Season after season, the chrome nail trend has continued to endure. From Dua Lipa to Hailey Bieber and Zendaya, the gilded manicure has proven its shiny staying power. But this spring and summer, it’s time to consider a season-appropriate refresh: enter, soft chrome nails. They’re more dainty and pared back than their high-sheen predecessor, and pair well with springtime pastel shades and delicate decals.
Someone who’s been crafting soft chrome nails? Celebrity favorite Kim Truong, who you’ll often see painting the fingers of everyone from Addison Rae to Rihanna and Kim Kardashian. For pop star Becky G’s recent shows, Truong created what she describes as a “sugar chrome starburst” manicure. Using Olive and June, she started a base with the nude gel polish shade The Queen Takes Her Tea With Milk and added the soon-to-launch Chrome Powder Palette set in Sugar Chrome. Then, she decorated Becky’s set with a smattering of celestial jewels and cosmic stars.
“I think soft chrome is having a moment because it feels like a natural evolution of the ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic we’ve been seeing,” Truong says. “Clients still want something elevated and reflective, but not overly bold or metallic. These softer nudes, baby pinks, and pastels with a chrome finish give that same light-catching effect, but in a way that feels more wearable and effortless—especially for spring and summer.”
“Soft chrome offers the best of both worlds: it’s eye‑catching while still being understated,” says Sarah Crespo, who is The GelBottle’s Head of Education, The Americas, and affirms that sense of balance the soft chrome nail achieves. “As trends continue to move toward softer, more natural aesthetics, chrome adds just enough edge to make a look feel intentional rather than plain. Even the most minimal base becomes a statement when you add a delicate chrome finish.”
“The reflective finish adds dimension and extreme shine so even the simplest colors feel more luxe and eye-catching,” says nail artist Hannah Taylor, who credits Hailey Bieber with popularizing the original look and keeping it going with her latest variations. (Care of her go-to nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt.)
Photo: Instagram (@by_hannahtaylor)
