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YumeTwins Kawaii Culture BlogMust Know Fashion Trends in Japan: Cute Nail Art

Must Know Fashion Trends in Japan: Cute Nail Art

By Bianca Bache
May 10, 2023

Are you tired of simple nails? Want to add some color, fun, and quirkiness to your nails? Look no further than cute Japanese nail art! This fun and quirky trend is taking the world by storm, and we here at YumeTwins can’t get enough of it!

From vibrant pastel colors, cute motifs, and intricate detailing, there’s no limit to what you can do with nail art. So get ready to embrace your inner child, and let’s dive into the world of cute Japanese nail art!

In Japan, nail art is not just a cosmetic accessory or trendy fashion statement but a form of self-expression. In Japan, some women see their nails as a blank canvas to express their personalities, emotions, and feelings.

Nail art is seen as an extension of one’s overall appearance. Women in Japan take great care to ensure that their nails are perfectly manicured and adorned with unique and eye-catching designs.

Kawaii Fashion in Japan

Kawaii fashion is a style that has been popular in Japan since the 1970s. The term kawaii or cute refers to using bright colors, playful patterns, and adorable characters in clothing and accessories. 

A manicure getting done with 3D nail art on the nails
Kawaii fashion extends to expressive nail art. Image via Shutterstock

In Japan, Kawaii fashion is about expressing individuality and embracing your inner child. It’s a style that encourages creativity, playfulness, and a sense of whimsy. In Japan, it’s common to see adults wearing pastel-colored clothing or carrying a backpack with a cute cartoon character.

This fashion trend is about having fun with your style and expressing your unique personality! So it’s easy to see why the kawaii self-expression also expands into cute nail art! 

Self-Expression through Kawaii Fashion Aesthetic

Kawaii fashion is more than just a trend; it is a form of self-expression. By incorporating playful patterns, bright colors, and cute characters into their outfits, people can break away from traditional societal norms and embrace their unique personalities.

A finger pointing at nail art designs
You can paint over your natural nails or wear a set of artificial nails for kawaii nails! Image via Shutterstock

Kawaii fashion is also a way to push back against the pressures of conforming to societal expectations. In a culture where conformity and group harmony are highly valued, kawaii fashion represents a way for women to assert their individuality and express their true selves. 

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This is especially true for young women, who may feel pressure to fit into a specific mold or conform to a certain standard of beauty. Kawaii fashion allows them to embrace their quirks and imperfections and celebrate their unique personalities!

Types of Japanese trends to try

When it comes to Japanese kawaii nail art, there are several trends that you can try out to express your creativity and personality.

Cat Cartoon 3D Nail Art
Fun designs are a cute and creative way to self-expression! Image via Shutterstock

One of the most popular types of nail art is the Harajuku style. This style is characterized by bright colors, bold designs, and cute motifs. Harajuku style is inspired by the vibrant and eclectic fashion of Harajuku, a famous district in Tokyo known for its unique street fashion. With Harajuku-style nail art, you can incorporate fun patterns and shapes onto your nails. This includes polka dots, stripes, and heart designs!

Another popular trend in Japan is pastel nail art, which is all about soft, delicate colors and simple designs. This style is perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and understated look. Pastel colors such as baby pink, lavender, and mint green are often used in this type of nail art. You can experiment with different shades and combinations to create a look that is uniquely yours.

Close up Sparkling pink glitter gel nail art on fashionista woman fingernail decorated with shiny rhinestone and cute white 3D ribbon
3D art nails have increasingly become popular in Japan. Image via Shutterstock

For those who want to take their nail art to the next level, 3D nail art is a great option. 3D nail art involves adding 3D elements to the nail, such as bows, flowers, and gems. This style is perfect for those who love to make a statement and want their nails to be the center of attention. With 3D nail art, you can create a fun, whimsical look that turns heads!

How to Do DIY Cute Nail Art

If you’re interested in creating cute nail art designs, you’ll be glad to know it’s easy, even if you’re not in Japan. One option is to create your own nail art designs at home.

Two women painting each others nails
DIY nail art is a great option to truly customize your nails! Image via Shutterstock

This is a great way to express creativity and experiment with different colors, patterns, and styles. There are several tutorials available online that can help you get started with DIY kawaii nail art.

What you need for cute nail art

You’ll need basic supplies to get started with cute DIY nail art. Supplies include nail polish in your desired colors, nail art tools such as dotting and brushes, and nail stickers or decals.

Once you have your supplies, you can begin creating your own designs. You can experiment with different patterns and shapes, such as polka dots, stripes, hearts, and stars, and combine them uniquely to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Another option for creating cute DIY nail art is to use nail stickers or decals. These are pre-designed stickers or decals that you can apply to your nails to create a fun and whimsical look. Nail stickers and decals are available in a wide range of designs, from cute animals to colorful patterns, so you can find something that suits your style.

A woman's hand with a cherry blossom showing her gel nails
Whether you go traditional or choose colorful 3D nails. Japan can have a multitude of inspirations. Image via Shutterstock

Japanese cute nail art is not just a fashion statement but a form of self-expression and creativity. It allows people to break free from traditional societal norms and embrace their unique personalities. From Harajuku style to pastel nail art and 3D designs. There are endless options to express your creativity and experiment with different colors, patterns, and styles. 

Whether you get your nails done at a salon or try DIY nail art at home. The important thing is to have fun with your style and express yourself in a way that feels true to you. So embrace your inner child, let your creativity flow, and have fun with cute Japanese nail art!

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Bianca Bache

Tokyo based writer that's enthusiastic about all things kawaii and cute!

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