If you see your nail tech more frequently than some of your closest friends, you may already be familiar with the coveted chrome nails trend. Popularised by none other than Hailey Bieber under the pseudonym ‘glazed doughnut nails’, the reflective, metallic manicure has amounted over 240,700 posts on TikTok and was ranked among the most sought after beauty trends of last year.
This is how to achieve chrome nails at-home and the best shades to ask for to keep your manicure looking modern and chic.
FIND OUT MORE ON ELLE COLLECTIVE
What are chrome nails?
‘Chrome nails are a game-changer in the nail industry,’ says A-list manicurist Tinu Bello. ‘They offer an unparalleled allure, closely mimicking the reflective, glossy nature of metal. Unlike regular glitter, which scatters light, chrome nails have a uniform gleam that captures and reflects light consistently, creating an ethereal effect. It’s like wearing jewellery on your fingertips. The high-shine finish elevates any nail design, making it look more polished and luxurious.’
Chrome can be applied to the whole nail or as subtle accent designs.
Which shades look best with chrome?
One of the main benefits of chrome nails is there versatility; they look great over virtually any base colour.
‘From iced whites to bright metallics and holographic colours, the choice of chrome effects is ever growing allowing you to quickly and easily elevate any manicure,’ says Giorgia Cappella, The Gel Bottle Training & Education Manager.
‘We’ve seen trending shades like the glazed doughnut nails, which provide a subtle and clean aesthetic. This is great for everyday wear or for those who prefer a minimalist look,’ explains Bello. ‘On the other hand, cherry glazed nails offer a vibrant, summer-ready pop of colour, perfect for making a bold statement. Chrome dust can elevate any manicure, from neutrals to neons, giving it a sophisticated, reflective twist. It’s an easy way to make any shade feel fresh and exciting.’
How to do chrome nails at home
While we always recommend heading in-salon for the most polished manicure, achieving chrome nails at home has never been more accessible, says Bello.
‘After applying your base shade and top coat, use a cushion applicator to evenly buff in the powder. The key is to buff until it gives off a mirror-smooth finish and all tackiness is gone. For a traditional chrome effect, using a dark base shade like Witching Hour Gel Nail Polish is ideal. However, if you’re looking to experiment, applying chrome over lighter or pastel shades can create a beautiful iridescent finish, offering versatile styling options right from your home.’
Shop Chrome Nail Products
Mylee Gel Polish Witching Hour
Mylee Cushion Powder Pen
Mylee Gel Polish Top Coat
For professional nail artists, Cappella recommends a similar process.
‘After applying your chosen BIAB or gel, apply an even layer of top coat and cure for 60 seconds. Once cured, use the chrome application brush to burnish (rub) a small amount of chrome powder into the top coat, being sure to cover the full surface of the nail (or wherever you intend the chrome to be). Dust off the excess with a dusting brush and apply chosen topcoat. We recommend Rubber Top 2.0 or Clear All In One BIAB to encapsulate your finished look.’
What are the chrome nail trends to know for 2024?
The creativity you can have with chrome nails is endless, and 2024 is set to see some exciting trends take shape.
‘One of the standout trends is ‘glass nails’, where chrome is used subtly to achieve a glossy, glass-like reflection,’ says Bello. ‘This trend strikes a balance between understated elegance and eye-catching allure, making it suitable for both daily wear and special events. It’s a more refined look compared to the bold, metallic sheen we typically associate with chrome, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of this nail art technique.’
Chrome nail designs 2024
Nail art with chrome
If you’re a manicure minimalist, opt for tiny chrome accents that enhance any neutral nail palette. From shells and sun rays to stars and flames, the options are endless and the result is far chicer than a traditional nail sticker.
Pink chrome nails
The perfect follow-on to last year’s Barbie-core, a pink chrome nail will always be effortlessly pretty. Opt for a subtle baby blush shade as an alternative to classic clean girl nudes or dial up the drama with a hot magenta tone.
White chrome nails
Up there in the gold standard of bridal manicures, a snowy chrome nail is the perfect alternative if French tips aren’t your preference. Clean and simple, a while nail has long been the ultimate bridal beauty accessory and chrome is just one easy way to elevate it and add dimension. Not to mention, it’s also incredibly flattering if you plan on tanning.
Silver chrome nails
The most classic of the chrome nail options, this sleek manicure is oh-so-cool. Whether you’re a fan of silver jewellery or simply want to replicate that cool-girl metallic nail look, this statement nail is entirely evergreen and guarantees you catch compliments until your next appointment. Try out the Nails Inc Silver Served Mirror Chrome Nail Polish to cheat the look at home.
Nude chrome nails
A pared back nail is a fantastic way to grow out your nails effortlessly, as it will disguise any ham-handed chipping throughout the month. The best part? The wide selection of chrome options mean you can dress up your barely-there manicure with a shift of any colour; we particularly love a soft blue to top your Ballet Slipper-esque base coat.
Pearl chrome nails
Similarly to white chrome nails, a soft pearl shade will always look graceful. Best for warmer undertones, this delicate manicure colour is sophisticated but never boring. Just look to Hailey Bieber’s go-to ‘glazed’ tones.
Ombre chrome nails
The perfect alternative to classic French tips, an ombre nail offers a modern twist on the traditional natural nail trend. Add a layer of chrome and you have the ideal day-to-night manicure for 2024.
ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.
Katie Withington (she/her) is the Beauty Assistant, at ELLE UK and Harper’s Bazaar. Working alongside the ELLE UK Beauty Team, she covers all things beauty for both print and digital, from finding backstage make-up trends at London Fashion Week and investigating buzzy skincare ingredients, to unzipping the beauty bags of Julia Garner and Emily Ratajkowski. Prior to joining ELLE UK in 2022, Katie studied (BA) Fashion Journalism at London College of Fashion and has previously contributed to Red, Good Housekeeping and Prima.
