Fairy Nails: The Latest Manicure Trend Taking Hollywood by Storm
This summer, sheer, natural shades and delicate designs are dominating the nail trend scene, with styles like ‘lychee nails’ and ‘ballet blush nails’ leading the way. However, a new contender has emerged: ‘fairy nails,’ offering a sophisticated and whimsical update.
What Are Fairy Nails?
Defined by natural pinkish-white hues, softly illuminated finishes, and a subtle, pearlescent glow, fairy nails are being hailed as chrome’s fresher, trendier, and more whimsical older sister. They’re described as a ‘soft-focus look that catches the light with a luminous shimmer,’ creating a glamorous yet ethereal effect.
Daisy Kalnina, founder and CEO of The GelBottle Inc., explains that the key is ‘combining ultra-sheer, milky white and delicate pink bases with an iridescent finish.’
“What sets these apart from the bare nail look is how they catch the light. A traditional ‘quiet luxury’ manicure relies on a flat, glossy top coat over a static base, while fairy nails create visual depth without adding physical weight,” Kalnina adds.
To achieve the look, Kalnina recommends applying thin layers of polish, finishing with an ultra-fine, translucent pearl chrome powder. Classic soft square, squoval or almond shapes enhance the clean elegance of the style.
Celebrity Endorsements
Stars like Hannah Waddingham, Zendaya, and Florence Pugh have embraced the trend, showcasing various interpretations of fairy nails. Waddingham opted for petite rounded oval shapes, Zendaya went for goddess-inspired washes of blush, and Pugh debuted a near-metallic variation with a creamy, cool-toned white base and a hint of baby pink.
Top Nail Polish Recommendations
Essie Pure Pearlfection (£8.99 at Amazon)
Nailberry Star Dust (£17 at nailberry.co.uk)
Barry M Glazed Sheer Nail Paint in Playful (£4.49 at Boots)
Rimmel London Super Gel in Glazed Sugar (£6.99 at Boots)
Fairy Nail Ideas for Summer
Short fairy nails: Cindy Ord//Getty Images Sheer fairy nails: Karwai Tang//Getty Images Holographic fairy nails: Karwai Tang//Getty Images Samir Hussein//Getty Images