Soft chrome nails make a whimsical comeback this summer

Soft chrome manicures are giving the classic mirrored look a subtle makeover for summer. Where once bold, reflective finishes reigned supreme, this season's trend leans towards a more ethereal, pearlescent sheen. 'The anchor of a soft chrome nail is in the base color,' explains LA-based nail artist Sigourney Nuñez. 'It's typically something soft and pastel, and the color can lean sheer or really milky, giving the manicure its dreamy effect.'

Soft chrome nails: a whimsical, reflective finish

For those who prefer a DIY approach, Nuñez suggests topping your chosen pastel base shade with an effects top coat that has a muted metallic and glaze look. Brands like essie and Manucurist make top coats that create a chrome-like finish without requiring chrome powder. If you're using gel polish, start by applying your milky or pastel base, then dust it with a glaze-type chrome powder before sealing with a non-wipe top coat.

Soft chrome nails pair particularly well with sheer nudes, baby pinks, buttery yellows, and other pastel shades. 'I'd say the most popular soft chrome nails are the classic glazed that have a baby pink or sheer nude as a base,' Nuñez adds. 'But the trend also works beautifully over other soft pastel shades for an iridescent finish.'