All the ‘90s nostalgia happening right now really comes as no surprise. We’re all collectively yearning for that raw, unfiltered, unapologetic self-expression, and that energy is showing up everywhere, including beauty and fashion. Nails, the little canvases that they are, are the perfect way to dive back in time via ‘90s nail trends.
“The ‘90s were all about identity, whether it was polished and preppy or rebellious and grunge,” says Braelinn Frank, professional manicurist and founder of Rave Nailz. “Beauty right now is leaning into that same energy, and people want their nails to say something about them. We’re seeing a revival because the ‘90s gave us iconic, versatile looks.”
Before heading to your next manicure appointment, check out our roundup of ‘90s nail trend ideas.
French Tips With a Twist
The French manicure is back, but it’s been reinvented. “We’re seeing bold colored tips, metallic foils, and even sculptural shapes,” Frank tells us. “It still feels polished and wearable, but with way more personality.”
Grunge Vibes
In the ‘90s, there were two huge counter-cultures occurring at once: preppy and polished, and full-blown grunge mode. With the latter, Frank says, “you’ve got darker, moodier looks with a grunge influence like matte finishes, deeper tones, and textures that feel unfinished, but intentional.”
Slime Green
An interesting thing started happening in the ‘80s and ‘90s: nail polish hues began popping up in all these adventurous, intensely saturated colors. People went ham over these non-mauve, non-pink hues. Enter: slime green, one of the 1990s’ most iconic hues.
Gilded Manicures
Gold accents were huge in the ‘90s, and they’re showing up again on nails. “A sheer base with gold leaf, gilded chrome, or metallic striping feels luxe but still nostalgic. It instantly elevates even the simplest manicure,” Frank says.
Daisy Nails
Daisies were the it flower of the ‘90s, and they are just as cute today as they were back then. They’re a staple in so many manicures these days, so have fun with it.
True Red
True red nail polish has never really gone away, but it’s definitely become more of a staple again in recent years. When in doubt, go with a flattering red nail polish, and you’ll feel surprisingly bold and powerful.
Futuristic Millenium
The futuristic side of the ‘90s is resurfacing through chrome and holographic effects. “These designs catch the light in unexpected ways, making nails feel otherworldly and center-stage,” Frank says.
Crackle Polish
Crackle nail polish is credited to Cover Girl, which debuted this (kinda controversial) nail finish in the late ‘90s. Since then, crackle polish has had a few resurgences, including in the 2010s and now again in the mid-2020s. This is a special topcoat you apply over wet polish that creates a crackled effect as it dries.
Fantasy Inspired
“Fantasy” was a total buzzword in the ‘90s, and that same energy is being channeled today via manicures. “Think butterfly-wing patterns, like our upcoming Rave Nailz Flutter Collection, and underwater-inspired iridescence,” Frank says.
Chunky Glitter
Color and texture was a big yes in the ‘90s, and chunky glitter was a way to achieve both. Though we’ve seen a refinement of these shimmery qualities in nail polish formulations, there’s something about the thick, “I’m here, so what” energy of a chunky glitter manicure.
