Move over, cobalt - there’s a new trend for blue nails! It’s a relaxed look that can jazz up any outfit. Denim nails are inspired by cozy, broken-in blue jeans and typically have a matte finish. They’re the perfect mix for anyone wanting to spice up their style with something fun and unique.
What Are Denim Nails?
Denim nails echo the comfortable and classic allure of denim. It’s a versatile trend that makes the most of a palette of muted blue polishes. Think navy, blue-gray, or soft blueish-white shades that resemble the look of well-worn jeans.
What sets denim nails apart is their adaptability. You can enjoy a single blue shade to achieve a minimalist effect. Those who experiment may enjoy various techniques like sponging, stamping, and freehand painting for endless possibilities. Check out the nail inspo below for denim nail ideas.
Denim Nail Art Ideas
Distressed Two-Color Denim Nails
What could be easier than a white base with crosshatched blue on top? Use a sponge or actual denim to blur the blue for a softer look, then finish with a matte top coat.
LDS Gel Nail Polish Duo - 140 Blue Colors - Catch Me By The Sea
Classic Blue Denim
Here’s the “new jeans” look. But examine it closely. Can you see speckles of white showing through the navy polish? How did they do that?
Start with a white base. Then, apply the navy color with a makeup sponge instead of a brush. Paint the polish on the sponge and dab the nails. It might get messy, so prepare to clean up before the polish dries or cures. Add stitched accents with a skinny brush once the blue is completely dry.
Hint: this design is easiest to do with gel polish because once each layer cures, the next won’t smudge the one below.
Cute Denim Nails
The amazing attention to detail is the big attraction here. What a labor of love! Right down to the tiny blue rhinestones for zippers.
LDS Gel Nail Polish Duo - 067 Blue Colors - Faded
Distressed Denim Nails with Marbled Blue Shades
Here’s another beautifully detailed mani with tiny stitches. However, we think most people will notice the attractive marbled pattern first. It’s a straightforward effect to create if you have blooming gel and two shades of blue gel polish.
LDS Blossom - Gel Polish
Faded Blue Denim Nails with Charms
Here’s a distinctive manicure that’s downright charming! The faded blue in the nail center reminds us of aura nails. It’s perfect if you’re a calm, balanced, and open-minded person.
Branded Denim Nails
Why not celebrate the Gap, Levis, or whatever brand of jeans you love most? The gold studs and stitches glitz up these nails.
LDS Gel Polish Nail Art Liner - Gold 23 (ver 2)
Denim Lookalike Nails
How do you get this textured look on denim nails? Use actual denim! No, seriously, snip off a piece and paint it, then dab your nails. We’ll share more on this technique in a minute.
Denim Tips
So cute! They remind us of our soft and comfy capris that finally wore through. There’s no mistaking that these are denim nails!
Lavis Gel Nail Polish Duo - 249 (Ver 2) Blue Colors - Stormy Night
Not Blue Denim Nails
Up until now, it’s been all about the blues. Blue denim nails, that is. But not all jeans are blue. Why not turn heads with black or gray denim nails? You can create the same distressed style with any color of polish. And the pinstripes are a nice touch!
DND Gel Nail Polish Duo - 976 Bellbottoms Denim
Creating Denim Nail Art: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s discuss how to make your own denim nails! Follow these easy steps to bring the casual denim vibes right to your fingertips.
1. Prepare Your Canvas
Start with nail prep and a base coat. The base is essential for protecting your nails and ensuring long-lasting results.
2. Lay the Foundation
Apply one or two layers of light blue polish, as it will serve as the bottom color for your denim look.
3. Add Depth with Brushstrokes
Once your base color is completely dry, it’s time to add texture. Use a fan brush to apply random diagonal brushstrokes with a dark blue polish. This creates the denim effect. This part gets messy--if you get any polish on your skin, quickly clean it up before it dries.
4. Optional Step: Boost the Denim Effect
Choose one of these methods for an extra denim touch:
- Use Jeans Fabric: Paint a piece of jeans fabric with polish and stipple across your nails for a worn-through jeans look.
- Sponge Method: Paint a makeup sponge with polish and dab your nails. This adds a different kind of texture that allows flecks of the base color to show.
5. Create the Worn-Out Look
Make some ‘holes’ in your denim by using a clean-up brush dipped in polish remover. Apply this to spots on your nails where you want to mimic wear and tear.
6. Detail the Holes
Next, use a detail brush and light-colored polish to add ‘torn fabric’ details around the holes.
7. Personalize with Accessories
Add studs, rhinestones, or even paint a zipper with line art gel for a personalized touch. This step is all about showing off your style.
8. Protect Your Design with a Matte Finish
Finally, apply a matte top coat for a realistic denim texture. This gives your nails that authentic denim fabric appearance.
Conclusion
Denim nail art is a trend that offers something for everyone’s style! No matter what look you prefer, you can create it, from minimalist blue to over-the-top details. To help you get started with denim nail designs, check out our latest sales. We’ve got everything you need to create stunning denim nail art. Plus, we’re excited to offer free shipping on orders over $75. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on all your nail art essentials and experiment!