as light brown and cream or dark brown and beige. The ombre effect creates a smooth and seamless transition between the colors, adding some dimension and interest to your nails.
To create the ombre tortoise shell manicure, you can use a sponge or a nail brush to blend the colors together. You can also use a clear polish or a top coat to help with the blending process. Then, you can add the tortoise shell pattern on top using a darker shade of brown or black.
The ombre tortoise shell manicure is a stunning and sophisticated design that will make your nails look like a work of art, and it’s perfect for any season or mood.
5. French Tip Tortoise Shell
If you want to give the classic French tip manicure an upgrade, you can incorporate the tortoise shell pattern at the tips of your nails. This design features a nude base color and white tips, with the tortoise shell pattern on top of the tips. This creates a modern and chic twist on the iconic French manicure, and it adds some personality and flair to your nails.
To create the French tip tortoise shell manicure, you can start with a nude base color and create the white tips using tape or nail guides. Then, you can add the tortoise shell pattern on top of the tips using a thin brush or a nail art tool. You can also use stickers or decals for a simpler and faster application.
The French tip tortoise shell manicure is a classy and elegant design that will make your nails look refined and polished, and it’s suitable for any occasion or event.
6. Negative Space
If you want to embrace the negative space trend, you can leave parts of your nails bare and incorporate the tortoise shell pattern in strategic areas. This design features a minimalist and edgy look, as it creates a contrast between the empty and the filled spaces on your nails.
To create the negative space tortoise shell manicure, you can use tape or nail guides to create the shapes and areas where you want to apply the tortoise shell pattern. Then, you can use a thin brush or a nail art tool to create the pattern using brown and black shades. You can also use stickers or decals for a more precise and neat application.
The negative space tortoise shell manicure is a unique and stylish design that will make your nails look trendy and cool, and it’s a great way to show off your natural nail color and shape.
7. Glitter Tortoise Shell
If you’re a fan of sparkles, this is the perfect manicure idea for you. This design features a glittery base coat in a neutral color and the tortoise shell pattern on top using darker shades of brown or black. The combination of glitter and tortoise shell creates a mesmerizing and dazzling effect that’s sure to catch everyone’s attention.
To create the glitter tortoise shell manicure, you can use a glittery nail polish or a glitter top coat to create the base color. Then, you can use a thin brush or a nail art tool to create the tortoise shell pattern on top. You can also use glitter nail polish or nail foil for the patches to add some extra sparkle.
The glitter tortoise shell manicure is a fun and festive design that will make your nails look glamorous and fabulous, and it’s perfect for celebrations or holidays.
So there you have it – some amazing tortoise shell nails trending this season. Experiment with different colors, patterns, and techniques to find the perfect look that suits your style. Whether you prefer a classic or modern twist on this timeless design, these ideas will help you achieve gorgeous nails that are both trendy and sophisticated.
