Tortoiseshell nails are this season’s most elegant nail trend

Tortoiseshell print has long been a mainstay in the fashion world and is loved for its elegant, ultra-wearable nature and its ability to be matched with ease to any outfit you pair it with. In fact, it’s so versatile that we’d practically call it a neutral.

Now tortoiseshell is moving beyond accessories and onto our nails. Tortoiseshell manicures have started popping up in our Instagram feed and they are beyond chic. 

Take a look:

STUNNING, right?! We’re obsessed! And there are so many ways to wear it. 

For a more subtle take on the trend, try leaving half of your nails bare and painting just a portion in tortoiseshell:

Or go for a tortoiseshell feature nail:

It makes for a pretty fun French mani, too!

And if you’re wondering how the heck you even begin to create a tortoiseshell effect on your nails, watch this Canadian manicurist show you how it’s done. You need some epic nail art skills, but it’s worth it!

If you’re looking for more fresh new nail inspiration, read up on the ‘naked manicure.’

What do you think of the tortoiseshell nail trend? Let us know in the comments.

Main image credit: Getty