5 Whimsical Ways To Hop On The Butterfly Nail Trend

We have one word for you manicure lovers: butterflies. Mariah Carey's favorite symbol is trending in the nail world right now, with butterfly manicures literally flying off the shelves. Okay, not literally of course, but you get it. The super whimsical nail art look is a great way to have some fun with your nails in a cute and unserious way, making it ideal for anyone who loves to inject a little whimsy, femininity, and eccentricity into their manicure.

There are countless ways to add some wing-fluttering goodness to your nail looks, too. Trust us when we say that all you need is to like butterflies, because the design works with an endless combination of colors and designs. While there are heaps of trends out there that only really work with long nails (we're looking at you, deep French manicure), a butterfly-inspired look will pretty much work with any and every nail shape and size, too. Not only that, but it can also be easily incorporated into a wide array of manicures, whether you like light shades, dark shades, or rainbow-colored talons. But because there's so much choice here, it can be tough to know how to do butterfly nails in a way that works best for you, which is why we've got five designs to get the creative juices flowing.

One of the most fun and out-there ways to do butterfly nails is to go 3D. You may already know that 3D nail charms have been trending, which is why this is perfect for all those trendsetters out there. You could opt for one big butterfly on just one of your nails, with something a little simpler on the other nails, or try a smaller addition on every nail if you like your manicure more matching. You're only limited by your creativity with this one!

For a more intricate and artsy take on butterfly nails, focus on the design of the wings. One way to do that is to get creative and intricate by painting the design of the wings onto one or multiple nails. This is probably best done by a professional though, as it can be fiddly work to do yourself. If you're no fan of freehand nail art, you could try nail stickers or get your hands on a butterfly nail sticker plate to make the process a little easier.

Who said butterfly nails could only be done with light colors? Even those who prefer darker polish on their fingernails can get in on the action. One way to rock a dark butterfly set is to again focus on the wings, but create the shape using an opaque black lacquer over a sheer black base. This almost gothic look will let you dip your toes into the butterfly trend but without being too overtly feminine or on the nose because that's not for everyone, and that's okay.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, for something more understated and elegant, try delicate white butterflies over a neutral, light pink base. You could even incorporate Princess Diana's favorite manicure style, French tips, into the look if the classic nail design is one you regularly go for. The best part about a softer butterfly manicure is that it's very easy to wear no matter what your nail length or size, and it'll go with pretty much any outfit as well.

What goes with butterflies more than glitter? Literally nothing. That's why a super sparkly manicure is a cheerful way to execute the butterfly trend. Adding glitter to your nails will bring that extra dose of whimsy to the look and will really grab attention in a glamorous way. There are countless ways to bring the glitz, and a full butterfly on each fingernail filled in with different-colored glitters is just one of them. Glam and trendy. Just how we like it.