Polka dots have come for our wardrobe, and now they’re coming for our nails. From Dua Lipa to Hailey Beiber, everyone is turning up with a spotty manicure right now. Whether brightly coloured, aura-inspired or a simple black and white, it’s a fun way to do nail art without getting too crazy. Polka dots exist in the same realm as stripes or animal print — some place between a classic neutral and bold pattern.
If the polka dot nail trend is speaking to you, we’ve curated some of the best iterations and reference shots for your viewing pleasure, below.
Monochrome
Leave it to dream girl Dua to inspire a wave of black and white polka dot manicures. Note the ring finger feature nail — perfection.
Lemon Yellow Glaze
It would be remiss to talk about nail trends and not mention Hailey Bieber, the woman who single-handedly invented glazed donut nails (alongside her long time nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt). Her take on the polka dot trend is a summer-inspired lemon yellow, in line with her Rhode ‘Lemontini’ Peptide Lip Tint drop.
Embellished
Zola also tends to the nails of Sabrina Carpenter, and created this sheer nude with diamanté polka dots. Very bridal adjacent.
Chrome
If you prefer an edgier approach, this chrome polka dot manicure is a great reference. You could even try it on a black base coat for additional drama.
Inverted Colour
If you’re into bright colours or more of a statement manicure moment, try an inverted colour palette on differing hands. Combination ideas include chocolate brown and blue, pink and burgundy, or mint green and red.
Animal Print
Animal print polka dot is an easy way to hit two trends with one manicure. The organic, imperfect pattern gives it an understated finish.
Minimalism
If you’re not sold on nail art and just want to dip a toe in, try this minimalist take on polka dots. Black on a clean nail is simple but striking.
Aura Polka Dots
Channel good energy with an aura-inspired polka dot manicure complete with an ombre base and contrasting coloured spots.
Need help finding a nail artist to execute your vision? Read our guide to the best nail salons in Sydney.
