Out of nowhere, animal print nails are back and trending. Leopard, cow and zebra patterned manicures may not interest you, but tortoiseshell nails are bound to captivate you. The classic print ruled during fall and well into winter. But with spring arriving (hopefully) soon, colorful versions are the look to embrace. Like the traditional style, these looks use the pattern to create a sophisticated design. Adding a pop of color only increases how cool and trendy the print can be. You can even mix it into your favorite manicure or swap it in for a bold accent nail. Ready to give colorful tortoiseshell nails a try? Below, we’ve gathered six swoon-worthy looks to inspire you.
Colorful Tortoiseshell Nails to Try
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Mix & Match Blue Tips
Robin's egg blue gives this simple tortoiseshell manicure a cool and artsy vibe. The key is choosing a light and airy shade that won't overpower the print. This set takes things one step further and uses jelly colors for the tortoiseshell design.
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Black & White
In crisp black and milky white, tortoiseshell takes on a whole new look and feel. To get the full effect, try pairing an opaque onyx polish with a semi-sheer white style and gently diffuse the edges. The result will be a seamless blend and ultra-luxe design.
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Hot Pink
Electric colors give this manicure an edgy feel, while a natural nail length helps keep it looking polished. Pro tip: opt for a square or oval shape for a cohesive look.
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Orange & Black
Sometimes, it's nice to spice things up just a tiny bit. Instead of the classic brown and black colors that made the pattern so beloved, why not go with a vibrant variation? Dark obsidian and bright orange give this set a fresh feel.
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Tuxedo Twist
French manicures are a sophisticated style. But if you want an elevated look, a touch of tortoiseshell could be just the thing to push the envelope. This set uses a darker color palate that provides a bold contrast to the classic white tips.
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Velvet Amber
Tortoiseshell never looked so luxe as it does in this chic set. From the mix of gold and caramel shades to the burnished velvet finish, it's an elegant upgrade to the traditional print. Plus, it embraces the unique patterns of the animal's shell.
