Meet mermaid nails, the otherworldly nail art trend that’s like wearing a fin on your fingertips

By Souzanmichael

August 7, 2019

By Souzanmichael

August 7, 2019

With The Little Mermaid live-action film fully on our minds (we can’t wait to see Halle Bailey as Ariel and are obsessed with the rumor that Harry Styles might be Prince Eric), the latest nail art trend we’re stalking on Instagram is under the sea-themed.

Mermaid nails are the coolest, most intricate nail art trend of the summer, and we like to believe they’re what Ariel’s nails would look like 24/7 if she was real. From pearl accents to fin outlines to full-on glitter and holographic shades, mermaid nails may not be for the faint of heart, but they’ve certainly captured our hearts this summer.

So if you’re looking to try something new, and shelf your minimalist manicures (at least for a little bit), mermaid nails might be right up your alley. Browse our favorite examples on Instagram below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzyZRxblSIb

The glitter makes this so glam.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzohlVvHsla

Aren’t the seashell accent nails to die for?

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz8scnsg5iZ

Take the trend to the next level by including an actual mermaid.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0NurFTBWxb

Mermaid nails, rose gold edition.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0Mw8Hfg7L7

Obsessed with the contrasting shades.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0Lb6VqDmmx

So cute—and surprisingly subtle.