70s Nail Styles: A Journey Back to the Golden Era
Hey there, readers!
Welcome to our ultimate guide to the iconic nail styles that defined the fabulous 70s. Get ready to step into a world of bold colors, funky patterns, and glittering glamour. In this groovy guide, we’ll explore the key nail trends that made the 70s such a standout decade for nail art.
The Hippie Haven: Natural and Flowing
The Peace and Love Manicure
The hippie movement embraced all things natural and free-spirited, and that influence extended to nails. Long, untrimmed nails were the norm, adorned with soft, earthy tones like beige, brown, and green. The “peace sign” manicure was a popular choice, with the iconic symbol painted on the ring finger.
Tie-Dye Delights
Tie-dye wasn’t just for clothing in the 70s! Nail artists experimented with this colorful technique to create vibrant swirls and patterns on their nails. Blues, greens, pinks, and yellows danced together in a psychedelic frenzy.
The Disco Diva: Shimmer and Shine
Glittery Glamour
The disco era was all about catching the light, and nails were no exception. Gold, silver, and holographic glitter sparkled and danced on the dance floor. Glitter was often used to create dramatic French tips or to embellish intricate designs.
The Aurora Borealis Effect
Pearlescent and iridescent nail polishes mimicked the shimmering Northern Lights. These iridescent hues created a mesmerizing effect that changed color with every movement. They were a perfect match for the glamorous disco outfits of the time.
The Glam Rock Rebel: Bold and Edgy
Studded Statements
Studded nails made a bold and rebellious statement in the 70s. Small metal studs were applied to the nail surface in geometric patterns or scattered randomly. They added an edgy touch to any look and were a favorite among rock stars and their fans.
Leopard Print Prowess
Animal prints were a staple of 70s fashion, and they found their way onto nails as well. Leopard print nails were a fierce and glamorous choice, adding a touch of wildness to any outfit. They were often paired with bold colors like black, red, or green.
The Decades of Nails in Detail
| Decade | Key Styles | Notable Trends |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | Hippie Haven, Disco Diva, Glam Rock Rebel | Natural flowing nails, tie-dye, glitter, studs, leopard print |
| 1980s | Electric Neon, French Flair, Abstract Art | Bright neon hues, white-tipped French manicures, geometric patterns |
| 1990s | Grunge Glam, Minimal Chic, Metallic Mania | Dark colors, plaid and grunge motifs, metallic accents |
| 2000s | Millennium Shimmer, French Revival, Animal Attractions | Shimmery polishes, revived French manicures, animal print designs |
| 2010s | Ombre Elegance, Chrome Accents, Nail Art Extravaganza | Gradual color transitions, metallic accents, intricate nail art designs |
| 2020s | Minimalist Revival, Pastel Power, Negative Space | Clean lines, soft pastel hues, exposed nail areas |
Groovy Goodbye
So there you have it, readers! Our groovy journey through the iconic nail styles of the 70s. From the natural vibes of the hippie haven to the glittery glam of the disco diva, and the edgy rebellion of the glam rock rebel, the 70s had it all. If you’re feeling inspired, go ahead and channel your inner disco queen or hippie goddess. Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more nail art inspiration and fashion flashbacks!
FAQ about 70s Nail Styles
How do I achieve the iconic 70s square nail shape?
File your nails straight across the top, creating a sharp edge.
What are some popular 70s nail colors?
Earthy tones like orange, brown, yellow, and green; bold shades of red and blue.
What nail art designs were trendy in the 70s?
French tips, abstract patterns, geometric designs, and airbrushed effects.
How can I recreate the metallic nail trend of the 70s?
Use silver or gold nail polish, or try nail stickers with metallic accents.
What was the “Jelly Bean” nail style about?
Applying multiple layers of translucent colored polish, creating a playful and textured look.
How did 70s nail salons enhance their services?
They offered UV nail lamps to speed up drying time and introduced acrylic nails for added length and durability.
What were the most popular types of nail extensions in the 70s?
Acrylic nails and wrap-on extensions, which could be shaped and customized.
How can I incorporate modern elements into my 70s nail designs?
Add glitter or holographic accents, use negative space techniques, or experiment with unconventional shapes.
What’s the secret to keeping 70s nail art looking fresh?
Use a good quality base and top coat, and allow each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
Where can I find inspiration for 70s nail styles?
Look through vintage magazines, online nail art galleries, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.