Inspo You’ll Want to File Away for Your Next Mani

By Alice Ruby On May 28, 2024

A few years into the chrome nail trend, it’s not hard to guess why it’s had such staying power. A chrome finish can jazz up a manicure without requiring the same level of patience as detailed nail art.

If you’re unfamiliar, chrome nails involve adding a layer of shiny powder on top of cured gel nails. “Chrome nails are a type of nail finish that gives a reflective, mirror-like effect,” says Miami-based nail artist John Avery. “They create a sleek and futuristic look, adding a touch of glamour and shine to your nails.”

You can add chrome powder over any color, but blue chrome nails have been especially popular lately, thanks to the influence of Hailey Bieber and other public figures, says Avery.

While true chrome nails require powder and a UV lamp, nail brands have developed products designed to make achieving the blue chrome effect at home easier. See: Sally Hansen Color Foil Nail Color in Sky-fi ($9), Dashing Diva GLAZE Semi-Cured Gel Manicure in Metallic Rain ($14) and Lottie London Stay Press’d Chromatic Blue Press on Nails ($6).

Whether you’re visiting a nail salon or attempting a DIY, you can get creative or keep things simple. To give you an idea of all that’s possible, here are 15 examples of blue chrome nails.

Blue chrome nail inspiration

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Short

Chrome nails can look striking even if you keep your nails on the shorter side. This holographic effect is a product of two-tone purple and coral chrome powder layered over periwinkle polish.

blue-chrome-nails — IG diamondstudionails

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Heart Accent

Cobalt blue and semi sheer white polishes with white chrome powder were the formula for this reflective blue shade. It’s the perfect counterpart to a French-tipped accent nail with a mini heart.

blue chrome heart nails — IG polishedbykiah

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Cybercore-Inspired

Inspired by the cybercore aesthetic—which happens to heavily feature blue—this manicure shows what’s possible when you combine a chrome finish with the texture of 3D elements.

3d-blue-chrome-nails — IG melonbun.nails

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Pearls

When you can’t choose between a French manicure or a chrome finish, go for both. Then, add some mini pearls for good measure.

Ble chrome pearl nails — IG beautybyemz_

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Dark Blue

If light blue chrome nails don’t speak to you, a darker reflective shade can have a completely different effect. Here’s an idea of the dramatic effect that can result from a dark blue chrome shade on almond nails.

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Natural Ombré

Chrome finishes and subtle manicures aren’t mutually exclusive. This manicure achieved both, with a blue ombré fade and white chrome powder.

blue chrome ombre nails — IG destiny.nail.bar

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Mismatched

Chrome finishes and maximal nail art can go hand-in-hand. This combination of stars, swirls and crocodile skin proves the result can be dazzling.

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Water Droplets

With the right approach, blue chrome nails can mimic the reflective quality of a pool on a sunny day. Avery created a realistic imitation by adding 3D “water droplets” to blue nails layered with pink chrome powder.

water droplet nails — IG johnthomas_beauty

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Pearly Finish

You can’t go wrong with a light blue chrome manicure with a rounded shape, as shown here. Your nails will have a pearly quality whenever they catch the light.

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Negative Space French Manicure

A blue ombré effect, negative space French tips, or chrome finish are each lovely on their own. Together, they’re a recipe for an exceptional mani.

negative space blue french nails — IG thenaillologist

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Swirls

Leaving part of your nail a natural shade is one way to switch up the blue chrome manicure. Here’s an example of the approach that also incorporated swirls.

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Silver Stars

Even short nails can provide enough real estate for nail art, provided you know what to choose. Light blue chrome nails with silver dots and stars are one route you can take.

blue chrome star nails — IG emmap_nailtechnician

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Abstract Design

If you’ve already had your fill of solid blue chrome nails, it’s possible to opt for something more unexpected. You can get creative by incorporating elements like dark blue chrome designs and gems.

blue chrome abstract nails — IG lanisnailroom

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Gradient Effect

Pick out five different shades of blue, and you’re well on your way to a mismatched, gradient manicure with a chrome finish.

blue chrome gradient nails — IG beautyspace_charlotte

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Light Blue

Short, baby blue chrome nails are simple yet eye-catching. They’re a suitable choice if you prefer to opt for lighter colors during the spring and summer.

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