Beauty lovers can’t seem to get enough of the fantastical, fantasy-inspired aesthetic, from mother-of-pearl manicures to fairycore makeup. The latest trend? Iridescent seashell nails, which are co-endorsed by A-list nail lovers Kylie Jenner, Megan Fox, and Saweetie, as well as celebrity nail artist Tom Bacich and his mermaid-turned-client, Hailee Steinfeld.
No two sets are exactly alike — Kylie’s set is multicolored, while Megan and Hailey’s is blue and Saweetie’s is pink — so this style is essentially another variation on the Chrome Moment (Cromento?).
“Chrome nails have been all the rage for the past few seasons, but Kylie Jenner has taken it to a new level, bringing back the nostalgic Y2K trend: multi-chrome nails,” Juli Russell, DIY nail expert at Surrey Beauty, tells GLAMOUR.
In particular, Kylie’s nails, done by celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzoligt, are set to take the spring/summer nail trend scene by storm, especially since Zola and her client, Hailey Bieber, are the two who started the glazed donut manicure craze (IYKYK).
“This unique color-changing nail polish is formulated with a range of pigments that reveal new shades from every angle, creating a mermaid tail effect,” says Juli. look Although it’s complicated, she argues that it’s really all in the product (more on that later).
Seashell nails are super easy to DIY as well as customize. The fantastic finish comes mainly from the base, so you can design your base coat and nail polish to your liking. For example, Megan’s latest take on the trend was an iridescent, icy blue.
“Multi-chrome nails can be created with regular polish, gel, chrome powder, or top polish,” says Juli, “so no matter your level of DIY, there are options to achieve the style at home.”
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So… what’s the hot topic today? Nothing in particular. Seashell nails are easy to use, unique, and super on-trend. They’re perfect for the mermaidcore and fairycore aesthetic, making them the perfect addition to any spring/summer manicure.
“Aquatic mermaid-inspired nails are super flattering right now with summer fast approaching,” says professional nail artist John Avery, who recently created a “moonlight mermaid manicure” for a client, a purple-and-pink gradient design adorned with cloud nail art (see above).
“These fun colors are bold, eye-catching, and perfect for the beach or fun summer look,” says John. Plus, he points out that pairing them with seashell nails and wet hair is a super easy DIY “mermaid moment.” And we’re all going to want to feel that way, right? Here’s how to DIY it.
To achieve an ombré look, John suggests picking two colours, applying one as a base, then applying the second colour with a brush or sponge from the tip down to create an ombre effect. “Once you’re done, apply some chrome powder and you’re done – you’ve got the perfect summer mermaid nails.”
