As someone whose nail art skills are like a child’s doodling, I’m always on the lookout for beginner-friendly designs that make my at-home manicures look taller without lift a lot. Thankfully, ours Summer nail trend report is bursting with such inspiration, including a succulent jelly finish and a colorful French tip.
Summer is one of the best times to experiment with different bold polishes, IMHO, so when I saw these two nail looks side by side, I wondered if I could combine them into one idea combine or not. Read: Instead of painting your nails once absolute shade, I tried a colorful mani in a variety of translucent colors. The rainbow heads instantly brightened my mood and I couldn’t help but think they looked like a bowl of marshmallow mix. Enter jelly bean claws.
Turns out I’m not the only one craving this candy-like lacquer; editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choifounder of JinSoon, told me that she also noticed a group of beauty fans gravitating towards “Skittle jelly nails” for a summer look. Curious how to master this season’s irresistible succulent nails? Check out Choi’s tutorial on the colorful jelly bean manicure ahead.
Why Jelly Bean nails are perfect for summer
Jelly nails aren’t going anywhere, but adding more color to the mix will give them a summery look. “Colorful nails are a summer favorite because they express the vibrant energy of the season, mimicking the bright summer sun,” says Choi. Summer is also the time for fashion sets Break up with neutral people and experiment with brighter colors, such as buttery yellows and fiery reds. Why not apply the same logic to your nails? Choi (the leading nail artist on the runway) insists that colorful nails complement these bold summer styles for a cohesive overall look.
“Glaster-painted nails with a light and translucent look are perfect for this season,” she adds. “They are a great alternative to more complicated nail art.” (The nail newbie in me is breathing a sigh of relief.) Vibrant yet airy jelly bean nails embody the perfect summer vibe that’s easily elevated, says Choi. That’s definitely my MO for the season.
How to master the trend
First things first: Choose your shade. Choi says the best jelly bean nail “flavors” are bright and vibrant, capturing the joyful essence of summer. “I recommend a combination of hot orange-reds, pale pinks and fuchsias,” she suggests. “These colors are fun but still have a classic and modern chic, you won’t get bored with them. You can alternate these three colors on your nails for a playful look but still perfect.”
You can also color the rainbow with a different translucent color on each fingertip, or use pale jelly tones for a softer look—the artist’s choice! Just make sure each color actually has a jelly finish. (Check out our product recommendations below if you need a few new colors in your collection.) Then follow along here:
- Appearance and buffs: You can choose any nail shape you want, but if you really want to simulate the jelly bean look, Choi recommends choosing a round shape. After filing, be sure to buff the nail plate to ensure a smooth, shiny finish.
- Hydrate your cuticles: “Healthy cuticles will enhance the overall appearance of your nails,” says Choi. Choose a recipe you love—I love it Evening primrose oil + honeysuckle oil by JinSoon—and apply evenly before painting (and every day).
- Apply your base: Choose a basic jacket! Check one out Some excellent options here.
- Paint in thin layers: Next, apply the jelly paint of your choice in thin layers, allowing it to dry completely before applying the next layer. “This helps achieve a translucent, juicy effect without streaks,” notes Choi. It may be easier to open all the colors and paint one finger at a time, switching shades as necessary. Repeat until all digits reach desired glaze level.
- Add blush effect: Stay with me here! “To make your nails look more succulent and jelly-like, add a little realistic color.” blush makeup over a clear jelly base,” Choi advises. Once your polish dries, she recommends using a beauty sponge to dab a small amount of blush (or even eyeshadow) in a similar color. reflect in the middle of each nail. It points outward for a soft, diffused look,” she explains. This is technically an optional step, but it actually enhances the jelly finish.
- Double the top coat: Finish your jelly bean nails with two coats of polish. The extra layer will make your nails look especially full and succulent, says Choi, helping to enhance the jelly-like appearance.
Buy Jelly Bean nail polish
This complete set in red-orange looks beautiful, so it’s definitely my go-to for a multicolored mani.
Hot pink jelly beans! Need I say more?
This sheer pink is a great choice to place between darker colors. Pair with bright pinks and reds to balance out the colorful look.
London neighborhood
Complete nail veil
This cherry color looks super juicy, even without the top coat.
circus colors
Paint your nails with Tumbleweed
Cirque Colors is arguably the reigning queen of jellies. This brand comes in a variety of gorgeous colors, but I especially love this sheer avocado green.
circus colors
Paint your nails with Citron jelly
While you’re at it, you have to choose this lemon drop inspired color for your rainbow set.
Dark plum often feels moody, but the jelly finish provides a much-needed change for summer.
Ella+Mila
Spread the love
You can’t go wrong with this sheer tangerine. Personally, I like orange for the warmer months.
Orly
Nail polish at Make Waves
This royal blue looks pretty pigmented in the bottle, but I promise it will turn out to be a perfect translucent blue.
OPI
Brilliant high-gloss coat
Any gloss can be turned into a jelly with just a little coat. Simply mix your favorite color with this high-shine number and the pigment will become delightfully sheer.
