Buzz
Photo Credit: Medios y Media/Getty ImagesLooking for a summer manicure that’s effortlessly stylish, bound to turn heads, and goes with almost everything in your closet? Enter pearl nails, a chic look recently rocked by Jennifer Lopez at a Hollywood red carpet event.
“The pearl effect is often referred to as opal or mirror effects because of the translucent shimmer it creates,” says Tom Bachik, the celebrity manicurist behind J.Lo’s stunning nails. “This pearlescent style is sleek, minimal, and the iridescent gleam makes it incredibly versatile—basically, it pairs with everything!”
Getty Images.He describes it as a refreshed version of the ‘glazed nails’ trend that’s taken off recently. This variation features a more opalescent finish, compared to the milky, high-gloss shine. Even better, it’s super simple to recreate, with a few different methods to achieve the look.
Gel & Chrome
To recreate this style, one method is using a gel polish along with chrome powders. According to Bachik, begin with a sheer nude color that matches your skin tone. For a more delicate appearance, opt for a clear polish, or choose a creamy white for a pearlescent effect. Finish by applying a pearlescent chrome powder, like DND White Pearl Chrome Effect Powder.
Pearly Nail Polish
For a simpler approach to this look, grab a pearly nail polish and layer two to three coats until you reach your desired opacity. What you want here is a soft, swirly pearl-opal effect, rather than a glittery or shimmery finish.
Try OPI’s Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish in Pearlcore, part of their 2024 spring collection. Alternatively, you can apply a pearlescent top coat over a standard white or cream polish, such as Olive & June Long Lasting Polish in Frosted Gloss.
Press-On Nails
For the easiest way to achieve pearl nails, Bachik suggests using press-on nails. He points out that they’re ideal for those who may not be confident in their nail art skills and don’t want to spend on a salon manicure. “Try KISS Gel Fantasy full coverage tips or colorFX by imPRESS—these no-glue press-ons let you achieve a celebrity-inspired manicure in minutes,” he says.
His top picks for this look are the imPRESS ColorFX Universal Press-On Nails or KISS Gel Fantasy Hold Me Closer Press-On Nails. For a bit of extra sparkle, go for the imPRESS Couture Birthstone Press-On Nails in Pearl.
