Of all the celebrity nail trends arriving this summer, chiffon nails are perhaps the most unexpected. In a sea of polka dots, gems, and metallic embellishments, ultra-sheer nails defy an otherwise maximalist mood. Worn by celebrities like Gemma Chan and Gracie Abrams, the minimal style was a recurring theme at this year’s Met Gala. Named for its effect, akin to the gauze-like, delicate drape of chiffon, celebrity manicurist Michelle Class breaks down why the simple style is becoming a hit.
“Celebrities especially are constantly photographed in different outfits, campaigns, and at events, so a clean, sheer manicure works with everything,” Class says. “It feels expensive, timeless, and camera-friendly.”
Characterized by precisely prepped nails—no rough cuticles, edges, or hangnails in sight—with a swath of glossy, sheer polish, a chiffon manicure essentially amounts to your own nails, but on their best day. Color-wise, a chiffon manicure includes any shade that’s sheer enough to see your nail beneath. That could be an apricot, peach, soft pink, or cream tone.
