Baroque Nails Are a Maximalist's Dream Manicure

Published on 8/23/2023 at 12:05 PM

Is it just us, or is everyone and their mother on a European vacation right now? If your social media feed is also being inundated with people sashaying around Rome with the love of their life, but the only trip you can afford is the one to your backyard with an Aperol spritz, there may be another way to get in on the fun: baroque nails. This latest nail trend taking over TikTok is a Euro-themed manicure that brings 17th-century artwork right to your fingertips, no pass to the museum needed.

According to Merriam-Webster, the word "baroque" means "of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a style of artistic expression prevalent especially in the 17th century that is marked generally by use of complex forms, bold ornamentation, and the juxtaposition of contrasting elements often conveying a sense of drama, movement, and tension." Unlike maximalist nail trends like "junk" nails, which feature any gem or decal with no specific theme in mind, baroque nails are lavish and extravagant, but they stick with one concept.

If you want to learn more about this style of manicure, we asked Liana Thomson, nail expert at Nails.co.uk, to break down what baroque nails are and how to achieve the trend at home. Keep reading to find out more.

"In the early 17th century, the baroque period occurred, where everything from architecture to poetry to fashion was highly decorated and elaborate," Thomson tells POPSUGAR. "The newest nail trend, 'baroque nails,' is inspired by this era, hence why the nail designs feature rich colors, intricate patterns, and glamorous 3D jewels."

The trend typically features crosses, lace-like patterns, pearls, gemstones, and metallic accents, which is why the look often works best on longer nails. "Baroque nails can be adapted to various nail lengths and shapes, but longer nails with a decent canvas allow for more intricate details," Thomson says. Because of this, you most often see the trend on stiletto, coffin, and almond nail shapes due to their elongated surfaces, which provide more space for complex designs.

If you have naturally short nails, though, you can still get the look. "One option is getting acrylic extensions from a professional nail technician. Alternatively, you can opt for DIY by applying stick-on false nails and adding stick-on embellishments," Thomson says. If you opt to stick with your short, natural nails, no problem. Just pay special attention to the design you're looking to do since you've got less real estate to work with.

So, you want to try baroque nails out for yourself. First, you'll need to decide whether you're making a trip to the nail salon or attempting to create the look at home. Thomson says that the feasibility of creating baroque nails on your own depends on both your skill level as well as the intricacy of what you're looking to attain.

"For dramatic embellishments and rich colors, creating the look at home with false nails and embellishments is achievable," Thomson says. "However, more intricate designs, like lace-like patterns, might require professional skill."

If you're planning to DIY, Thomson suggests starting out with a base press-on nail. Our current pick is the Glamnetic Press On Nails ($15). From there, you can add baroque-themed nail embellishments. We love the Amazon Luxury Nail Decoration Kit ($9), which has plenty of ornate and intricate gems perfect for this trend.

Thomson also adds that in order to make sure everything stays in place, you should use a product like the Kiss False Nails Powerflex Nail Glue ($2). "It's a great option for applying embellishments at home due to its quick-drying formula and strength," Thomson says.

If instead you plan on heading to the nail salon, make sure you arrive with inspiration photos in hand. To help you get the creative juices flowing, we rounded up our favorite iterations of the baroque nail trend ahead.

We love the intricate artwork on these almond baroque nails.

These baroque nails feature crosses and moons.

These baroque nails feature stained glass artwork.

Who says you have to do the same thing on both hands? These baroque nails are mismatched and still stunning.

Baroque artwork still works on short nails.

The black background on these baroque nails makes the gems stand out.

These stiletto baroque nails feature a creamy-white palette.

We love the french design on these square baroque nails.