2 min read
From the bold red lips worn by models at the Couture Spring/Summer 2025 show to the chrome hair seen during Spring 2026 ready-to-wear, Chanel’s recent runway beauty looks continue to keep Bazaar editors mesmerized. The newest soon-to-be-viral trend born out of the Maison we’re eyeing as of late? The brand’s playful and iridescent Mermaid Nails. The style, crafted by lead manicurist Ama Quashie and team, made its debut at Chanel’s 2027 Resort presentation at a seafront casino in Biarritz, France, making the show’s underwater beauty theme even more significant.
Also referred to as a dégradé or gradient design by Quashie, the nail looks featured a range of shimmery pastel tones reminiscent of reflective fish scales. Other manicure styles showcased in the presentation featured monochromatic ombré gradients in nude, blue, green, and orange, along with a mix of sheer and opaque polishes on each hand. The shape of the models’ nails was kept long and rounded, standing out against more minimal hair and makeup styles, save for the addition of feathered, sequined eye accents—dubbed “sea urchin lashes” by makeup artist Lucia Pieroni.
Summer is still about two months away, but we’re already counting this high-fashion-approved nail trend as one of the buzziest looks to try next season. The nautical manicure is as subtle as it is impactful, whether you paint your natural nails in shimmering tones or opt for the ease of a set of thematic press-ons. When it comes to re-creating the dreamy nail look, the world is quite literally your oyster.
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