:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ScreenShot2020-05-07at12.03.57PM-f9060d261e97437a976f667b36061c7d.png)
@betina_goldstein
Korean beauty has long been an inspiration for those of us here in the States—and for good reason. With next-level skin care routines (like glass skin and cloudless skin) and stunning nail looks being shared daily, it's no wonder we're over here doing everything we can to recreate the ultra-effective, undeniably-chic beauty trends coming from the East. Most recently, we've become transfixed on glass nails.
Depending on the layout of the makeshift shatter, the end look of glass nails can range from that of an abstract piece of art to an expertly-crafted stain-glass window. Intrigued?
What Are Glass Nails?
Created by Eunkyung Park (the same manicurist who created lipstick nails), glass nails use finely-cut holographic foil to mimic the appearance of shards of glass.
Ahead, we share 17 examples of glass nails, ranging from simple nudes to bold pops of color.
High-Shine Silver
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo1-3b5cc35b9d9e4d87b34bc0ac6bee2bbb.jpg)
This high-shine mani uses a silver base topped off with holographic silver slivers to create the coveted glass nail appeal. Try it out for yourself with Dashing Diva Shattered Glass glittered gel strips ($7).
Cool Blue
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo2-d3925ca30e144c56878c9ba91246ce0c.jpg)
We love how the color-changing holographic foil complements the cool-blue base of this glass manicure. Not sure which shade of blue polish will suit you best? We've got you covered.
Dark Magic
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/glassnails1-766918494e8f4080b0c32c8c5dbff231.jpg)
@thelabellife / Instagram
Since most holographic foil is translucent, the best way to create a darker glass manicure is to start off with a moody black or dark gray base. The effect is magical.
Silver Rhinestones
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/glassnails2-914bf3b41d644934a6c7f39b02a98c40.jpg)
@ttatheordinarycreations0506 / Instagram
Here we're shown how glass nails and rhinestones can play together for a manicure that's equal parts playful and chic. To get the look, try Windfall 3Pcs Dual-ended Nail Art Crystals ($8) which comes with its own set of tweezers and a rhinestone picker dotting pen.
Summer-Worthy Neon
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo6-4698c54d8f1c41548daacb48a975b8d9.jpg)
@nailsby_kayla816 / Instagram
Glitter, holographic foil, and neon nail polish pair together for a summer-worthy nail look that'll land you compliments wherever you go. However, if you're looking for something a bit more toned down, there are a ton of popular summer shades to choose from.
Colorful Confetti
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/confettiglassnails-5c3d0caa339b4fb7a5b9da38c06acc57.jpg)
@hardasnails_studio / Instagram
Talk about a cause for celebration. With its pink glass design combined with colorful confetti art, this mani is a party on your nails. The best part? It's a breeze to DIY.
Milky Almond
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo9-4a9724ced373430b88498386158af0c4.jpg)
Milky almond-shaped nails are statement-making all on their own. To copy this base, paint your nails with a few coats of Olive & June's 7-Free Nail Polish in BEB ($9).
Purple Monochrome
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/lavenderglassnails-ee3af4b6a1624a96a192ce934595a1ea.jpg)
@mattia_joyce / Instagram
Choose matching holographic foil and polish for a colorful nail look that changes in the light. We love the light lavender base but you can also opt for a darker shade of violet for added drama.
Pretty in Pastel
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pinkpurpleglassnails-35c36d8a178446f79283418454b79ad1.jpg)
@nailsbyjole / Instagram
Milky, pale-pink polish topped off with pastel holo makes for a unicorn-esque nail look. Essie Treat Love & Color ($9) in Sheers to You is the perfect shade of pink blush to nail this look.
Gold Cracks
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/goldcrackglassnails-e407abfeb79f4fa1aab3cad49ab4a592.jpg)
@betina_goldstein / Instagram
This golden twist on glass nails reminds us of the Japanese practice of Kintsugi, where cracks in pottery are filled with gold. To complete the look, pair it with assorted yellow gold rings by some of our favorite jewelry brands.
"Shattered Metal and Emeralds"
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/shatteredmetalglassnails-aa7553a035d446c982e6fbb6af7fca96.jpg)
@betinagoldstein / Instagram
Nail artist Betina Goldstein elevates #ManiMonday with this inspiring nail design. Green gemstones are reminiscent of emeralds and add a touch of glamour to the shattered metal base.
Minimalist Accents
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pinkshatteredglassnails-fcefd1d7b2364ebdb54655d1b7a1389e.jpg)
@studioninetythree / Instagram
Instead of letting glass nails be your single statement, break up a full set with a pale pink nail or two for a minimalist pop of color. It's proof that accent nails need not be complicated to make an impact.
Black Stilettos
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo20-fd2398cd75e4414fbbcd7331b9c1bf0e.jpg)
If you're interested in turning up the "wow" factor, pointy nails will do the trick. The holographic details really stand out against black polish. Are these glass nails to kill or what?
Oxblood With Gold Flecks
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/nail1-c3acc6fb1be14b7bbab55ae3852f70d1.jpg)
@eleven2six_ / Instagram
Red nails are timeless, but this darker oxblood hue—somewhere along the lines of Smith & Cult Nail Polish, $18, in Lover's Creep—adds a modern edge. Opt for a gold foil finish to get the glass shard effect.
Bold Cobalt
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/blueglassnails-b1437f862eaa4010aede2c550a549ccf.jpg)
@euro_nails_tx / Instagram
Want to go even bolder? Ditch a neutral base in favor of a striking blue. Then apply vivid gel strips for a totally bespoke glass nail design. Talk about eye-catching.
Mauve Monochrome
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/holo23-25bf1829a9084d489e5cd0461b3630ce.jpg)
Another monochrome look, this mauve-colored mani is dainty and disco-ready all at the same time. Try OPI Infinite Shine 2 Long-Wear Lacquer ($13) in You Sustain Me to replicate these subtle yet showstopping nails.
Crystal Turquoise
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/oceanglassnails-907584cff71b41799e756d27f57173b0.jpg)
@nail_unistella / Instagram
Leave it to Eunkyung Park (aka @nail_unistella) to come up with these ocean-inspired lipstick nails. Turquoise, blue, and purple holo top off a clear base for a crystal-like finish that makes the shattered glass design even more magical.