Top 15 Korean Jelly Nail Designs to Try in 2026

Why Korean Jelly Nails Are the Must-Have Manicure Trend

Korean jelly nail designs are taking the beauty world by storm, and it's easy to see why this luminous trend has captured hearts everywhere. From the glossy feeds of Instagram to the polished fingertips of celebrities, including Hailey Bieber, whose spring 2025 manicure blended the jelly-gloss trend with a nude, minimalist finish - setting off a wave of translucent, glossy nail looks. These jewel-like creations offer the perfect sweet spot between bold nail art and minimalist sophistication.

The Korean jelly aesthetic combines K-beauty innovation with playful charm, creating manicures that look good enough to eat. Whether you're drawn to candy-bright hues or subtle translucent shades, this trend offers something for everyone, from maximalists who love dimension and texture to minimalists seeking that perfect glossy finish.

With 15 stunning designs to explore, you're about to discover why jelly nails are the most exciting manicure movement of 2026.

What Are Korean Jelly Nails?

The Translucent Trend Taking Over Nail Salons

Korean jelly nails are characterised by their translucent, candy-like appearance and extra shiny aesthetic that catches the light beautifully. These manicures feature thick, rounded 3D surfaces created through heavyweight gels or carefully layered sheer polishes that build remarkable depth on the nail bed. The jewel-like finish is reminiscent of hard lollies, fruit jelly, and glossy syrup, creating that distinctive "jelly" effect that's both playful and sophisticated.

What sets jelly nails apart from similar trends like soap nails and lip gloss nails is their highly saturated, dimensional quality. Whilst soap nails and lip gloss nails focus primarily on shine, Korean jelly manicures emphasise depth through translucency and layering. The term encompasses various Korean-inspired nail techniques, including glass nails, cat eye nails, and syrup nails, each achieved through intricate layering, sheer hues, and textures that create remarkable dimension.

According to nail education expert Giorgia Cappella, head of education and spa at The GelBottle, "Korean jelly nails have become a major trend, encapsulating a juicy, extra-shiny aesthetic that's both playful and sophisticated." Japanese and Korean gel nail artist Alex notes that "they're incredibly versatile in how they can be adapted to each client, but they're typically characterised by using semi-transparent colours that give the nails a dewy tint."

The beauty of this trend lies in its flexibility; you can dial the sheerness up or down depending on your comfort level, though the nail's natural features will typically remain slightly visible, hence the glassy "jelly" reference that defines the aesthetic.

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Why Korean Jelly Nails Are Trending in 2026

From K-Beauty to Your Fingertips

The rise of Korean jelly nails reflects multiple factors that have converged to make this one of 2026's hottest manicure trends:

• K-Beauty Influence: Korea and Japan have consistently delivered beauty innovations that emphasise dewy, luminous finishes, from glass skin to 10-step skincare routines. Jelly nails are the natural extension of this aesthetic philosophy applied to nail art.
• Glossy Texture Obsession: This manicure trend taps directly into the beauty world's ongoing obsession with glossy, light-reflecting textures that create an almost ethereal glow. The extra shiny aesthetic satisfies our collective desire for luminescent beauty.
• Nostalgic Appeal: The trend likely stems from the recent resurgence of '90s jelly shoes and Y2K-era PVC sandals, evoking sweet memories of carefree summer days and youthful style. This connection to the past makes the trend feel both fresh and familiar.
• Ultimate Versatility: These designs work beautifully on any nail length and shape, from long and almond to short and rounded. Whether you're a minimalist who prefers subtle translucent pinks or a maximalist drawn to vibrant, layered designs with cat eye effects and glitter, there's a jelly nail style for you.
• High Customisation: The easily blendable colours and strategic layering allow for truly personalised looks that reflect individual style. The highly customisable nature of jelly manicures means no two people need to have the same design.
• Food-Inspired Fun: The mouth-watering, almost edible appearance aligns perfectly with current food-inspired nail trends. With their candy-like hues and syrupy glossiness, these manicures satisfy our craving for beauty that's both visually stunning and whimsically playful.
• Social Media Momentum: On TikTok alone, the hashtag #jellynails has accumulated over 141 million views on TikTok, reflecting the trend's large and active online following.

How to Achieve/Create Korean Jelly Nails

Salon Visits: Getting Professional Results

When visiting a nail artist for Korean jelly nails, follow these steps for the best results:

1. Bring Reference Photos: Since the term "jelly nails" encompasses many different styles, from glass effects to cat eye finishes, bring multiple reference images to ensure you and your nail artist are on the same page about the specific look you want to achieve.
2. Ask for Syrup Nails: Alex recommends that "asking your nail artist for syrup nails will be a good starting point, as this is representative of the syrup gel polishes that are integral to achieving this aesthetic."
3. Prep Work: Your nail tech will start with proper prep, removing old colour, cleaning cuticles, shaping nails, and applying a base coat. This foundation is essential for achieving that flawless jelly finish.
4. Korean Gel Application: Professional Korean jelly manicures typically use actual Korean gels, which are notably thicker in viscosity and higher in quality than traditional gels available in many Western markets. These Korean gel polishes self-level remarkably well, creating that signature smooth, rounded surface without bumps or ridges.
5. Layering for Depth: Nail artist Kesang Gurung explains that "Korean gel polishes are usually thicker than your average gel. The more sheer layers you add, the more depth your manicure will have." Your nail tech will build up thin layers to create that translucent, dimensional effect.
6. Final Top Coat: The manicure finishes with a glossy top coat that seals everything and enhances the extra shiny aesthetic that makes jelly nails so eye-catching.

DIY: Creating Jelly Nails at Home

If you're keen to create Korean jelly nails at home, follow these simple steps for beautiful results:

1. Gather Your Products: You'll need two key products: a highly saturated colour polish in your chosen shade and a "bulky" top coat that will become your jelly polish base.
2. Prep Your Nails: Clean your cuticles, shape your nails to your preferred length and style, then apply a clear base coat. Let it dry completely before moving to the next step.
3. Mix Your Custom Jelly Polish: Add just a drop or two of your main colour directly into the top coat bottle. Shake thoroughly until the colour is completely mixed throughout, creating your custom translucent jelly formula.
4. Apply Thin Layers: Paint on "really thin" layers of your custom jelly polish mixture, as advised by Gurung. Building up colour gradually is key to achieving that translucent effect without losing the jelly-like dimension.
5. Build depth Gradually: Apply two to three coats to typically achieve the desired translucent effect, though you can adjust based on how sheer or opaque you want the final result. Crucially, let each layer dry thoroughly between coats; rushing this step can lead to bubbling or uneven texture.
6. Add Optional Embellishments: Once you've built up your desired colour and depth, you can add optional details like decals or glitter before the final coat.
7. Seal with Top Coat: Finish with a final clear top coat for maximum shine and that signature glossy jelly finish.
8. It's important to note that whilst DIY jelly nails can achieve beautiful results, they may not quite match the depth and dimension of professional manicures using authentic Korean gels. However, with quality products and careful application, you can still create a stunning, glossy jelly effect that captures the essence of this fun trend.

Top 15 Korean Jelly Nail Designs

1. Candy Pink Jelly Nails

Nothing says fun quite like bright, hot pink jelly nails that catch the light with every movement. This vibrant shade delivers maximum impact whilst maintaining that signature translucent quality that defines the jelly aesthetic. The candy pink hue is perfect for making a bold statement during summer months, or anytime you want to inject playful energy into your look.

The semi-sheer pigment allows your natural nail to peek through subtly, creating layers of depth that shift beautifully in different lighting. This eye-catching design proves that jelly nails can be both cute and confident.

2. Jelly French Tips

The classic French manicure gets a juicy upgrade with this modern interpretation that combines timeless elegance with Korean jelly innovation. Start with a sheer nude or soft pink base that lets your natural nail show through, then paint the tips in bold, translucent colours like hot pink, ocean blue, or vibrant orange.

This design offers the perfect entry point for those wanting to try jelly nails without committing to full-colour coverage. The contrast between the subtle base and colourful tips creates visual interest whilst remaining office-appropriate and sophisticated enough for any occasion.

3. Glazed Milk Jelly Nails

This hybrid design sits beautifully between the viral milk nail trend and the glazed-doughnut manicure, but with an extra juicy, shiny finish that sets it apart. The milky translucent base offers a subtle, colour-shifting effect that changes slightly in different lighting conditions, creating an almost ethereal glow.

Perfect for cooler weather when you want something sophisticated yet still on-trend, these nails work wonderfully in professional settings. The understated elegance of glazed milk jelly nails proves that this trend can be refined and polished without sacrificing that signature dimensional quality.

4. Polka Dot Jelly Manicure

Playful polka dots add personality and whimsy to your jelly mani without overwhelming the translucent base. You can opt for all-over dots on each nail or create contrast by featuring dots on alternating fingers. Classic combinations include black dots on a pastel jelly base for timeless appeal, or try rainbow multicoloured dots scattered across different jelly shades for a fun summer vibe.

The dots add dimension and visual texture, whilst the glossy jelly base keeps the overall look modern and fresh. This design is perfect for anyone who wants nail art that's both sophisticated and lighthearted.

5. Cat Eye Jelly Nails

The mesmerising cat eye effect, combined with a translucent jelly base, creates truly eye-catching nails with remarkable dimension and movement. Using a magnetic cat-eye polish, the technique produces a shimmering stripe that shifts as you move your hands, adding dynamic visual interest to the already luminous jelly finish.

Cool tones like icy blue create a frosty, ethereal effect, whilst warm jewel tones like amber or ruby offer rich sophistication. This design is ideal for special occasions when you want your nails to be a conversation starter, as the dual effects of translucency and magnetic shimmer create depth that photographs beautifully.

6. 3D Jelly Nails with Star Details

Subtle 3D embellishments transform jelly nails into miniature works of art without sacrificing their translucent charm. Tiny stars or delicate gems are set into the jelly surface, often paired with luminescent swirls created using clear builder gel that adds height and texture. These accents catch the light beautifully, creating sparkle and interest whilst the translucent base maintains that signature jelly appearance.

This design strikes the perfect balance between decorative and elegant, making it ideal for weddings, parties, or anyone who wants something slightly more special than a simple jelly mani whilst maintaining sophistication.

7. Jelly Nail Stacking (Rainbow Effect)

Embrace colour maximalism with jelly nail stacking, where each nail features a different jelly shade for a playful, mismatched rainbow effect. This trend, which has gained significant traction on social media, allows you to showcase multiple favourite colours simultaneously. Try a pastel rainbow progression across your fingers, a citrus-inspired palette featuring orange, lemon, and lime shades, or romantic berry tones ranging from strawberry pink to deep grape.

The beauty of this design lies in how the different translucent colours complement each other whilst each nail maintains its individual character, creating a fun, vibrant mani that's impossible to ignore.

From Frosted to Glossy: Explore Every Jelly Finish

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8. Ombré Gradient Jelly Nails

Soft gradient fades between complementary jelly colours create seamless transitions that showcase the easily blendable nature of jelly polishes. Whether the gradient flows across a single nail or progresses across multiple fingers, the semi-sheer pigments merge beautifully without harsh lines.

Popular colour pairings include sunset-inspired progressions from pink to orange, ocean-themed transitions from turquoise to navy, or elegant monochromatic gradients moving from light to dark within a single colour family. This technique highlights the depth and dimension that make jelly nails so captivating, with layers of translucent colour creating a watercolour-like effect.

9. Minimalist Accent Jelly Nails

For those who prefer "less is more" sophistication, minimalist accent jelly nails offer the perfect solution. Start with a clean, glossy jelly base in your chosen shade, then add subtle graphic accents: tiny hearts, delicate lines, single dots, or simple geometric shapes. These minimal embellishments provide just enough interest without overwhelming the beautiful translucent base.

This approach appeals to those who want the juicy shine of jelly nails but prefer understated elegance over bold patterns. The refined simplicity makes this design appropriate for any setting, from corporate offices to casual weekends.

10. Frosted Jelly Nails

The frosted effect brings a softer, more muted interpretation of the jelly trend that's perfect for winter months or professional environments. This semi-opaque finish creates a velvety appearance that's less glossy than traditional jelly nails but equally beautiful in its subtlety. Cool-toned colours work particularly well; think icy blues, soft lavenders, and sophisticated greys that evoke a winter wonderland aesthetic.

The frosted texture adds a unique dimension to the jelly formula, creating depth through opacity variation rather than pure translucence. This design proves that jelly nails can be adapted for more conservative settings without losing their essential charm.

11. Mermaid Jelly Manicure

Channel oceanic beauty with siren-inspired translucent teals and aqua shades that evoke underwater magic. The glassy, water-like quality of these colours perfectly captures mermaid mythology whilst remaining wearable for everyday life. Optional shimmer or iridescent details can enhance the aquatic effect, mimicking scales or the play of light through water.

These colours remind us of tropical beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, making them ideal for beach holidays or anyone wanting to carry coastal vibes year-round. The translucent aqua tones create depth that seems to go on forever, just like gazing into clear ocean water.

12. Glass Chrome Jelly Nails

For maximum impact, glass chrome jelly nails combine multiple trending techniques into one show-stopping manicure. This hybrid design layers the glass nail effect, inspired by the popular glass skin trend in K-beauty, with 3D jelly texture and a final chrome overlay. The result is multi-dimensional shine with an almost mirror-like finish that reflects light from every angle.

This is the ultimate choice for those wanting the most dramatic, attention-grabbing version of jelly nails. The layered effects create incredible depth and complexity, making these nails true statement pieces perfect for special events or fashion-forward individuals.

13. Gemstone Jelly Nails

Deeply saturated jewel tones in translucent jelly formulas mimic the light-catching depth of precious gemstones. Think emerald green, sapphire blue, amethyst purple, and ruby red; all rendered in that signature translucent jelly finish that allows light to penetrate and reflect through the layers. Optional glitter details or chrome finishes can add extra luxury and sparkle, enhancing the gemstone illusion.

These rich, sophisticated colours are perfect for evening events, festive seasons, or anytime you want nails that feel truly special. The combination of jewel tones and jelly translucency creates an almost magical effect that's both elegant and mesmerising.

14. Preppy Plaid Jelly Nails

Add a touch of sophisticated charm with tartan-style patterns created using translucent jelly polishes in complementary colours. Horizontal and vertical stripes intersect to form plaid patterns with a glossy, dimensional twist thanks to the jelly formula. Classic combinations include red and blue for traditional preppy style, pastel pink and mint for a softer take, or autumn browns and oranges for seasonal appeal.

This design adds a schoolgirl-chic element to jelly nails, proving that patterns and translucency can work together beautifully. The preppy aesthetic adds structure and visual interest whilst maintaining that signature jelly shine.

15. Marbled Jelly Nails

Multiple jelly colours swirled together create abstract marble patterns with stunning depth and dimension that make each nail a unique piece of art. The semi-sheer pigments of jelly polishes blend seamlessly when marbled, creating soft transitions and organic patterns that flow naturally. Try contrasting colour combinations like pink and teal for dramatic impact, or stay within a single colour family for elegant, monochromatic marble effects.

Because marbling creates one-of-a-kind patterns, no two nails will look exactly the same, giving your manicure an artisanal, custom quality. This technique beautifully showcases how easily blendable jelly polishes are, whilst creating maximum visual interest.

Everything You Need for Jelly Nail Success in One Place

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Your Korean Jelly Nails Journey Starts Here

Korean jelly nail designs offer incredible versatility, from minimalist translucent elegance to maximalist colour explosions with glitter, chrome, and dimensional details. Whether you're heading to a professional nail artist or creating your own jelly mani at home, this trend proves that beautiful nails can be both fun and sophisticated. The range of designs we've explored, from classic jelly French tips to eye-catching marbled effects, demonstrates that there's truly a jelly nail style for every personality and occasion.

Now's the perfect time to bookmark your favourite designs and start collecting reference photos to share with your nail technician. Remember, with the right products and techniques, achieving that signature translucent, juicy look is more accessible than you might think. Diamond Nail Supplies stocks everything you need to create these stunning looks, whether you're a professional nail artist building your collection of Korean gels or a home enthusiast ready to experiment with DIY jelly polishes and bulky top coats.

The beauty of this trend lies not just in the final glossy result, but in the creative process itself; layering thin coats, watching depth build with each application, and seeing your nails transform into jewel-like creations. With so many techniques to explore, from cat eye effects to 3D embellishments, you'll never run out of new ways to interpret the jelly nail aesthetic. So go ahead and embrace this playful yet sophisticated trend in 2026; your most stunning, translucent manicure awaits!