If you see your nail tech more often than some of your closest friends, you may already know about the coveted chrome nail trend. Popularized by none other than Hailey Bieber under the pseudonym ‘glazed donut nails’, the reflective metallic manicure has garnered over 240,700 posts on TikTok and was ranked among the most sought-after beauty trends last year.
How to achieve chrome nails at home and the best shades to ask for to keep your manicure modern and chic.
FIND MORE ABOUT ELLE COLLECTIVE
What are chrome nails?
“Chrome nails are a game-changer in the nail industry,” says A-list manicurist Tinu Bello. ‘They offer a unique allure that closely mimics the reflective, shiny nature of metal. Unlike regular glitter, which diffuses the light, chrome nails have a uniform sheen that catches and reflects the light consistently, creating an ethereal effect. It’s like wearing jewelry on your fingertips. The high-gloss finish elevates any nail design to look more polished and luxurious.’
Chrome can be applied to the entire nail or as subtle accent designs.
Which shades look best with chrome?
One of the main advantages of chrome nails is there versatility; they look good over pretty much any base color.
“From icy whites to bright metallic and holographic colors, the choice of chrome effects is constantly growing, so you can quickly and easily elevate any manicure,” says Giorgia Cappella, The Gel Bottle Training & Education Manager.
‘We’ve seen trendy shades like the glazed donut nails, which give 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 colour, perfect for making a bold statement. Chrome dust can lift any manicure, from neutrals to neons, and give it a sophisticated, reflective twist. It’s an easy way to make any shade feel fresh and exciting.’
How to make chrome nails at home
While we always recommend going to the salon for the most polished manicure, achieving chrome nails at home has never been more accessible, says Bello.
‘After applying your base shadow and top coat, use a cushion applicator to buff the powder in evenly. The key is to buff until it gives a mirror-smooth finish and all stickiness is gone. For a traditional chrome effect, it is ideal to use a dark base shade such as Witching Hour Gel Nail Polish. But if you want to experiment, applying chrome over lighter or pastel colors can create a beautiful iridescent finish that offers versatile styling options right from your home.’
Shop Chrome Nail Products
Mylee Gel Polish Witching Hour
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 topcoat and cure for 60 seconds. Once cured, use the chrome application brush to buff (rub) a small amount of chrome powder into the top coat, making sure to cover the entire surface of the nail (or wherever you want the chrome to be). Dust off the excess with a dusting brush and apply your chosen top coat. 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 the ‘glass nail,’ where chrome is subtly used to achieve a glossy, glass-like reflection,” says Bello. ‘This trend strikes a balance between understated elegance and eye-catching appeal, making it suitable for both everyday 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 design 2024
Nail art with chrome
If you are a manicure minimalist, choose small chrome accents that will enhance any neutral nail palette. From shells and sunbeams to stars and flames, the possibilities are endless and the result is far smarter than a traditional nail brand.
Pink chrome nails
The perfect follow-up to last year’s Barbie-nuclear, a pink chrome nail will always be effortlessly beautiful. Choose a subtle baby blush shade as an alternative to classic sheer girly nudes or turn up the drama with a warm 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. Pure and simple, for a while nails have long been the ultimate bridal beauty accessory, and chrome is just an easy way to elevate it and add dimension. Not to mention, it’s also incredibly flattering if you’re planning on tanning.
Silver chrome nail
This sleek manicure is the most classic of the chrome nail options, and is oh-so-cool. Whether you’re a fan of silver jewelry or just want to copy the cool-girl metallic nail look, this statement nail is totally evergreen and guaranteed to catch compliments until your next appointment. Try Nails Inc Silver Served Mirror Chrome nail polish to cheat the look at home.
Bare chrome nails
A clipped nail is a great way to grow out your nails effortlessly, as it will hide any ham hand chipping all month long. The best part? The wide range of chrome options means you can dress up your button manicure with a shift of any color; we especially love a soft blue to top off your Ballet Slipper-esque base coat.
Pearl chrome nail
Just like white chrome nails, a soft pearl shade will always look graceful. Best for warmer undertones, this delicate manicure color is sophisticated but never boring. Just look at Hailey Bieber’s go-to ‘glazed’ tones.
Ombre chrome nail
The perfect alternative to classic French tips, an ombre nail provides 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, and the opportunity to meet designers, thought leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.
Katie Withington (she/her) is a 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 spotting backstage makeup trends at London Fashion Week and researching buzzy skincare ingredients to unboxing Julia Garner and Emily Ratajkowski’s beauty bags. Before joining ELLE UK in 2022, Katie (BA) studied Fashion Journalism at the London College of Fashion and has previously contributed to Red, Good Housekeeping and Prima.