This retro ’90s manicure is making a big comeback this summer of 2026, and even Dua Lipa has already embraced it
In our grandmothers’ bathrooms, a small pearlescent bottle sat discreetly next to the soap. This nail polish, long considered old-fashioned, is now making a strong comeback as “retro manicure,” and experts are touting it as one of the most sought-after nail trends for summer 2026.
The retro pearlescent manicure: a trend that originated in the 1990s
Behind the affectionate nickname “granny manicure” lie pearlescent nails, also known as “glass nails.” This trend dates back to the 1990s, when Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Jessica Parker walked the red carpet sporting this chic, milky sheen. So it’s certainly not a recent invention.
In the 1990s, pearlescent nail polish symbolized sophisticated simplicity: a slightly translucent pink or ivory base that caught the light without being too flashy. Then the trend for French manicures—with their bright colors and geometric patterns—took over. As a result, this pearlescent shine was relegated to neighborhood salons and the hands of grandmothers who never stopped wearing it.
However, the trend is now reversing. It-girls like Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, Amaia Salamanca, and Eiza González are bringing pearlescent nails back into the spotlight. They wear them on almond-shaped, round, extra-long, or very short nails, sometimes accented with micro-rhinestones, fine lines, or tiny dots.
“Their strength lies in their understated, timeless elegance, a far cry from the flashy effects of fleeting trends.”
What Sets the Retro Manicure Apart from Hailey Bieber’s Glazed Nails
Contrary to what many people think, this look wasn’t invented by Hailey Bieber in 2024 with her “Cinnamon Donut Nails” version. The retro manicure relies less on a mirror-like effect and more on a pearlescent sheen—one that’s more subtle and longer-lasting. It’s this nuance that makes all the difference.
What’s more, the pearlescent “granny” manicure flatters both young and mature hands. On short nails, the result looks professional and neat. On almond-shaped or extra-long nails, however, it looks very trendy.
Why This Nail Trend Is Taking Over Everywhere in the Summer of 2026
The retro manicure with pearlescent nails checks all the boxes for today’s chic: neutral shades, a luminous finish, and a polished look that’s never too overdone. It’s in the same vein as “Old Money” looks or reimagined French manicures, while remaining softer than neon colors or highly graphic nail art.
What’s more, it’s suitable for the office, a wedding, or a vacation—without having to change your nail polish for every outfit. It’s this versatility that gives it an edge over more dramatic trends. As a result, it meets a real everyday need.
These pearlescent, ’90s-style nails look great on all hand shapes. On short nails, the effect remains clean and crisp. On long nails, the pearlescent shine really comes into its own.
- A pink or ivory base, slightly translucent and pearlescent
- A subtle pearlescent finish, halfway between nude and shimmer
- Suitable for short nails as well as almond-shaped or extra-long nails
- Featuring Dua Lipa, Sabrina Carpenter, Amaia Salamanca, and Eiza González
- Perfect for the office, a wedding, or a vacation—no need to change your nail polish
The Retro Pearlescent Manicure vs. Other Summer 2026 Trends
Compared to highly graphic nail art or neon colors, the retro manicure offers a more understated alternative. It’s part of the same trend as “Old Money” looks, prioritizing understated elegance over immediate impact. What’s more, it doesn’t go out of style as quickly as a very bold trend.
Its pearlescent sheen catches the light without overwhelming the eye. It is precisely this understated look that explains its massive comeback in 2026. Even nail professionals themselves had not anticipated such a trend.
How to Achieve a Pearlescent “Granny” Manicure, Whether at Home or at a Salon
It all starts with gently preparing the nail. File gently without causing damage, gently push back the cuticles, and, if using a nail file, choose a fine grit—without applying too much pressure or staying in one spot for too long, so as not to weaken the nail plate. This step is the foundation for a polished finish.
For the best results, follow these simple steps: start with a clear base coat, then apply one or two coats of semi-transparent pink or milky nail polish, followed by pearlescent polish or chrome-effect powder, and finish with a glossy top coat to seal the look. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.
At a nail salon, simply ask for a “90s pearlescent” effect on a milky pink or nude base, specifying that you want a luminous yet subtle look. A classic nail polish version often costs between €10 and €30. A gel or semi-permanent manicure with a few minimalist nail art details, on the other hand, can cost about the same as a modern take on a French manicure— around €60 to €75, depending on the design requested.
To request this retro manicure at a salon, ask for “90s pearlescent nails” or “glass nails” with a milky pink base. Specify that you want an elegant, understated, and timeless manicure, perhaps with a few very minimalist details. This description helps the technician understand exactly the look you’re going for.
