How to Do Sea Glass Nails

We’re always on the hunt for a new nail trend, and chances are if you’re here, so are you. The latest mani to catch our attention? None other than sea glass nails—and no, you don’t have to wait for summer to give this one a try. A variant of the matte nail trend, you’ve likely come across this beachy nail look on your social media feeds, and we’re shore you’re dying to get the look. Below, we’re sharing everything you need to know about sea glass nails, including what they are and how to DIY the trend.

WHAT ARE SEA GLASS NAILS?

Like we mentioned, sea glass nails fall under the matte nail category. Similar to jelly nails, the trend features long, clear nails painted in a sheer coat of sea glass-colored jelly nail polish. As if the see-through tips weren’t striking enough, the look is pulled together with a matte top coat, allowing your mani to perfectly resemble the gorgeous pieces of sea glass you used to collect as a kid.

Editor’s note: Prefer short nails? While this trend is traditionally paired with long acrylics, you can always coat your natural nails with sheer blue polish and a matte top coat for a slightly less standout version.

HOW TO GET THE PERFECT SEA GLASS MANICURE

Ready to give sea glass nails a try? Below, we’re sharing how to get the perfect sea glass manicure, whether you plan to head to the salon or DIY the trend at home.

HOW TO GET SEA GLASS NAILS AT THE SALON

Sure, your nail technician may have heard of the sea glass nail trend, but it’s always good to go in prepared. To ensure the end result is exactly what you’re envisioning, consider scouring Pinterest for some inspo pics. When it comes to explaining your manicure wishes, ask your nail technician for clear tips painted in a sheer, sea glass shade of your choice, followed by a matte top coat.

HOW TO GET SEA GLASS NAILS AT HOME

Prefer to DIY the trend? It’s easy!

What you’ll need:

Clear glue-on nails

Nail glue

Nail file

Jelly polish

Matte top coat

Get the look:

Step #1: Apply your nails. Use your nail glue to attach your faux nails to your real ones.

Step #2: Smooth your shape. File your nails to your desired nail shape.

Step #3: Add some color. You know what to do—apply a coat of jelly polish in your sea glass shade of choice.

Step #4: Top it off. Once your jelly nail polish has dried, finish the look by sweeping a matte top coat over your nails.

5 SEA GLASS NAIL IDEAS TO TRY

Of course, there’s more than one way to rock sea glass nails—you don’t even have to sport an all-over color! In fact, there are a few ways to add your own twist to the trend. Consider one of the following.

SEA GLASS NAIL LOOK #1: MULTICOLORED

More colors, more fun! Try painting each nail in a different sea glass shade for a colorful, statement nail look. To keep things cohesive, coordinate the nails on your left hand with those on your right.

SEA GLASS NAIL LOOK #2: COFFIN SHAPED

Your nail shape is another option for switching up your sea glass nails. Try using your nail file to create a squared-off, coffin shape.

SEA GLASS NAIL LOOK #3: TWO-TONED

Don’t want to wear five different nail colors but aren't quite committed to a single color? Give a two-toned look a try. To get the look, choose two sea glass colors. Paint one onto your pointer and middle fingers, then use the other to coat your remaining nails.

SEA GLASS NAIL LOOK #4: OVAL SHAPED

Another nail shape option? Oval nails! If you prefer a look that’s soft and more rounded, this is a good alternative to the coffin shape we mentioned above. Simply use your nail file to smooth and shape.

SEA GLASS NAIL LOOK #5: OMBRÉ

Ombré is trendy for more than just your hair. Incorporate the gradient effect into your sea glass nail look by painting a makeup sponge with stripes of two sea glass shades that are close in color. Press the sponge and the polish onto your nail, then clean up your finger with a cotton swab and a bit of nail polish remover. The result? A beautiful fade of color on your nails.

Next: How to Do Hole Punch Nail Art at Home