Rihanna, Gigi Hadid, and More Had Iced Chrome Nails at the Met Gala. Here’s How to Wear the Trend in Real Life

Rihanna, Gigi Hadid, and More Had Iced Chrome Nails at the Met Gala. Here’s How to Wear the Trend in Real Life

In a world ofchrome nail trendsandballet slipper tones, we eagerly anticipate the Met Gala’s array of maximalist, experimental nail looks. The event has showcased some of the most boundary-pushing nail art of all time. Think hyper-dramatic, on-theme tips from the likes of Cynthia Erivo, Zendaya,Beyoncé, and more. This year, there is one manicure look uniting the star-studded red carpet: metallic, high-shine “iced nails.”

Elle The 2026 Met Gala Celebrating

Appearing in varying degrees of intensity, the iced nails look is a bold, cool-toned take on the classic chrome nail trend. While some celebrities embraced the look fully, such as Rihanna with her statement mixed-metals manicure and Ashley Graham with her dipped silver fingers, others proved it can be effortlessly adapted for everyday wear.

new york, new york may 04: rihanna attends the 2026 met gala celebrating costume art at metropolitan museum of art on may 04, 2026 in new york city. (photo by taylor hill/getty images) new york, new york may 04: ashley graham attends the 2026 met gala celebrating costume art at the metropolitan museum of art on may 04, 2026 in new york city. (photo by john shearer/wireimage)

Since being brought into the spotlight by Hailey Bieber’s “glazed donut” nails, the chrome manicure has taken on a life of its own. Though it can be recreated at home by those with a more advanced skill set, you’re more likely to see the look achieved in salon by experienced hands.

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“Chrome nails are a game-changer in the nail industry,” says A-list manicurist Tinu Bello. “They offer an unparalleled allure, closely mimicking the reflective, glossy nature of metal. Unlike regular glitter, which scatters light, chrome nails have a uniform gleam that captures and reflects light consistently, creating an ethereal effect. It’s like wearing jewelry on your fingertips. The high-shine finish elevates any nail design, making it look more polished and luxurious.”

new york, new york may 04: laura harrier attends the 2026 met gala celebrating costume art at the metropolitan museum of art on may 04, 2026 in new york city. (photo by john shearer/wireimage) new york, new york may 04: (l r) rosé and gigi hadid attend the 2026 met gala celebrating costume art at the metropolitan museum of art on may 04, 2026 in new york city. (photo by arturo holmes/mg26/getty images for the met museum/vogue)

It’s no surprise, then, that the look feels apt for this year’s Met Gala. While we’re unlikely to opt for a full-finger application of the shimmering powder, there are plenty of references we’ll be looking to in the months ahead. For minimalists, Gigi Hadid and Laura Harrier’s soft vanilla chrome nails are perfect for everyday wear. Their short length and soft shape prove the finish looks effortlessly expensive on all nail types, while a sheer glaze of silver offers a sophisticated, your-nails-but-better effect.

Feeling more experimental? Opt for a simpler take on Rihanna’s maximalist manicure. While its long, pointed length, hanging jewels, and pick-and-mix approach to shades may feel a little heavy for everyday wear, the subtle shift between metallic hues makes a convincing case for mixed-metal chrome nails on special occasions. Think gunmetal silvers, green-golds, and brassy bronze tones. Remember: where there’s a statement beauty moment, there’s always a cool, more demure reference to take.

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