“Chanel Mermaid” Nails Are Summer’s Dreamiest Manicure Trend

Vaclav Urich April 30, 2026

"Hearst Magazines and AOL may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

From the bold red lips worn by models at theCouture Spring/Summer 2025show to the chrome hair seen duringSpring 2026 ready-to-wear, Chanel’s recent runway beauty looks continue to keepBazaareditors 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 manicuristAma Quashieand team, made its debut atChanel’s 2027 Resort presentationat 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 assubtle 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.

Why TrustHarper’s Bazaar?

For more than 150 years,Harper’s Bazaarhas been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.