Glass Nails Are the Royal-Approved Manicure Trend You're About to See Everywhere

Call it the Kate Middleton effect.

It started with glass skin, seemingly poreless complexions that gleamed with a natural radiance. Then the trend moved on to glass hair, high-shine strands you could practically see your reflection in. Now, the look has made its way over to your fingertips with glass nails. And the fact that the mani was sparked by none other than Kate Middleton makes the glass nail takeover feel even more inevitable.

Like its predecessors, glass nails are all about megawatt shine. “I love that the look is timeless, yet elegant,” says Mazz Hanna, Nail Artist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood. “It’s clean, beautiful and elevated yet goes with any outfit.” But don’t let the name fool you—it’s actually pretty easy and achievable. Essentially, glass nails are clear, barely-there polish that whispers simple sophistication. Blame the quiet luxury effect.

The Trend

“The glass nails trend, inspired by Kate Middleton’s clear, shiny nails features short, clean, natural nails topped with a glossy topcoat,” Hanna says. “The look aims to replicate the glossy look of glass, creating a chic and elevated manicure.”

According to Hanna, the origins of the glass nails trend can be traced back to the broader movement toward natural makeup looks and an emphasis on showcasing healthy, radiant skin. “As more people gravitated toward minimalistic beauty routines, there was a growing demand for nails that would seamlessly align with this trend,” she says. “Glass nails emerged as the answer, offering a subtle yet sophisticated way to elevate one's overall appearance.”

Where You’ve Seen It

It’s not just royals who are sporting the look. Hanna points out that with glass skin and off-duty model looks trending, it’s no surprise that glass nails are surging now as well. “Glass nails complement the natural, clean aesthetics that have been trending for a while now,” she says. “Its versatility and timeless appeal make it a perfect choice for those seeking a polished yet low-maintenance look that suits any occasion.”

Get The Look

Ahead, Hanna breaks down how to DIY a glass manciure.

Step 1: Prep your nails. “Prep is everything for glass manicures,” Hanna says. “Your natural nails and the skin around it needs to be looking flawless for a glass manicure since there will be no polish color to distract from any imperfections. If you don’t have time for proper cuticle care or nail prep, massage Dior Creme Abricot ($30) into nails and cuticles for an instant refresh.”

Step 2: Base coat. Apply a thin layer of clear base coat to protect your natural nails and create a smooth canvas for the glossy finish.

Step 3: Sheer Polish. “If you have any imperfections in the coloration of your nails, or if you want a tiny bit of color, you may want to opt for a very sheer nude to even out your canvas,” Hanna says. “I like to think of sheer nudes as the equivalent of foundation for your nails.” Her go-to’s for this step are Manicurist Active Glow ($16), Orly Rose Colored Glasses ($10), Dazzle Dry Prima Ballerina ($22), Chanel Ballerina ($32) and Dior Muguet ($30).

Step 4: Topcoat. Apply a plumping high-gloss topcoat to seal it all in. “I recommend doing two layers of topcoat for glass nails, especially if you are opting for no color—it will help smooth out the nail and plump it up to give it that glossy, glass finish that you are looking for,” Hanna says. Her topcoat picks are Orly Shining Armor ($15), Chanel Le Gel Coat ($32) and Nails Inc Retinol Topcoat ($15).

Step 5: Skincare. It might be tempting, but Hanna cautions not to skip this step. “Use an exfoliating scrub to slough away any dry skin that may be dulling your glow,” she says. “Then, follow up with a hydrating hand cream, let that absorb completely and then apply a heavy moisturizer or a balm to seal in the moisture. You can either do this as a part of your prep or as finishing touches once your polish is completely dry.” She suggests the Mazz Hanna Body Buff ($50), Retrouvé Dermal Defense Hand Cream ($55) and Manucurist Rose Balm For Hands & Lips ($19).

Up Next: 18 Fall Manicures for Short Nails—the Most Wearable Trend of the Season

Read the original article on Byrdie.