
May is the perfect time to get creative with your nails. Whether you're looking for fun florals, sleek geometric patterns, or something more abstract, there are plenty of gel nail designs to choose from. This month offers a wide range of interpretations, from bright colours to the unofficial start of summer. You can experiment with different styles and colours for a modern mix-and-match abstract look or go for a natural-inspired design. If you're feeling bold, try a vibrant purple matte or passion fruit-inspired design. For those who prefer a more classic look, a French mani with a twist is always a good idea. So, get ready to embrace the warm, sunny days of May with a fresh set of gel nails!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Spring/Summer |
| Colours | Pastel, Bright, Pink, Blue, Purple, Green, Orange, Peach, Papaya, Tangerine, Yellow, Platinum, Chrome |
| Patterns | Floral, Geometric, Abstract, Gingham, French Tips, Cheetah, 3D |
| Finish | Matte, Shimmer, Velvet |
| Inspiration | Nature, Fruit, Pisces, Ocean, Barbie, Watermelon, Memorial Day, Royal Family |
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What You'll Learn

Flower power
May is the perfect time for your nails to bloom with creativity and style. If you're looking for flower power on your nails, there are a few ways to go about it.
You could opt for gel nail wraps, which are an easy, no-mess option that requires no design skill. Nice and Nailed's Flower Power gel nail wraps are semi-cured gel nail stickers that are durable and long-lasting. They're easy to apply and give you a complete manicure in under 20 minutes. The design will vary depending on your nail size, and it's important to note that they may not last as long if you have oily nails.
If you're looking for a more intricate design, you can use blooming gel to create a watercolour aesthetic, marble nails, and more complex styles. This clear gel polish helps you achieve a natural flow of colour and a watercolour effect. You can use secondary gel nail polish colours to create your design and finish with a top coat.
For a colourblock design, start with your base colour, cure it, and then add a thin layer of blooming gel. Apply your next colour in soft, organic lines and watch the colour spread. You can also create an abstract watercolour design by blending multiple colours before they dry and including a strong accent colour.
If you're after a more subtle flower power look, HONA's Flower Power Gel Polish is a stunning pink shade, perfect for everyday use and long-lasting. It's a beautiful spring colour and a great option for a hypoallergenic manicure.
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$5.09 $5.99

Abstract art
May is the perfect time for your nails to bloom with creativity and style. Abstract art on your nails can be a fun way to reflect the freshness and liveliness of the season.
One way to create an abstract design is by using a technique called Blooming Gel. This method is simple to master and can help you create amazing abstract art, whether intentional or accidental. Start by applying a base colour of your choice and curing it. Then, add a thin layer of Blooming Gel and watch as the colours blend to create a natural flow. You can use multiple colours, blending them before they dry, and even include a strong accent colour. Finish with a top coat and cure your nails under a UV lamp to set the design.
You can also create abstract art by using coloured pencils on your gel nails. Simply apply your gel base coat and cure it before drawing your desired design with the coloured pencils. Seal your design with a gel top coat and cure your nails again. This method allows you to draw patterns, swirls, and scribbles, giving you the freedom to create unique and artistic designs.
For a sheer neutral base, try a design with abstract black swirls on top. This look offers graphic detail without colour overload, resulting in a clean, sharp, and artsy manicure. Alternatively, you can create a natural-inspired abstract design that captures the delicate and dreamy feel of warm weather. Think pastel colours, floral accents, and a soft colour palette that resembles the spring season.
Get creative and experiment with different styles, colours, and techniques to find the abstract look that suits your personal style and embraces the beauty of May.
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Fruity nails
May is the perfect time to let your nails bloom with creativity and style. If you're looking for fruity nails, there are plenty of fun options to choose from. Passion fruit-inspired nails, for example, are bold and bright and perfect for May. You can also try more abstract fruit-themed designs, incorporating pastel colours that resemble the spring season.
For a fun and playful look, you can hand-paint your nails with various fruits such as kiwis, watermelons, strawberries, and lemons. This design is perfect for embracing the warm weather and celebrating natural ecosystems. Another idea is to create a natural-inspired abstract design, capturing the delicate and dreamy feel of spring. Experiment with different styles and colours to create a modern mix-and-match look that's sure to be eye-catching.
If you're feeling creative, you can even combine fruit with other design elements. For instance, create a French mani with a twist by pairing classic French tips with fruit accents. Or, if you're feeling whimsical, try a fun floral design with a fruity twist, such as adding passion fruit to a flower design for a unique and vibrant look.
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Matte and chrome
Classic Chrome Nails
Achieve a sleek and reflective finish with classic chrome nail designs. Opt for a silver or gold chrome powder to create a dazzling, mirror-like effect. You can also experiment with different colours as a base for your chrome powder to create a bold and creative look.
Geometric Chrome Nails
Create intricate geometric patterns using high-shine chrome powder for a modern and eye-catching look. This design balances understated elegance with modern glamour, making it a popular choice among fashion-forward individuals.
Chrome Accent Nails
If you're new to the chrome trend, try accent nails! Apply chrome powder to one or two nails alongside your desired colour of gel polish. This way, you can dip your toes into the chrome nail trend without committing to a full set. A classic colour scheme of nude and silver is always a safe bet, but you can also experiment with bolder hues like black and gold.
For a unique take on the trend, try combining matte and chrome with an ombré fade. Start with a matte base and gradually fade into a shiny chrome finish. You can also add metallic nail stickers in a slightly darker shade to enhance the design.
Chrome French Tips
Give your traditional French manicure a twist by opting for chrome tips. You can go for a classic gold or silver chrome or experiment with different colours to match your personal style. For a more subtle approach, celebrity manicurist Betina Goldstein suggests trying a rainbow of mini chrome French tips.
So, whether you choose to go full chrome or opt for a subtle accent, incorporating matte and chrome into your nail design is a sure way to make a statement and showcase your creativity and style.
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Velvet vibes
For a salon-quality velvet manicure, ask for a magnetic velvet gel polish layered under a clear builder gel. The builder gel will give your nails a glossy, glass-like finish and add durability. You can also try the polish route by starting with a magnetic formula, manipulating it with a magnet, adding a layer of sheer colour, and finishing with a top coat.
If you're looking for a DIY option, press-ons are a great choice. They're easy to use and don't require a magnet. You can also try using Korean gel polish or a top coat that will help you achieve a translucent, jelly-like effect.
When it comes to colours, there are many options to choose from. Royal blue, red, and pink are popular choices for velvet nails. You can also experiment with different shades like champagne, yellow-gold, or even green and red for a Grinch-inspired look. If you want to add some extra sparkle, consider using a glitter accent or combining the velvet trend with another popular look, such as ombré or French tips.
Velvet nails are a versatile trend that can be adapted to suit your personal style. Whether you prefer a subtle look or something more bold and eye-catching, there are many ways to create velvet vibes with your nail art.
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Frequently asked questions
May is all about fun and creativity, so why not try something like passion fruit-inspired nails, which are bold and bright? You could also go for a floral design, which is always popular at this time of year. If you want something more abstract, try a mix-and-match design with pastel colours or a natural-inspired abstract look.
May is the perfect time to experiment with colour. Vivid orange is a popular choice for 2023, as are pastel shades. You could also try a royal blue, which is a great choice if you're following the UK royal family, given the coronation in May.
May is the unofficial start of summer, so you could try a watermelon nail design, which mixes hot pink with baby French tips. You could also try a micro French mani in any palette you like.











































