Nail art, valued at $12.47 billion with a CAGR of 3.32% (2024-2029) according to Statista, has become more than a fashion and beauty statement. It has become a canvas for cultural storytelling, a form of self-expression, and an avenue for artistry that resonates deeply within communities around the world. As the industry looks away from 2024 and towards 2025, nail trends are evolving not only in style but also in cultural significance, particularly within the Black community. From gradients and cherry reds to duck nails and almond shapes, these trends tell a story of heritage, individuality, modern influences, identity, and business opportunities, revealing how nails serve as a medium of personal and collective expression.
Historically, beauty rituals such as manicures and intricate nail art have been deeply intertwined with personal and communal pride. In eras such as the 1980s and 1990s, the rise of urban fashion culture saw nail art become a powerful medium for creative storytelling, with bold colors, airbrushed designs, and rhinestones reflecting individuality and status. For many Black women, nails were both adornments and symbols of resilience and artistry, challenging Eurocentric beauty norms by redefining aesthetics on their own terms.
Beyond artistry, the economic role of the nail industry in Black communities cannot be overstated. In the same vein as hair salons, nail salons have provided spaces for entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency. They have historically served as hubs for employment and skill sharing, allowing many Black women to establish careers in beauty despite systemic barriers in other industries. Also, the growing demand for culturally nuanced nail services spurred the development of independent Black-owned nail salons, fostering economic empowerment and creating a legacy of Black excellence within the beauty sector. It also gave rise to social media accounts such as Blkgirlnailfies, a platform described as a digital space that is specifically committed to creating a community for Black women, by Black women.
The nail salon has also mirrored the social function of hair salons as gathering spaces, particularly for Black women. These establishments have acted as sanctuaries for connection, dialogue, and cultural exchange, where clients and nail technicians bond over shared experiences and discuss issues ranging from politics to fashion. This dynamic transforms the act of getting one’s nails done into a ritual of community building.
The Evolution of Nail Trends: From Simplicity to Artistry
2024 has witnessed a resurgence in nail designs that balance simplicity with a touch of nostalgia. According to Pika Opa, a rising nail artist whose clientele includes celebrities like Teyana Taylor, “The gradient effect—also known as the airbrush style—has made a strong comeback. It blends retro inspiration from the 1980s and 1990s with a modern, minimalistic twist,” he says to BeautyMatter. “This technique, which seamlessly blends colors to create an ombré-like effect, draws its roots from urban culture, reminiscent of airbrushed T-shirts and jackets popular decades ago,” he continues.
Gradient nails aren’t just visually appealing. They’re also very versatile, making them a favorite for editorial shoots and brand campaigns. “Brands prefer clean, chic looks. A simple nude nail with a gradient overlay feels fresh yet timeless, resonating across demographics,” Opa says. This trend highlights how the aesthetics of the past continue to shape contemporary beauty, merging nostalgia with innovation.
Additionally, red has always held a symbolic place in nail art, particularly within the Black community. As Opa reminisces, “Growing up, I watched my grandmother religiously paint her nails red every Sunday. It wasn’t just a color; it was a ritual.” For 2024, cherry reds dominated, embodying both vibrancy and versatility, and it is a trend that is predicted to linger into the new year. “There’s something about the cherry design—it’s sweet, chic, and clean,’’ Opa says. Such trends often have cyclical popularity, with their simplicity and universal appeal keeping them relevant across seasons. According to Opa, “For Black communities, red nails carry layered meanings, often associated with sophistication, confidence, and celebration—a nod to the elegance seen in older generations.”
This shade, often paired with subtle designs like 3D cherries, bridges the gap between playful and sophisticated. Additionally, there’s a strong demand for bold yet versatile styles like the cherry-red manicure. “Cherries are fun and chic,” says Opa. “You’ll see them on nude manicures, adding a playful yet refined element.” This appeal of cherry red lies in its seasonless adaptability, making it equally appropriate for summer and fall collections. This versatility cements its status as a mainstay in nail trends.
Shapes with Meaning: Almonds, Duck Nails, and Cultural Context
The shape of a nail can say as much about a person as the design. Almond nails, with their rounded tips and elongating effect, have become a staple. Opa explains that “there’s something inherently feminine and confident about almond-shaped nails. They soften the hand and exude elegance.” This shape has found favor among women in professional settings, where it strikes a balance between boldness and subtlety.
In contrast, duck nails—a broader, flared shape—carry a cultural and nostalgic weight. “Duck nails remind me of growing up and going to nail salons with my godsister,” Opa shares. “It’s a design rooted in urban culture, a symbol of community and individuality.” While not as universally embraced as almond nails, duck nails represent a reclamation of style and identity, particularly within Black and Hispanic communities. This resurgence and lingering of duck nails is attributed to the nostalgic appreciation for bold, expressive nail styles often seen in the aforementioned communities. These shapes, though niche, embody a spirit of rebellion and self-expression, challenging the often narrow definitions of beauty.
Nail trends often reflect broader societal shifts, and within the Black community, they’ve always been more than mere fashion. “You can tell a lot about a person through their nails,” Opa says. Whether it’s the meticulous upkeep of a manicure or the bold choice of design, nails serve as an extension of personality and identity.
For Black women, in particular, nails have historically been a canvas for self-expression in environments where other forms of individuality might be suppressed. The choice of color, length, and shape can challenge norms and celebrate heritage. This sentiment extends to social and professional environments, where nail choices can signal identity and belonging. As Opa notes, “Even in corporate settings, you’ll see women leaning into styles that speak to who they are, while adhering to professional expectations.” Opa shared how he observes trends across his diverse clientele. “It’s more about their social environment than ethnicity,” he says. “A nude almond set, for example, is like a little black dress—elegant and adaptable, fitting for anyone.”
Despite its vibrancy, the nail industry faces challenges, including misconceptions about certain trends being “unprofessional” or “too bold.” These biases often disproportionately affect Black women, who have historically used beauty as a form of resistance and empowerment. Yet, these challenges also create opportunities for advocacy and education, pushing the industry toward broader acceptance and celebration of diverse styles.
Looking ahead, the interplay of culture and commerce will continue to shape nail trends. For the Black community, nails will remain a powerful medium for storytelling and identity. As trends evolve, they will undoubtedly continue to reflect the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of their originators. As Opa concludes, “Nail art isn’t just a trend; it’s a legacy.” As nail trends evolve—embracing everything from almond shapes to intricate 3D cherries—the cultural legacy of nails in the Black community continues to thrive, embodying a blend of innovation, history, and unyielding pride.
