'Pixie dust nails': How to give a glazed doughnut manicure an upgrade

2023-05-23

Last year, we were obsessed with frosted, shining nails that looked like the glaze of the doughnut.

Now there’s a new spin on the trend that’s taking over TikTok: pixie dust nails.

Inspired by the sheen of a pixie’s wing, this nail trend is the perfect subtle shimmer to take from the office to after work cocktails.

The hashtag ‘pixie dust nails’, also known as fairy dusty nails, has racked up almost 130 million views on TikTok.

There are a few takes on the trend, and famously Margot Robbie is a fan, as the subtle sheen was her manicure of choice at the Golden Globes.

Margot’s nail artist, Tom Backika, used Essie’s Here to Stay Base Coat followed by Essie Hi Maintenance to brighten up her nails.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CnR1aThruwR/

He then let these dry for a minute and applied a thin top coat of FX Expressie Holo. For even more high gloss shine he finished it off with Essie’s Gel Setter TopCoat.

But you can also go more OTT and pile crystals or glitter on top of a milky polish.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYjmGLrlWcq/

How to do your own perfect pixie dust nails

If you’d looking for a more maximalist version, TikToker Nails By Davina provided step-by-step instructions

1. Add clear builder/rhinestone gel

2. Apply a top coat

3. Sprinkle gemstones/crystals/glitter

4.Tap off the excess

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5. Clean and press them into the gel so the nail keeps its shape

6. Cure for one minute

Ready to try some pixie dust magic for yourself?

Opt for pearl, pink, silver and white top coats and lacquers for a classic take on the trend, or push it to a purple, green or blue for something different.

'Pixie dust nails': How to give a glazed doughnut manicure an upgrade

How to do your own perfect pixie dust nails

Get the look

Essie Expressie Quick Dry Nail Polish – Holo, ASOS, £8

Glazed Effect Powder, Manucurist, £9

Sugar Floss Nail Paint in soft lace, Barry M Cosmetics

Glitter Topcoat Nail Paint Fortune Teller, Barry M, £2.99