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Mermaid nails are a fun and trendy nail art style inspired by the magical look of mermaid scales and ocean colors. They often feature shiny colors and designs that change color in different lights, like a mermaid’s tail.
To create this effect, nail artists use special techniques like holographic polish, glitter, foil, or tiny scale-like patterns. The colors are usually soft blues, greens, pinks, or purples, mixed with pearly or metallic shades to give a dreamy, underwater vibe.
Of course, there’s a DIY angle too. I’ve seen tutorials using everything from fishnet stockings (dabbed over polish to create scale textures) to eyeshadow (dusting shimmery pigments onto sticky base coats).
Sustainability-minded creators even recommend eco-friendly glitters and non-toxic gels. Because let’s be real, Gen Z wants to slay and save the planet.
So, are mermaid nails here to stay? Trends come and go faster than a TikTok sound, but something about this one feels timeless.
1. SHIMMERY MERMAID VIBES
Shimmery Mermaid Vibes nail art is glamorous, shifting between teal, pink, and gold like a mermaid’s treasure. It’s maximalist, magical, and perfect for summer nights out.
Styling Tips: Pair them with sequin tops, metallic sandals, or a flowy sarong for a head-turning beach-to-bar look. Keep accessories metallic or pearlescent to match the theme. These nails demand confidence, so rock them with bold makeup or slicked-back hair.
2. SPLASH OF COLOR
This nail art is bold, artsy, and unapologetically chaotic. The color selection for creating mermaid art is unique, and the final look is fantastic.
Styling Tips: Pair it with graphic tees or beach gowns.
3. CONCH SHELLS AND MERMAIDS
This design combines shell patterns with creamy conch shell colors and ocean waves print, mimicking conch shells washed ashore.
Styling Tips: Pair with seashell jewelry or linen outfits for a breezy, seaside look.
4. SEA SHELLS AND MERMAIDS
This nail art features soft pastel bases with tiny 3D seashell charms or pearly accents. Inspired by tidal pools, the design uses glossy top coats to mimic wet shells.
Styling Tips: Style with strappy sandals or a straw hat for effortless beach glam.
5. SUMMER VIBES
In this nail art, shell patterns are created with summery colours like yellow and orange, and even a starfish is added to the details.
Styling Tips: Pair with tropical prints or gold bangles to channel vacation energy.
6. MERMAID TAILS
This nail art features mermaid tails made of glitter and water droplets. The base is ombre, with colours including nude pink and blue.
Styling Tips: Style with shimmering eyeshadow or ocean-inspired scents.
7. MILKY MERMAID NAILS
These nails blend milky white bases and create mermaid patterns with golden rhinestones attached to them.
Styling Tips: Pair with sheer fabrics or pearl accessories for subtle magic.
8. GOLDEN EFFECT MERMAID
Nude bases are adorned with mermaid patterns and golden details, evoking sunken treasure. The design mixes metallic and jewel tones inspired by pirate myths for luxe contrast.
Styling Tips: Pair with black dresses or gold cuffs for nighttime glam.
9. WHITE AND GOLDEN MERMAID
Crisp white nails feature delicate gold wave designs and include tiny golden rhinestones. Inspired by shorelines at dawn, the minimalist design uses negative space for airy elegance.
Styling Tips: Style with white sundresses or gold strappy heels.
10. LIGHT BLUE MERMAID NAILS
On a nude basis, the artist has created mermaid effects and Frenchies in pale blue, mimicking shallow ocean water, layered with silver rhinestones.
Styling Tips: Pair with relaxed linen outfits or a breezy poncho.
11. MINT GREEN MERMAID NAILS
The artist has created mermaid effects and frenchies in pale green on a nude base, mimicking shallow ocean water, layered with silver rhinestones.
Styling Tips: Style with pastel outfits or woven beach bags.
12. LAVENDER AND PINK MERMAID
Soft lavender nails blend into pink tips like a sunset over calm waves. Inspired by cotton candy skies, the design uses iridescent top coats for a whimsical glow.
Styling Tips: Pair with floral dresses or lilac accessories.
13. PEARLY MERMAID EFFECT
This nail art uses pearlescent polish, which creates a luminous, shell-like shine. Inspired by oyster pearls, the design avoids glitter for subtle sophistication.
Styling Tips: Style with silk blouses or neutral-toned outfits.
14. PEACHY MERMAID
Warm peach nails with mermaid patterns mimic tropical sunsets. Inspired by desert-island vibes, the design uses gradient blends for a juicy effect.
Styling Tips: Pair with terracotta accessories or copper jewelry.
15. STARFISH AND MERMAID PARTNERSHIP
Soft peach and blue bases feature tiny starfish decals and sand-textured polish. Inspired by tide pools, the design mixes 3D elements with gritty textures.
Styling Tips: Style with casual shorts or a breezy maxi dress.
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