We’re definitely a sucker for some killer nail art (geometric and body part designs, anyone?), as we could go on forever about how much time we waste scrolling through the #nailsdid hashtag on Instagram. And while some over-the-top nail looks leave us absolutely breathless, there’s something truly intriguing about minimalist manicures, as they give off a prim and polished look which is anything but ostentatious.
And while minimalist manicures may seem like a cool girl or salon-only kind of thing, thankfully there are tons of helpful YouTube tutorials and Pinterest photo guides to help achieve this seemingly versatile look. Even better news is that a lot of these simple and pretty minimalist manicure looks are anything but time-consuming, making it ideal for all us busy moms who have zero time (and not to mention patience) to bring the kiddos to all those manicure appointments. To get this highly coveted nail look, we looked through YouTube and Pinterest to find some great tutorials that won’t take up a great deal of time to create. Plus, some of these ridiculously easy manicure ideas use some eye-opening (and not to mention game-changing) techniques that will make polish application a lot more interesting going forward. Seriously, one nail idea listed here makes us want to use cotton-swabs (and bobby pins) on all our future DIY manis.
Minimalist Dot Manicure Tutorial
Simple and easy, this minimalist dot manicure idea uses cotton swabs to add a small (and perfectly even) dot to the center of nude polish.
More from CafeMom: Period Nails Are a Thing & They Are Actually Bloody Brilliant
Minimalist Manicure for Beginners Tutorial
Each of these three minimalist nail looks are perfect for beginners as they don’t have a ton of confusing steps to create.
Gold Linings
This minimalist manicure idea may look tricky, but all it really requires is a base coat color which is then dressed up with a thin stripe of gold polish across the nail. Finish with a top coat to bring on some high dazzling shine.
Sharpie Nude Nails Tutorial
Dress up nude nails with Sharpie marker pen which can easily create thin lines and easy shapes.
Eyelash Minimalist Manicure Tutorial
Black nail polish, some nail striping tape, and a super thin paintbrush is all it takes to create this ridiculously cute nail look.
Easy Minimalist Nails for Beginners Tutorial
Great for moms who have a little "me time" to spare, this helpful tutorial creates a timeless black and white nail look that won't disappoint.
More from CafeMom: This Hairy Swimsuit Is Redefining 'Beach Body' Goals
Bunny Minimalist Nails Tutorial
Six easy steps (plus a small brush or bobby pin!) is all it takes to create this adorable nail art idea.
Minimalist Toothpick Nails Tutorial
To create this stunning Valentine’s Day-ready look, simply grab some toothpicks and red polish.
Simple Minimalist French Manicure Tutorial
Special nail striping tape (available online or at drugstores) can help create the perfect minimalist French manicure in minutes.
Halfway There Minimalist Pink Nails Tutorial
Using some striping tape, nail polish, and top coat can help create this jaw-dropping nail look without any hiccups.
Easy Negative Space Nails Tutorial
Bring on the glitz and glam with this easy negative space nails tutorial which only has five steps to follow.
More from CafeMom: 16 of the Most Offensive Things Ever Done to Jeans
Quick & Easy Geometric French Tips Tutorial
Lovely geometric shapes give French tips a fun and stylish twist.
Stencil Minimalist Nails Tutorial
Game-changing nail stencils (available online or at beauty supply stores) or striping tape can help create this ultra feminine nail look.
Minimalist Nail Art Ideas Tutorial
Each of these six chic minimalist nail ideas are sure to provide some major beauty inspiration.
Copper Leaf Stars Tutorial
Although this nail look may not be exactly beginner friendly, it’s still pretty easy for those who have some serious DIY skills to brag about.
25 Very Easy Minimalist Nail Ideas for Beginners Tutorial
Not sure about what kind of nail looks to create? Here are 25 sleek and stylish minimalist nail ideas that are anything but boring.
Double Strip Mani Tutorial
Some helpful striping tape can help create a double French manicure look that’s truly original.
Minimalist French Manicure Tutorial
White nail polish and some gold foil keep your nails elegant and totally attention-grabbing.
Color Block Nail Tutorial
Bold polish lovers will adore this color block nail look which only has six easy-to-follow steps.
More from CafeMom: Vagina Nails Are Here & They Are Very NSFW
Fashion Week Minimalist Nail Art Tutorial
Achieve that runway-ready nail look with this uncomplicated tutorial.
Basic Button Minimalist Nail Tutorial
Using bobby pins can create a small button-like dots on nude or colored nails.
Minimalist Galaxy Nails Tutorial
Nail art pros will love this one-minute galaxy nail look which is sure to get tons of likes on Instagram.
Disney-Inspired Nails Tutorial
Disney-loving mamas, tweens, and teens will love this Ariel-inspired nail.
Easy Infinity Nails Tutorial
Freehanding an infinity design on nude nails helps give it a fun (and not to mention inspirational) punch of excitement.
Hole-Hearted Mani Tutorial
Using heart hole puncher on a strip of painter’s tape can help give your manicure a pop of glam.
Half Moon Manicure Tutorial
Placing stickers at the base of nails can help create a gorgeous half moon manicure look correctly.
Two Tone Manicure Tutorial
Beat the winter blues with this cheery nail idea which places two bright colors together to create a truly beauty look.
DIY Wire Nail Art Tutorial
Fashionistas will love this DIY wire nail art idea which places wire on top of painted nails to create some noticeable (and stylish) contrast.
Geometric Nail Art Tutorial
A colorful geometric design can really upgrade the nail art game in 2018.
Rose Gold Gorgeousness
Placing some pops of gorgeous rose gold color on naked nails keeps them basic yet equally alluring.
