The end of the year is fast approaching, but the emerging nail trends show no signs of slowing down. 2023 has truly been the year that nails have dominated the beauty scene with trends to cater to every taste; milky hues, dark French tips, Barbiecore nail art, and more. And for winter, it’s metallic nails that look set to be everywhere.
“Metallic nails are super versatile and a great way to add interest to a manicure. Effects can vary from pearlized colours, subtle shimmers, glazed shades or mirror-like chromes, depending on how much of a statement you want to make,” explains session manicurist Ami Streets.
And while metallics might sound like something classically associated with party season, they’re actually surprisingly versatile. “I love a high-shine metallic finish in classic silver or gold in minimal nail art designs,” says Streets. “Half moon manis, French tips, or even a barely-there dot means metallic nails can actually be understated enough to wear everyday.” Basically, metallic nails aren’t just for party season.
Ahead, all of the metallic nail inspiration you need for your next salon appointment. Plus, our favourite metallic nail colours to try the trend at home.
The nail artist behind this eye-catching look used a sage-coloured chrome powder to create this chic matcha-inspired mani.
This cherry-red shade is everywhere right now, and looks just as great in a metallic finish.
Possibly the coolest way take on the metallic nail trend that I’ve seen—I’m obsessed with the vibrant colour, the French tips and the star detailing.
Metallics lend themselves to fun nail art, and this psychedelic, ’70s-inspired design is wonderfully playful.
Charlize Theron’s metallic silver nails turned heads at Paris Fashion Week with their high-shine finish.
Streets told me that one her favourite things about the metallic nail trend is the way that it can “add interest and texture to your polish” as this multi-dimensional look demonstrates.
Dua Lipa’s disco ball-inspired nails from her ‘Dance The Night’ music video are totally party-ready.
These metallic Barbie pink French tips are absolute perfection.
Metallic nails don’t always have to be bright, this deep navy imbued with shimmer creates a sophisticated, galaxy-inspired manicure.
If you’re a minimalist when it comes to nail art then silver French tips are a pleasingly subtle way to experiment with the metallic nail trend.
For a more impactful take on the trend, try your favourite nail colour in an all-over metallic finish. This powdery pink has been making waves for 2023 and looks great in a chrome texture.
Brown nails are very much the colour of the moment, and this deep chocolate shade has a subtle shimmer running through it for a metallic edge.
Micro French tips are one of my favourite takes on minimalist nail art, and these molten gold metallic ones are up there on my wish list.
Streets rates this new Chanel shade for its “subtle silver shimmer that’s perfect for festive parties”.
This is the same shade used to create that chocolate brown metallic nail look above, and it’s perfect for autumn-winter.
This vibrant cherry-red shade looks beautiful in a metallic sheen.
Silvers and golds are a classic choice when it comes to trying the metallic trend and this opaque, glistening silver from Essie is one of my favourites.
Summer was all about Barbiecore pink, and this metallic shade provides the perfect upgrade for party season. Up Next: These 5 Chic Nail Trends Will Be Everywhere This Winter.
