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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Tampa chapter.

Everywhere you look, there is a new hyper-specific nail trend: Hailey Bieber nails, blueberry milk nails, strawberry nails, cinnamon dolce nails (weirdly, a lot of food names), and that list can go on forever. Nail art and design have moved to the forefront of social media and pop culture. Everyone wants to be a nail tech (myself included). So, how do you stay up to date with the trends while still staying true to your own style?

cardi b duck nails?width=1024&height=1024&fit=cover&auto=webp
@iamcardib via Instagram

One thing that is common is trying trendy shapes and hating them. Some hands look better with almond or square or duck, and it’s all about what you’re going to want to look at all the time! Celebrities have been leaning towards almond nails in the past few years, but the tide seems to be turning, and the square has become more popular after the new ‘mob wife’ aesthetic has taken first place in the ‘fyp’ wars. The first step is always to pick a shape and length that you’re comfortable with. If you have a job where you use your hands constantly, maybe super long nails aren’t suitable, and that’s fine! Designs can take any shape or length; just because you go shorter/longer doesn’t mean the integrity of the design is lost!

gel curing press-on nails tiktok
@laurenladnier via Instagram

More on designs; they are going to be on your nails for at least two weeks, depending on how long your nails usually stay on, so pick something you love! This can be as simple as a dot, some lines, or literally anything your heart desires. If you aren’t going to the salon and aren’t super confident in your art skills, nail stickers are your best bet. There are huge packs you can buy online, and they take the stress out of designs. But if you are DIY-ing it, French tips are always a staple, and there are so many ways to achieve the French that’s tailored to you!

hailey bieber glazed donut mani for fall nail trends
Instagram / @nailsbyzola

There is so much wiggle room in nail art. While trends and celebrities may stay true to one design– or in this age of ‘eras’ and ‘aesthetics’– change the trends weekly, there is always something for everyone.

Whether you stay classic and clean or vibrant and edgy, your nails are a reflection of you, and no trends are as perfect as that.

Amey DiSisto

Tampa '26

Amey DiSisto is a writer at Her Campus at the University of Tampa. Her articles range from the struggles of growing up to road-trip playlists. Outside of Her Campus, Amey is a Junior at The University of Tampa, double majoring in Journalism and Communication, Media and Culture. Amey loves going to the beach, updating her Pinterest board, and reading (bonus points if there's a love triangle!!!). As a bit of an 80s movie nerd, Amey can be found watching 16 Candles, The Breakfast Club or-- her favorite-- Dirty Dancing.