If you’re up to date on the plethora of nail trends circulating social media and nail salons, you’re probably already familiar with chrome nails. The finish leaves you with gorgeous, pearl-escent nails that absolutely glimmer in the light and are sure to make a statement. But recently, a new nail trend that takes after chrome nails is on the rise: Glass nails. Similar to their predecessor, glass nails are shiny, beautiful and have almost a pearl-like finish—but there are a few key differences between the two. Keep reading for why you should give glass nails a try, and a roundup of glass nail ideas and inspiration to use for your next mani.
What are glass nails?
“Glass nails are a version of a velvet or chrome manicure where the end result is super reflective and iridescent, and often achieved using chrome powder or magnetic gel,” says celebrity nail artist Sigourney Nuñez.
While glass nails are similar to the standard chrome nails, they’re more reflective—like, you guessed it, glass—than chrome. Chrome is a bit more “shiny” and can almost have a glitter-like effect. Glass nails are more on the glossy side. This manicure can create a super chic, sophisticated look, and is a great everyday mani choice since it goes with everything. They’re simple yet simultaneously make a statement, and you can get creative with glass nails (you’ll see how below!).
12 glass nail ideas
Keep reading for all the nail inspiration you can imagine that will make your next mani marvelous.
1. Classic glass nails
This glass mani created by @kenzonailstudio using DND Gel Polish in shade Blush Haze is the perfect example of what this manicure type refers to. The light pink/nude-ish hue is absolutely gorgeous, and creates that reflective-like finish glass nails have.
2. Glossy and natural
These glass nails by @bynatashad look like your natural nails, but better. They’re super glossy and reflective, and truly look like they’re made of glass. This manicure is great for work or an environment where you may not be allowed to have “colored” or bold nails—an everyday mani, if you will.
3. Bold glass nails
If you do want a look that’s a bit more similar to chrome nails, this look by @ms.nail.artist is for you. It’s very reflective as glass nails should be, but the slightly darker shade makes nails more bold and chrome-like.
4. Goth glass nails
Nuñez created this dark and moody glass nail mani, perfect for fall. The purple contrasts beautifully against the black base, and it’s a unique spin on the typical glass nails. “For the (fall) season, the glass nail trend has taken a spooky turn and we are seeing the look with red, orange and purple finishes to give it a vampy vibe,” she explains. “After prep, apply your base shade. For a vampy glass look, that can be a dark color. Cure. Apply a layer of magnetic polish and move the pigments with a magnet to create a mesmerizing effect. Cure. Finish with top coat and cure.”
5. Pretty in pink glass nails
Can’t give up the pink? No problem! Pink works beautifully with the glass nail trend, as you can see in this mani by @andreabook_ for Vanity Projects.
6. Off-white glass nails
Off-white nails never go out of style, and we’re obsessed with this glass twist that @nailsxmina did using DND Gel Polish in Pink Glaze. It’s another manicure that is great for everyday, as its neutral hue pairs well with anything.
7. Pearl-y glass nails
If you want to participate in the glass nail trend but still want a bit of nail art, try out this manicure by @helloalice_nails for Vanity Projects. The 3D effect looks so unique and is sure to turn heads. And the 3D dots almost look like little pearls.
8. Short glass nails
One of the best parts of glass nails is that they can work on any nail length. These glass nails by @karolina.probeauty prove just that—the shorter length is gorgeous!
9. Champagne glass nails
This look by @fresscanails for Vanity Projects are also a bit more similar to chrome nails than the typical glass nail design, but still can be considered glass nails thanks to its reflectiveness. The champagne neutral glistens in the light, and is perfect for the holiday season.
10. Ombre glass nails
Add a pop of color into your nails by trying out this ombre glass nail design by @noor.nailbar using DND Gel Polish.
11. 3D glass nails
Need more 3D glass nail inspo? Look no further than this design by @makoartz for Vanity Projects. You’ll serve us some serious nail envy, and there are so many ways to get creative with the art.
12. Water-inspired glass nails
And for good measure, here is another 3D glass manicure, created by @rochellenailz for Vanity Projects. The dots look like droplets of water, a cool and unique way to do the trend.
