Anti-Trends in Tape Nail Art: How Not to Overdo Striping Designs

Tape nail art – designs created with thin metallic striping tapes – has been a popular trend for years. It offers clean lines, geometric precision, and stylish accents without complex hand-painting. But like any trend, it comes with its own anti-trends: mistakes that make designs look outdated, overloaded, or unprofessional.

At MONLIS Schule Munich, one of the top manicure and pedicure schools, students learn not only how to use striping tape correctly but also which mistakes must be avoided to keep designs sleek, modern, and technically clean.

Below is a complete guide on how not to overdo striping tape and how to keep tape nail art stylish and relevant.

Why Tape Designs Easily Turn Into Anti-Trends

Striping tape can elevate a design — or ruin it instantly. Misuse can lead to:
– chaotic compositions,
– overly busy designs,
– visual distortion of nail shape,
– cheap-looking results,
– quick peeling due to poor application.

At MONLIS Schule, one principle is key:
Tape is an accent, not the main design element.
It should enhance the composition, not dominate it.

Anti-Trend #1: Too Many Stripes on One Nail

More is not better when it comes to tape.

Common mistakes include:
– 4–6 stripes on a small nail,
– different colors and widths mixed together,
– random placement without structure.

Professional approach:

MONLIS Schule recommends the “1–2 accent lines” rule.
One neat vertical or diagonal stripe is often enough to create a stylish minimalist look.

Anti-Trend #2: Random Intersections and Chaotic Angles

Random crossings immediately make the design look messy and unbalanced.

Correct technique:

– intersections must create a recognizable shape (V-lines, triangles, geometric forms),
– angles must be consistent,
– diagonals should match across all nails.

These principles are a core part of MONLIS Schule training.

Anti-Trend #3: Low-Quality Striping Tape

Cheap tapes often:
– lose their shape,
– crack under top coat,
– peel off within days,
– have uneven metallic finish.

Correct technique:

Students at MONLIS Schule learn to work with:
– high-quality adhesive tapes,
– durable metallic striping tapes,
– standard widths of 1–2 mm.

Material quality directly determines the durability of the design.

Anti-Trend #4: Tape Extending Beyond the Nail Edge

Even a tiny overhang leads to:
– peeling,
– snagging,
– discomfort,
– an unprofessional result.

Correct technique:

– cut exactly along the nail shape,
– press firmly into the surface,
– always seal with two layers of top coat.

Proper sealing is what makes the design last.

Anti-Trend #5: Too Bold Tape + Background Combinations

Gold, silver, or holographic tapes require subtle backgrounds.
Typical mistakes include:
– tape + bright color gel,
– tape + large glitter,
– tape + complex art.

Professional combinations recommended by MONLIS Schule:

– nude tones,
– milky shades,
– soft pastels,
– matte finishes for contrast.

Tape should be an accent — not a competing element.

Anti-Trend #6: Tape on Every Nail

Using striping tape on all ten nails creates visual overload.

Correct technique:

Apply tape only on 1–2 accent nails.
Leave the rest simple and solid to keep the look balanced and refined.

Anti-Trend #7: Incorrect Tape Width

Too thick = heavy and clumsy.
Too thin = disappears in the design.

Optimal width according to MONLIS Schule:

1 mm or 1.5 mm
This width ensures elegance and precision.

How to Keep Tape Nail Art Modern: Pro Tips from MONLIS Schule

– use no more than two tape colors per set,
– plan the composition before applying,
– cure each layer separately,
– avoid trapped air bubbles,
– check symmetry across all nails,
– work only on a perfectly smooth surface.

This structured approach ensures contemporary, minimalist, long-lasting designs.

Why MONLIS Schule Creates True Professionals

Students receive:
– extensive hands-on practice,
– training on trends and anti-trends,
– in-depth material knowledge,
– sealing and fixing techniques,
– personal corrections from experienced instructors.

The school develops professional taste and an understanding of balanced, modern design.

Tape nail art can easily slip into anti-trend territory if overdone. But with the right composition, clean technique, and modern minimalism, striping tape becomes a stylish and elegant accent.
MONLIS Schule Munich teaches how to use tape correctly — with precision, harmony, and aesthetics.