Chrome Nails Never Miss & These 12 Manicure Ideas Are The Proof You Need

Between glass nails, the invisible French manicure and a rainbow of trending nail colours, there has been no shortage of manicure inspiration in 2025. One of the most enduring trends of the year has to be the chrome manicure. With their distinctive high-shine finish and metallic edge, chrome nails are undeniably cool — and surprisingly versatile. The glossy texture works well with pretty much every colour you can think of and looks just as impactful as a block-colour manicure as it does a nail art accent.

“Chrome nails are best achieved in salon for a really flawless finish,” explains pro nail artist and educator Jessica White. “You start with a base colour, followed by a gel colour and top coat, then layer a chrome powder over the top to get that rich, reflective look,” she says. Although it can be tricky to replicate the look (traditional polish doesn’t hold chrome powder as well as gel), White recommends OPI Glazed N’ Amused Nail Lacquer for recreating a “soft iridescent chrome effect” at home.

Whether you head to the salon or attempt it at home, read on for 12 of the best chrome manicure ideas to inspire you.

Perfect for the winter months, this expensive-looking copper chrome manicure by Nicola Jones would work just as well paired with casual, cosy knits as it would any festive party outfit.

Providing the perfect antidote to winter’s shorter days and darker nights, this ethereal blend of pastel hues created by Polished by Bec is a manicure designed to make a splash.

Taking a classic French manicure and adding a modern twist, Jessica White’s silver chrome-tipped nail look is perfect for party season. Try Essie's Apres Chic, $13.99, for a similar look at home.

We have no doubt that burnt orange nails are here to stay. Noemy Soto’s combination of the deep pumpkin shade paired with the reflective chrome finish is a tonal delight.

Brown manicures emerge as a trend during the cooler months each year, and White predicts that this deep chocolate shade, which Destiny Medina has used for this molten nail art look, is going to be everywhere. “Chocolate chrome adds a unique warmth and richness that is perfect for [cooler weather],” says White.

Cast your mind back to last summer and vanilla chrome nails were everywhere — in large part because of how good this Alexandra Teleki manicure looked. It has since inspired countless iterations including this short set by nail artist Aimee L Link. The soft, creamy colour is clean, minimalist and perfect for a more pared-back take on the chrome trend.

White predicts that chrome nails will talk a walk on the dark side this winter. “For the coming season, I think that darker, moodier chrome manicures will be big. Think deep charcoals, rich wines and navy,” says White. This royal blue manicure by Jenna Kelly is first on our list to try.

Characterised by their silvery, pearlescent shimmer, moonlight chrome nails are set to dominate this winter. Skye's stunning take on the trend using chrome and foil is out of this world.

Red nails feel undoubtedly festive but look great year-round, too. Take inspiration from this set by nail artist Iram Shelton. If all-over colour feels too bold for you then why not make like TJ and go for deep red chrome tips?  

Forget the lilacs and lavenders of summer; purple nails are getting a grungy makeover for winter. Shades of aubergine, plum and mulberry work particularly well in chrome as Hollie's metallic manicure proves. OPI Nail Lacquer in Abstract After Dark, $13, has all the shimmer and shine of a chrome gel manicure but in an at-home formula.

“Right now, I’m loving a classic nude base topped with chrome — it’s such a timeless, chic look that complements any style,” says White. This neutral chrome manicure paired with delicate metallic detailing from Nails of LA is such a fun and wearable take on the trend.

Silver, charcoal and grey always work well during the cooler months. Iram Shelton’s graphite chrome manicure takes the colour all over the nails for an almost industrial, disco ball effect. Recreate this look at home with Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Nail Polish Chrome Steel The Show, $12.95 $8.99.