In the realm of beauty, a lot of our favourite makeup trends and techniques that we use daily were first embraced and made mainstream by the LGBTQIA+ community. Contouring, baking, and highlighting are techniques that originated from drag, and have made their way into all our everyday makeup routines. Likewise, dramatic glitter and shimmer are a staple in queer nightlife and performance art. Exuberant and bold eyeshadow looks were popularised by the community that is constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional beauty standards and challenging norms. This June, let’s give the community that paved the way their well-deserved flowers.
This week marks the beginning of Pride Month, dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community—a community forged in courage and self-expression. Pride Month is a reminder of our ongoing fight for equal rights and the importance of acceptance, inclusivity, and embracing the beauty of diversity. If you’re looking to show your support through your beauty looks, nail art can be a fantastic way to do just that.
Pride Month nail art designs often incorporate the colours of the rainbow—a symbol of LGBTQIA+ pride. The rainbow flag (designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978) and the Progress Pride flag (a redesign by Daniel Quasar in 2018) feature vivid colours that each represent harmony and healing. Other prominent LGBTQIA+ symbols are the pink triangle, lambda, and equal sign—each with layers of meaning and significance behind them to be mindful and respectful of. To add more glitz and glam to your claws, sprinkle in glitter or use sparkly nail polish—either as a whole coat or accents on the tip or borders.
So, whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally—prepare to make a statement and champion the rights of the community this Pride Month, all while looking fabulous. Below, see Vogue Singapore’s lineup of unique, vibrant nail art designs to inspire your next manicure.
1 / 10
Eye-catching ombré
“Aura nails”—aka airbrushed nails–are our favourite nail trend. Elevate the look by adorning on contrasting chrome detailing.
2 / 10
Minimalism is key
For fans of more minimalistic nail looks, this rainbow-tip design is simple, sleek, and easy to achieve.
3 / 10
Crystal claws
If you prefer something showier, these fierce, blinged-out talons are sure to make you stand out.
4 / 10
A little bit of everything
Channel your inner artist with this palette-inspired nail art design—a whimsical mix and match of elements.
5 / 10
Colourful doodles
Keep it cute by decorating your nails with doodles—play around with different colours, shapes, and sizes.
6 / 10
Rainbow road
Add a dash of glitter to make this wavy rainbow manicure pop.
7 / 10
3D gels
Dip your toes—or your nails–into an avant-garde look sculpted with multicoloured gel nail polish.
8 / 10
Dainty dried flowers
Switch up your plain French tip manicure with small sprigs of dried flowers, encapsulated under a top coat.
9 / 10
Iridescent chrome
Full chrome is the way to go if you’re looking for a colourful, shimmery nail art design that works great for a day out or night at the club.
10 / 10
Jelly drops
The dewdrop nail trend adds texture to your manicure, and complements a variety of base colours.
