Embellished Cat Eye Is The Manicure Trend About To Take Over

The cat eye nail trend has been a crowd favourite for some time now, but this year, nail artists are taking it up a notch. If you want to add a bit of sparkle and pizazz to your autumn and winter nails, look no further. Embellished cat eye nails are extremely popular, as they combine a gorgeous shimmery design with your favourite add-ons — whether that's a French Tip, nail art, or chrome details. Jen Le, owner of J Aesthetic Lashes & Nails, says her customers are big fans of the specific nail look. "Embellished cat eye nails are becoming very popular because they combine the magnetic shimmer effect with extra details like French tips, chrome or small nail art," Le says. "It gives a simple cat eye design more dimension and makes the nails look more unique, elegant, and eye-catching."

"Nail artists create cat eye nails using a special magnetic gel polish that contains tiny metallic particles," Le explains. "After applying the gel, a magnet is held near the nail to pull the particles into different shapes or lines, creating that signature 'cat eye' reflective effect."

Le tells Refinery29 Australia it is possible to create your own cat eye nail design at home, but it could take a bit of practice. "You [need] the correct magnetic gel polish, [a] magnet, and a UV/LED lamp," she notes. "Achieving a clean and well-balanced design usually requires some technique, so many people prefer getting it done professionally at a salon."

For all your embellished cat eye inspo to take to the salon, we've rounded up the best nail looks below.

This silver look from @hollidaygels is exactly what we need going into colder weather. The chrome stars on top give it a playful charm without being too childish. To replicate the nail art at home, try Sephora's Nail Polish in Silver Fever, $12.

We are taking this delicate nail art from @rebornnailpenang straight to the salon. The nail artist started with a soft pink cat eye before layering thin designs on top.

An earthy cat eye nail look is always a good idea, like this one from @mnartistry_yxe. Using a shimmering green colour, some nails have been transformed into butterfly wings, while a singular heart adds a touch of interest.

Combining a chrome French tip with a cat eye is a stroke of genius. This design by @j_aesthetic_lashes_and_nails completely nails the brief, with golden chrome tips adding a subtle and modern touch.

This look by @amournaillounge.cambridge is a combo of a sparkly French tip with a rich, golden-brown cat eye. For a similar shade to add to your French tip collection at home, try Manicurists' Glitter Duo, $32.

@heygreatnails has added a swirl design to the humble cat eye, and we're in love. It adds a bit of dimension and intrigue, while also keeping things clean and simple.

You can't go wrong with a few small hearts. This stunning red set by @jesslizs is elegant with a splash of joy.

This design by @stephanies.beautybar is a work of art. By using a chrome border, the cat eye has been turned into a colourful gemstone.

Polka dots are always cute and in style! This set from @cindysalonlafayette in an icy blue feels fresh and timely for the colder weather. We're definitely saving this for our next salon appointment.