If there's one thing I feel passionately about, it's that manicures can be one of the most creative beauty outlets. From simple fresh tips to rich earthy shades and gem nail art to marble effects, there's a plethora of designs out there to suit every personal style, mood and occasion.
But lately, I've noticed an exciting new trend surfacing amongst influencers and industry experts. Meet aura nails, a fresh gradient design that is meant to reflect, you guessed it, your aura. So what does that actually mean? Well, the latin word aura translates to air or breeze and is used to describe the electromagnetic field that surrounds an individual, in other words their personal energy. These can give off colours and shades that can be seen in photographs, and there are special kinds of film photography set up to do exactly this.
Now, you may or may not believe in personal electromagnetic fields or aura energies, but you can't deny this is a super-chic way to inject some colour and creativity into your manicure. While it's fun to identify your personal aura, when it comes to getting an aura manicure, you can choose any colour you like. I like to pick a blue shade when I feel, or want to feel, calm and a pop of pink for something playful. You can also opt for a rainbow of shades and try them all out at once!
With over 15.5 millions views on the aura nails hashtag on TikTok and 13,000 images on Instagram already, it's safe to say the aura manicure trend is here to stay. Intrigued? Read on to discover more about the trend as well as experts' tips on getting it right at home.
How to Create an Aura Manicure at Home
We spoke to Orly’s nail ambassador and nail technician Lou Stokes for her top tips on re-creating the aura manicure in the comfort of your own home. "Start by dry prepping your nails," Stokes explains. "File the free edge to make sure nails are neat and tidy and cuticles are pushed back and groomed before applying one coat of Orly Bonder base coat, which will help prevent against any chipping.'' Then go in with a nude base polish, Stokes suggests. "Rose Coloured Glasses by Orly is a very flattering semi-sheer pink, which is very flattering for all skin types.''
To achieve the aura-like effect, she suggests using a makeup sponge. ''Get a make up sponge, fold in half and tie with an elastic band or hair tie so that you create a circular shape. Then apply your chosen colour to a piece of tin foil. Use your makeup sponge to pick up some of the polish, and apply it to the nails to create a circular shape, which has an airbrushed look to it. You can then add a circle into the centre of your design in a contrasting colour or sponge different coloured circles and allow to dry. Then apply one coat of Orly Shining Armor to add a glossy, high-shine, chip-resistant finish to your design.''
Shop the base coat:
For longer-lasting manicures, this product is a must-have.
Be Inspired by Some of Our Favourite Aura Manicures
1. Super Aura
Humans are certainly not simple beings. We're full of mixed emotions, so it makes perfect sense that your aura mani would reflect that too. Why not use several colours to echo all your moods? I especially love this rainbow design for party season. Think how much it'll pop against an LBD.
Get the look:
The most gorgeous bright blue. This works perfectly to complement any other colour you may use in your mani.
Add a splash of orange to reflect confidence and optimism.
The Nailberry formulas always apply super smoothly. Plus, you never need more than two coats.
2. Autumnal Aura
Chocolate brown, beige and deep orange tones are all having a moment this season. I love how chic and understated this autumnal mani looks.
Get the look:
Begin with a nude shade to create a base for the look.
The Barry M Gelly Hi Shine Nail Paint in the shade Espresso is the most gorgeous chocolaty shade.
I love the faint hint of iridescence running through this shade, which adds a gorgeous depth to your manicure.
3. Mini Auras
How fun is this design? If you don't fancy mixing colours but still want to capture all of your moods, opt for a different aura on each nail. Add flecks of gold for a festive touch.
Get the look:
OPI nail polishes for the win! This pale pink is essential for creating that swirly aura glow.
Choose red to represent ambition and passion.
Who doesn't love a deep purple in the winter?
4. Barbiecore Aura
Barbiecore pink is a colour trend that we're taking with us well into 2023. Not ready to change up your wardrobe to reflect the popular shade? Nod to the trend by getting your aura mani in pinks and lilacs.
Get the look:
I can't resist a pop of pink…
The chromatic nail trend isn't going anywhere either, so combine the two trends and use this palette to give your aura manicure that extra depth. Nail artist Isabel May Surtees recommends ''using a disposable eye shadow sponge applicator to gently dab the powder all over the nails and seal off with two layers of top coat'' to achieve that chromatic finish at home.
Two coats of this Chanel topcoat and your polish is sure to last.
5. Citrus Aura
Who said brights were just for summer? Use your aura manicure as a fun and easy way to add colour to an otherwise monochrome autumn/winter outfit.
Get the look:
This vegan polish is super long-lasting.
A deep pink helps mellow out more vibrant shades.
Go bold with a bright tangerine shade, which is reflective of joyful relationships and positivity.
Up Next: 51 Party Nail Designs Fashion Girls Are Obsessing Over
This post was previously published and has since been updated.
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