Fairycore Nails Are Combining Cottagecore And Coquette Manicure Trends

If you couldn't get enough of the sugar plum fairy makeup look, have we got the manicure for you: Fairycore. This hot nail look combines the demure, cottagecore aesthetic and girlie coquette trends we've been seeing a lot of (and even, to a certain extent, the equally feminine and pink balletcore trend). But for those not in the know, Fairycore is pretty much exactly what it sounds like; fairy-inspired nails. So, think more gentle and soft designs that are inspired by the outdoors, fantasy and whimsy. If it were a Taylor Swift era, it would be somewhere in the "Folklore" and "Evermore" genre, with a dash of glimmer.

One of the best things about this trend is that there are so many different ways it can be interpreted. And when we say so many different ways, we really do mean it. From more on the nose fairy themes like glitters, to wing nail art, to iridescent accents. Then there's the incorporation of earthy tones, metallics, or things like magic-inspired swirls. And because there are just so many ways to do this aesthetic, we've rounded up some of our very favorite designs that'll have you feeling so creative you'll be sprouting your own fairy wings in no time.

Toadstools are also an integral part of the Fairycore look, while adding or metallic 3D nail art pieces add that little extra bit of magic and whimsy. Painting a few red-colored tops with white dots over an earthy, olive green nail creates a striking visual that looks straight out of "Snow White" or another fairytale book. But know you don't have to go with toadstools; your design can be anything you want, from actual fairies, to wings, to butterflies, or anything else you could imagine. The more whimsical the better.

Clear nails scream delicate and soft, which is part of the fairy aesthetic, while 3D sculptures on top of the nails bring the magic. Let your nails become a canvas for flowers, pearls, wings, and butterflies to channel the storybook side of the aesthetic. There really is the opportunity to have fun here, as there are so many ways to make it shine. Literally.

While Fairycore nails are very much about the pastels and softer colors, you can certainly still go bolder, with neon shades like lime green. A cashmere nail look or magnetic polish as the base will bring some vibrant shimmer to your manicure (magical aesthetic, check!) and have you channeling serious "Wicked" vibes. Keeping the nails sharp and pointed rather than square or round also plays up the fantasy element. Add embellishments like gold wings on at least one nail to really anchor the fairy theme with some extra glitz.

For those looking to bring some Fairycore love onto their nails and some texture at the same time, clear builder gel will deliver the magic. The malleable product allows you to create shapes like bows, flowers, or even simple, translucent ripples for a stunning effect that's Fairycore to its core. To really bring the aesthetic home, try a base of blended pastel colors, like pale yellow and pink.

We know, Fairycore nails can seem out there and busy, but there is a way to make them more understated. An iridescent, pastel pink or lavender polish on one or two nails will give you that whimsical edge without being so loud. To get that Fairycore vibe though, we'd recommend adding one statement piece in a contrasting color, like blue. That could be anything from a fairy-inspired nail sticker to a some glitter, or a 3D nail charm or nail art.