24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (2024)

If you spent any time on NailTok in the past few months, you're bound to know what chrome nails are. Even if you're not on TikTok and still prefer the comfort of Instagram, the high-shine nail art idea has undoubtedly popped up in your feed.

Chrome nails feature a shimmery sheen, often overtop a base color. True chrome nails are achieved by dusting chrome powder on top of lacquer, which is then sealed with a top coat. That said, thanks to the popularity of chrome nails, many nail polish brands have released high-shine shades to mimic the look. (Another option: You can use eyeshadow for DIY chrome nails.)

Regardless of how you achieve the chrome finish on your nails, there are a few ways to customize the look. Where lighter, sheer base colors, like pale pink, cream, and nude make for subtle, iridescent chrome nails (think: Haley Bieber's various glazed donut manis), darker, more opaque hues help achieve a bolder, more futuristic finish.

Whichever end look you're craving, there are many ways to embrace this nail trend. Ahead, check out some of our favorite takes on chrome nails.

01of 24

Glazed Donut Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (1)

Here, we have classic glazed donut nails by Hailey Bieber's manicurist, Zola Ganzorigt. To achieve the look, she used OPI's Funny Bunny Nail Polish($14) andTin Man Can Chrome Powder.

02of 24

Rose Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (2)

These rosy chrome nails offer a warmer take on the trend. They were created using CND's Liquid & Powder in Warm Pink ($23), SHELLAC No Wipe Top Coat ($16), and Over the Top Effects Nail Pigment ($11) in Off the Chain. For this layered look, a trip to the salon will be in order. But hey, for results like this: It's worth it.

03of 24

Checkered Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (3)

Another very popular look in 2023? Checkered nails. Combine the two for a wholly unique take on both trends.

04of 24

Chocolate Glazed Donut Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (4)

Allow us to introduce you to chocolate-glazed donut nails. Another Ganzorigt creation, this mani was crafted with OPI's Stay Strong Gel Base Coat ($19), DND Gel Polish ($10) in Coffee Bean and Spiced Brown, OPI Chrome Effects in Tin Man Can, and OPI's Stay Shiny Gel Top Coat ($20).

05of 24

White Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (5)

For a more opaque white chrome look—like the one here—you'll want to start with a solid white base coat. Lights Lacquer in Paper Snow ($11) should do the trick.

06of 24

Magenta Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (6)

Here's another example of how using an opaque base color will make your chrome nails look more futuristically bold, as opposed to the minimalist vibe of glazed donut nails. We're obsessed with this magenta chrome mani.

07of 24

Chrome-Like Shimmer

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (7)

If you don't have access to chrome nail powder and none of your eyeshadows work to recreate the look, you can achieve a similar finish with an ultra-fine glitter nail polish, like the OPI shade used here. While the artist didn't share the exact polish, OPI's Infinite Shine2 Long-Wear Lacquer ($14) in Throw Me A Kiss should do the trick.

08of 24

Lavender Chrome French Tips

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (8)

Just because you opt for a sheer glazed donut take on chrome nails doesn't mean you can't do so in bolder colors. Case in point: This lilac-tinted chrome nail look.

09of 24

Titanium Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (9)

Going extra chrome, Ganzorigt used the Dashing Diva Glaze Gel Nail Strips ($16) in Titanium Glaze to achieve this eye-catching manicure.

10of 24

Chrome Blob Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (10)

Excuse us while we swoon over these globbed-up chrome nails by celebrity manicurist Brittney Boyce, who works with Megan Fox and Kim Kardashian, among other A-listers.

11of 24

Chrome Foil Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (11)

Part chrome, part foil, part negative space: These pastel set serves it all.

12of 24

Emoji Chrome Ombré Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (12)

Another way to wear chrome nails? Opt for an ombré fade topped off with metallic nail stickers in an ever-so-slightly darker shade, as Boyce did here.

13of 24

Strawberry Glazed Donut Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (13)

First, there were glazed donut nails. Then there were chocolate-glazed donut nails. It was only a matter of time before Ganzorigt dreamt up strawberry-glazed donut nails—and we're just as smitten with this look as we are with the others.

14of 24

Gold Chrome Tips

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (14)

Love a French mani? Opt for gold chrome tips like celebrity manicurist Chaun Legend did here for celebrity wardrobe stylist Maeve Reilly.

15of 24

Gold Chrome Accents

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (15)

We love how this set makes use of chrome—with subtle, minimalist, and abstract gilded tips.

16of 24

Rainbow Chrome Ombré Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (16)

Multicolor ombre chrome? We're screaming. Of course, to achieve such an intricate star-studded rainbow nail look, you'll almost certainly need to enlist the help of a pro. But for nails that look like this? Worth it.

17of 24

Chrome Crystal Cloud Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (17)

For all the crystal girlies out there, these cloud-like aura chrome nails are giving off all the majestic vibes.

18of 24

Opal Chrome

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (18)

For a more subtle chrome-y finish, consider a sheer polish topped off with holographic chrome powder.

19of 24

Cool Pale Pink Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (19)

For the most natural take on the chrome nail trend, use a chrome powder on a clear base. The mani above, however, was actually created without any powder: To get the look, book a mani and ask for GELCARE in Lavender Water and South Sea Pearl.

20of 24

Rainbow Chrome Tips

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (20)

You don't have to cover your entire nail to partake in the chrome nails trend. Here, celebrity manicurist Betina Goldstein opted for a rainbow of mini chrome French tips.

21of 24

Yellow Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (21)

Add a little sunshine to your life with a bright yellow chrome mani like the one above.

22of 24

Unicorn Chrome Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (22)

These beautiful glazed donut nails were created using the Nails-Luxe Iridescent Chrome Palette, which, unfortunately, is only available in the UK. Next time you're in London, you'll want to scoop this palette (and the brand's other offerings).

23of 24

Holographic Chrome

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (23)

When considering a bold nail trend like chrome nails, consider switching up your nail shape, too. Here, you can see how stunning a chrome mani looks on stiletto-shaped nails.

24of 24

Baby Pink Chrome Stiletto Nails

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (24)

While on the topic of stiletto nails, check out these baby pink chrome French tips by Legend. We love how pearlescent the base color is.

24 Chrome Nail Ideas We're Loving, From Futuristic Titanium to Strawberry Glaze (2024)

FAQs

Is chrome nail polish in style in 2024? ›

One of the most talked-about nail trends for 2024 is the chrome manicure. This trend involves applying chrome finishes to the nails, giving them a futuristic and reflective appearance.

What color looks best with chrome nails? ›

Pretty much any color can be turned chrome, but light and bright colors usually work best. Something important to note: Chrome does change the color of the polish, usually making it a little brighter.

Are chrome nails still trendy? ›

As one of the top nail trends for the year, chrome nails are definitely in style for 2024.

What nail color is in trend for 2024 summer? ›

Green looks set to be big this year. Think snaking leaves, marble-ised tips or mismatched motifs. If you're not keen on vivid, verdant green, try paler mint or zesty lime. If you typically do dark shades all year round, think about swapping out the black for a rich forest green instead.

What is the nail trend in 2024? ›

Popular UV Gel Nail Trends for Summer 2024

This season, minimalism is key, with clean lines and simple designs taking centre stage. One popular trend is the negative space manicure, where parts of the nail are intentionally left bare to create a modern and edgy look.

Are chrome nails gel or dip? ›

Gel manicures form the base for a lot of the visual effects that have populated social media of late. “Effect powders” are responsible for the chrome look, as well as the holographic nails. These powders, McConnell says, all work in pretty much the same way, but are just made with different materials.

What top coat do you use for chrome nails? ›

Apply chrome gel or a clear top coat of gel to your entire nail. We recommend using a chrome gel because it will help the powder to adhere better and give you a more even finish. Cure the gel for 10 seconds after applying it (with a 48-watt light for a few seconds longer with a 6-watt lamp).

What is the best base for chrome nails? ›

Effortlessly easy to apply, Chrome Powders best give off their mirror-like-shine when applied over a base shade of Gel Nail Polish, then a Top Coat. While classic choices like Black Out, Just White, or a subtle Base Coat work wonders, you're free to customise your set with any Colour Coat that suits your style.

How to ask for chrome nails at a salon? ›

Ask for a pearlescent chrome gel manicure, or show your nail tech a photo. With the popularity of Hailey Bieber's chrome manicure, your local salon probably knows what nails you're requesting if you just mention the “glazed donut” look.

Can most nail salons do chrome? ›

You can find it pretty much anywhere nail products are sold, including most nail salons." While you can get virtually any color in a chrome finish, Kandalec says the most popular shades among her clients are more traditional hues.

Why do my chrome nails look sparkly? ›

If the chrome powder goes on too thick, it will leave sparkly particles. This excess product can prevent a thorough cure, which can be why it chips or peels. Use a soft fluffy brush, such as a make-up brush to dust off any excess.

Why is my chrome not sticking to my nails? ›

If your Chrome powder is not sticking TRY THIS 👉🏼 Cure your top coat only 1/2 the time that's required— this will allow your topcoat layer to remain a little sticky and your Chrome powder can grab on better! 👌🏼 Use a non-wipe topcoat for this technique and do this process twice for an intense Chrome look!

What color are toenails in spring 2024? ›

This spring, we'll still be riding that glossy wave. "The spring pedicure trend is pastel glazed colors, especially lavender and yellow," Tokyo says. These shades are perfect for adding a gentle pop of color without overdoing it.

Who made chrome nails popular? ›

Hailey Bieber's Neon Chrome Nails

The nail look is the perfect bright, summery mani, and Bieber seems to think so, too. She posted a video of the nails on TikTok with the caption, "Neon with chrome all summer baby."

What color nails for february 2024? ›

This month marks the transition from winter to spring, and it's the perfect time to embrace soft and pastel shades. Try a lovely lavender or lilac color to capture the essence of blooming flowers. Alternatively, opt for a mint green or baby blue hue to create a refreshing and calming manicure.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Wyatt Volkman LLD

Last Updated:

Views: 5510

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (46 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Wyatt Volkman LLD

Birthday: 1992-02-16

Address: Suite 851 78549 Lubowitz Well, Wardside, TX 98080-8615

Phone: +67618977178100

Job: Manufacturing Director

Hobby: Running, Mountaineering, Inline skating, Writing, Baton twirling, Computer programming, Stone skipping

Introduction: My name is Wyatt Volkman LLD, I am a handsome, rich, comfortable, lively, zealous, graceful, gifted person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.