13 Chic and Minimal Nail Designs That Have Me Booking In For a Salon Appointment ASAP

Sure, you might save images of intricate and ornate nail art, actively enjoying the colours, designs and 3D embellishments. But, if you're being honest with yourself, the chances of you ever veering away from the delicate, minimal nail art designs you like are slim. And I'm here to tell you that's OK. More than OK, even. Subtle nail art is an entire world of its own and can range from simple minimalist shapes to teeny-tiny works of art dotted on each finger. But, there are some things to think about first.

If you're a quick file and splash of colour person, you might be doing your minimal manicure a disservice. Laying down the groundwork can be the difference between clean, tidy lines and polish that looks a little worn out within hours.

"The neater your nail prep the closer you can get the polish to the cuticle (without touching the skin). This is what makes the final effect look clean and tidy and also last much longer before it looks grown out," The Gel Bottle educator Beth Davis tells me. So, that means making time to take care of your cuticles (experts say to avoid cutting these yourself) and spending a few moments on shaping and buffing.

"Trimming your cuticles should ideally be left to the professionals. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about avoiding infections. Cutting cuticles can introduce bacteria and cause infections if not done properly. However, pushing back your cuticles is a safer and equally effective alternative you can do at home," Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse advises. Clean, sanitised tools are a must and wiping them down with rubbing alcohol can help to kill any germs or bacteria hanging around.

Huber-Millet also suggests using a cotton bud to gently push cuticles back, disposing of them afterwards. The ideal time, she says, is after a shower or bath when the skin has been softened by the heat and moisture.

The Chicest Minimal Nail Art Ideas:

1. Baby Chilli

Style Notes: Somehow spicy and sweet, this picante-inspired manicure is delicate without feeling twee. If you're in the salon, ask for The Gel Bottle shade Ketchup or Flamenco to recreate the attention-demanding red. At home, OPI's Cajun Shrimp is spot-on.

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2. Mini Hearts

Style Notes: A neutral base keeps this love-filled manicure on the minimal side. OPI's Bubble Bath shade is a subtle pink-toned nude to try while Bare My Soul has more peachiness. One coat of either will give a sheer effect while two to three creates opaque uniformity. Dealer's (your) choice!

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3. Lucky You

Style Notes: Drop layers of navy blue, white and navy blue polish to create the protective nazar (sometimes called Evil Eye) symbol. Choose every nail or just a couple for an artistic effect.

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4. Martini Ready

Style Notes: Shaken, stirred or eaten alone, there is always – always – room for a green olive in our lives. On our nails? Well, that's a no-brainer. A sheer nude or transparent base will keep all eyes on the mini bits of art adorning your hands.

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5. Koi Pond

Style Notes: Yes, it will take a gargantuan amount of skill to recreate this at home and it might be prudent to leave it to the professionals but that doesn't make these little Koi fish any less beautiful.

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6. Dots

Style Notes: An easy yet effective minimal nail design, dots look stunning on any nail length and in any colour. Here, a royal blue and sheer pink complement each other perfectly.

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7. New French

Style Notes: Timeless and elegant, amp up the classic French with another thin half moon further down the nail. Pick an ultra-thin brush to keep the balance right with the thicker tip moon.

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8. Rhinestone Stargirl

Style Notes: A little bit cowgirl chic, a little bit spiky, this rhinestone star is celestial and gorgeous. Choose opposing colours to really make the sparkle pop.

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9. Friends?

Style Notes: Easier than it looks, this olive-branch design requires a steady hand and delicate swoops to make the branches. You'll need a light and dark green, as well as a white for a convincing recreation.

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10. Ocean Eyes

Style Notes: Bring the ocean to you by painting small half-moons at the base of the nail versus the top.

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11. Amalfi Inspired

Style Notes: Another tiny work of art, this delicate lemon is as sweet as it would be sour. An understated design that's perfect for a balmy summer afternoon in the sun.

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12. Say Oui

Style Notes: Love the vibe of a French manicure but fancy something more unique? This squiggle-filled design keeps what you love from the classic style while mixing up shapes. A great one to try at home, it requires a little imagination but not buckets of skill. Ideal, no?

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12. Half Moons

Style Notes: Swoosh on asymmetric half moons – some thick, some thin – for a organic-feeling, relaxed manicure. A take on the classic French half-moon, it feels modern without veering into overly detailed. A minimalist's dream.

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13. Euro Summer

Style Notes: There's something about this design that brings Greece and a long, hazy, rosé-filled summer to mind. Play with petal location for an elegant, fresh finish.

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