A-List Nail Art: 20 Oscar-Worthy Gold Manicures

Color Camp Art Class At-Home Super Gel ($52+): This speckled milky white look is almost guaranteed to get your creative juices flowing.

Take a walk on the rainbow side with this easy manicure — just pick your five favorite polishes and paint each finger a different color!

Chillhouse Groovy Baby Chill Tips ($16): Who says tie-dye is just for shirts? Add some retro vibes to your manicure with these non-toxic, reusable press-ons.

We love this nail polish hack that's easier than it looks.

Paintbox Like Lush + Like Flora Power Couple ($40): Color block your nails with this powerhouse duo inspired by 1970s Palm Springs.

essie You Know the Espadrille ($9): A sunny yellow is always a good way to brighten your day.

Color Camp "Frosting" At-Home Super Gel ($50+): We love this *sweet* pick. Cake anyone?

If you love abstract art, these unique tips are just for you.

Olive and June Bold & Unshaken ($8): Add vivid character to any look with this electric purple.

This manicure *screams* summer and we are so here for it.

Pick a variety of different colors or alternate between a couple for a look that's totally your own.

We're obsessed with this sunny side up manicure.

Simple and understated, we can't get enough of this pop of pink!

& Other Stories Quiet Peak Nail Polish ($7): If you're looking for a more neutral polish, this shade will elevate any spring look. It's great for weddings!

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It was only a matter of time before the gingham trend made its way into our manicures and we're not upset about it.

Minimal and totally unexpected, this nail look will be sure to turn heads.

It's not spring without some daisies!

If you can get your hands on nail stickers, go crazy!

JINSoon Absolute White ($18): A pure white manicure is good all year round.

Aura Nails

Auras are the colors you radiate in the world based on your overall vibes and energy. Taylor Swift's aura may or may not be moonstone, but what's yours? Use your nails to express yourself in a new way with these aura nail designs.

Pink Aura Nails

Aura nails start from the center of the nail, beaming outward in all directions to create just that: an aura. This trend can take on any color scheme for the coolest looks.

Purple Aura Nails with Stars

It's obvious that we adore aura nails. The trend can be translated into any color palette, which is why we love this purple take.

Tiny Silver French Tips on Neutral Aura Nails

Take on French tips with a twist! This style lines the top of the nails with a little sliver of metallic silver, and can pair with any nail color you please! This gorgeous example delicately paints over subtle aura nails.

Multicolor Aura Nails with Gems

Like our queen Taylor Swift said, "Best believe I'm still bejeweled." And with these nails, you'll be bejeweled, too. This look combines French tips, aura nails, and decorative gems to create a vibrant look fit for spring and summer.

Multicolor Nails

Picking a polish at the salon can be quite a dilemma. There are just too many good colors to choose from! So...why not choose them all? Here are some of our favorite daring designs that feature more than one color.

Muted Multicolor Nails

Multicolor nails are a unique style you can rock any time of the year. Use more muted colors like this example for fall, and then brighten things up once summer rolls around. Pastels are perfect for multicolor nails for this spring!

Multicolor Star Nails

This nail look presents gorgeous color pairs and spiky stars for a one-of-a-kind mani. The best part? You can buy them as press-on nails to wear year-round!

Multicolor Chrome Nails

Chrome is everywhere these days, but we're not complaining. This look takes multicolor nails and chrome-ifies them for a palette that'll turn heads.

French Tips

This mani may seem like a played-out classic, but we can't get enough of these stylish spins on the French tip! Plus, we've got a hot hack on how to get the perfect French tip without stepping foot in the salon...

Colorful Ombré French Tips

Combine your French tip faves with a subtle gradient for a softer payoff. This example paints a dainty stripe across the nail to distinguish the tips, but that part can be optional if you're already an ombré expert. Go with one hue, or bask in more of a multicolor look.

Silver Chrome French Tips

Chrome polish puts a shiny spin on your spring mani. This look uses silver, but you can use any hue to recreate these French tips.

Purple Chrome French Tips

Make some noise for more chrome! This example is doused in a purple chrome polish to craft the best French tip.

Striped Tips on Matte Nails

TBH we thought matte nails were so 2015, but this look totally changed our minds. This style works with any color combo you can think of, so you can coordinate with the seasons or even your current mood.

A Genius Hack For French Tip Nails

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Paying for French tips at the salon? Couldn't be us. Take on this super easy nail hack at home using a makeup sponge and any of your favorite polishes! You can go micro like this example does, or press the sponge further on your nails for a full-fledged French tip.

Fun Nail Art

Statement nail art stays on our minds these days. From delicate designs to playful patterns, these unique takes on nail art are a fun way to stand out in a crowd.

Heart-Shaped Nail Art

We're suckers for heart-shaped anything, so heart-shaped nails are definitely on our manicure roster this season. Step away from the typical French tip, and flaunt this flirty shape.

Marbled Nail Polish

This marbled nail look takes us back to the days when dipped, swirled nails were all the craze. For a total throwback nail look, pull inspo from this tie-dye-esque example.

Layered Neon Colors

If nailscapes could be lived in, we'd immediately move into this one. The bubbles of vibrant color are a quirky way to coat your nails, and we're here for this absolutely eye-catching example.

Outer Space Nails

These outer space nails use dainty aura designs and stars to form a wearable galaxy that you can show off any time. Paint them over a clear coat, or experiment with other colored bases for the background.

Nude Jelly Nails

Think lip gloss nails, but with a hint of shimmer. These jelly-like nails sport a more neutral nude color, so you can make a statement without having to worry about matching your nails to your outfits.

Squiggly Lines

Get playful with your nails this season and freehand some joyful squiggles in different colors. We love this example because the colors flawlessly feel like spring.

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Cherry Mocha Nail Color

You don't always have to wear a look full of intricate nail art. Sometimes one color is enough to make a statement, and this cherry mocha shade proves it.

Spiral Nail Art

Put onlookers in a hypnotic trance with these spiral nails. Well, an actual trance may not be the best idea, but they'll be captivated for sure.

Eclectic Multicolor Gradients

This color palette is truly showstopping. We love how this nail look translates the multicolor trend into simple three-tone gradients for a unique mani.

Rainbow Pastel Gradient Nails

In case you haven't caught on yet, we're all about rainbows and multicolors when it comes to pinning nail inspo. This gradient manicure is springtime's ultimate companion because it's painted in pastels!

Wavy Lines with Sparkle Nail Art

Y2K vibes come to life in this nail look full of wavy lines and glittery colors! Use a pink and green palette for your mani to up your nostalgia game even more.

Chartreuse Jelly-Metallic Nails

We love the transparent look that metallic jelly nails bring. If you wanna go bigger than the nude look above, the sunny shade of chartreuse is a trending color we have to hop on for our springtime nails.

Mismatched Seashell Mermaid Nails

If you're all about embellishments, these seashell nails are for you. Mismatched styles are also an interesting way to keep your nails fresh and unique to you.

Dark Gradient Nails

Want to embrace colored nails, but aren't ready for the electric hues? Take your gradient manicure and paint with darker shades for a look that's still colorful, but not overly distracting.

Wavy Lines with Star Embellishments

These adorable nails are embellished with a pistachio green polish, then topped off with tiny star and moon details. We're obsessed with the silver additions that would pair perfectly with silver jewelry.

Outlined Nails

Outline your nail shape using a fine brush. Dip into one or a range of hues to perfect the look! Colors with more contrast will really make them pop!

Coral Orange Chrome Nail Color

Coral orange is a beautiful shade that works for your nails any time of year. This example coats the color in chrome, giving a cool, new vibe to this bright color. Need this on our nails ASAP!

Navy Blue Jelly Nails

These navy nails are like a deep sea of color. They're also jelly-like and metallic to create dimension that we can't take our eyes off of.

Wavy Line Details

Get your hands on a tiny brush to craft wavy line decorations on a few or all of your nails! This look is easily recreated with the colors of your choice.

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."