'Old-Money Nails' Are The Most Timeless Manicure Trend

Style fanatics of all ages are embracing the old-money aesthetic and fashion trend, so the sophisticated look is unsurprisingly coming for nails next. Anyone who wants to nail the aesthetic should take a "less is more" approach, swapping overly long, bright, and sparkly nails for more elegant and minimalistic options. For instance, Lauren Giraldo, an influencer with over 640,000 TikTok followers, posted a video opting to switch from acrylics to a Sofia Richie-inspired sheer-ish nude dip manicure. The TikToker was very pleased with the classy, old-money-esque results.

Sometimes called "rich girl nails," old-money manicures should appear dainty and subtle — never over-the-top. "Fresh, clean, and understated, but deliberate, is the vibe," celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik told InStyle. From sheer nudes to solid neutrals to soft shimmers, there are many ways to achieve "old-money nails." Are you ready to embrace your elegant side and show it off through your manicure?

One of the easiest and most intentional ways to get an old-money-inspired manicure is to apply a sheer, ultra-subtle polish to your nails. Whether the nail polish is clear or nude, it should show some of your natural nail color and enhance your genuine nails rather than overpower them.

White is an excellent alternative to nude or clear nail polish if you want something a little more noticeable for your old-money manicure. The white nail look is timeless and elegant, so it's an ideal nail polish option that will look chic with any outfit. If you want your nails to look even more expensive, opt for a translucent, semi-sheer white polish.

This tip might be a tough pill to swallow for people who enjoy sparkly manicures, but ultra-glittery nails typically appear too bold for the old-money category. However, creating a glossy effect will look more elegant and expensive, making glassy manicures beautiful alternatives to glitter-covered nails. Even subtle hints of light shimmer can be appropriate for old-money manicures, as long as the sparkles aren't too intense.

While you might assume that long nails appear more glamorous than short options, shorter nails tend to be more elegant. As many people with longer nails know, they can frequently break, get dirty, and appear fake. Thus, it's a better idea to keep your nails trimmed short and well-shaped for a classier, cleaner, and more understated vibe. And while you're at it, don't rule out bolder colors if they're classics. Red is the ultimate old-money shade.

You don't have to give up nail art for the old-money look! While you may want to veer away from ultra-dramatic nail art featuring neon colors and daring 3D details, more delicate designs — such as small flowers, for instance — will look lovely. Just remember to keep the nail art subtle, dainty, and minimalistic, and avoid anything that seems noticeably loud or vivid.

Anyone who wants to add a gentle touch of color to their old-money nails should work with subtle, light-pink shades. Neutral-leaning sheer pinks are perfect for the old-money aesthetic, and baby pink exudes quiet luxury. Still, you should stay away from intense hot pink and neon shades for this more low-key aesthetic.

Pearl jewelry is the epitome of the old-money look, so take inspiration from that timeless jewelry when doing your nails. Get a pearlescent manicure featuring shiny glimpses of the other light hues that genuine pearls reflect with a whiteish base. While the pearl-like manicure is more advanced than the prior ideas, it's about as old money as a manicure can get.