Pastel and Chrome Is the Prettiest Nail Combo—These 7 Manis Are Proof

If there’s one thing that screams spring even more than floral dresses and iced lavender lattes, it’s a pastel manicure. Soft lilacs, buttery yellows, sky blues—they’ve become a seasonal staple for a reason. There’s something undeniably fresh and feel-good about pastel polish, with an easy elegance that suits everyone. But as much as we love a classic soft hue, there’s one way to make it even better—by adding chrome.

Once reserved for mirror-like silvers and metallic French tips, chrome has evolved into the it-girl mani. With its pearlescent sheen and light-catching finish, it adds a layer of gloss and glam that turns even the simplest mani into a conversation starter. And when paired with the sweet, nostalgic charm of pastels, the combo gives a glossy, futuristic edge we just can’t get enough of.

It’s one of the most versatile trends of the season. There are no rules or limitations to how to mix and match your mani. Think pistachio green with a soft gold chrome overlay, baby pink topped with silvery shimmer for a modern ballerina effect, or a lavender base with a pearly blue sheen that looks like something out of a fairy tale. You can keep it low-key with a whisper of reflective powder or go full-on glazed fantasy. The choices really are endless.

Still not convinced? Read on for the pastel-and-chrome combos that are taking over spring, one glossy fingertip at a time.

1. Buttermilk Yellow

There’s something about a buttermilk yellow mani that feels like sunshine in nail form. Add a swipe of chrome on top, and suddenly it’s giving grown-up lemonade stand meets golden hour photo shoot. It’s unexpected but still totally wearable, especially when the chrome catches the light and gives off that subtle, glinting glow. “You don’t have to stick to a classic pink and white French for this one,” says Olivia Van Iderstine, Vice President of Content and Creative at Olive & June. “Try a shimmering metallic to create the effect of delicate gold jewelry in mani form.” That’s exactly what this look nails (pun fully intended) – it’s a fresh spin that feels both playful and polished.

2. Colorful French

This isn’t your basic French tip. The pastel chrome version swaps stark white for mint, peach, and lemon tones – each layered with a subtle metallic sheen that gives the look a cool, reflective feel. It’s clean, a little playful, and totally of-the-moment. The contrast between the soft colors and the high-shine finish makes it one of the most sought-after takes on the pastel chrome trend right now, especially for those who want something polished without being too precious. According to Rachel Maloff, Nailboo creator and nail artist, it’s also easier to pull off than it looks. Simply “start with a classic French tip, apply your yellow crescents using your favorite dip tray.” From there, you can keep things sleek and tonal or dial it up with chrome flower accents or rhinestone centers. Either way, the result is sharp and fresh.

3. Pastel Rainbow

If you’re the type who can’t pick just one shade, the rainbow mani is the move – and yes, it looks just as good as it sounds with pastels. Each nail gets its own soft hue (think pistachio, lilac, baby blue, and buttercup), then topped with a light chrome overlay for that high-shine, candy-coated finish. It’s playful but still elevated, thanks to the reflective sheen that catches the light in the coolest way. Celebrity nail artist Brittney Boyce (aka, NailsofLA) says these types of chrome nails are huge with her clients right now – and considering she regularly works with Megan Fox, Kim Kardashian, and Katy Perry, that says a lot. The oval shape also makes this look hit even harder, giving the chrome finish a smooth, mirror-like surface to really shine. Whether you go full rainbow or stick to a tight tonal palette, this is the mani that brings main character energy to your fingertips.

4. Glazed Donut

The glazed donut mani is the blueprint. It’s the look that launched a thousand chrome powders – and for good reason. With its glossy, light-catching finish and barely-there tint, it hits that sweet spot between polished and low-key. Think sheer pink or milky white as your base, layered with a whisper of chrome to create that dewy, almost glass-like effect. It’s clean, it’s chic, and it works for literally any occasion, from a casual coffee run to a black-tie wedding. The oval shape keeps it soft and elegant, while the chrome overlay adds just enough edge to make it feel current. Basically, we’re not shocked its still everywhere this season.

5. Sorbet Dream

Sorbet manis are all about that delicious pastel blue that feels like a breath of fresh air. That soft, sky-blue shade is unexpectedly versatile, offering a calm, cool contrast to the high-shine chrome overlay. It’s a color that feels light and optimistic without being overpowering, making it a go-to for anyone wanting a mani that’s eye-catching yet still minimalistic. “Many are seeking simplicity as a response to busy lifestyles and the growing desire for minimalism,” says celebrity manicurist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood, Mazz Hanna, “Simple designs are versatile, timeless and easier to maintain, making them more practical for everyday wear.” This dreamy mani checks all those boxes – fresh enough to stand out, but streamlined enough to wear everywhere, all season long.

6. Hot Pink Ombre

Hot pink ombre the ultimate statement. That vibrant pink gradient feels electric, especially when paired with a chrome finish that adds a futuristic glow – and the way the color melts from a softer pink at the cuticle into a bold, almost neon tip creates depth and movement. Plus, hot pink is having a major moment right now. For styling, keep the nails in a sleek almond or oval shape to let the gradient flow naturally, or add subtle chrome accents on just one or two nails to keep things modern and wearable.

7. Sunset Aura

This sunset aura mani is like golden hour for your hands. Shades of peach, rose, and amber melt together in a barely-there gradient, topped with a chrome sheen that gives the whole look a lit-from-within glow. It’s warm without being loud, luminous without leaning into sparkle, and impossibly flattering on just about everyone. “Your mani will catch the light beautifully, without feeling too glittery,” says Van Iderstine. Try it on an oval or almond shape to emphasize the natural flow of color, or add a micro-shimmer detail at the edge for extra dimension.