Selena Gomez, Cynthia Erivo, and the Celebrity Nail Trends That Stole the Show at the BAFTAs

The British Academy Film Awards, commonly known as the BAFTAs, are one of the most prestigious events in the entertainment industry. While the awards themselves are the main attraction, the red carpet is where celebrities showcase their style, elegance, and creativity. This year, the BAFTAs were no exception, with stars like Selena Gomez and Cynthia Erivo turning heads not just with their outfits, but also with their stunning nail art. Nail trends have become an integral part of red carpet fashion, and the 2024 BAFTAs proved that celebrities are taking their manicures as seriously as their gowns and jewelry. In this blog, we’ll dive into the nail looks that stole the show at the BAFTAs, focusing on Selena Gomez and Cynthia Erivo, and explore how these trends are shaping the world of celebrity beauty and fashion.

The Rise of Nail Art in Red Carpet Fashion

Nail art has come a long way from being a simple beauty routine to a full-blown fashion statement. Over the years, celebrities have used their nails as a canvas to express their personality, complement their outfits, and even make bold political or cultural statements. From intricate designs to minimalist elegance, nail art has become a key element of red carpet glamour. The BAFTAs, being a global platform, are the perfect stage for celebrities to showcase their unique style. This year, nail trends ranged from classic French manicures to avant-garde designs, proving that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to red carpet nails. Let’s take a closer look at how Selena Gomez and Cynthia Erivo embraced this trend and set the bar high for nail art enthusiasts everywhere.

Selena Gomez: Subtle Elegance with a Twist

Selena Gomez, known for her timeless style and effortless charm, opted for a nail look that perfectly complemented her BAFTAs ensemble. While her outfit was the epitome of sophistication, her nails added a touch of modernity and playfulness.

The Look

Selena chose a soft, neutral palette for her nails, featuring shades of beige and taupe. These colors are perfect for creating a chic, understated look that doesn’t overpower the overall outfit. However, what made her manicure stand out was the subtle twist she added: a single accent nail on each hand, adorned with delicate gold foil details. This small yet impactful detail elevated her nails from simple to stunning.

Why It Worked

Selena’s nail look was a masterclass in balance. The neutral tones kept the focus on her outfit and accessories, while the gold foil added just enough sparkle to catch the light and draw attention. This approach is perfect for anyone who wants to experiment with nail art without going overboard. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more.

How to Recreate the Look

If you’re inspired by Selena’s nails, here’s how you can achieve a similar look:

1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Apply two coats of a neutral nail polish in beige or taupe.
3. Choose one nail on each hand as your accent nail.
4. Use a fine brush or tweezers to apply gold foil or gold leaf to the accent nails.
5. Seal the design with a top coat for longevity.

Cynthia Erivo: Bold and Daring

While Selena Gomez embraced subtlety, Cynthia Erivo went in the opposite direction with a bold and daring nail look that perfectly matched her vibrant personality and striking red carpet outfit. Cynthia is no stranger to making a statement, and her nails were no exception.

The Look

Cynthia’s nails were a celebration of color and creativity. She opted for a vibrant red polish, a classic choice that never goes out of style. However, what made her manicure unique was the addition of intricate black lace designs on each nail. The contrast between the bold red and the delicate black lace created a stunning visual effect that was both elegant and edgy.

Why It Worked

Cynthia’s nail look was a perfect example of how to balance boldness with sophistication. The red polish added a pop of color that complemented her outfit, while the lace designs added a touch of artistry and individuality. This look is ideal for anyone who wants to make a statement without sacrificing elegance.

How to Recreate the Look

Recreating Cynthia’s nail art requires a steady hand and a bit of patience, but the results are worth it. Here’s how you can achieve a similar look:

1. Apply a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Paint your nails with two coats of a vibrant red polish.
3. Once the polish is dry, use a thin nail art brush or a nail stamping kit to create lace designs in black.
4. If you’re not confident in your freehand skills, you can use lace-patterned nail stickers for a similar effect.
5. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and add shine.

Other Notable Nail Trends at the BAFTAs

While Selena Gomez and Cynthia Erivo stole the spotlight, they weren’t the only ones showcasing stunning nail art at the BAFTAs. Here are a few other trends that caught our eye:

1. French Manicure with a Twist

The classic French manicure got a modern update at the BAFTAs, with celebrities opting for colored tips instead of the traditional white. Shades like pastel pink, lavender, and even metallic silver were popular choices, adding a fresh twist to a timeless look.

2. Gemstone Accents

Gemstones and rhinestones were a recurring theme on the red carpet, with celebrities adding these sparkling details to their nails for a touch of glamour. Whether it was a single gem on each nail or a full-on bedazzled design, this trend was all about making a statement.

3. Negative Space Designs

Negative space nail art, which involves leaving parts of the nail bare to create geometric or abstract designs, was another popular trend. This minimalist approach is perfect for those who want a modern and edgy look.

4. Matte Finishes

While glossy nails are always a classic, matte finishes made a strong showing at the BAFTAs. Celebrities opted for matte versions of bold colors like black, red, and navy, creating a sleek and sophisticated look.

Why Nail Art Matters on the Red Carpet

Nail art may seem like a small detail, but it plays a significant role in a celebrity’s overall red carpet look. Here’s why it matters:

1. Completes the Outfit: Just like accessories, nails can tie an entire look together. A well-executed manicure can enhance the colors, textures, and themes of an outfit.
2. Expresses Individuality: Nail art allows celebrities to showcase their personality and creativity. Whether it’s a bold design or a subtle detail, nails can tell a story.
3. Sets Trends: Celebrities have a huge influence on beauty and fashion trends. When a star like Selena Gomez or Cynthia Erivo debuts a unique nail look, it inspires fans and sets the tone for upcoming trends.

How to Incorporate BAFTA-Inspired Nail Trends into Your Own Style

You don’t have to be a celebrity to rock these nail trends. Here are some tips for incorporating BAFTA-inspired nail art into your everyday style:

1. Start Small: If you’re new to nail art, start with simple designs like Selena’s gold foil accents or a single gemstone on each nail.
2. Experiment with Colors: Don’t be afraid to try bold colors or unique combinations. Take inspiration from Cynthia’s red and black lace design.
3. Use Nail Stickers or Stamps: If freehand nail art feels intimidating, use stickers or stamps to achieve intricate designs.
4. Invest in Quality Products: High-quality nail polish and tools can make a big difference in the longevity and appearance of your manicure.

The 2024 BAFTAs were a celebration of not just film and talent, but also of creativity and style. Selena Gomez and Cynthia Erivo reminded us that nail art is more than just a beauty trend—it’s a form of self-expression and a way to elevate any look. Whether you prefer subtle elegance or bold statements, there’s a nail trend for everyone. So, the next time you’re getting ready for a special occasion, don’t forget to pay attention to your nails. After all, as the BAFTAs have shown us, they might just be the finishing touch that takes your look from ordinary to extraordinary.