You don't have to be a beauty enthusiast to recognise mermaid nails are making waves right now - they're poised to be one of the hottest nail designs to dominate 2023. The best part? We owe it all to the enchanting world of The Little Mermaid - and our inner child is thrilled. With countless searches for mermaid core flooding the internet, there's no better time than now to dive into ocean-themed nail art. It's sure to make your summer nails truly sing.
Our first port of call? Halle Bailey. The actress, who plays Ariel in the remake of the film, has been sporting some inspiring deep sea inspired manicures at the films premieres in London and LA. Think nails with an abundance of adornments - peals, chrome and glittering gems. It's fairytale worthy.
If you're seeking inspiration for fun and captivating designs, or are simply after expert tips, look no further. Grazia have got some time in with renowned celebrity manicurist Stephanie Staunton, who was instrumental in creating the mesmerising nail art featured in The Little Mermaid remake. Her expertise in the realm of nails is unparalleled, and she's here to help you make a splash with your own mermaid-inspired creations.
Scroll on for all you need to know...
What are mermaid nails?
'To me, mermaid nails are glittery with pearls or iridescent chrome, basically under the sea inspired,' says Stephanie. 'Whether it’s all out seashells and scales or understated chrome over a simple shade they can suit everyone’s style. They are super fun and very eye catching. I think they’re always a hit with clients but it’s exciting to see more focus on them with the release of The Little Mermaid.'
What was your favourite nail set you designed on The Little Mermaid?
'I designed Melissa McCarthy's Ursula nails and Halle Bailey's Ariel nails. It’s so hard to pick a favourite as both characters nails were very different. Halle's were a short neatly manicured set in a sheer pink. Melissa's were stiletto shaped and incredibly long and dark. I added a secret shimmer to Halle’s nails for a little bit of magic but Melissa’s probably do have to be my favourite as she uses them often to enhance certain movements and gestures in her scenes. I feel very proud.'
What item was an essential in your The Little Mermaid Nail kit?
'On set, I’d say cuticle oil! Being a lot of water scenes, oil needed to be used more than normal to stop the nails from deteriorating. But any good mermaid nail needs glitter so an array of different glitters will always be in my go to bag.'
How can you achieve mermaid nails at home?
'For easy all out mermaid nails at home I would use Barry M Deep Marine Charity Nail Paint, £3.99 followed by a coat of Barry M Glitter Topcoat Nail Paint Fortune Teller, £2.99. You can add more glitter in different places to increase the depth of the nail and add gold shell charms to the nails too - it's so fun! Apply these with the KISS Brush On NailGlue, £3. You can then seal this with top coat when the glue is dry.'
Now that you're privy to all the insider under the sea info, here's our _Grazi_a approved edit of the best The Little Mermaid Inspired manicures. They're sure to leave you speechless.
Bubble nails
Can you believe that these are press on nails? One word - wow.
Seashell nails
What says under the sea more than seashells? This set even features a cute pearl and the nail shape tops it off.
Pearls, Sea and Sand
For The Little Mermaid premiere, celebrity nail artist Yoko Sakakura stayed true to the theme when she painted Halle Bailey's nails. She used Aprésnails to achieve this dazzling look.
Jewels From The sea
This set looks like it came straight out of the ocean. We can see Ursula rocking these.
Pearl nails
Pearly perfection, anyone? This a minimalists take on mermaid nails.
3D Shell Nails
3D nail art is trending this year and we can't get enough of this set below! Chrome, bubbles, glitter, you name it, it's there.
Nautical French tips
If you love a french tip then this design is for you. Simply add a touch of blue to the tips of your nails.
Main image credit: @getty