Why Glazed Donut Nails Still Dominate Summer Manicure Trends
Glazed donut nails have evolved from a viral moment into a modern classic, and they are not fading from summer manicure trends anytime soon. The look first hit mainstream consciousness when Hailey Bieber appeared at the 2022 Met Gala with milky, sheer nails topped by a soft iridescent sheen. The effect—reminiscent of freshly iced pastry—instantly resonated because it felt both polished and playful. Celebrity nail art specialists quickly embraced the style, proving how easily a chrome glaze can elevate even the most minimal manicure. Today, the appeal lies in versatility: the same frosted finish can read barely there for everyday wear or ultra-glam for events. With new color pairings and shape updates, the glazed donut nail has become a flexible base for countless seasonal variations rather than a single fixed look.
Inside the Celebrity Technique: Zola Ganzorigt’s Signature Glaze
At the heart of the trend is celebrity nail artist and OPI global ambassador Zola Ganzorigt, the pro behind Hailey Bieber’s original glazed sets. For that first iconic version, she layered OPI GelColor in Funny Bunny—a translucent, milky white—under OPI Chrome Effects in Tin Man Can to create a smooth, frosting-like sheen. According to Ganzorigt, the look was actually a last-minute Met Gala decision, inspired by Bieber’s satin white gown and the desire to match its luminous finish. Her approach highlights why glazed donut nails work so well: chrome powders add a reflective veil that can subtly transform any base color without overwhelming it. This expert-approved combination became the blueprint, showing nail lovers how to do glazed nails that feel refined, chic, and unexpectedly easy to wear with almost any outfit or occasion.
Summer Refresh: Shapes, Shades, and Chrome Tweaks
For a summer refresh, Ganzorigt suggests focusing on updated shapes and nuanced shades rather than reinventing the look entirely. While almond nails dominated when the trend began, current preferences lean toward more natural silhouettes. A shorter rounded or soft squoval shape feels relaxed and wearable for everyday, whereas a longer almond or modern coffin shape keeps things dressy and editorial. Color-wise, nude polishes like Put It in Airplane Mode topped with Tin Man Can Glaze create a soft, effortless glow that suits minimalist summer style. For those who prefer moodier vibes, Ganzorigt has been experimenting with deeper bases paired with blue-gold chrome powder, such as Mermaid for Me, to capture a sea-glass, twilight effect. These subtle adjustments prove that a few strategic tweaks can give glazed donut nails a fresh seasonal identity without losing their iconic appeal.
How to Do Glazed Nails at Home: Step-by-Step
Recreating celebrity-level glazed donut nails at home is easier than it looks if you follow a clear process. Start by shaping your nails into a soft round or squoval, then gently buff and cleanse the surface. Apply a base coat and cure if you are using gel. Next, brush on a sheer, milky shade—similar to Funny Bunny—and cure again, adding a second thin layer if you want more opacity. Once the color is set, use a sponge applicator or silicone tool to rub a fine chrome powder over the nail surface, focusing on even coverage and gentle pressure. Dust off excess, then lock in the glaze with a glossy top coat and cure one final time. Finish by hydrating cuticles with oil. Whether you DIY or bring this guide to a professional, the result is a luminous, summer-ready manicure.
Pro-Level Tweaks for the Salon Chair
If you are seeing a professional, use the language of celebrity nail art to communicate exactly what you want. Mention Hailey Bieber’s glazed donut nails as a reference, then specify whether you prefer an everyday rounded or squoval shape or a longer almond or coffin silhouette for more drama. Ask your nail artist to start with a sheer, neutral base and layer a chrome powder—like a silvery Tin Man-style glaze or a blue-gold shift—depending on how soft or bold you want the final look. Request thin, controlled layers so the effect stays translucent rather than opaque. For extra longevity, opt for gel or a structured base that supports the chrome finish. By combining these details, you and your nail pro can create a customized summer version of the glazed donut manicure that feels both trend-forward and personal.