Fun, exaggerated nail designs that feature thick layers of polish and textures are great, but the jelly nail trend is an equally amusing way to add a little razzle dazzle to your fingers every now and again. Jelly manicures are created using sheer nail shades that are swiped on to add a subtle but noticeable amount of color that still allows your nails to be seen underneath, as opposed to more traditional opaque shades that completely hide them. It's kind of like wearing tinted lip balm instead of lipstick. The result is supposed to look glassy and, well, gel-like.
Per San Diego-based nail artist and educator, Valeriia Telemaniuk, the trend originated in South Korea, but it's currently on the rise everywhere, just in time for spring and summer. "To me, jelly nails feel very nostalgic," Telemaniuk says. "They remind me of gummy bears, a universally loved childhood treat. There’s something playful, sweet, and emotional about them, which is exactly why they resonate with both younger and adult clients."
