Cloud nails are basically any nail design that mimics clouds. They're made by creating a thin layer of polish over a base coat, then adding small dots-like shapes randomly on your nail. The result is a cloudy effect that looks like the sky and can be colored or clear. They're all about creating a dreamy and aesthetic look. Cloud nails are an incredible way to take your manicure from average to outstanding. When done correctly, they can look like the sky above or even fluffy pillows of cotton candy. Cloud-inspired nails don't just look great on their own: they go perfectly well with other nail designs like ombre or marble effects. While there are no rules when it comes to adding clouds to nails, many people prefer them with darker colors like navy blue or midnight black. If you want something a little more fun, pair them with lighter shades like pink or purple! Cloud nails are also trendy in soft pastels like lavender and pale pink. Any design that incorporates many different colors or sparkles will go perfectly well with cloud nails. This is because the effect of these types of designs makes it easier to see the details in your clouds. Cloud nails are fantastic with any design that has multiple colors or shades. They're especially great for geometric designs and floral patterns. You can pair them with patterns like stripes, dots, or swirly designs. They also help prevent bleeding from other colors, so if you're trying out a new shade or want a solid color on the one hand but want some variety on the other, cloud nails can save you from having to reapply everything later.
Cloud Designs on Long Nails
Solar Panel: Climate Action Nail Design | Climate Crisis Nails - NB3021
Climate Action Nail Art | Climate Crisis Nails - NB2653
Low-Carbon Lifestyle Nail Design | Climate Crisis Nails - NB2658
Climate Change and Cities with More Heat Nail Art | Climate Crisis Nails - NB3009
Glitter Cloud Nails Pastel Cloud Nails Cloud Jelly Nails Toy Story Cloud Nails
How to Choose the Best Colors for Cloud Nails
If you're wondering what colors go best with cloud nails? It's simple: soft pastels! Pale pink or lavender are both great choices for people who want a subtle look—and if you really want to make a statement, try using bright yellow or orange instead!
While cloud nails look best when done in bright colors, you can also get a similar effect with neutral shades if you're feeling more subtle.
Tips for Cloud Nail Designs
You can do cute cloud nails with brushes or dotting tools (also called "tapered brushes"). You can even use toothpicks or cotton swabs!
Cloud nails are meant to look airy and ephemeral, so you want to go with a light color as your base. Pastel shades work great here.
Don't use too many different shades! It's easy to get carried away with this design, but remember that it's meant to be airy and light—too many colors will make it look busy and heavy instead of light and fluffy.
Don't paint the nails with a lighter shade than the base color of your nail polish. This will make it look like you have white tips and not clouds.