If you’re looking for a sweet manicure heading into spring-summer, there’s a new one on our radar. Cake nails were the curveball design we didn’t see coming, but ever since we saw the most delicious inspo from Mel at Overglow Edit, it’s all we’ve been able to think about.
Almost edible nails are nothing new, cherry manicures explode each summer, as do strawberry nails and fruity nails. Likewise, glazed donut nails (and spin-offs of the trend like strawberry glazed donut and chocolate glazed donut) have never fallen off the the agenda since they took off in 2022.
But this latest yummy trend is even sweeter and more intricate than its predecessors.
What are cake nails?
If you like a rapid mani appointment, this ones not for you. The cake nails trend recreates the decorative layered icing that you would see draping a vintage style Lambeth cake in a beautiful patisserie. Expect ruffle, scroll, scallop and even pearl details as well as finishing touches like edible flowers and cherries.
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Why are cake nails trending?
Now we think of it, cake nails are an obvious evolution from some of the intricate detailing we’ve seen emerging from the coquette and demure nail trends. Namely: bow, heart and pearl details. It equally leans into the vintage aesthetic we saw building last summer, with vintage headscarves, victory rolls and Audrey updos all gaining popularity (Sabrina Carpenter, in particular, has been spearheading ’50s retro pin-up references).
How to wear cake nails?
We love Mel’s traditional pastel-coloured take on cake nails above, but we also expect to see it personalised with fun, vibrant colours like hot pinks, alongside simpler nods to the trend with iced borders or Frenchies.
Pink cherry cake nails
This soft pink mix n match iced mani with cherry and bow details is adorable.
