Some things in life are guaranteed: your iced coffee hitting differently, your group chat being chaotic, and Keke Palmer giving us a new manicure to obsess over. And this time? She really went for it.
She popped up on Instagram with a beauty look straight out of the early 2000s. Think: sleek copper hair with a deep side bang, skinny brows, and a denim blue smokey eye.
It was giving peak Y2K, but let’s be real—the red aura nails stole the show. And bestie, they’re a whole vibe.
Keke Palmer’s Vampy Nails
If a vampire and a fire emoji had a love child, it would be this manicure. Her nails were long, sharp, and dripping with drama, featuring a black-to-red aura ombré that looked straight-up hypnotizing.
The contrast between the deep black edges and the fiery red center made each nail pop like a glowing ember.
You know that one shade of lip gloss every early 2000s It-girl had in her Juicy Couture bag? That’s the energy these nails are serving—moody, mysterious, and dangerously good.
This set feels like something you’d wear to an underground concert, a late-night diner run, or just to sit in your car and blast old Paramore tracks like you’re the main character.
It’s bold but wearable, edgy but polished. And let’s be real, if Keke is rocking it, we’re all taking notes.
How to Get the Look
If you’re feeling bold, you can even recreate the look at home. Start with a jet-black base to build that deep, moody contrast. Once dry, grab a sponge or a nail art tool and lightly stamp on a rich, fiery red in the center of each nail.
Blend just enough to create the aura effect without losing the bold contrast. The key? A glossy top coat to make it all come together. This mani needs to shine like the main event it is.
If DIY isn’t your thing, this is the perfect excuse to book a nail appointment and let a pro handle it. Just tell them you want Keke Palmer’s red aura nails, and if they don’t immediately nod in understanding, show them a pic.
The whole look is giving Hot Topic in its prime—but make it 2025. And now, we wait for the full outfit reveal because we already know Keke doesn’t do things halfway.
In the meantime, let’s all book our next nail appointment and pretend we’re about to headline a mid-2000s music video. Sounds like a plan.
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