Art & Technique
5 low-maintenance nail styles for summer
It’s easy to see the appeal of a low-maintenance manicure – especially during the warmer months. When the sun is shining, most of us would rather be making the most of it than sitting in the salon chair. That’s why nail looks that can last three to four weeks between appointments, without obvious regrowth or…
Read MoreHow to nail the tomato manicure trend
Everybody loves a bold red manicure. Add a little tomato-inspired charm, and you’ve got a nail trend that’s ripe for the picking. Let’s find out how nail enthusiasts are styling this tomato-tally stunning trend for summer… From subtle reddish-orange shades to full-blown nail art, the tomato nail trend is constantly evolving – and, honestly, it’s…
Read MoreMake a splash with 102 summer holiday nail designs for your next vacation
Check out entries to the 8 July 2026 nail art challenge from Scratch, in which techs were tasked with creating a design to fit the theme: Summer holiday. Each nail style was submitted via Instagram or Facebook using #ShowScratch #CreativeChallenge. Follow Scratch on Instagram and Facebook for future Creative Challenges – launching every other Wednesday.
Read MoreFood & drink-inspired nails are trending: here are the most popular styles
From glazed donut nails to blueberry milk manicures, consumable-inspired nail trends have been serving major inspiration for seasons. And for summer 2026, fresh new flavours are taking over. Feast your eyes on this… Alongside the much-loved butter yellow nail trend, 2026 has served up a delicious mix of matcha manis, glossy jelly finishes, Skittle nails…
Read More15 Legally Blonde nail designs to Elle-evate your style
Getting into Harvard? Simple. Finding your next mani? A little trickier. These Legally Blonde-inspired nail designs prove pink is forever – and we’d give every single one an Elle-ven out of ten. Whether you’re a dedicated ‘Gemini vegetarian’ or simply obsessed with all things Barbiecore, these styles are guaranteed to inspire…
Read MoreFourth of July nail art ideas to celebrate American Independence Day
American Independence Day – also known as the Fourth of July, is an annual celebration marking the adoption of the Declaration of Independence: the historic document that officially established the United States of America as an independent nation. Since 1776, Americans have celebrated the holiday with fireworks, parades, barbecues and displays of red, white and…
Read More50+ polka dot & striped nail designs: contest entries & winner reveal
The winner of the Scratch Snap nail art contest for June is Emma Brandreth, owner of St Helens salon, Elevate Bespoke Nails & Beauty. In a showcase of talent, UK & Ireland nail techs created salon-style nail designs inspired by theme, Summer Spots & Stripes, in the bid to win an EL Nail Systems prize. Entries were judged by Emma Sarda, founder…
Read More30 star sign-inspired nail designs to celebrate Cancer season
Spanning 21 June to 22 July, Cancer is the fourth astrological sign in the zodiac. Let’s take a look at nail designs that celebrate the water sign’s season… Cancer is represented by the crab and ruled by the moon. Those who are born within this sign are said to be deeply intuitive and highly emotional.…
Read More30 nail art ideas to celebrate The Scratch Stars Party in style
The Scratch Stars Party is an event not to be missed, bringing together glitz, glamour and an incredible showcase of UK&I nail industry talent. To help you get into the party spirit, we’ve rounded up some stunning nail looks that are perfect for the occasion. From subtle shimmer and sparkling accents to dazzling star-inspired creations,…
Read More40 subtle nail styles for a soft summer look
As the weather warms up, our social media feeds become awash with nail inspiration. From neon brights to gembellishments, summer manicures are often about colour, creativity and maximalism. But for those who favour a more pared-back aesthetic, there’s another option: subtle summer nails. Offering a quiet nod to the season rather than a full-blown statement,…
Read More30 starfish nail styles to bring the beach to your fingertips
Translate the wonder of the underwater world onto nails – with trending nail art inspired by one of the shoreline’s cutest creatures… “Starfish nails are one of the more playful trends taking over Pinterest this year. Designs often feature tiny starfish accents, textured 3D details and sandy nude or ocean blue shades,” Carly Cochrane, beauty trend expert…
Read MoreMint green manicures: 23 ways to wear summer’s trending shade on nails
Every summer arrives with its own colour story, and 2026’s is one of the most compelling yet. This year’s standout shades are leaning toward something fresher, cooler and altogether more considered – and there is one hue in particular that is making manicure moves. Say hello to mint green: summer 2026’s ‘it girl’ of the…
Read More21 Jellycat nail designs for the sweetest summer manicure
If you’ve ever found yourself inexplicably attached to a smiley-faced, stuffed boiled egg or a plush marshmallow, you already understand the Jellycat effect. The toy brand has inspired everything from stationery to fashion accessories – and this summer, it’s making its way onto nails in the most charming way possible. Here are some nail designs…
Read More10 nail art trends that will define summer 2026
As temperatures rise, so does the appetite for fresh nail inspiration. Every year, summer introduces a new wave of trends, and 2026 is no exception. This season’s most sought-after nail looks blend vibrant colours, playful textures and holiday-ready designs that channel the essence of summer… Beauty comparison website, Cosmetify, analysed Pinterest search data to identify…
Read More120 nail art ideas for summer 2026
Long evenings, barbecues with friends, cocktail hour – summer is amazing. The only thing that could make it better? Nails to match the vibe. While the sun may come and go as it pleases, make sure your manicure is constantly fabulous with the following nail inspo. Whether you’re searching for ‘clean girl aesthetic’ nails, a…
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