Getty | Jeremy MoellerGetty | Jeremy Moeller
Fashion commonly influences beauty trends. From mixed metal nails taking after the trend in the accessories space to bows being incorporated into our french manicures after making a comeback in 2023, it’s a well-documented phenomenon that continues to stand the test of time. The latest manicure to come out of this trend loop? “Van Cleef” nails.
As the name suggests, this trend is inspired by the iconic jewelry brand. “Van Cleef, specifically the four-leaf clover Alhambra collection, has been rapidly increasing in popularity due to the ‘old money’ aesthetic that has been taking over social lately,” celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec tells PS. “Van Cleef has been around since about the 1900s but this collection originated in 1968, adding to that auspicious feel that the brand has cultivated.”
Still, what exactly are Van Cleef nails and how can you get the look for yourself? Ahead, Kandalenc explains all of that, plus we round up inspiration for you to take with you to your next nail appointment.
What Are Van Cleef Nails?
In short, Van Cleef nails are an old trend being made new again. “Logo nail art has trended on and off for years,” Kandalec says. The manicure is simply a new version of the trend that was everywhere in the ’90s. Remember “LV” nails? What about the “CC” decals that were popular in the mid-’00s? They’re all different versions of the trend we’re seeing today.
One primary difference between the logo-mania trends of the past and Van Cleef nails is that this trend comes at a time when 3D motifs are extremely popular. So instead of hand-painted nail art, numerous Van Cleef nails feature quatrefoil charms on the nail itself, creating a look that’s both timeless and trendy.
How to Get Van Cleef Nails
The trend is pretty simple to achieve. “You can definitely get Van Cleef nails both on your natural nails, as well as on enhancements,” Kandalec says. “If you’re not drawing the design by hand, opt for these caviar beads and glue them onto the nail in the quatrefoil design,” Kandalec says. “Once you’ve perfected the design, paint the inside of the border with a nail color of your choice, then seal everything with a top coat.” If you still can’t picture the trend, keep scrolling for some timely manicure inspiration inspired by these iconic jewels.
Pink Van Cleef Nails
The beauty of creating the quatrefoil design yourself is that you get to paint the inside of the shape whatever color you’d like. How cute is this pink design?
Short Van Cleef Nails
Short nails can also get in on the Van Cleef fun, too. This manicure features french tips on a few fingers and the quatrefoil design on others.
Colorful Van Cleef Nails
Van Cleef nails can also be colorful and eye-catching. Just take this red-themed design, for instance.
Van Cleef Nails With Multiple Designs
In addition to the quatrefoil, this manicure also features french tips and additional crystal designs.
Cat Eye Van Cleef Nails
Van Cleef nails meet the cat-eye trend in this stunning manicure. Keeping the base shade a neutral tone really helps the charm to stand out.
Butterfly Van Cleef Nails
Your Van Cleef nails don’t have to just feature quatrefoils. Take the beading technique and create other fun shapes like this butterfly design.
Ariel Baker is the associate editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.
