Iridescent Nails Are Bringing Glamour To Minimal Manicures In Spring 2024

For the longest time, minimalistic manicures have been just that; super minimal. We've seen quite a few less-is-more trends come and go, with the likes of bubble bath nails making understated pink shades hot again, while the latte nails trend was all about the neutrals. But now there's something new in the nail world for spring 2024, and it's taking minimalistic nails to a whole new level.

The trend to know is iridescent nails, and it typically involves applying a shimmery, glowy top coat over a more neutral shade. So, it's still understated, but with a twist. The effect is somewhat similar to the chrome nail trend we saw a lot of in 2023, though the difference here is that the iridescent shimmer changes colors depending on the way you're looking at it. For example, the glitter sheen may shine pink in one light, but gold in another, and silver in another, but, unlike the holographic effect, you're looking for a sheer sheen over an opaque one. That's why you may have heard this style referred to as duo chrome before, as that describes a product that shines in two colors.

There are hundreds of different iridescent pairings out there, which means the world is your oyster when you're looking to try out iridescent nail looks. That's why we've gone and put together a collection of just some of the ways you can give this manicure look a go, so you can get a few ideas ahead of your next mani appointment.

There's no reason why you can't incorporate darker shades into your iridescent manicure. This look is so versatile it can be rocked with a whole spectrum of polishes. One way to bring something darker into the trend without overwhelming your look though is to put a twist on the classic French tip (which was Princess Diana's favorite, in case you were wondering) with a dark shade on the tip only.

Another way to dip your toe into iridescent nails is to try it in an ombre style. Instead of applying the duo chrome look (which can be applied via anything from a chrome powder to a gel or standard polish) on the whole of the nail, instead try it with a fade effect. Going for a more subtle shade like pinks or browns is also a way to keep your mani a little more minimal.

For something still understated but with just a little more, well, something, try a 3D design over an iridescent base. A clear builder gel is a simple and easy way to get this look without adding too much to a minimalistic mani, and there are countless shapes you could try to really make the design your own.

To bring an extra dose of fun into your iridescent manicure, try applying one with a different sheen to each nail. You could go for a couple of colors here or go all out and try one on each fingernail for a rainbow-esque effect that's exciting and glamorous at the same time.

Minimalistic iridescent nails don't have to be so understated you can't have a little fun, too. One way to spice things up a little is to add some simple nail art to your manicure over the top of an iridescent base. One way to do that may be to add clouds, though things like stars, hearts, or even polka dots can really help elevate a simplistic look.