Pierced Manis Walked So Bangle Nails Could Run

Nail piercings were all the rage last year (and in the ’90s), but now another nostalgic jewelry trend is making its way to your manicure. Enter: bangle nails — the look that shrinks your chunky bracelet stack so it’s small enough to live on your fingertips.

Inspired by the oversized accessories dominating Pinterest boards and fashion runways alike, bangle nails are all about contrasting texture and playful maximalism. It points to a larger style moment: Chunky resin bangles have been spotted everywhere lately, from Saint Laurent’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection to Zara Larsson’s Y2K-inspired concert looks. It was only a matter of time before the throwback bled into beauty.

The logic behind the bangle mani is simple: nails are the new frontier for accessorizing. As fashion and beauty continue to merge, jewelry is no longer limited to wrists, ears, or necks. Manicures have become full-blown fashion statements in their own right — and this trend is the latest proof. It carries the same visual impact as stacked bracelets, but on a miniature, more experimental scale. Plus, in a beauty era obsessed with personalization, decorating your fingers like a tiny curated jewelry tray just feels right.

Bangle Nail Designs

Much like the bracelets themselves, bangle nails are super versatile, ranging from subtle to over-the-top. The most extravagant versions mimic full bracelet stacks — think chunky jade, rhinestone accents, and even a faux watch.

You don’t have to go full acrylic to get in on the trend. This ultra-wearable version features a short square shape and nude polish topped with chrome, tortoiseshell, and pearl accents — perfect for the (somewhat) minimal girls.

The bangle overlays are also a fun touch on a classic French tip — and, as an added bonus, they help cover up any polish mistakes. (Why are French tips so hard to get even?)

For a full maximalist approach, experiment with chromatic colors and embedded jewels — like this pink and blue Desi-inspired set.

Or, if color isn’t your thing, try this metallic set with chrome bangles and nail piercings.

Another chic idea? Add your favorite jewelry motif, à la this Van Cleef-inspired design featuring emerald gems that look like they could be straight off the Alhambra bracelet.

How To DIY Bangle Nails

As you can probably tell, bangle nails aren’t your average paint-and-go mani situation — but that hasn’t stopped the DIY crowd on TikTok from testing out their chops. First, shape the bracelets out of 3D builder gel and roll the pieces until they’re thick but a little flat. After gently pressing the bangles onto the nail, coat with a chrome base and powder for a metallic effect. To secure them in place, apply a layer of clear builder gel on top and cure with a UV lamp until hardened.

Whether you add a single delicate hoop or a full stack, this trend makes one thing clear: your manicure is officially part of the fall accessory lineup.