The world of nails is not short of options. There are a copious amount of nail designs out there, as well as different lengths, finishes and nail shapes to further diversify your style. For decades, acrylic nails have been a popular go-to for nail obsessives and celebrities alike. They're enjoyed for their lengthening and durable benefits, and are a great nail option for creating a larger, more even canvas for intricate nail art. If they've caught your attention (they're hard to miss on social feeds), keep scrolling for everything you need to know about acrylic nails, plus our edit of Grazia approved nail designs to take to the salon.
What are acrylic nails?
Acrylic nails involve the application of artificial nail extensions made of acrylic plastic, which form the tip of the nails and are adhered to your natural nails. Acrylic nails can also be formed with a combination of a liquid acrylic monomer and a powder acrylic polymer, which when mixed becomes a blob of gloopy dough that is bonded to the natural nail, before being moulded into the desired shape. If the liquid monomer to powder polymer ratio is correct, you can create acrylic nails without the need of a form or tip. 'Thanks to its composition, there is no need to cure acrylic nails as the mixture will air dry in the matter of seconds,' says nail expert expert Alexandra Teleki.
The difference between acrylic and gel nails
Both acrylic nails and gel nails feature a durable and strengthening quality to the nail, but gel nails require a UV lampto cure nails and there is no false extensions involved, just gel polishes. Gel nails are great for a natural look, and BIAB nails are an even better option for those looking to add strength and structure to nails. But if the focus is to extend your nail, acrylic nails are best - whether you're opting for a modern coffin shaped mani, or a classic almond shaped nail look.
How long do acrylic nail tips last
Wondering how long do acrylic nails last? With proper care you can expect them to last up to five weeks before you'll need to consider an infill.
The Best Acrylic Nail Designs 2024
1. Graphic Acrylic Nails
Spruce up a classic nude acrylic base with a graphic design - we love this swirling blue design which is a more graphic take on the French mani. Of course you could switch up the colour - green nails are having a moment, too.
Image credit: Instagram @_nailsbyelisha/
2. Matcha Acrylic Nails
'A matcha manicure is so aesthetically pleasing,' explains celebrity manicurist Milly Mason. 'It's the perfect transitional colour and it looks great on all nail shapes.' And we couldn't agree more. Whether you're opting for a french tip or a more graphic design, it's the perfect way to add interest to your acrylics.
Image credit: Instagram @_nailsbyelisha
3. Pink Acrylic Nails
2023 was the year of Barbie, and 2024 looks set to be no different - our penchant for pink nails shows no sign of waining. 'I love this vibrant pink hue,' says Rachael, Grazia's Junior Beauty Editor. 'It's very eye-catching so I think it works well with a shorter nail shape. I actually broke two nails in this picture, my ring finger and my middle finger, so used acrylic extensions to recreate their natural length. It's a total misconception that acrylics are obvious and fake looking - I use them to repair broken nails often, and, when applied correctly, they're virtually undetectable. I then topped off with a shade of Essie's Lovie Dovie'
Image credit: Instagram @rachael.alice.martin
www.lookfantastic.com
The perfect, Barbie pink does exist. And the reviews don't lie, 'I love this shade of pink. It’s vibrant and girly- it looks amazing,' says one. 'You still need two coats, but I’ve had mine on over a week on my toes, and the polish hasn’t chipped or budged at all. Beautiful shade, I really like this brand now, it’s my new favourite!'
Pros
- Doesn't chip easily
Cons
- Some reviewers say it's 'not as bright as they'd like.'
4. French Acrylic Nails
There's been many iterations of the classic French manicure over the past year, including micro French and rainbow French - look to the Instagram feeds of celebrity manicurists Iram Shelton, Harriet Westmoreland and Julia Diogo for proof. Where acrylics are concerned you can keep things minimal and subtle, or go all out with a sharp stiletto shape and a thick white type. @glam_housesydney shows us how.
Image credit: Instagram @glam_housesydney
www.lookfantastic.com
Ideal for carving out a white tip, an eye liner brush can work wonders. This one from Mac is incredibly precise if you're attempting the French tip look at home. Practice makes perfect.
Pros
- Extra fine to aid control
Cons
- On the expensive side
5. Floral Acrylic Nails
Florals for spring. We know. Ground-breaking. But daisy nail art is pretty and feminine, working beautifully with acrylic nails - where there's more nail space, there's more room for creativity. Your salon can no doubt work their magic with bespoke art work, but consider nail stickers if you'd like to tap into the trend from home.
Image credit: Instagram @dream.nails_x
6. Ombre Acrylic Nails
Ombre almond nails look set to dominate the spring nail trends of 2024. Choose sweet, feminine pastel tones like yellows, lilacs and pinks. Of course, this look works beautifully on almond shaped acrylic nails - there's plenty of nail space to work with.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
www.lookfantastic.com
Rimmel's 'Mermaid Fun,' is ideal for creating a sparkling, ombre inspired look if you like to keep your kit feeling succinct - it's a colourful mesh of turquoise, pinks and blues. Get your nail artist to apply post acrylic extensions for a beautiful, statement look that dries in minutes.
Pros
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Will chip quicker than gel polish
7. Natural Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails may conjure up images of the OTT nail designs of the '90s for some - did someone say a duck manicure? However, this is not always the case. Nail artists can create shorter, more elegant shapes that mimic the look of longer, more natural nails. This shade of milky pink sets off the look perfectly.
Image credit: Instagram @tammynails_design
8. Marble Acrylic Nails
Not one for those who prefer subtle nail designs, this look is the embodiment of more is more. Crazy length? Check. Rainbow bright polish? Check. A high-shine finish? Check again. A true work of artistry, and not one suited to wallflowers.
Image credit: Instagram @adoreaxo
9. Jet Black Acrylic Nails
Black nails continue to be a classic choice for many - beautifully glossy and bridging the gap between gothic and glam, it's a look bound to reel in the compliments. And when you add a long, sharp acrylic shape to the mix? It's a look that's as sleek as it is sexy. Take inspiration from Iram's elegant look. While hers have been created with natural nails, it's a length that can be easily recreated using acrylics.
Image credit: Instagram @iramshelton
10. Rainbow Acrylic Nails
The French manicure continues to show its versatility - this look has a bit of everything. Think neon shades and nail diamonds that wouldn't look out of place on an episode of Euphoria. More is more when it comes to these bright, summer ready acrylics. Screenshot and bring to your salon, but do book in extra time - this look has a lot going on.
Image credit: Instagram @_nailsbyelisha/
11. Nude Acrylic Nails
@_nailsbyelisha/ calls this graphic manicure "50 shades of nude," and we applaud the finished look. Created with The Gel Bottle Nude Collection, £174 there's a shade suited to each and every skin tone. Consider this the perfect excuse to get experimental.
Image credit: Instagram @_nailsbyelisha/
12. Cherry Acrylic Nails
Suited to Valentine's Day and beyond, these sweet Cherry nails have been hand-painted by @magicalgirlmanis. Pink acrylic and feminine nail designs is always a good idea. Could this inspire your next birthday set?
Image credit: Instagram @magicalgirlmanis
13. Graffiti Acrylic Nails
Creativity needn't mean perfection - this graffiti-esque manicure ticks serious boxes and is all about striving for fun - not perfection. Ask your manicurist for long, almond shaped acrylics to mimic this playful look.
Image credit: Instagram @tipsandtoesoc
14. Disney Acrylic Nails
A work of art if there ever was one, @artmuva is one of the most talented nail artists around. Taking inspiration from The Little Mermaid, pearls, sparkles and considerable artistry have all gone into creating this look.
Image credit: Instagram @artmuva
15. Chrome Acrylic Nails
Made popular by Hailey Bieber (her glazed doughnut look is still much requested the world over) chrome nails are the epitome of classic-with-a-twist. We love this sheer white polish with its pinkish, holographic top coat.
Image credit: Instagram @flamantnailboutique
www.lookfantastic.com
No time to pop in salon for your next set? Enter these acrylic look stick-on nails which come in with a glazed pearl finish. Dreamy stuff.
Pros
- Look similar to acrylic nails
Cons
- May need frequent re-gluing
16. Green Acrylic Nails
Proving a block colour needn't be boring, this fun green set makes use of texture and meshes together a matte and high-shine finish. Lashings of jewels complete this almond acrylic look. @alyshanailartist called this one out as 'the colour of the season' - and we're inclined to agree.
Image credit: Instagram @alyshanailartist
17. Gold Acrylic Nails
Sharp, square acrylic nails look great with this swirling metallic design. This just proves how silver and gold will never go out of style.
Image credit: Instagram @jackulondon
18. Stiletto Acrylic Nails
Typically the most dramatic nail shape, stiletto nails make a sharp statement. This set is a softer take on the trend thanks to muted colours and pearlescent tips which help keep the look wearable.
Image credit: Instagram @jackulondon
19. Blue Acrylic Nails
Royal blue nails are flattering on all skin-tones. Make like @pegi_nails and add a few statement hearts for a cute, kitsch touch.
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
20. Leopard Print Acrylic Nails
Pink and grey combine for a fun take on leopard print. As for that cuticle work? We know a Russian manicure when we see one.
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
21. Neon Acrylic Nails
Neon summer nails never looked so good. For an even bolder ‘pop’ apply a layer of white polish first - it'll make the neon really stand out.
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
22. Fun Acrylic Nails
If you're a fan of this look then we predict your style is all about standing out from the crowd. This set features cow print, stripes and smiley faces – a total more is more vibe.
Image credit: Instagram @janeinailstudio
23. Extra Long Acrylic Nails
Impractical (but an undeniable statement) these sheer, extra long pink acrylics tap into the Mob Wife trend. Ask for super-long extensions with a sharp, square tip to mimic this look.
Image credit: Instagram @morellolondon
24. Tortoise Shell Acrylic Nails
The glossy tortoiseshell manicure effect emulates the sheer warm-toned look of an expensive pair of sunglasses. Pair this brown, marbled look with sleek, almond shaped nails for an elegant finish.
Image credit: Instagram @morellolondon
25. Red Acrylic Nails
Red nail theory, anyone? 'Red is a shade that can suit any nail length, shape or style,' says Teleki. 'People can opt for a simple classic red block colour, French or Italian style tips or even an exciting nail art set.'
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
www.lookfantastic.com
The perfect red does exist.
Pros
- Flattering on all skin tones
Cons
- An iconic shade that often sells out
26. Easter Acrylic Nails
A mini egg mani that's good enough to eat. Achieve the look with muted, pastel shades and flecks of black.
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
27. Lilac Acrylic Nails
Lavender chrome never looked so good.
Image credit: Instagram@overglowedit
28. Bow Acrylic Nails
2024? The year of the bow. And we're not mad.
Image credit: Instagram @overglowedit
29. Butterfly Acrylic Nails
A sharp square shape, nude base, and colourful butterflies make this manicure something straight out of a '90s rom-com.
Image credit: Instagram @morellolondon
30. Pastel Acrylic Nails
‘Pastels are the perfect pantone for the spring/summer season,’ says session manicurist, Michelle Humphrey, ‘as the sun starts to shine, we all want to brighten up a little.’ Make like pegi_nails and add a few flecks of sheer glitter too.
Image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
31. Elegant Acrylic Nails
If you're not blessed with long, strong nails then acrylics could be the way to go to achieve this look by kkdnails. Ask for a glossy, sheer pink and a tapered almond shape.
Image credit: Instagram @kkdnails
32. Brown Acrylic Nails
Matte meets high-shine. While we think this particular look is on natural nails (lucky for some) we're taking design inspiration for our next acrylic set.
Image credit: Instagram @kkdnails
33. Halloween Acrylic Nails
It's never too early to start thinking about your next spooky set - Halloween nails can be a vibe all year round after all. @nailsbykhristy shows us how it's done with this gloriously nightmarish manicure.
Image credit: Instagram @nailsbykhristy
34. Glitter Tip Acrylic Nails
'This is my most requested set,' says @nailsbykhristy - and we can't say we're surprised. A sheer nude, coupled with a sparkling micro French manicure makes this one a party season go to. The best part? You can mix and match the colour pairings depending on your outfit. The possibilities are endless.
Image credit: Instagram @nailsbykhristy
www.lookfantastic.com
Another day, another beautiful nude polish. This Essie number is beloved by industry experts for its versatility.
Pros
- Ideal for a sheer base coat
Cons
- Dries out quickly if lid is not secured correctly.
35. Blue Chrome Acrylic Nails
Long, claw shaped acrylics make this blue chrome design pop.
Image credit: Instagram @prissyjnails
36. Yellow Acrylic Nails
This manicure? Utter joy! You can't go too far wrong with a sunny shade of yellow. Delicate daisy details add an extra touch of cuteness.
Image credit: Instagram @prissyjnails
37. Black And White Acrylic Nails
Mimic this black and white monochromatic look by asking for long, almond shaped acrylic extensions. Don't forget the cuticle oil after - it'll make your manicure last considerably longer.
Image credit: Instagram @loulas_nailsxx
38. Grey Acrylic Nails
Who says grey nails needs to be gloomy? While this look would be a classic on its own, the addition of a glitter accent nail makes for a glamorous touch. It's a manicure that looks great with long, square acrylic extensions.
Image credit: Instagram @loulas_nailsxx
39. 3D Acrylic Nails
These sea-shell inspired acrylic nail extensions are a true work of art. From the beautiful textures to the addition of glimmering pearls and diamonds, this is a manicure sure to inspire your next salon visit.
Image credit: Instagram @nailsbykhristy
40. Festival Acrylic Nails
Looking for nail inspiration ahead of your next holiday? Consider this festival set your go to. Bright, bold and embossed with 3D gems this look is sure to turn heads. Extra long acrylic extensions make this one an all-rounder for those who love to make a statement with their mani.
Image credit: Instagram @nailsbykhristy
41. Baby Pink Acrylic Nails
While milky pink nails are always trending, few could forget the allure of a sweet, candy floss shade. Teamed with flawless cuticle work (we'd expect nothing less from @prissyjnails) this is one you'll want to save and pin.
Image credit: Instagram @prissyjnails
42. Gothic Acrylic Nails
Blue and black combine for the ultimate gothic manicure that resembles a cats-eye. Add a sharp, claw like acrylic extension for the perfect finish. Obsessed.
Image credit: Instagram @prissyjnails
43. Star Acrylic Nails
Bored of asking for hearts? Consider a bold star design. This two-toned purple manicure is unusual, and lots of fun.
Image credit: Instagram @nailsxhales
44. Abstract Acrylic Nails
For summer manicure inspo look no further than this swirling, abstract design by @charsgelnails_Think a sharp, almond shaped acrylic extension and clashing shades of coral and pink.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
45. Half Moon Acrylic Nails
Half moon nail designs are a modern take on the classic French - think a super-sized tip with just a half-moon shape remaining at the base.
Image credit: Instagram @prissyjnails
46. Comme Des Garçon Acrylic Nails
Tap into the designer inspired logo nails trend with this sweet Comme Des Garçons inspired manicure. Our advice? If attempting yourself, ensure to have some remover at the ready - you'll need a steady hand.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
47. Rainbow French Acrylic Nails
'A colourful French nail design is such a fun, wearable look for summer,' explains celebrity manicurist Milly Mason. 'Think of it as a classic with a twist.'
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
48. Short Acrylic Nails
Nail biter? Show your manicurist this picture by mel.loves.nails - they'll be able to recreate this short, square, natural looking length using acrylic extensions.
Image credit: Instagram @mel.loves.nails
49. Reverse French Acrylic Nails
Sick of French? Try the reverse option. The colour options are endless, too. Try baby blues, bright oranges, magenta pinks and vibrant neons -more is more when it comes to this trend.
Image credit: Instagram @mel.loves.nails
50. Lemon Yellow Acrylic Nails
Dainty lemon nail art? Check. The perfect base colour? Check. A high shine finish? Check again. This look by nail artist Charlotte is bound to be pinned and saved the world over. Ask for long, almond shaped extensions to mimic this zesty manicure.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
palettelondon.com
Sunshine, bottled.
Pros
- Vegan
- Halal accredited
Cons
- Needs two-three thin layers
51. Purple Acrylic Nails
This gorgeously glossy deep purple shade makes a great argument for not overcomplicating your nail designs. You just can't go wrong.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
52. Evil Eye Acrylic Nails
Designed for protection and healing, the Evil Eye design is thought to ward off bad energy. We adore this baby blue and nude combination. Ask for shorter, square acrylic extensions to recreate this length.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
53. Olive Green Acrylic Nails
Green is having a moment right now from matcha to neon. Our pick? It's got to be olive, in all it's beautiful, earthy glory.
Image credit: Instagram @thehotblend
54. Swirly Acrylic Nails
The grooviest, most disco ready manicure we ever did see.
Image credit: Instagram @thehotblend
55. Pink and Gold Acrylic Nails
Bright coral, sheer pink and gold foil combine for a feminine manicure that's utterly Pinterest worthy.
Image credit: Instagram @charsgelnails_
56. Lace Acrylic Nails
This spidery, lace inspired set is giving serious gothic glamour.
Image credit: Instagram @thehotblend
57. Minimal Acrylic Nails
After the perfect, most sheer manicure inspiration? This elegant look isn't to be missed. Ask for long, almond acrylic extensions and a sheer milky pink. It will match with every outfit.
Image credit: Instagram @thehotblend
58. Velvet Acrylic Nails
If you like something different then consider asking for a velvet nail colour on top of your acrylic extensions. It's often made using a magnet for that signature fluid finish. You'll have seen the TikTok vids, we're sure.
Image credit: Instagram @miiiiisn
59. Spring Acrylic Nails
Few could recreate such beautiful nail art as Misaki who hand painted this intricate floral design. The gradient effect is also a more modern take on the ombre nail trend.
Image credit: Instagram @miiiiisn
60. Stiletto Acrylic Nails
Super sharp and extra long, stiletto shaped acrylics ooze glamour.
Image credit: Instagram @dovenailsbysharon
61. Bronze Acrylic Nails
A more vampish take on gold, a bronze toned polish is a slightly more pared back take on high impact glamour. Attending a formal event? Consider a bronze manicure your best friend.
Image credit: Instagram @dovenailsbysharon
uk.manucurist.com
The perfect copper hue.
Pros
- Opaque coverage in one coat
Cons
- Not as long lasting as a gel polish
62. Diamond Acrylic Nails
Who needs jewellery when you've got sparkles on your fingertips? Nail gems are a great way to add interest to any look, including a French manicure. Mix and match colours or stick with trusty silver - the options are endless.
Image credit: Instagram @dovenailsbysharon
63. Black French Acrylic Nails
French manicures aren't all about white and pink combinations. Why not consider black tips for an edgier look as shown by marblissnail.
Image credit: Instagram @marblissnail
64. Autumn Acrylic Nails
Autumn nails may often mean utilising deeper, moodier shades of polish - think chocolate browns, berry reds and bottle greens. But it needn't be boring - @dovenailsbysharon shows us how with this reptilian pattern that looks great on long, claw shaped nails.
Image credit: Instagram @dovenailsbysharon
65. Holographic Acrylic Nails
Looking for the perfect wedding day manicure? This beautiful pearlescent set could be just the ticket. Elegant yet modern, it's bound to set off your engagement ring.
Image credit: Instagram @miiiiisn
66. Christmas Acrylic Nails
Is it ever too early to start planning in our Christmas manicures? We think not. Go for candy cane stripes, pops of red and lashings of glitter and diamonds. 'Tis the season, after all. Well, almost.
Image credit: Instagram @marblissnail
67. Tomato Acrylic Nails
Yep, you heard us correctly. 'Tomato Girl' was trending this summer in all its wholesome, outdoorsy glory. And now? Well jenilea has only gone and created tomato girl nails. We'd recommend asking for long, square acrylics so there's plenty of nail space for your artist to work on.
Image credit: Instagram @jenilea
68. Porcelain Acrylic Nails
jenilea strikes again with these toile nails 'inspired by a plate.' Use a milky white base for stand-out results. Lush.
Image credit: Instagram @jenilea
69. Tartan Acrylic Nails
Just when you thought you'd seen it all, you'll realise that the appetite for tartan acrylic nails is very much a thing.
Image credit: Instagram @sophiescottnailsx
How to remove acrylic nails
Wondering how to get acrylic nails off? We would always recommend going back to the salon to remove your acrylic nails, it's the safest option to avoid unwanted damage. But if you get desperate there are ways ofremoving remove acrylics at home. Teleki says 'if you use the right technique you can remove the outgrown acrylic nails safely at home.'
She recommends starting by removing most of the length off the acrylic nail, being sure to not clip off your actual nail. Then you will need two nail files – a rough one to get rid of the top layer of acrylic and another with a tougher grit for everything below that. Alexandra uses a 100/180, £5, first to debulk the top layer of acrylic. She then uses pure acetone to soak the excess acrylic nails for five to 10 minutes, you can soak your fingers directly in a bowl or use the foil method. Once you have removed the product as best as possible, use a 220/240 file, £1.68, to shape the nails and a nail buffer to remove any residue of acrylic. Don't forget to hydrate your nails and cuticles with some oil post-removal.
Wondering how to remove acrylic nails without acetone? Take our advice. Don't. It causes too much damage to the natural nail.
Main image credit: Instagram @pegi_nails
Rachael Martin is Grazia's Junior Beauty Editor where she covers all things health, beauty and wellness.
