When it comes to glossy manicures (created at home or at the salon), crystal clear nail polish is most often reserved for base layers and diamond-like top coats to finish off a freshly painted look. Though as of late, expert celebrity manicurists in the industry and nail art lovers alike have been getting quite experimental with clear, pushing their color-filled lacquers to the side.
On the maximalist end of the spectrum, sheer mosaic manis (aka colorless tips topped with mismatched jewels and gems) have been all but taking over — especially for the cool fall months. What’s more, A-listers like Megan Fox, Halle Bailey, and Doja Cat have been exploring the daringly textured look, no doubt adding their influential stamps of approval.
On the other end of the spectrum, of course, lies the total mani minimalists who much prefer an understated look for day to day. Their current M.O.? Adorning clean, bare tips with a few protective coats of clear polish in the name of the aptly named “naked nail” movement.
From natural French nails that match every vibe to more out-there 3D details and Y2K-inspired silver gems, here are clear manicure ideas that embody the rising nail art trend.
Silver Stars & Swirls
With sheer color on your nail beds and clear, almond-shaped nail extensions — this star-covered set is all things rocker chic.
What’s Your Aura?
Bold & Bedazzled
Mosaic manicure — but make the gems colorful.
Natural French Nails
For those who are seriously proud of their natural nail growth, a few coats of clear polish will not only protect your tips (but show off those natural Frenchies).
Whimsical Mosaic Mani
With found gems, pearls, and stones of every color, this mosaic manicure is all things whimsical and fun.
Gilded Nail Cuffs
For an elevated mani that screams sophistication, adorn clear nails with subtle gilded cuffs.
Clear Polish-Topped Stripes
With a clear polish as your base, decorate your nails with ultra-thin white stripes for an eye-catching look.
Y2K Silver Nail Gems
For naked nails that have a bit of fun, try adding a single silver gem on your statement nail of choice.
Three-Dimensional Texture
Filled with 3D texture and embedded pearls, this unique manicure is serving serious mermaidcore vibes.
Flame On
Flame art in lieu of a classic French tip creates a whole lot of edge (especially atop clear nails).
Total Alien Superstar
Marbled Quartz Details
Akin to a luxe piece of white quartz, this marbled set takes the clear nail trend to new heights.
Daring Heart-Shaped Cutouts
For crystal clear nails that will make others look twice, opt for trendy cutouts on your tips (which are perfect for adding dangling nail jewelry, too).
Glamorous Gold Foil
Gold flakes placed right where your natural nails meet the clear extensions create a truly seamless (and stunning) look.
Itty Bitty 3D Dots
For the major minimalists who still want a bit of uniqueness on their clear nails, these itty bitty raised dots do the trick.
Holographic Hints
A sheer wash of clear polish with holographic reflects is sure to catch the light.
Colorful Micro French
Crystal Clear Water Texture
Created to mimic the look of rushing water, clear textured tips are sure to make waves.
Pressed Flower Petal Frenchies
Who said florals were just for springtime?
Symmetrical Fine Lines
For a bit of modern art on your nails, opt for perfectly-painted symmetrical lines in any hue you’d like.
