From Sha’Carri Richardson’s mosaic mani to Noah Lyles’ gender norm and critic-defying design, the 2024 Olympics nail looks are deserving of their own set of medals.
Gold medalists like Richardson, Lyles, and Simone Biles are embracing both their glam and their athleticism at the same time. Biles chronicled her pre-Paris hair and nail appointments in a GRWM TikTok, revealing that she does her own eyelashes.
Biles even touched up her makeup ahead of the floor exercise amid the artistic gymnastics women’s team final. If this doesn’t prove there’s space for beauty in sports, I don’t know what does! After all, Biles is officially the most decorated U.S. Olympic gymnast in history.
Olympics nail art can also serve as manifestation manicures. According to color magic, each shade of nail polish has a different spiritual meaning and can therefore help you visualize and manifest your future from your fingertips. If that future is winning the gold for your country, it probably makes sense to paint your nails accordingly.
If that feels too woo-woo, you can also use plain logic! There’s no denying that a good manicure can make you feel good.
“Color in general plays such a huge part in our mood,” Juli Russell, DIY nail expert for Sally Beauty, explains. “So whatever gives you the confidence to slay is absolutely going to bring success, whether it be a bold red to remind you that you’re a badass, or a smiley face nail design to give you encouragement—it all starts with a positive attitude.”
Ahead, see our favorite Olympics nail art designs from the 2024 Paris games, and get ready to screenshot for inspiration.
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