When summer arrives, spending hours scrolling through The RealReal in search of the perfect Pucci dress may seem like a reasonable way to pass the time. While splurging on a shopping spree might not fit into your vacation budget, treating yourself to a matching manicure is a much easier decision to make.
Luckily, there are just as many options for your next nail set as there are vintage Pucci prints to admire. Nail artists are putting a fresh spin on the signature ’60s-inspired pattern, incorporating it into everything from subtle French tips to bold designs filled with color, rhinestones, and 3D charms. The overall look is a perfect blend of playful and glamorous — reminiscent of the maximalist energy that inspired Alabama Barker’s now-famous statement: “Nasty, with a Pucci outfit… nasty.” It’s a fantastic alternative to adding that dream dress to your online cart.
Below, find everything you need to know about the Pucci nail trend, along with numerous ideas for trying it out.
Pucci Nails For the Summer
Decades before the term “dopamine dressing” became popular, Pucci had perfected the art. The brand’s prints are visually captivating, featuring hypnotic swirls, curved lines, and unexpected color combinations that give each print a mesmerizing quality. However, the specific arrangement of colors and lines varies from one design to another. The same diversity can be seen in Pucci nail art: no two sets are identical.
You’ll encounter classic color combinations like pink, orange, purple, and white, as well as cooler mixes of turquoise, blue, green, and lilac. The patterns are equally diverse, ranging from swirls and chevrons to concentric shapes and geometric mosaics. If the design looks kaleidoscopic and almost psychedelic, then you’re on the right track.
It’s safe to say that subtlety is not the goal with this manicure trend. With the European summer in full swing, who wants plain nails anyway? As celebrity nail artist Stephanie Stone mentioned in a Bustle interview, “This summer is going to be all about colors that feel alive,” and Pucci nails certainly embody that spirit, with the patterns exuding as much energy as the vibrant shades themselves.
How To Embrace the Trend
Creating Pucci-inspired nails may appear free-flowing, but achieving the desired look requires precision. Unless you’re skilled with a detail brush, it’s best to leave this task to professionals.
Start by selecting a specific Pucci pattern as your reference point, ideally before choosing your nail polish colors. Since the color combinations are integral to the look, replicating a palette from an actual print will make your manicure more identifiable.
Next, decide how much Pucci you want to incorporate. Restricting the pattern to a French tip can make even the boldest color combination feel more wearable, while an all-over design gives the swirling lines more space to flow across the nail.
Remember, not all ten fingers need to match. Mixing different patterns from nail to nail enhances the overall effect, while maintaining a cohesive look through the color palette.
For a unique twist, consider deviating from the traditional French tip design. Let the pattern dip, curve, and wind down the sides of the nail, creating negative space around the edges.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, opt for a mix-and-match approach by featuring the fashion print on one hand and experimenting with coordinating ombré shades on the other. You can even add Emilio Pucci’s signature as an accent for an extra touch.
For a more extravagant look, swap the ombré effect for chunky 3D embellishments like flowers, buttons, and gemstones. These elements enhance the ’60s vibe of the Pucci print.
Not every Pucci manicure needs to be elaborate. A subtle French tip design with a few colorful slivers and stripes can convey the essence of the trend without overwhelming the nails.
Consider adding rhinestones to your Pucci-inspired nails for extra dimension and sparkle. Scatter them across the print to elevate your manicure and make it even more summer-ready.
Alternatively, swap the traditional black and white stripes for chrome webbing. The metallic finish will make the intricate lines of the design stand out.
When it comes to Pucci nails, there are no strict rules on restraint. The more color, movement, and embellishments you incorporate, the closer you’ll get to capturing the brand’s signature joyful chaos.
