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This story originally appeared in the Jackson Free Press. It was added to the Mississippi Free Press website in 2025.
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Adding jewels, rhinestones or an animal print to one nail adds a level of originality to classic nail styles.

If you didn’t already know, nails are in. On Pinterest and Instagram, you can find nails of different colors, shapes and sizes. The Jackson Free Press talked to stylist Adrienne Williams of Fondren Nails (2906 N. State St., 601-362-6292) to for nail tips and the latest trends.

Almond-shaped nails are a popular trend in salons because they are feminine and soft but chic, Williams says. The almond shape gives hands an elongated and elusive appearance, but because the nail has to be shaped along the sides, the almond shape is sometimes weak and doesn’t allow your nails to grow. Getting a full-set acrylic or UV gel manicure will make them more durable.

While there’s nothing wrong with the traditional look (often dark now), singling out one nail with a decorative design can make your nails a strong feature.

Having a natural look to your nails makes the hands look elegant and classic. It’s great for a woman who may not be ready to try bold or edgy nail trends. Women can choose from colors such as clear, beige, pastels, grays and earthly tones. A well-known classic look is the French manicure with (typically) white tips.

If you want to stand apart or have slightly more edge, you can choose from numerous options of color, design and shapes. A gold or glittery French manicure updates it into something modish and eye-catching. Laying a glittery nail polish in cute shapes or colors over a subtle beige or pastel color gives the nails a whimsical appearance.

Adding jewels, rhinestones or animal print to one or a couple of nails keeps the look classic but still attention-grabbing and adds style.