Toe rings and metallic pedis: Searches soar for summer’s shiniest nail trend

“Toe rings are becoming a genuine extension of summer jewellery styling, in the same way stacked rings and layered necklaces have been for the last few years. Pairing them with a considered, metallic pedicure is what’s elevating the trend from ‘festival accessory’ to a proper beauty statement,” says Annabelle.

“Silver toe rings are particularly popular right now, as it is a super versatile metal. Silver works perfectly with a chrome finish, a metallic French, or even a soft pearl polish. The key is making sure the ring and the nail complement rather than compete, you want them to look like they belong together, not like two separate decisions.”

Annabelle’s top tips for nailing the metallic duo:

1. Match your tones, don’t mix them

“A silver toe ring looks most polished against cool-toned metallics, think chrome silver, shiny bold blues, or chrome lilacs. If you’re leaning toward gold, rose gold or bronze polishes, then you’re best pairing these with gold toe rings. It sounds like a small detail, but mixing warm and cool metals will make your pedicure look unintentional rather than styled,” says Annabelle.

2. Ask your technician for a gel chrome finish

“Chrome pigment is applied over a gel base and cured under a UV lamp, giving a true mirror-like reflection that regular polish can’t achieve. It holds up far better against sand, pool water and daily wear too. When booking your appointment, make sure to ask specifically for ‘chrome’ or ‘mirror powder’, as not every salon offers it as standard.”

3. Consider chrome nail art to ease into the trend

“For those wanting to dip their toe into the trend without braving a full chrome pedi, intricate, metallic nail art is a great way to nod to the playful naughties nostalgia, whilst pairing just as beautifully with toe jewellery. Delicate designs like swirls, lines, stars and polka dots in silvers or other chrome shades are a great option for those who want a slightly more pared-back version of the trend.”

4. Encapsulate glitters and foils for longevity

“If you’re really embracing the metallic nail trend and adding in sequins, glitters or foils, make sure to ask your nail tech to encapsulate them under a gel top coat. Doing this will avoid them lifting or snagging on shoes and sand, helping them to last the length of your holiday.”

5. Time your appointment around your holiday

“A gel or chrome pedicure typically lasts three to four weeks before the effect starts to become dull, so I would recommend booking your appointment for no more than a week ahead of departure to make sure the finish is at its freshest for your trip. If you’re going away for two weeks or longer, be sure to request an extra-durable top coat that is best suited to resisting chlorine and salt water.”