Jelly Nails: The 90s Trend Making a Modern Comeback
If you’ve scrolled through TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably noticed the colorful, translucent beauty that is Jelly manicures taking over feeds everywhere. This trend is a playful nod to the 90s, evoking memories of Juicy Tubes, jelly shoes, inflatable chairs, and even mini jelly cups—but with a contemporary twist. Bright, buildable, and effortlessly fun, Jelly Gel Nail Polish is the easiest way to bring nostalgia to your fingertips.
What Are Jelly Nails?
Jelly nails are all about sheer, see-through color that lets your natural nails peek through, creating a glassy, liquid effect. Think of it as a hybrid between classic polish and modern gel—a shiny, translucent coat that catches the light beautifully.
While these nails can be applied to any length, long nails really allow the jelly effect to shine, as the transparency becomes more noticeable. The best part? You don’t need to book a salon appointment. With the right tools, Jelly Gel Nails are entirely DIY-friendly, making it easier than ever to embrace this playful manicure trend at home.
How to DIY Jelly Gel Nails
Creating your own jelly manicure is simpler than you might think. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Prep Your Nails: Push back cuticles, shape your nails, and lightly buff them to help the Base Coat adhere. Cleanse with a lint-free wipe soaked in gel polish remover.
- Base Coat: Apply a thin layer of clear Base Coat, cap the free edge, and cure for 60 seconds under a UV/LED lamp.
- Builder Gel (Optional): If you want extra strength or length, apply clear Builder Gel, capping the free edge and curing each coat for 60 seconds.
- Jelly Gel Color: Apply 1–2 thin coats of your chosen Jelly Gel color, capping the free edge and curing after each layer. Build up until you reach your desired translucency.
- Top Coat: Finish with a thin Top Coat, cap the free edge, and cure for 60 seconds. You’re officially on-trend!
For those who prefer a visual guide, there are several YouTube tutorials available to walk you through the process.
Six Must-Have Jelly Colors
Here are some of the hottest shades to try:
- Blue Jelly: A bright, oceanic hue perfect for a stained-glass effect. Pair it with denim and a baby tee for instant Y2K vibes.
- Orange Jelly: Vibrant, playful, and sunny—reminiscent of translucent 1998 iMacs. Party in a bottle!
- Lime Jelly: Sweet and tangy, this translucent green is a playful pop of color that screams summer fun.
- Hot Pink Jelly: Bold and statement-making, perfect for channeling early 2000s Juicy Couture glam.
- Green Jelly: A deeper yet bright jade shade for those who want something unique.
- Watermelon Jelly: A striking red-hued essential, evoking lava lamps and childhood nostalgia.
Each of these shades can be layered to achieve different levels of translucency, making them versatile for every mood or occasion.
Creative Jelly Nail Art Ideas
Jelly gels aren’t just for solid colors—they’re perfect for nail art. Here are a few trends to try:
1. Stained Glass Nails:
Use a thin brush and black gel polish to sketch out “lead lines” over a base coat. Fill the sections with various jelly colors, curing each layer. The result is miniature stained-glass windows on your nails—a perfect mix of art and playfulness.
2. 3D Fruit Nails:
Summer-ready and bursting with texture, 3D fruit designs—like oranges, lemons, or limes—bring your manicure to life. Start with a Jelly base, use Builder Gel to sculpt the 3D effect, and finish with a Top Coat. These juicy designs are sure to turn heads.
3. Watercolor Effect:
For a softer, dreamy look, try a watercolor technique. Apply a base coat of jelly, then an uncured layer of Blooming Gel. Drag your chosen jelly colors across the nail to blend naturally. Top it off with white accents like tiny stars for a whimsical finish.
Why We Love Jelly Nails
What makes Jelly nails so irresistible is their versatility. They’re nostalgic, summery, and playful, yet sophisticated enough to elevate any look. The sheer finish lets you experiment with layering and nail art, while the glossy shine keeps your manicure modern and fresh. Plus, they’re perfect for DIY enthusiasts who want a salon-quality look at home.
Whether you’re going all out with 3D fruit designs or keeping it simple with a single translucent hue, jelly nails offer a fun, nostalgic, and endlessly creative canvas.
Jelly Gel Nails aren’t just a trend—they’re a colorful statement, a nod to the 90s, and a chance to have fun with your manicure like never before. So grab your favorite shades, dust off your gel lamp, and let your nails do the talking this summer.
