- Crystal nails have been a red carpet staple for years.
- Selena Gomez [1], Taylor Swift [2], Lizzo [3], and more have worn the nail trend.
- You can get crystal nail designs at the salon or pick up rhinestones for an at-home manicure.
Everyone from Selena Gomez [4] to Khloé Kardashian, and Lizzo have worn crystal nails over the last year, solidifying its status as the nail trend for special occasions.
Though you may not have a red-carpet event or upcoming world tour to plan for, rhinestone designs make for great birthday nails [5] and even engagement nails [6] if you really want to make a statement. The manicure style may seem a little over the top to some, but it's in keeping with the 3D nails [7] trend that's grown in popularity throughout the last few years. From full crystal-encrusted fingertips to tiny crystal accents that add just a subtle touch of sparkle, there are a variety of different ways to experiment with the trend.
For those not on Gomez's and Jennifer Lopez's level [8] and unable to get their hands on real Swarovski crystals, you can shop for nail rhinestones on Amazon. We like the Huetfat 2400pcs Nail Gems Ab Flatback Rhinestones Gems Stones [9] ($8) and Canvalite 1500pcs Rhinestones in 6 Sizes [10] ($16) — both come with a range of sizes, a carrying case, and a tool to make application easier (because anyone who's ever tried to bedazzle anything back in the 2000s knows how difficult they are to pick up).
Whether you plan to give yourself an at-home manicure using nail crystals or you're looking for inspiration to take with you to the salon, there are plenty of cool manicures out there to inspire you. We've rounded up some of the best crystal nails, ahead.
Selena Gomez's Crystal Nails
Gomez's nails for the 2023 Golden Globes featured tiny crystals all over the oval-shaped extensions to give the nails a next-level shine.
French Manicure With Crystal Nails
Adding crystals over a baby-pink french manicure is an easy way to really up the glam factor of your nails.
Lizzo's Crystal Nails
For the Grammys in 2020, each of Lizzo [11]'s nails had a teardrop-shaped crystal dangling from them. The manicure used the concept of pierced nails to add the rhinetone to the end of her fingers rather than on the nail itself.
Reverse French Crystal Nails
Go for a reverse-french manicure design using crystals to line your nail bed. The colour combo of white and neutral for the base keeps the manicure more understated.
Jennifer Lopez's Crystal Nails
Lopez's 2023 Grammys nails featured a row of tiny rhinestones running vertically down the centre. Paired with the nude base, this manicure expertly demonstrated how to wear rhinestone nails as a minimalist.
Crystal French Manicure
To really make a statement with your crystal nails, try creating a french tip using only rhinestones. This manicure will shine like a diamond.
Minimal Crystal Nails
Incorporating just one or two crystals on your nails for a touch of sparkle is a fun way to put your own spin on the trend.
Crystal Accent Nail
Opt for an accent finger of rhinestones to make one nail, such as your ring finger, really stand out.
Abstract Crystal Nails
You can use crystals to create abstract shapes in your nails. To keep the look from going too over-the-top, only use crystals on a couple of fingers.