All the Abstract Nail Design Inspo You Need to Think Outside of the Nail Art Box

Nail trends have been rising in creativity over the years, and they’ve seemed to have reached a near-pinnacle at abstract nail art—well, at least until the next trend. Everywhere you turn (or scroll), we’re seeing abstract nails gracing the digits of every manicure. The art-inspired trend often uses negative space or overlapping colors paired with whimsical, dots, shapes, body forms—you name it, to create a work of art. 

From ‘60s style mod color blocks, to groovy ‘70s waves, and minimal millennial lines, your options are endless for a unique nail design that showcases your personal style. Ready to try the trend for yourself? Gather inspo below with these 20 abstract nail art designs. 

1. Minimalist Lines

When you want to try something new and different without having nails that scream “look at me,” this minimalist style is the way to go. The playful lines make it unique while the nude and white gives it the classic vibe of a modern french tip.

2. Black and Nude

This contrasting nail design is an edgier take on minimal abstract lines. If you’re ready to DIY fine lines for yourself, use a tool like the Real Techniques Fine Liner Brush.

3. Purple Flowers

Multiple shades of purple come together in this manicure for a playful and easy going look. While the base is more of the abstract lines that we love, the tiny flowers are a fun and unique touch.

4. Lava Lamp

For when you’re feeling extra groovy, try something like these wavy abstract color blocks. The deep berry hues are a win no matter the season, and you can enjoy the most perfect dark plum shade for yourself with the Pretty Woman NYC Don’t Be Jelly polish.

5. Abstract Faces 

There’s nothing that is quite of-the-times as the continuous line abstract face. Pair it with a pop of color and negative space, and you’ve got a wall art-worthy look right on your manicure. 

6. Pastel Waves

No negative space here, but the wavy blocks of pastel color layered side by side give this look everything it needs to turn heads.

7. Ebb and Flow

These fluid lines on a transparent background are the epitome of an abstract nail design. Best of all? It requires little work to DIY at home. The Manime Ebb + Flow stick on gels look just as good as a professional manicure.

8. Psychedelic Lines 

Nothing says summer-ready quite like this psychedelic look. Not a nail art pro? No problem. Each nail is unique and takes the pressure off of painting each detail perfectly. 

9. Tropical Dots 

Polka dots are definitely a favorite when it comes to the abstract nail trend, but this fun french tip-inspired look with tropical colors gives it a unique touch. If you’re going to try this look by yourself, fix any nicks or DIY mistakes with the Kokie Cosmetics Nail Polish Corrector Pen. 

10. Matte Squiggles

These multi-color lines are super on-trend, but the subtle touch of matte strays from your typical nail art for a one-of-a-kind look. Use the JulieG Matte Top Coat to give any nail polish a matte finish.

11. Paint Splatters

This colorful abstract nail design is not for the shy. With at least two colors as the base of each nail and fine black and white lines, this manicure is sure to draw some attention.

12. Bright Abstract Lines

Possibly the most popular abstract nail art style of them all, this manicure is the best of both worlds. It has ample negative space and the perfect pop of color to compliment any style. 

13. Geometric Rainbow Lines

Waves and squiggles aren’t the only way to achieve this look. Geometric shapes and sharp lines can come together for a vivid, vibrant style.

14. ‘90s-Inspired Zig Zags

This might look a little familiar to you if you’re a 90’s kid. Dots and lines against geometric shapes pay homage to a decade of bright colors and style risks. 

15. Pink Negative Space

Let the negative space do the work for you! Rather than incorporating several colors, you can choose a bold base color like Color Club Peppermint Trip to execute this look.  

16. Gold Foil

For those that like the finer things, gold foil is a nice way to spruce things up. It adds extra dimension to your look, like this manicure with a pastel smoke base. 

17. Abstract Art Collage

For the ultimate art-lover (and a very talented nail technician), this abstract art collage looks just as good on your digits as it does in a gallery.

18. Bold Black and White

Who says that black and white has to be low-key? This standout look can be created on a transparent base or a subtle nude shade like the blushed beige Mischo Beauty Bebe nail polish.

19. Pop Art

This fun style takes a few notes from pop art to create a bold summer nail look consisting of negative space, sharp black lines, and vibrant nail polish colors. 

20. Mixed Prints

Can’t pick one pattern? Choose them all! Each nail has a unique design for all of the indecisive beauties out there. This look also is a great example that abstract nail art can be a hit whether you’re rocking short nails or long acrylics.

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