Should You Get Nail Art Just Because Everyone Else Is?
Everyone else is getting nail art… should you?
If my mom were answering, she’d give you the classic line I heard all through childhood: “If so-and-so jumps off a bridge, are you going too?”
And honestly? She has a point. There’s pressure everywhere — hundreds of Instagram and TikTok videos showcasing every style under the sun. It’s trendy, it’s fun, it’s tempting. But that doesn’t mean you have to jump in.
If you’re even slightly curious, start small: one or two accent nails on each hand, something subtle, something that actually resonates with you — not something you feel obligated to like because it’s popular online. Nail art isn’t for everyone, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with a solid colour.
Right now I’m personally vibing long stiletto nails, each hand a different solid colour— no art.
When I first started out, another nail artist commented online that most of my clients only got solid colours. My reaction? “Ya… and?” Do you know how much I charge for those “simple” sets?
Here’s the thing: people assume art sets cost more. They can — if you’re charging your worth. But my solid colour sets cost more than many artists’ art sets because I offer high-end, customised Russian manicures, with meticulous prep and natural, flawless results.
And let me tell you: creating a perfect nude set is harder than doing a busy art set. You can hide imperfections under art… you can’t hide anything under a chic, clean nude.
I’ve always been known for ultra-clean Russian manicure work. So when a client apologises and says, “Sorry, I’m going to be boring,” I always say: nothing is boring. You like what you like. You should leave feeling fabulous, whatever that looks like.
Nail Art and Reality: Not Every Trend Fits Real Life
A lot of us nail artists don’t love that the internet is overflowing with complex art — because we don’t offer every style, and not every style is practical for daily life.
I can’t tell you how many times someone shows me a Pinterest set, and when I explain the durability issues with their job or hobbies, they go:
“Ohhh… okay, maybe that’s not a good idea.”
Here’s an example:
Matte Nails
They look amazing — but matte top coat is less durable.
Glossy top coat is thicker and more protective.
Matte scratches faster.
If you’re a gardener without gloves, or you work heavily with your hands, matte will look worn much sooner.
Personally, I love matte… but because I file constantly and my nails are long, matte gets scratched within a week. On me? It’s a no.
For Events or Holidays
If you’re getting:
wedding nails
holiday nails
special-event nails
…and they don’t need to withstand daily wear, then go for the bold, dramatic art. Just have them removed professionally when you’re done.
Consider Your Lifestyle
If you prefer low-maintenance nails:
shorter lengths
minimalist line work
subtle accents
BIAB or sculpted gel for strength
If you use your hands a lot:
medium or hard-viscosity gel is better for durability
And remember: nail art doesn’t automatically mean maximalist. You can enjoy:
French remixes
abstract micro-details
chrome touches
one-nail statements
This is what I often do on myself — I’ve actually never given myself a traditional French. I call my favourite version the “minimalist French.” (These are the photos below — they’re literally my nails.)
And yes, sometimes I add 3D art or hand-drawn designs, but when I don’t, I love the simplicity.
FAQ Section
Is nail art worth it if I'm worried about trends?
Yes — if the design genuinely suits your taste. Nail art should feel personal, not performative.
Can I start with minimal nail art?
Absolutely. Accent nails, line work, chrome details, or a French remix are perfect entry-level options.
Is nail art durable for people who work with their hands?
It depends on the design and the top coat. Matte is less durable; glossy lasts longer. For durability, I usually recommend medium or hard-viscosity gel.
Are nude or simple nails “boring”?
Not at all. A flawless, clean, nude Russian manicure is one of the hardest looks to execute — and one of the most timeless.
Do all nail artists offer every nail art style?
No. Most of us specialise. Not every trending design fits every artist’s aesthetic or every client’s lifestyle.
Is a solid colour cheaper than nail art?
Not always. Pricing reflects the prep, skill, and detail involved — and a high-end Russian manicure can cost more than an art-heavy set.
Bottom Line
Trends shouldn’t dictate what you put on your nails.
Choose what feels authentic to you.
If you need nail-art inspo, have a scroll through my Instagram — there’s plenty of variety in what I create.
Peace & Love,
A
