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While summer saw the rise of sheer, dewy manicures such as rosewater nails, autumn is leaning into creamier polishes that still manage to look translucent. Enter “vanilla glass nails,” which hit just the right note for anyone craving a seasonal nail upgrade in cosy neutral shades.
So what exactly are “vanilla glass nails?” Put simply, they share the same DNA as two other barely-there manicures: nude-toned BB cream nails, with their characteristic sheer glaze, and semi-opaque milk bath nails.
Proof, if any were needed, that they’re set to go viral is the fact that celebrity manicurist—and queen of demure nude nails–Harriet Westmoreland has declared vanilla glass nails the next big manicure trend. Better still, her recently launched Westmoreland Cosmetics brand features an aptly named Vanilla Gloss Collection of Glass Polishes that allow you to easily create the look at home.
According to Westmoreland, “the glass nail trend will be a new type of clean manicure.” For her, the emphasis is on a juicy, transparent effect and polishes that “feel thick and slick, rather than rubbery, with a high-shine finish.”
Throw in a milky, translucent shade with the merest whisper of a vanilla-inspired nude colur…Et voila! You’ve got ‘vanilla glass nails.’
As for how you wear vanilla glass nails? First and foremost, do the prep work. “The trend for minimal and clean manicures will continue,” Westmoreland tells Glamour UK. “But in a really high-quality way with neat nails. You need to look after the skin around the nail to create that ‘natural nails but better’ look.”
Also important: match the shade of your vanilla polish to your skin’s natural undertone for a thoroughly modern finish. And remember to keep things simple. “You can’t go wrong with a minimal French mani,” Westmoreland adds.
Step-by-step: How to get ‘vanilla glass nails’
Follow Westmoreland’s step-by-step guide to get vanilla glass nails:
Step 1: Use a hand scrub
“Scrubbing your hands every couple of days will soften the cuticles, meaning they won’t be flooded when polish is applied. I use this as a base for my manicure technique.”
Step 2: File the nail
“Be very careful when filing and always work in the same direction. Don’t over-file as it can cause brittle nails.”
Step 3: Apply base coat
“Use a good base coat and be gentle, ensuring the product applies evenly to the nail.”
Courtesy of brand
‘Vanilla Glass Nails’ Are Destined to Be on Everyone’s fall Mood Boards
What Are Vanilla Glass Nails?
Vanilla Glass Nails represent a fresh,sophisticated twist on the popular glass nail trend. Combining soft vanilla hues with ultra-glossy, translucent effects, this manicure style channels elegant warmth perfect for fall. the look resembles delicate shards of polished glass layered over creamy, muted vanilla tones – making the nails appear almost jewel-like.
Unlike customary glass nails that can be starkly shiny or icy, Vanilla Glass Nails infuse a cozy vibe suited for crisp autumn days. This trend offers an all-season appeal but shines brightest in fall color palettes thanks to its blend of warmth and clarity.
Why Vanilla Glass Nails Are the Ultimate Fall Nail Trend
- Versatile elegance: The neutral vanilla base complements all skin tones and pairs seamlessly with typical fall wardrobe colors such as rust, burnt orange, and deep browns.
- Light-Reflective Beauty: The glass-like finish captures and reflects warm light beautifully, adding a subtle glow to your fingertips.
- Minimalistic yet Eye-catching: This trend strikes the balance between simplicity and glam, perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.
- Trendy but Timeless: Vanilla Glass Nails nod to modern nail art techniques but won’t feel dated as seasons change.
How to Achieve the Perfect Vanilla Glass nails Look
Creating Vanilla Glass Nails involves layering translucent and nude creams, followed by a reflective top coat. Here’s a step-by-step guide for DIY enthusiasts or to guide your nail technician:
- Prep Your Nails: Clean, file, and buff nails to a smooth canvas.
- Apply Base Coat: Protect natural nails and ensure longevity of the manicure.
- Use a Vanilla Nude Polish: Choose a creamy beige or soft vanilla shade – ideally with a semi-matte or satin finish.
- layer a Clear Glass Effect Top Coat: This is the key step. Use specialized glass or cellophane nail foils or a high-gloss, reflective gel top coat to simulate the reflective “glass” effect.
- Seal and Cure (if using gel): For gel manicures, cure under a UV/LED lamp to lock in that glossy shine.
- Add Optional Accents: Minimalist gold flakes, subtle shimmer, or iridescent foils can enhance the glass illusion.
Fall-Inspired Vanilla Glass Nail Designs
| Design | Features | Why It Works for Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Opaque Vanilla with Iridescent Foils | Classic vanilla base + hints of holographic foil | Reflects autumn sun, subtle sparkle without overpowering |
| Gradient Glass Effect | Fade vanilla into sheer glass shine | Creates dimension reminiscent of fall morning fog |
| Matte Vanilla + Glossy Glass Tips | Contrast between matte base and glossy nail tips | Modern twist evoking cozy sweaters with sleek finish |
| Gold Leaf Glass nails | Vanilla polish + delicate gold leaf flakes under glass layer | Adds warmth and richness, echoing fall foliage |
Benefits of Choosing Vanilla Glass Nails This Fall
- Low Maintenance Shine: The reflective finish hides minor chips or imperfections better than matte or solid colors.
- Perfect for Layering: Easily customize with other fall hues or minimalist decals without clashing.
- Healthier Nail Appearance: The translucent layers create an illusion of thickness and strength without heavy polish buildup.
- Match Any Outfit: Neutral vanilla tones serve as a chic backdrop to your favorite fall fashion statements.
Practical Tips for maintaining Your Vanilla Glass Nails
- Hydrate Cuticles Daily: Use nourishing oils to keep the skin around your nails soft, complementing the sophisticated look.
- Use Gloves for Chores: Protect your manicure from harsh chemicals and water exposure.
- Buff Lightly Between Touch-Ups: If the glass effect starts dulling, gently buff and reapply a high-gloss top coat for fresh shine.
- Schedule Regular Manicure Visits: Maintain the layered glass effect by refreshing every two to three weeks.
First-Hand Experience: Why Nail Artists Love Vanilla Glass Nails
Top nail stylists describe Vanilla Glass Nails as one of the most “client-pleasing” looks this fall season. It’s a trend that’s easy to customize and adapts well across nail shapes and lengths. Stylists enjoy the creative freedom this trend offers – from subtle barely-there gloss to bold iridescent foils-making it a go-to advice for clients wanting elegance with a modern edge.
Many report that Vanilla Glass Nails encourage clients to embrace neutral shades, breaking the stereotype that fall nail trends must be deep reds or browns. This shift toward soft, glossy pastels combined with the artistic glass technique has made it a runway favorite and Instagram sensation alike.
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Chanel Le Base Caméllia Nail Treatment and Base Coat
Step 4: Choose nail polish
OPI Nail Polish in Coconuts Over OPI
Londontown Enhanced Color Nail Polish in Linen
Step 5: Lock polish in with a top coat
This will help the color to last longer.
Olive & June Nail Polish Topcoat
Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
Step 6: Apply cuticle oil
I do this day and night, and it makes a huge difference. Treat your hands and nails with care, as you would your face or hair. It may sound excessive, but it makes all the difference to the overall look and ensures any manicures you do have last far longer.
Essie On-a-Roll Apricot Nail & Cuticle Oil
L’Occitane Shea Nail and Cuticle Oil
Step 7: Slather on skincare
I actually prefer using body products over traditional hand creams as they are more concentrated and contain ingredients that are going to hydrate the skin.
‘Vanilla glass’ nails inspiration
A version of this article was originally published by Glamour UK.
