Painting one’s nails isnot just apopular fashion trend, but anold tradition that has along history. Itisbelieved that itwas actually started bymen, when warriors ofAncient Babylon painted their nails before combat. Inthe modern world, nail polish istraditionally considered tobeafemale prerogative, but alot ofmale celebrities like Marc Jacobs, Jared Leto, Adam Lambert, Johnny Depp, Seal, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, and Harry Styles challenge this view and enjoy their “menicure.” Many regular guys have started tofollow their lead and treat their nails creatively.
Bright Side chose the most important reasons that motivate contemporary men tocolorfully decorate their nails.
They doittoraise awareness for animportant cause.
After Caitlyn Jenner’s coming out asatransgender woman in2015, the hashtag #PaintYourNailsForBruce (Bruce isCaitlyn’s former name) was born onsocial media and many men showed their support for the famous athlete byusing nail polish. In2016, actor Chris Hemsworth shared apicture ofhimself with apainted nail onInstagram aspart ofThe Polished Man campaign aimed atending violence against children. Hemsworth nominated fellow stars (including his brother Liam and Zac Efron) toparticipate and share their pics.
They doittobreak stereotypes.
Aman can paint his nails ifhewants tomake astatement. Ifa*guy’s views ofwhat’s gender-appropriate are unconventional and his ideas ofbeauty are different, hehas achance toraise his voice. Aman’s nails can become apowerful message, telling people that hethinks outside the box.
They doitfor self-expression.
Ifaman iscreative healways looks for new and unexpected ways toexpress his personality. Traditionally, accessories, hairstyles, and clothes have served this purpose, but polished nails can perfectly complement any man’s look, and say alot about his “true colors.” There are plenty ofmanicure styles that will match any outfit and persona. Beautiful nails will give aguy atouch ofsophistication and glamour and will certainly make him stand out.
Their kids paint their nails.
Sometimes little girls get tired ofplaying with dolls and need other exciting experiences. Ifaman isaloving daddy, atsome point heisprobably going tobecome amodel for his daughter’s manicure experiments. Itisaunique and adorable way tobond with achild, aswell asachance tostart sporting some shiny nail colors. Both the dad and his kid are definitely going tobeproud ofeach other.
What doyou think ofmen with painted nails? Can you suggest any other reasons for why aman might paint his nails?
FAQs
They do it to break stereotypes.
Why are more men painting their nails? ›
Nail polish in ancient Babylon is thought to have represented different classes, and warriors painted their nails to “intimidate their enemies.” “MANicures” now are often celebrated for their association with gender fluidity and male self-care and grooming.
Why did people start painting their nails? ›
The history of nail polish begins in ancient China, in its earliest form it was worn by the rulers and those in high society as a symbol of their wealth and power.
When did men start wearing nail polish? ›
About 5,500 years – old enough? We're talking about nail polish, right? Specifically men painting their nails. Babylonian warriors were doing it around 3500BC.
What is the purpose of men painting their nails black? ›
Men paint their nails black for a number of reasons—for fashion and style, to show they're goth or in a rock band, or to express their sexual or gender identity. Other times, men might paint their nails to strengthen them for sports or guitar playing, or simply to stand out from the crowd just because they want to.
Is nail polish on men a trend? ›
Males and Nails: Ideas and Trends. In recent years, brightly colored or intricately designed men's manicures have become a trend among celebrities. Men's nail polish has become a symbol of gender fluidity, self-care, grooming, and the confidence to express their sexuality.
Why do men do nails? ›
Improve the Health of Your Hands
During a manicure, it's not just your nails that get attention. Your skin will be exfoliated, removing built-up dead skin cells and dry skin that causes irritation. If you have callouses, a manicure can dramatically improve your skin health.
Why is everyone painting their nails white? ›
There are, of course, many out there who opt for white nails because it is a classic color that goes with everything, exudes subtlety and simplicity, and is well suited to professional environments. White nails are also ideal for summer, as it is a fresh, light color.
Why is nail polish so popular? ›
Many people wear nail polish because it's highly fashionable. It is used to match outfits and accessories. It can enhance clothing items, patterns, and colors. It plays a big part in highlighting a look.
When did nail polish become feminine? ›
While the turn to nail polish being slotted as feminine is difficult to pinpoint, by the 30s, marketing campaigns solely targeted women. It's only in the 80s with the punk scene that we saw the re-emergence of nail polish for men, where black painted nails were a sign of group membership.
I think most men look at other parts of a woman's body before nails, starting with the face and lips, but the emotional associations of the color red with boldness and confidence are probably just as appealing for many,” the historian says.
Did nail polish start with men? ›
Which Gender Was Nail Polish Originally For? Just like heeled shoes, wigs and the colour pink, nail polish was also originally created for men, despite its feminine connotations nowadays. Men would apply polish to their nails to make them look shiny and clean.
What color should guys paint their nails? ›
Generally, darker shades of polish will be more noticeable. If you want people to notice your nails, try a bold color, such as black, navy blue, or green. On the other hand, if you prefer a less noticeable color, choose light shades that are close to your nail color.
Can a straight guy paint his nails? ›
As of late, men painting their nails is in vogue, especially for straight male stars like Bad Bunny and Harry Styles. GQ recently published an article, “Jeremy Allen White Can Pull off a Manicure, and So Can You“. These men are lauded for their self-expression and flare, protected by their straight privilege.
What does one black fingernail mean on a man? ›
If you see a man with a single painted nail, most often the ring finger, he is probably partaking in the Polished Man campaign. This campaign was started by Elliot Costello when he traveled to Cambodia and met a little girl named Thea. Thea recounted the sexual abuse she suffered.
What does blue nail polish mean on guys? ›
You can't really talk about the blue nail trend without mentioning the case where men paint one of their fingernails blue in support of a movement called “The Polished Man”. This is a cause that supports men's role in ending violence against children and spreading awareness.
Why do guys paint their nails white? ›
White nails highlight tan skin tones.
Most guys love white nails because they pop beautifully against darker skin tones, and this contrast can make you appear even more sun-kissed and radiant.
Is it normal for boys to want to paint their nails? ›
A boy who wants to paint his nails is simply choosing a way of expressing himself, no different than a boy who may select a favorite shirt to wear or a favorite color. It certainly isn't a big deal, unless the parent chooses to make it a big deal.
Was nail polish meant for men? ›
Which Gender Was Nail Polish Originally For? Just like heeled shoes, wigs and the colour pink, nail polish was also originally created for men, despite its feminine connotations nowadays. Men would apply polish to their nails to make them look shiny and clean.
Do men prefer natural or painted nails? ›
Yes, in general. But not always! Since nail polish is a mark of femininity, most men will find women more attractive if they wear nail polish. However, most men are turned off by: fake nails, paste-on nails, extreme nail art, extremely long nails, sharp nails, or even square nails.
