12 Juicy Jelly Nails To Try For A Sweet Summer Look
Staff Writer, Jasmine Williams, covers a variety of topics from home decor to beauty and everything in between. She has bylines at Motherly, The Everymom, and Byrdie where she wrote about motherhood, beauty, health and relationships. Jasmine knew she wanted to be a writer when she realized she was actually interested in reading the articles in her mom's favorite magazines — and she may or may not have ripped her favorite articles out to study them later. When she's not working, you can find Jasmine playing make-believe with her toddler, spending an undisclosed amount of time in Target or TJ Maxx, and searching for a family-friendly puppy to add to her family.
Jelly nails are super in right now, giving options for fresh takes on your more classic manicures. This is the perfect option if you're feeling uninspired by your usual nail colors or nail designs we usually opt for, giving you something a little more bold to bear.
You can get your jelly nails in some of the same colors you know and love in a more out-of-the-box way. They're universal and can be as subtle or vibrant as you want, pairing perfectly with short or long nails! Basically, as far as I'm concerned, jelly nails are a win-win for everyone! So without further ado, here are 12 jelly nail ideas to send to your group chat before your next nail appointment.
Pink & Purple Jelly Nails
Sailor Moon-Esque Jelly Nails
The first thing that comes to mind is Sailor Moon when I look at these pink jelly nails. The subtlety of the color in the center reminds me of the way Sailor Venus used to blush whenever she was around Darian aka Tuxedo Man. Also, the silver stars feel like they were inspired by the crescent moon that was on Sailor Venus' forehead.
Even if you never watched Sailor Moon, these jelly nails are still a great choice for anyone who's trying this trend for the first time.
A Touch of Hydrangea Jelly Nails
When we were on lockdown in 2020, I ket dreaming about hydrangeas for some reason and slowly found myself falling in love with purple. Although I've yet to actually wear it, I'm obsessed with this nail set! They're almost similar to the Sailor Moon-Esque jelly nails, but the addition of sparkles and white hand-drawn stars creates a noticeable difference.
If you can't get enough of all things purple and lilac, make sure you save these nails to your summer inspo folder.
Vibrant Magenta Jelly Nails
The part of my brain that misses all things vibrant is obsessed with these nails. They're the textbook definition of vibrant and don't require any designs or rhinestones to complete them. They're the nails you want to have during your week-long summer vacation to Miami Beach, or a tropical island like the Maldives. Yes, just yes!
Multi-Colored Jelly Nails
Tortoiseshell Summer Jelly Nails
I know I just said that I love the vibrant jelly nails, but this tortoiseshell design is something I could wear all year. All jokes aside, I'd happily commit to it if someone told me a million dollars was on the line.
Outside of the tortoiseshell design that feels like it's meant for fall, there's a couple of hand-drawn abstract designs that create a nice contrast along with the addition of chrome. It's like it pulls the designs of these jelly nails together, creating something that anyone can pull off.
Candy-Coated Jelly Nails
These jelly nails don't exactly look like a bag of the sour patch candy, but they do make me want to buy some. Food cravings aside, I love how colorful this idea is. If you've ever had a hard time choosing one color at the nail salon, I say go for a handful of them — and make sure your nail tech knows you want a reverse French manicure!
Diamond of the Season Jelly Nails
Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1 has been occupying every space of my mind since its premiere, so I can't help but think of it when I see these romantic, floral nails. They're reminiscent of the yellow gowns Penelope used to wear, but they also have a very modern twist. If Bridgeton were set in 2024, I'd like to say either she or one of the Featherington women would sooooo wear these jelly nails.
Sparkling Ocean Jelly Nails
I know you're going to spend a lot of time frolicking on the beach or tanning by the pool, so you might as well get jelly nails that are mirror the sparkling water you'll be looking at. These nails also have the base of a French manicure, but it's been updated with the addition of ombré sparkles. There's also a lovely gradient effect with each color that's meant to gradually change with each nail. Talk about perfection!
Jolly Rancher Jelly Nails
I'm so not helping myself with my candy cravings, but these nails remind me of a big bag of Jolly Ranchers. I know you can see the grape, cherry, and blue raspberry flavors coming to life too! This jelly effect is absolutely everything!
Ninja Turtles Jelly Nails
I've spent way too much time in front of a TV as kid, but that's fine because I get to name amazing jelly nails to help give you inspo! This particular set is a great choice if you love deep greens and purples. I personally never considered wearing them together, but this nail set has made me a believer. They're gorgeous complements and don't require long acrylics.
Checkerboard Jelly Nails
If you plan on having multiple picnics this year as a way to romanticize your life, your nails should definitely match your picnic blanket. While I'm sure you've graduated from the usual checker print, that doesn't mean you have to completely scoff at it's traditional design. IMO, this set is also perfect for those who see a wall of polish at the nail salon and can't decide which color to choose.
Red Jelly Nails
Deep Cherry Jelly Nails
I've been wearing red nail polish lately so these nails spoke to my renewed interest in this gorgeous shade. As soon as I was able to pay for my own nails, I couldn't wait to choose red nail polish. If you love this beautiful shade too, I recommend getting this deep cherry jelly set. In terms of design, you're free to get rhinestones or gold decals like these pretty butterflies.
Lovey Dovey Jelly Nails
Who says you only have to celebrate love on Valentine's Day? Let it be known that you can't get enough of love and romance with these gorgeous heart jelly nails. They have varying shades of red and pink nail polish with white hand-drawn open hearts on top. But, you know what my favorite part of this set is? They're neon meaning they glow in the dark!
Which jelly nails are you thinking about getting? Let us know in the comments, and follow our newsletter for more beauty inspo!
Lead image via @Pop_Poplished/Instagram
Staff Writer, Jasmine Williams, covers a variety of topics from home decor to beauty and everything in between. She has bylines at Motherly, The Everymom, and Byrdie where she wrote about motherhood, beauty, health and relationships. Jasmine knew she wanted to be a writer when she realized she was actually interested in reading the articles in her mom's favorite magazines — and she may or may not have ripped her favorite articles out to study them later. When she's not working, you can find Jasmine playing make-believe with her toddler, spending an undisclosed amount of time in Target or TJ Maxx, and searching for a family-friendly puppy to add to her family.
