Tortoiseshell Nail-Art Trend Manicure Inspiration

Tortoiseshell is a common color pattern for glasses, jewelry, and cats. But like all great things, it’s made its way to the beauty world. First, there was tortoiseshell hair, a subtle brunette color with honey, caramel, and copper hues. Now, and perhaps even better, the pattern has made its way onto nails — and we didn’t think a manicure could look so chic.

Tortoiseshell nails are great for beginners, mostly because the technique involves a lot of blobbing. Perfection isn’t necessary — all you really need to complete the look on your own at home are some autumnal brown and black shades. The standalone style is definitely enough for a beautiful manicure, but simple tortoiseshell isn’t the only way to create the effect.

If you’re on the hunt for something a bit more involved, there are plenty of other interpretations of the design that take the nail art to a whole new level. Some options include accent nails, negative space designs, and even gold leaf effects, making the nail trend the centerpiece of any outfit.

Get a closer look at the different types of tortoiseshell nails out there, and get ready to bookmark all of them to either recreate at home or show your nail tech in anticipation of your next appointment.