We’re Copying J.Lo’s Pearl Nails ASAP

Looking for a summer manicure that’s effortlessly chic, guaranteed to earn you some oohs and ahhs, and pairs with literally everything in your wardrobe? Say hello to pearl nails, which Jennifer Lopez recently wore to a red carpet event in Hollywood. 

“The pearl look is also known as opal or mirror effects because of the sheer iridescent effect created,” explains Tom Bachik, the celebrity manicurist who created the look for J.Lo. “The pearlescent effect is clean, minimal and the iridescent shimmer makes it even more versatile—basically matching everything!”

He says to think of it like an updated take on the “glazed nails” effect that’s been so popular in recent months. This version has a more opalescent finish versus that milky high-gloss look. Best of all, it’s super easy to recreate and you’ve got a couple different ways to get the look. 

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Gel & Chrome 

One way to achieve this look is by using a gel nail polish and chrome effect powders. Bachik says to start with a tonal sheer nude color that matches your skin tone. For a sheerer look try a clear polish instead, and for a more white-pearl effect opt for a creamy white hue. After, apply a pearlescent chrome powder on top, like DND White Pearl Chrome Effect Powder ($12, DND Gel). 

Pearly Nail Polish 

For a simpler way to get the look, grab a pearly nail polish and apply two to three coats to build up to your preferred opacity. What you’re looking for here is less of a glitter or shimmer, and more of that swirly pearl-opal effect. 

Try OPI’s Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish in Pearlcore ($14.50, Amazon), which is part of the brand’s 2024 spring collection. You can also layer a pearly top coat over a regular white or cream polish, like Olive & June Long Lasting Polish in Frosted Gloss ($9, Olive & June). 

Press-On Nails

For the simplest way to get pearl nails yet, Bachik says you can’t miss with a press-on manicure. He adds that they’re perfect for those who don’t feel confident in their artistic abilities and also don’t want to commit to the cost of a salon mani. “Check out KISS Gel Fantasy full coverage tips or colorFX by imPRESS, a no glue mani that allows you to create a celebrity-worthy mani in just minutes,” he says. 

His favorites for this are the imPRESS ColorFX Universal Press-On Nails ($11, imPRESS Beauty) or KISS Gel Fantasy Hold Me Closer Press-On Nails ($9, Kiss USA). If you’re craving a bit more bling, try the imPRESS Couture Birthstone Press-On Nails in Pearl ($11, imPRESS Beauty).