
Cardi in Paris, Kylie in L.A.—Every Trendy Celebrity Is Wearing This Chic Nail Style Right Now.
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but summer nail designs don’t always have to embody poolside shades and whimsical picnic motifs. While those trends often occupy everyone's thoughts as they plan their time off, the most stylish summer manicures tend to be surprisingly subtle—at least based on the opinions of fashionable celebrities and their nail technicians. For instance, the "tuxedo" nail trend has been making waves on my Instagram feed lately, with endorsements from A-list stars worldwide. This isn’t a brand new idea (J.Lo and Camila Cabello both showcased tuxedo manis during summer 2023), but it’s definitely back—and more elegant than ever. Below, you’ll find a chic nail design that promises to make you look like a million bucks. What Are Tuxedo Nails? You don’t have to fully commit to bow tie-themed manicures (unless that’s your style, in which case, go for it!). The term "tuxedo nail" refers to sharp, black-and-white nail designs featuring geometric shapes—like circles, triangles, or half-moons. Keep the lines crisp and contrasting—unlike aura or ombré nails, which emphasize a soft blending of colors—and you’ll achieve a look that appears both sophisticated and stylish. Take Kylie Jenner, for example, who complemented her black-and-white gingham Miu Miu minidress with a fashionable "twisted French" design, created by her longtime nail artist Zola Ganzorigt. The design (shown above!) features two thin, black stripes at the tips of her classic French manicure—minimal yet captivating. Cardi B also opted for a fresh take on the classic design at the Stéphane Rolland couture show during Paris Fashion Week, choosing black French tips against an opaque white base. This set, crafted by nail artist Coca Michelle, beautifully pairs with the rapper’s stunning architectural black-and-white gown. A tuxedo nail design immediately elevates any manicure, yet it can also take on a more playful tone. For example, Dua Lipa flaunted delicate black-and-white daisies on her nails during her romantic vacation in Italy with fiancé Callum Turner. This look still fits the tuxedo nails category thanks to its minimal, geometric aesthetic, but it offers a more relaxed, summery alternative. Thus, tuxedo nails don’t always have to lean formal. More Tuxedo Nail Inspiration This sharp contrast is everything. Combine two summer nail trends by choosing black-and-white polka dots. Have you seen anything more elegant? Another Chanel masterpiece, designed by celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein. If you must incorporate some color into your tuxedo mani, go bold with a rich caramel. Shop the Trend Here’s the exact opaque white polish Michelle used for Cardi B’s base… …then she traced each tip with a stripe of Black Onyx. Another luxurious, snow-white shade. CHANEL Le Diable En Chanel You’ll cherish this timeless polish forever. Chillhouse Black Tie Affair Chill Tips Press-Ons Achieve a tuxedo mani in minutes with these user-friendly press-ons, fittingly named Black Tie Affair. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Black to Black Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri polish dries in just 60 seconds, making it perfect for nail art. Essie Nail Polish Set in Licorice Black + Blanc White This beautiful two-for-one set has everything you need. Opening Image: @kyliejenner














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Cardi in Paris, Kylie in L.A.—Every Trendy Celebrity Is Wearing This Chic Nail Style Right Now.
Cardi B and Dua Lipa are supporters as well.