10 '90s Inspired Pedicure Trends Perfect For Sandal Season

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If you're into entertainment as much as we are, then you'll remember the '90s as a time of boy bands, girl power, and supermodels. You wouldn't be wrong. But it was also a time of self-expression and looking forward to the future. With that came some interesting fashion trends, including futuristic patterns and vibrant shades like neon — which make for perfect pedicure designs.

Whether you're feeling nostalgic or simply looking to switch up your usual basic French-tipped toes, tapping into '90s style is a great place to start. They bring a bold individuality that pops against any sandal style during the summer months. Best of all, many of the designs are relatively easy to recreate at home. From rhinestones and silver to geometric neon and chrome, these styles are guaranteed to make a statement.

Rhinestones and florals were so popular in the '90s that everyone was seen wearing them on their nails, whether at parties, weddings, or out on a date. The late '90s, in particular, was when rhinestones became a beauty and fashion essential. They were used on clothing, in one's hair, and directly on the face. If you'd like a '90s inspired pedicure this summer, try something along the lines of a white floral design against a pink or sheer base. Then, add some sparkle by placing rhinestones within the design. You can get a rhinestone kit on Amazon to get started.

The supermodels of the '90s were the original fashion influencers. Claudia Schiffer began wearing mismatched nails off the runway, and people everywhere soon followed suit. Mismatched nails were both playful and a sign of rebellion. Instead of choosing between several different shades of polish, you can opt to have one beautiful shade on each nail. There are endless options with this trend. You can also paint four nails one color and have one glittery nail or a nail with a fancy design on it. 

Whites and creams were popular nail colors in the '90s.  So, if you're looking for a '90s inspired pedicure this summer, milky pedicures are the perfect choice. They're clean, minimalist, and highly versatile, matching with just about every outfit or sandal. They're also low-maintenance, like French tips, because the polishes used for this type of pedicure are usually semi-transparent and therefore far less noticeable when the nail grows out. Achieve the look with a few coats of Manucurist Green Quick Dry Nail Polish in Milky White.

If you think of the '90s, one toy that likely comes to mind is the Barbie doll. And, of course, Barbie made bright pink a very popular color. Pink was a trending color for nails because it was bold, feminine, and playful. But, beyond pink, other neon colors, such as green and orange, were also popular in the '90s. They were ideal for those wanting to stand out from the crowd. Many wore the bright highlighter shades on long, acrylic nail extensions. Try this OPI pink polish to get the look.

Futuristic themes were huge in the '90s. After all, you can probably recall the Spice Girls (whose then and now pics are wild to see) having an extraterrestrial encounter in their film or Britney Spears' space-themed "Oops! I Did it Again" music video. Metallic nail polishes are often viewed as following in this futuristic trend, too. Metallic chrome, especially, was popular in the '90s. It stands out among typical pedicures. It gives off a high-fashion, glamour vibe and looks great when paired with skinny black jeans or a leather jacket. Chrome Clawz by OPI is the perfect polish to get you started.

Over the decade of the '90s, manicures and pedicures shifted from simple French tips to bolder designs and colors. This provided individuals with the freedom to express themselves artistically. The designs also had a very modern vibe, with lines and shapes. This summer, you can try a '90s inspired pedicure by using a dark color (black or deep reds work best) then painting contrasting lines on top of it. You can go with straight lines or curved lines, depending on your mood. Or, you can also try these 3D stickers.

Nothing screams '90s for Millennials more than tie dye. The practice, which involved swirling colors, was revived in the '90s, imitating the hippies movement of the '60s and '70s. Wearing tie dye in the '90s was a way to stand out and an inexpensive way to express oneself. So, why not recreate a tie dye look on your toes this summer? You can mix greens, pinks, yellows, and purples together to create an unforgettable look. The bright colors definitely give a summer vibe. This green polish is definitely groovy enough to get you started.

Abstract art is a fun way to rebel and express yourself through colors, shapes, and lines. The design was very popular in the '90s, especially among female rappers and hip hop artists, such as Missy Elliot and Lil' Kim. This summer, be the one with the most interesting pedicure at the pool by adding an artistic twist to an accent nail. It's bound to be a conversation starter. You'll need thin brushes for this one, so we'd recommend this Beetles French tip set. 

Brown nails were in during the '90s, as it reflected the era's obsession with grunge. Some nail polish wearers were moving away from the brighter colors of the '80s and going for more earthy, neutral tones. If you want to switch up the tonal brown, coffee-inspired manicures offer great inspiration for your toes. These neutral nails go with almost any outfit and look super luxurious. You can dress up and wear this pedicure for a night out or have it as your everyday go-to look. Either way, it looks fabulous and is totally on trend. This Beetles Brown Gel Polish Set has all the shades you'll need. 

Nothing screams '90s pop star as much as glitter. From makeup to body lotion, hair glitter, and of course, glitter nail polish, sparkles were all the rage. Even better, glitter came in many different shapes, such as stars and butterflies. Channel that energy by using Essie glitter polish in any shade for the ultimate statement-making look. Not ready to commit to full-on sparkle? Combine two '90s trends by painting glittery French tips instead.