A Fresh Take on Nail Art

While some fashion trends catch on like wildfire, others require a bit of warming up to. Enter the latest manicure craze sweeping through Instagram: "Rotten" nails. This trend, as the name suggests, brings to life the eerie aesthetic of decay right at your fingertips. Spearheaded by influencer Mei Pang, this manicure style is stirring both intrigue and shockwaves across the beauty community. Celebrity manicurist Sarah Chue describes it as "an extremely unique manicure" that diverges from the conventional nail art we're accustomed to.

The Origin of Rotten Nails

The brainchild behind this macabre beauty trend is none other than manicurist @marggie_nails, who crafted a look that mimics the appearance of aged, decaying nails. "They're shaped like cat nails," explains Chue. Achieving this look involves a blend of nail polish or eyeshadow to replicate a rotting flesh color scheme. While Mei Pang's version has gained the most notoriety, there are variations to the trend that feature more traditional nail shapes and a slightly yellow hue, reminiscent of nail fungus, for those easing into the full rotten effect.

Creating the Look

According to Chue, the rotten nail aesthetic is adaptable, yet it demands a longer nail length to truly capture the essence of the trend. The process involves choosing a robust base, such as Apres extensions or acrylics, followed by sculpting the nails into a curved, claw-like shape with builder gel. The finishing touch involves a meticulous application of dark, decaying colors. "A dark black-brown is essential for the rotten effect, with options to add a yellow-to-brown gradient and dark red near the cuticles for a bleeding look, amplifying the creepiness," Chue advises.

Not for the Faint of Heart

Rotten nails, with their editorial flair and boundary-pushing design, are not everyone's cup of tea. However, for those who revel in making bold beauty statements and turning heads, this trend is worth exploring. It's a perfect addition to a Halloween ensemble or simply a way to stand out from the crowd. As Chue puts it, embracing such daring trends is what keeps the beauty world exciting and diverse. So, if you're looking to be the trendsetter in your circle, rotten nails might just be the next big thing to add to your beauty repertoire.