Pearly Nails Are the New Chrome

You know how in the movie Pearl, Pearl famously screams “I’m a star!”? (Even if you don’t know/aren’t dedicating your summer brain space to the X trilogy, you’ve probably heard the sound on TikTok.) The same sentiment would make sense coming from a pearl manicure. The coquette finish is fully A-list.

Ever since chrome powder manicures first took over the world (I would go so far as to argue that their popularity kicked off a nail art renaissance), we’ve been obsessed with shine. While technically an offshoot of chrome, pearly nails are simply a version 2.0…and their gentle grandiose has helped them eclipse their predecessor.

“Pearly nails are all about subtlety and shimmer. They provide a refined look that can complement any outfit,” says celebrity nail artist Tina Le. Like a great pear of pearl earrings, it’s a classic look that works for everyone. You can dress it up (“one of my favorite pearly looks is a soft, opalescent white with a hint of pink shimmer. It’s versatile and gives a clean, polished look,” shares the artist). Or down (“for something more dramatic, a deep pearly navy or emerald can add a luxurious touch,” she adds.)

Ahead, everything you need to know about the pearl manicure trend. She’s a star!

The Trend

Pearly nails are the work of a type of chrome powder that’s brushed and buffed over your polish. Unsurprisingly, the finished look is supposed to resemble a pearl: those sweet, lustrous spheres you’ll find piles of on your chic great aunt’s vanity. If you choose to go searching (or should I say pearl hunting??), you’ll find pearly manicures all over the place, with celebs like Hailey Bieber, Taraji P. Henson, and Jennifer Lopez co-signing the trend.

There are a few theories as to why pearl finishes have gained popularity over the classic, much-shinier chrome. But honestly, it all boils down to something Jackie Kennedy supposedly once said: “pearls are always appropriate.”

“Chrome nails have always been a statement choice, reflecting a futuristic and bold aesthetic. The transition to pearl nails brings a softer, more versatile appeal,” explains Le. “Pearl nails offer the same eye-catching shine but with a touch of elegance and sophistication, making them perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.”

Michelle Monroy, Associate Brand Manager for Salon Perfect, thinks that a sheer pearlescent finish is more wearable, adding that “it’s a fun way to mix things up without being too bold.” In the future, she sees iridescent nails getting a little bolder, but still trending toward minimalism. “I’m talking trio chromes, 3D sculpted designs on neutral bases, and mixing different pearlescent colors together,” she says.

How to Get the Look

It’s simple, really. Once your base coat has dried, grab a pearl powder (The Gel Bottle’s Pearl Chrome Pigment will do the trick) or finely milled metallic eyeshadow and dust it across your nails before sealing with a top coat. Ta-da: pearly mani.

According to Le, the key to achieving the perfect pearly nail is in the layering and the quality of the polish. “A good base and top coat will enhance the iridescent effect and ensure longevity,” she says. “My favorite is by Blossom Beauty’s High-Shine Top Coat. I love it because it prevents staining, peeling, chipping, and splitting. It gives the perfect shine finish that you want with this look.”

With the finish line in mind, there are so many ways to play with pearl.

“I love a classic French tip topped with a sheer milky chrome,” adds Monroy. Some other ideas? “A yummy chocolate brown also topped with a sheer milky chrome powder or light neutral pink topped with a sheer iridescent blue chrome.”

Clutching your pearls is out, but clutching your pearl powder is in. Seriously, hold on to it. It’s a hot commodity—and will be for a while.