Porcelain Nails Might Just Be the Most Delicate Mani Trend Yet

If you are looking for the perfect delicate and detailed nail art, allow us to introduce you to the porcelain manicure. This mani showcases the most beautiful abstract or floral patterns—often in shades of blue—usually, but not always, accompanied by a white glossy base. While the intricate nature makes it perfect for special events, the designs often evoke the Meditteranean in a way that makes them ideal for wrapping around an Aperol spritz on vacation (or just at lunch). Talk about a mani for all seasons. Read on for everything you need to know about this dainty mani trend.

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What Are Porcelain Nails?

The porcelain nail trend mimics fine-grained and translucent ceramic wares (also referred to as Fine China). The color palette usually features soft pastels, including shades of blue, lavender, pink, and white. The trend usually involves intricate hand-painted designs, often featuring fine lines and floral detailing. "You can create distinctive floral shapes accompanied by lines and swirls," says celebrity nail artist Elizabeth Garcia.

"Porcelain nails usually consist of very detailed art [consisting] of royal blue and white nail colors," adds nail artist Queenie Nguyen. "The art is usually in royal blue on top of a solid white base."

Behind the Trend

The trend has gained traction thanks to its intricate and artistic nature, which makes it a popular choice for special occasions like weddings, holidays, formal events, and festivals. Wed wager the obsession with all things that evoke Italy—from bobs to Aperol Spritzes—has also played a role in this nail arts growing popularity. Many of the designs would be right at home on a Dolce & Gabbana table setting.

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How to Get the Look

There are several ways to achieve the porcelain nail look; you can use stickers, stamps, or hand-paint the design. "You start [with] a sheer white base," Garcia tells us. "This will give [the look] its delicate, porcelain, glossy finish when you apply your top coat after you complete your nail art."

If you decide to go the hand-painting route, "you can use blue acrylic paint, watered down to give it that washed-out effect," recommends Garcia. "It all depends on the type of medium that you prefer using. You can also accomplish this with gel."