Nail trends are forever on a revolving door — even the French tips have come and gone. But even we have to admit that there are some a little too outrageous for us to attempt. (Yes, we'd put aquarium nails, and pierced fingertips on that list). But on a scale of clear top coat to weed nails, we think the latest trend falls somewhere in the middle: the "tiger's eye" manicure. If it sounds wild, just know that the design is eye-catching — in that realistic, attainable way most people want.
The name also probably sounds familiar. If you’re not instantly thinking of your tiger’s eye stone safely tucked in your pocket, then you’re probably remembering the “tiger’s eye” hair trend. And the manicure iteration is almost exactly the same. Except this time, a range of different colours are involved and it’s blowing up on Instagram and Pinterest. So is there a secret, and can we do it at home? Yes, and hell yes.
To get the marbled effect, all you need is a neutral base coat or a solid jet-black polish. Once you paint on two opaque layers, just sweep an iridescent metallic shade on top to finish off the look — and there you have it, an instant “tiger’s eye” effect. It's so easy, it just might stick. Click ahead for a few of our favourite iterations, and get ready to feel inspired.
The shine! The shimmer! Everything about this look is mesmerising.
Accent nails are add instant glamour — especially when it blends different tiger's eye colours.
If you're up on your gemstone knowledge, we would liken this one to the effect of pearls – with a twist.
When the unicorn craze meets the tiger's eye.
This manicure took the tiger's eye trend and combined it with the reverse French mani for something even cooler.
The ruby hue and ombré effect is an A-plus in our books.
We're bookmarking this one for next holiday season — the swirled design is giving us major candy cane vibes.
If you've been afraid to rock black nail polish, here's your chance.
If you're not into the darker tones, opt for something bright and fun, like red and pink.
We're convinced a mermaid created this look.
Coffin nails for the win.
A combo of deep navy and teal is a fancy substitute to solid black polish.
We bet all your friends will be asking how you got that marble nail look the moment they see it.
A bit harder to do at home, to be sure, but the pay-off is just as cute.
This isn't a trend reserved for only the fall and winter. Bright, sunny colours can be used to match whatever season you're in.
We love this sultry mix of grey, silver, and shimmery black.
We've got Boomerang gold on our hands.
The fiery version of the classic tiger's eye pattern is key.
The iridescent shimmer adds some funk to a dark polish.
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