Claudia WilliamsStylized tips, like metallic nails, are popular right now, and a quick Pinterest search will yield thousands of results that will inspire you to hop on the edgy nail express and to come up with your own metallic nail ideas. Specialized nails are trending right now because it is all about upping your look with your fingernails. You may not be wearing the latest in designer threads, and your hair may not be balayage-d out, but if your nails are fresh, you are still in the game. Having cute nails is not only on trend, but it pulls together your look, so you look high end and glam. Let us also not forget that in this stressful world, it is all about treat yo’ self.
50 Cute Metallic Nail Design Ideas That Will Have Your Nail Artist Busy For the Foreseeable Future
What exactly are the metallic nails mentioned above? No, your nail technician isn’t going to switch out your gel or acrylic with aluminum or steel, so take a couple, calming breaths. Metallic nails look just like metal- shiny and slick. Even better, they are not like that dull metal you see on your fence outside. Metallic nails have high shine and an oil slick-look that is totally fierce.
These specialty nails don’t just come in the standard chrome metal color. Almost every imaginable nail color can be done with the metallic-look for an awesome, high shine, metallic nail design.
If you think this metal-look sounds complicated, you are in for a mighty surprise. To achieve a finished chrome nail that looks just like the alloy wheels or metal finishes on a fancy sports car, your nail technician uses a quick and straightforward method that’s like magic.
Surprisingly, to achieve metallic nails, all your nail technician does is apply a special metallic or chrome powder to the color already applied on your nail and just like that, your nails are metallic magic!
If you are interested in this pretty nail trend, read on to see some metallic nail ideas that you just might need to take straight to your nail artist.
1. Gorgeous Geometric Stamped Tips
These awesome almond-shaped pretties are in nice, soft chrome color. The geometric detailing stamped into the nail adds depth and interest to a basic color and nail shape style. These awesome nails would take you from the board room to the dance floor. The timeless shape and the trendy metallic nail color and design make these a versatile choice..
2. Stunning Stiletto She-Claws
These cool baby pink stiletto nails are sure to get you noticed. The metallic pink married with the long stiletto shape of these nails creates a tough girl vibe. These stilettos are sexy and fresh with a touch of edgy. Without a doubt, these will have heads turning in the club or at your favorite sunny brunch spot.
3. Emerald City Here I Come
The shortened oval shape on these gorgeous emerald metallic nails makes these a sure win for the busy woman. A shortened form is still trendy with these thanks to the fun and edgy gold foil triangle. Gold and green have always been a perfect pair, but now they are better than ever with this cool metallic nail idea.
4. Otherworldly Shine That Will Have You Wanting More
Natural is still in, and these bad boys are here to prove it. These opal, oil slick nails evoke almost an otherworldly vibe. The shape is gorgeous and easy to work with too (you will still be able to type on a keyboard with these). The mother ship is calling, and I must go…to get this exact same design on my nails.
5. Fancy Ball Gown Bling
The slightly rounded square shape makes these look clean and polished. The metallic blue is deep and shiny. Bling added to two nails takes this classic look and elevates it to today’s modern standards for nails. This style is like a designer ball gown in nail form. We think this is precisely what your next night out on the town needs. Rose gold hair completes this look perfectly.
6. Ombre-Effect Metallic Nail Beauties
Simple and classic, yet edgy- these ombre-like metallic nails are the perfect mix of trendy and timeless. This style will take you from the stuffy workplace to a night out on the town. These are versatile, gorgeous, and must have! We know you took a screenshot of these! No shame, girl!
7. Purple Rain, Rain Do Not Go Away
Purple almonds? Only the best kind of almonds. These nails are super on trend with the different colors and textures on each nail. The other hand has a different order, and this is totally on point with what is hot in the nail world right now. The metallic nails pop against the matte glitter. The deep violet and black are perfect together. These nails are fire. Elevate it even further with purple hair!
8. Impossibly Soft and Baby Pink Square Tips
Holy metallic pink Batman! The pink metallic nails on these bad boys are so shiny and soft and look absolutely stunning against the model’s skin tone. These have the classic square shape that creates clean lines and uniformity, which is a nice contrast against the wild metallic hue. These would look just like Legally Blond’s Elle Woods if she were a nail design!
9. Black and Gold Metallic Sky-high Stilettos
These insanely long stiletto-style metallic, glitter, and black nails are totally fierce. The jeweled detailing recalls an almost-art deco or Steampunk vibe with a modern twist. The clean cuticles and the expert shaping take these awesome nails to the next level. Just don’t poke your eye out- you won’t be able to admire your gorgeous claws!
10. Metallic Mermaid Tails From The Deep Green Sea
These awesome green coffin tips almost resemble mermaid tails, and we are here for it. The clean lines and cuticles make these look sharp in every sense of the word. The shape and metallic sheen make these awesome nails look edgy and modern- the best kind of nail design.
11. Squoval Natural Nails For the Win
These cute, short nails have a fun metallic strip over a pretty white base. Each nail is perfectly identical to create a streamlined look that works with any outfit choice or scenario. The clean lines and incredible shine on these nails make them a solid winner for anyone’s next nail design. Nail designs like these go really well with wedding hairstyles for short hair.
12. The Edgy Pink Princess Metallic Nail Idea
These fierce and short coffin nails will get any head to turn. The metallic pink and gold glitter are accentuated by the jewels, and the combination screams high maintenance, but in a good way. The cuticles and shape are expertly crafted for a winning look. Go ahead and Pin these for later.
13. Nude Nails and Gold Flake Make a Great Pair
A long length and a rounded square shape make these cute nails look fresh and modern. The gold-like flake creates dimension and interest that is hard to achieve on a flat surface, like a nail. The combo of nude and gold is always a win, and this design is no different. The gold flake is made trendy with the gold triangle at the cuticle.
14. Pretty Holographic Tips That Are Out of This World
These classically-shaped nails have a shine that just won’t quit. The cuticles are expertly clean, and the shape looks perfectly polished. These nails are pure perfection and incredibly Instagram-worthy. Run to your nail technician to get these done and then sit out on a sunny day and admire the kaleidoscope of color.
15. Metallic Rainbow Coffins are What Dreams are Made of
Another set of coffins that are expertly shaped and clean. These awesome nails have an oil slick effect that creates a rainbow of metallic color. The added jewel design- slightly different on each hand- add the finishing touches to the perfect set of nails. These would look amazing on a sunny day or under the flashing lights in a club.
16. Edgy Purple and Black Curved Coffins FTW
How low can that French go? The black French that dips low makes for a fun and fresh take on the classic nail design. Add the trendy geometric glittery detailing, the purple metallic pointer, and middle fingers, and you have a really edgy and modern nail design. Feeling inspired yet?
17. What Do These NOT Have Going For Them?
Wow. These coffin-shaped pure confections are metallic, matte, glitter, and negative space. Honestly, what more could you want or need in a nail design? We can’t get over that super sharp negative space. Not only are these tips creative and completely rocking five different nail trends, but the cuticle line is also clean. These are expert-level elegant.
18. If the Tin Man Were Super Fly Metallic Nails
These are straight metallic chrome, and we couldn’t love them more. Sometimes simple, with clean lines, is the best. While basic, they are definitely not dull. To add dimension and texture, some nails have a stippled-look, and the others are smooth metallic chrome. As an added piece of flair, the ring finger is adorned with jewels at the cuticle line. These coffin tips are gorgeous!
19. Regal as a Queen Stilleto Metallic Tips
These are fit for a queen of fierce! The tips are literally on point and those cuticle lines- they are crazy clean! The purple color on these is a gorgeous light plum that pairs really well with the rose gold glitter and the metallic gold. All three colors combine to make a pretty and easy wear look.
20. Trendy Matte Nails, Sparkly Glitter, Metallic Gold Foil Tape- Oh My!
The modern square shape of these works of art is goals. The matte pink is so soft, they probably are making you want to reach out and stroke them like a kitty. Metallic gold foil tape is hot, and the design here is on point and trendy. Add the glitter accent nails and the gorgeous jewel detailing, and you have nails that must be on your to-get list for your nail tech.
21. Disco Ball Bling for Your Claws
These beauties look like a disco ball for your nails. Clean lines and cuticles make for a genuinely envy-worthy and incredibly expert look. We see these being perfect for your next New Years Eve party. Forget the sparkling Christmas tree at the party, you will be the center stage when everyone is lusting over your metallic NYE tips.
22. Sparkling Ice Queen Claws
The ice blue on these fierce and frigid tips comes straight from the White Witch of Narnia herself. The shape, the perfect thickness, and the ideal cuticle lines are expert-level. Negative space and glitter with the metallic nail accents take these straight out of this world. You know you want these, the second the outside temperatures dip.
23. Ombre Metallic Mirror Mirror On the Wall
You could almost see your reflection in these stunners. The gradient ombre nail effect is on trend, and the cool silver to royal purple colors are pure perfection. A basic, short style lets the color and metallic look shine on these awesome nails. I see you adding these to your Pinterest nail board.
24. Shiny Metallic Mermaid Knockouts
So shiny, they look almost wet. These gorgeous coffin-shaped mermaid tails are stunning. The ombre-effect on each nail looks like a perfect embodiment of the Little Mermaid. The shaping is near perfect with these beauties. These look like the ideal nails to take to the beach on a hot summer day.
25. All That Glitters IS Gold
The shape on these metallic gold nails is perfect for the go-getter and for someone who wants to be able to pick up a coin off the floor (hey, we know that’s difficult for all you long-nailed ladies). These cute, simple nails look like liquid gold-rich and warm. The beauty is ever-flowing with these gorgeous tips.
26. Warm Nude and Gold- a Winning Combo Metallic Nail Design
Check out those squeaky-clean cuticles! These beautiful gold metallic and glitter nails with nude accents are trendy, yet classic. The coffin shape further adds an edge to these gotta-have ‘em beauties. These nails would quickly go with any look and can take you effortlessly from work to a night out.
27. Pink and Chrome Ovals are Everything
An oval nail shape seems basic and ordinary until you add chrome accents. These pure powder pink nails are amplified with a gorgeous soft metallic half-nail. The shape and cuticles on these pretties make these look expert and custom. Sometimes it pays off to let your nail tech choose what to do for a change.
h3>28. A Color Combo That is Fire and Ice
This coffin-shaped set is literally on fire and cold as ice. A cool powder blue and peach is an unusual color combination that really pays off. The two blue chrome accent nails play off the blue glitter that is the same gorgeous soft blue color. Who knew what these baby blues needed was a hint of peach ombre? Well played.
29. Yes, You Need Winnie the Pooh and Piglet On Your Nails
The icy blue and the warm gold play well together. The expertly hand-drawn Winnie the Pooh and Piglet take center stage here, though. Well, and those great cuticles, too. These are just too cute.
30. Coffin and Chrome Are Instagram Gold
These super shiny turquoise (with a hint of purple) metallic tips are just gorgeous. They are basic, yet dimensional thanks to that stunning chrome effect. The cuticles and clean application make these nails worthy of a screensaver to show your nail technician at your next appointment. You can thank us later.
31. Baby Pink Cotton Candy Confection
Who knew pink could look so fun? Pink is pretty on its own, but with a chrome element, it is taken to another level of gorgeous. The clean cuticle and application here make these some lust-worthy tips that anyone would want for their next nail look. Let’s talk shape too- a mix between oval and rounded stiletto is a winning blend.
32. Dusty Rose is the Next Nail Color Trend
This nail design is next level extra, but we are loving it. The charcoal to dusty rose ombre is genius. Next, we have an intense jeweled-out nail that is just insanely gorgeous. Chrome only adds more to the party, and we don’t know about you, but we are here to stay.
33. Matte and Chrome is Not a Good Idea
Opposites attract and in the best way with this simple, yet beautiful nail design. Matte black with a fun smattering of jazz is just the right contrast to that delicious liquid-looking chrome that is literally liquid fire. The coffin-shape and clean cuticles only further elevate these tips to next level expert.
34. Plaid is Not Just For Schoolgirls
Like the Phoenix rising, these are straight fire. I mean, the color can only be described as fire red. The hand-drawn plaid brings this design down to Earth and is just the right kind of uniformity. The gorgeous detailing on the pinky screams opulence. These tips are for the type of woman who is going places.
35. Rainbow Bright Would Be Proud
These nails are a real mosaic work of art. The only way we see these being achieved is by laying each holographic piece of the rainbow puzzle on the nail, one by one. This took patience and much skill. These look like prismatic mermaid tails are we are here for it.
36. Black and Silver- Classics That Never Get Old
The shape of these silver and black beauties is gorgeous and would lengthen even the shortest of fingers. The cuticle line is sharp too. These are beautiful and well-done. The metallic silver on the one nail on each hand gives this design that extra punch it needs. Two gorgeous thumbs up.
37. Mauve- Not Just For the Golden Girls (Oh, Wait. That was Maude…)
These are sharp. The choice to elevate that pretty mauve color into the 21st century with the metallic and glitter nails was pure genius. The metallic nails are a rose gold color that is just the perfect metal color to warm up any nail design. We are rushing off to get this exact design right now.
38. Walking in a Winter Nail Wonderland
These are making us crave winter even though summer is just around the bend. The tapered square shape on these sassy silver bells is modern and must have. Metallic silver is a great choice to use with a snowy white because it makes it pop and shine. These are a great example of just the kind of metallic nail ideas that are on trend right now.
39. Feeling Blue and Loving It
The blue hues used here are unique and super pretty. Contrasting matte with chrome is always a good choice. From gray-blue to baby blue, the spectrum of blues is being represented here well. The shape is sharp, and those cuticle lines are goals. This fun design wins.
40. Simple and Short- Classics That Never Go Out of Style
These silver almond-shaped beauties are simple and pretty. These are perfect for any look or occasion thanks to the go-with-everything-silver color. The cuticle line is pure perfection- so clean. The shaping on these nails is also pretty spot on. These show attention to detail and talent from the nail artist.
41. Don’t Go Stabbing Me In the Heart
These look like they belong to a pink ice queen, and we hope we are the queen. The incredible shine on the baby pink chrome is next level. I think you could even use these as an in-a-pinch mirror to check your lipstick. The detailed glitter nails look like pink mermaid tails, and they are pure perfection. These pretties are definitely envy-worthy works of art.
42. Rose Gold and Violet Beauties Metallic Nail
The simple shape and color choice here is pure gorgeousness. Sometimes, you don’t want a lot going on, but you need just some extra punch to add that something special. These have that something special. They also look easy to re-create. The combination of rose gold chrome and violet is a total beauty win. Better add these to your Pinterest nail board!
43. I Dream of Aquamarine Seas
The color here is just beautiful. The glitter detail complements and matches the beautiful chrome aquamarine perfectly. Not only is the color choice on fleek, but the shaping and the clean cuticles also knock this design out of the park. Basic and cute, but not dull at all- the perfect nail design.
44. Magenta Magic is Where it’s At
Metallic nails come in literally every color, even magenta. This color is so rich and vibrant, and the perfect color to chrome out. The bejeweled accent nails are totally extra, but we are alright with that. These are the ideal set of nails to get you out of dish duty. We call that a success. Will these inspire some metallic nail ideas?
45. Please Tell Me You Are Getting Married in These
Perfect for an elegant wedding or just because these nails are just beautiful. The glitter French tip nail is made trendy and modern with a rosy beige base. The differing glitter metallic nails are a total genius. The cuticle and beautiful shape take this design to the next level. These would be perfect on a beautiful bride who appreciates having her nails on point.
46. Perfect Purple and Simple Shape Metallic Design
OK, can we also talk about that nail polish bottle? You’ll want these just for the gorgeous bottle! These beauties are the perfect pop of purple, and they look so easy to achieve. The cuticles are clean, and that simple squoval shape looks lovely on anyone. These are super cute and easily achieved by even a nail novice.
47. Out of This World Galaxy Chrome
These look just like outer space, in a galaxy far away. The fact that you can DIY your own galaxy nails is out of this world! These gorgeous rounded tips are the perfect length, and those cuticles are pure goals. These are gotta-have-it gorgeous, so add these to your Pinterest STAT.
48. Sexy and Simple Glitter Stilettos
Classic chrome is elevated with pretty white glitter, deep black, and silver glitter nails. These pointy tips are elegant, yet edgy and are perfect for a night out on the town. The glitter would shine and sparkle like a disco ball, and everyone will be drooling over your nails. Ah, goals!
49. These Bad Boys Are Fire
Chromed-out fire! Who knew you could combine the cool of metal with burning flames? Well, you can, and these stunners prove it. Liquid flames and a killer shape make these real works of nail art. These would look amazing skimming the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean. Put these on your to-get nail list and then book a getaway!
50. Black Onyx Can Be Cute Metallic Nail Idea
These look just like polished black onyx stones. Expert shape and an impossibly clean cuticle line make these must-have beauties for your next nail appointment. Likely, a chrome powder was added to a basic black to achieve this agate-like confection. However this was done, we are here for it.
50 Awesome Metallic Nail Designs That Are So Hot, You Will Literally Be Running to Your Nail Salon
This list of beautiful, edgy, and fun metallic nails isn’t even an exhaustive one. There are such creativity and ingenuity in the nail design world that a list of 50 metallic nail designs wouldn’t even begin to cover the fantastic designs being created daily. However, we hope that this gets you started and inspired to either create your own easy metallic nails or to go out and get you some, girl.
The nails we featured above are some of the best metallic nails we have seen as far as talent with shaping and cuticle work, along with color and creativity. We hope you enjoyed these beautiful metallic nail ideas. What factors make a nail design perfect for you?
