As someone with nail art skills akin to a scribbling toddler, I’m perpetually on the prowl for beginner-friendly designs that make my at-home manis appear elevated without much lift. Thankfully, our summer nail trend report is brimming with such inspiration, including juicy jelly finishes and colorful French tips.
Summer is one of the best times to experiment with different bold polishes, IMHO, so as I saw these two nail looks side by side, I wondered if I might combine them into one hybrid concept. Read: Instead of painting my nails a single syrupy-sheer shade, I tried a colorful mani with multiple translucent hues. The rainbow tips instantly brightened my mood, and I couldn’t help but think they looked just like a bowl of mixed gummies. Enter jelly bean nails.
It turns out I’m not the only one to crave this candy-like lacquer; editorial manicurist Jin Soon Choi, founder of JinSoon, tells me she also has noticed a flock of beauty fans gravitating toward “jelly Skittle nails” for a summery set. Curious how to master the irresistibly juicy nail look of the season? Check out Choi’s tutorial for colorful jelly bean nails ahead.
Why Jelly Bean Nails Are Perfect for Summer
Jelly nails aren’t going anywhere, but adding multiple colors to the mix does give them a summertime edge. “Colorful nails are such a summer favorite because they embody the lively energy of the season, mimicking the bright summer sun,” says Choi. Summer is also a time when the fashion set breaks up with neutrals and experiments with brighter hues, such as butter yellows and fiery reds. Why not apply the same logic to your nails? Choi (who works as a top runway nail artist) affirms that colorful nails complement these bold summer styles for a cohesive overall look.
“Jelly-finished nails, with their lightweight and translucent appearance, are perfect for the season,” she adds. “They are a great alternative to more intricate nail art.” (The nail art novice in me is sighing in relief.) Vibrant yet airy, jelly bean nails embody the perfect summertime vibe, effortlessly elevated, Choi says. That’s certainly my MO for the season.
How to Master the Trend
First thing’s first: Choose your shades. Choi says the best jelly bean nail “flavors” are bright and vibrant, capturing the playful essence of summer. “I recommend a combination of hot orange-red, sheer rose, and fuchsia,” she suggests. “These colors are fun yet have a classic and modern elegance, ensuring you won’t tire of them. You can alternate these three colors on your nails to achieve a playful yet finished appearance.”
You could also go full-on rainbow with a different translucent hue on each fingertip or use pastel-toned jelly colors for a softer look—artist’s choice! Just make sure each shade actually has a jelly finish. (Peek our product recommendations below if you need a few new hues in your collection.) Then follow along here:
- Shape and buff: You can opt for any nail shape you please, but if you really want to emulate a jelly bean look, Choi recommends a round shape. After filing, be sure to buff the nail plate to ensure a smooth, shiny canvas for polish.
- Hydrate your cuticles: “Healthy cuticles enhance the overall look of your manicure,” says Choi. Grab a formula you love—I’m partial to JinSoon’s Primrose + Honeysuckle Cuticle Oil—and apply generously before you paint (and on the daily).
- Apply your base: Choose a base coat! Check out a few stellar options here.
- Paint in thin layers: Next, paint your jelly polish of choice in thin layers, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next. “This helps achieve the translucent, juicy effect without streaks,” Choi notes. It may be easier to uncap all the colors and paint each finger one by one, switching shades when necessary. Repeat until all digits reach your desired level of glaze.
- Add a blush effect: Stay with me here! “To make your nails look extra juicy and jelly-like, add a touch of actual blush makeup on the sheer jelly base,” Choi advises. Once your polish dries down, she suggests using a beauty sponge to dab a small amount of a powder blush (or even eye shadow) in a contrasting color in the center of each nail. “Blend it outward for a soft, diffused look,” she explains. It’s technically an optional step, but it’s one that really elevates the jelly finish.
- Double up on topcoat: Finish off your jelly bean nails with two coats of glossy topcoat. The extra layer will make your nails look especially plump and juicy, Choi says, which enhances the jelly-like appearance.
Shop Jelly Bean Nail Polish
This orange-red looks gorgeous as a full set, so it’s definitely my go-to for a multicolored mani.
Hot-pink jelly beans! Need I say more?
This sheer pink is a great option to place in between bolder colors. Pair with bright pinks and reds to balance out the multicolored look.
Londontown
Perfecting Nail Veil
This cherry color looks incredibly juicy, even without a glaze of topcoat.
Cirque Colors
Nail Polish in Tumbleweed
Cirque Colors is arguably the reigning queen of jellies. The brand has a smattering of gorgeous hues, but I’m especially partial to this sheer avocado green.
Cirque Colors
Nail Polish in Citron Jelly
While you’re at it, you must snag this lemon drop–inspired shade for your rainbow set.
A rich, plum shade typically reads moody, but the jelly finish provides the summertime twist it needs.
Ella+Mila
Spread the Love
You can’t go wrong with this sheer tangerine. I personally love an orange hue for the warmer months.
Orly
Nail Lacquer in Make Waves
This royal blue looks pretty pigmented in the bottle, but I promise it sheers out into a perfectly translucent shade of blue.
OPI
Brilliant High Shine Top Coat
Any polish can become jelly polish with a touch of topcoat. Simply mix your favorite hue with this high-gloss number, and the pigment will become delightfully sheer.