Cowgirl nails are trending: we’ve rounded up our favourite nail art ideas to take to the salon

Plus, how to DIY it at home...

Cowgirl nails

by Phoebe Denman |
Updated on

Lately when we’ve been scrolling on Pinterest one thing has become clear: we’re fully in the swing of summer nail trends. One of the biggest summer 2024 nail trends we’re seeing? Our new fave mani, cowgirl nails.

There are a couple of different ways you can wear cowgirl manis. Instagram is filled with cowgirl nail ideas involving embellishment, cow print tips, and even hand-drawn cactuses. You can go for an all-over cow print or stick with an accent on one nail if that’s more your speed.

What is a cowgirl manicure?

Taking cues from 2024’s western trend, a cowgirl mani is a set of nails featuring anything that screams yeehaw, basically – and it looks like they’ll be a popular choice at the salons this summer. “These designs typically feature elements such as cow prints, cowboy hats, boots, fringe, and sometimes elements like bandana patterns,” confirms Jessica White, OPI Pro Nail Tech. “The colours often used are earthy tones, browns, blues, and reds but they can also include more vibrant hues depending on the desired look.”

Tips for creating cowgirl nail art at home

“To create a cowgirl mani at home, the easiest method would be the cow print,“ says Jessica. “Paint your nails in a white shade, my favourite is OPI’s Alpine Snow. Then take a black shade, I would recommend OPI’s Lady In Black. Use a Q-tip and get creative. Using the Q-tip, make some funky shapes which look like cow print. Remember, this pattern isn’t meant to be super neat, so play around and have fun!”

How to ask for cowgirl nail art designs at the salon

Make sure you head to your appointment with a clear idea of what you want to try in mind. Jessica has rounded up how to do it below…

  • Describe the style: Explain that you want a Western or cowgirl-inspired manicure.

  • Show examples: Bring pictures or screenshots of cowgirl nail designs you like. This gives the nail technician a clear idea of what you’re envisioning.

  • Mention specifics: If you have any particular preferences, such as matter or glossy finishes, or if you want nail art on certain nails only, let the technician know.

Cowgirl aesthetic nails are basically the nail equivalent of a great pair of cowboy boots, and whether you want a set of cute cowgirl nails to recreate at home or you need some fresh inspo to take to your next nail appointment, here’s why you should consider cowgirl nails for your next nail look….

Pointed cow print French tips

Rounded star detail cow print

Turquoise embellished

Abstract Frenchies

Pink cactus detail pointed glitter nails

Rounded cow print Frenchies

Pink cowgirl nails

Wavy cow print tips

Disco cowgirl nails

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