Want to boost the wow factor of an otherwise neutral mani/pedi? Opt for a metallic or chrome nail polish the next time you hit the salon or give yourself an at-home manicure. Metallic, iridescent, holographic, 4D, and chrome nail polishes add fun and excitement to any outfit. They’ll also help you connect with your inner space traveler (or mermaid!) and pep up your overall look with a hint of shimmer.
Check out the best metallic nail polishes for an unforgettable, high-shine nail look. Bonus: some of our picks come straight from Glam Bag faves.
1. NATURE'S CARTEL Nail Polish
This seriously shimmery rose gold polish is like the cool older sister of a traditional pink shade. And thanks to its warm base and universally-flattering rose gold hue, it looks amazing on all skin tones. Given its warm base, it looks amazing on all skin tones. It adds a pop of color to your overall look, but it’s neutral enough so that you won’t feel tempted to change out your color after a few days. Plus, it’s highly pigmented and won’t streak or clump. Ipster @jaxton70054 calls it “my new favorite color,” and @soxfan610 says they “love the shade!!”
2. FLUIDE 7-Free Polish in Strut
Looking for a new kind of blue? Then you’ll love this non-toxic polish, which comes in an intoxicating metallic blue grey that’ll offer your manicure a sleek finish. Best of all, FLUIDE’s unique products (co-created by a former cake maker) were designed for all gender identities and skin tones.
3. TRUST FUND BEAUTY Nail Polish
Channel mermaid vibes with this subtle but long-lasting, chip-resistant nail color, which is resilient enough to brave sun and sand—kind of like a mermaid his or herself. This gorgeous polish is a sheer gray with iridescent violet flecks that will make your nails practically glow. Ipster @barbieshires1113 says, “This color was amazing. In fact, my daughter snitched it from me. Lol,” and another Ipster appreciates the shimmer: “Love how this is iridescent.”
4. COLOR CLUB Metal of Honor Nail Lacquer
In the world of nail polish colors, you’ll always have a giant rainbow of options. This pretty polish has a defined, linear, purple holographic finish with a rainbow effect that’ll have you staring at your fingers and admiring them from different angles for hours.
5. PRETTY WOMAN Nail Polish in Platinum Status
Give your manicure platinum status every time. This nail polish is simultaneously on trend and classic. Plus, it’ll take any outfit or makeup look to the next level. The vegan polish is also chip-resistant, fast-drying, and long-wearing. One Ipster says, “It has great coverage and lasted a while,” and @Ericamj agrees that they “love this shade.”
6. POP BEAUTY Nail Glam in Midnight Minx
Dress up your DIY manicure with this dramatic metallic shade, which looks like a sky filled with stars. Rock your look with the formula, which is chip-resistant and non-occlusive, meaning it won’t stain your nails. Then, add a second coat for even more dazzle. Aside from never staining your nails, it contains nylon, a proven nail strengthener.
7. PRETTY WOMAN Nail Polish in Royal Fantasy
Fulfill your beauty fantasies with this nail polish, whose shimmery purple shade is stunningly timeless—and it goes with anything, no matter how many outfit changes you go through. Our Ipsters love the chip-resistant vegan formula—one Ipster says, “LOVE this shade!! Very pretty and sparkly without looking childish,” while another Ipster says, “So pretty...Glittery shades are my absolute fave and that's this one but it's not too too glittery, just a hint!”
8. SPACE CASE COSMETICS Full Moon Freak Out
Sophistication is written all over this gorgeously unique nail lacquer, a dark maroon with a grey shimmer that gives it a mirror effect. You’ll look stellar, and you’ll stay safe with the nontoxic formula. It’s also a stunning backdrop if you want to top off your look with nail art.
9. DERMELECT COSMECEUTICALS Hold ‘ME’
Look like the starlet in a stylish noir film with this luminous polish, a sparkling midnight shade with a genius formula. The polish is infused with protein peptides, giving you impressive sheen and coverage. The short brush ensures easy application and a flawless coat. Be a class act and cover your black nail with a top coat to maintain your manicure’s durability and shine.
10. LONDONTOWN USA Opal
If you can’t resist a subtle shimmer, you’ll love this unique lilac nail color, which adds a pretty shine to a neutral tone. The formula is enriched with nourishing botanicals to give you long wear and unbeatable shine—plus, it fortifies brittle nails (so there’s no need for a base coat). Just apply two coats, top with a top coat, sit back, and say, “Wow.”
Have you embraced the metallic nail trend by trying any of the polishes we mentioned? Want in on all the Glam Bag fun? Take the Beauty Quiz now to get started. And don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.