First, we fell in love with velvet nails for cozy fall and winter vibes. Then came the jelly nails, perfect for spring and summer. Now, these two trends have joined forces, bringing us the mesmerizing velvet glass nails—the ultimate manicure trend of 2025. If you haven’t seen them yet, just take a quick scroll through your social media feeds. Thanks to their luxe shine and eye-catching depth, velvet glass nails are set to be the must-try look to kick off the new year.
Ready to dive in? Whether you prefer a salon visit or a DIY approach, here’s everything you need to know about this stunning nail trend.
What Are Velvet Glass Nails?
According to Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood, velvet glass nails combine two of the hottest trends—shimmery magnetic velvet polish and a high-gloss, glass-like finish.
“The velvet effect creates a soft, glowing shimmer that shifts beautifully with the light,” says Hanna. “The glassy top layer adds a smooth, reflective finish that enhances the overall look.”
Olivia Van Iderstine, mani trend expert at Olive & June, adds that a sheer color coat is key to nailing this look. “The sheer top coat allows you to see into the velvet layer underneath, creating a luxurious, dynamic effect that changes as you move your hands.”
How to Get the Look
You have two options to achieve velvet glass nails—hit the salon or try it yourself at home.
Salon Method:
- Professionals use magnetic velvet gel polish as the base.
- A clear builder gel is applied on top for a glossy, glass-like finish.
- This method gives the most long-lasting and flawless results.
DIY Method:
- Choose a magnetic polish and use a magnet to create the desired effect.
- Apply a sheer color coat over it.
- Finish with a high-shine top coat.
- For an even easier option, try press-on nails like Olive & June Velvet Press-Ons or Chillhouse Emerald Tower Press-Ons.
11 Velvet Glass Nail Ideas to Try:
1. Emerald Green:
This deep green velvet glass mani is breathtaking and surprisingly easy to achieve with press-on nails. Perfect for an effortlessly glam look.
2. Dark Red:
Classic red nails get an upgrade with a rich velvet glass finish. Use your favorite red magnetic polish and top it off with a glossy coat for an elegant touch.
3. Baby Pink:
Soft, feminine, and perfect for any season, baby pink velvet glass nails are delicate yet eye-catching.
4. Pale Lilac:
This pale lilac mani features a subtle shimmer with a touch of French manicure flair—ideal for those who love soft, cool tones.
5. Cherry Cola:
A deeper, richer take on the trend, cherry cola velvet glass nails offer a sweet and sultry vibe.
6. Amber:
Tap into 2025’s brown nail trend with amber and dark brown hues, enhanced by a sheer glassy overlay.
7. Cool-Toned Mix-n-Match:
Skittle nails get a cool-toned makeover with soft pastel shades and a uniform glossy finish.
8. Nude:
For a subtle take, try nude velvet glass nails with a champagne-toned magnetic base and a sheer topper.
9. Dark Teal:
Inspired by the aurora borealis, this dark teal shade adds a magical touch to your manicure.
10. Purple:
From soft lavender to deep eggplant, purple velvet glass nails make a bold statement.
11. Magenta:
Vibrant and fun, magenta velvet glass nails work beautifully on any nail shape, adding a playful pop of color.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re a fan of bold hues or soft neutrals, velvet glass nails offer something for everyone. Try them at your next salon visit or DIY with press-ons for a quick style boost. Either way, get ready to fall in love with this ultra-luxe, trendsetting manicure!