Sure, this may be the year of the Fire Horse, but there’s another animal that’s taking center stage in 2026. It’s a deer, more specifically a fawn. Reminiscent of Disney princesses and scenic woodlands, these cute and docile creatures are inspiring the latest nail art trends. Deer print nails have been popping up all over our feeds for the past few weeks. Playful prints aren’t something you often see in the nail space, but this deer-inspired manicure is just as cute as it sounds.
Courtesy of _citre
This whimsical print has a brown striped base topped with mottled white dots resembling soft mottled deer fur. elizabeth ridleyThe Newcastle, UK-based manicurist first saw the print last summer as a show-goer at Copenhagen Fashion Week. “I was so excited to recreate that,” Ridley says. “I love that animal print in general is making a huge comeback. You’re seeing a lot of it in interiors right now.”
queenie nguyenThe Los Angeles nail artist says she, too, is seeing animal print details “creeping into fashion lately.” She’s completely right. Over the past few months, stains and stripes have made their way from the runways to the closets of celebrities like Katie Holmes and Sofia Richie Grainge.
Gwen continues: Instagram post “Deer print feels like the perfect way to express that.” [fashion trend] On your nails. It’s soft, unexpected, a little nostalgic, and playful without trying too hard. ”
Getty Images
Getty Images
Ridley said many customers now want the look. and julie kanderecBeyond the cute vibe of the nail design, the New York City-based nail artist says people love deer print nails because the look “combines three nail trends: brown hues, polka dots, and animal print.”
Kanderek is spot on (no pun intended). According to data from Fresha, a beauty and health services booking platform, polka dot nails are the most searched manicure. Deer print nails give classic polka dots a more rustic and fanciful feel, as precise dots are replaced with freehand spots.
Although this design looks simple, it requires an artistic hand and quality nail tools. “a gradient and fine-tipped brush “This is the key to getting deer print nails done right,” says Kanderek. There are many ways to create this design (after all, no two deer have the same spotted coat). Ridley likes to create a base by blending different shades of cream and brown polish with a gradient brush (a fine nail brush with spiky bristles) to create a furry look and texture.
Source: Allure – www.allure.com
