The Ultimate Guide to Cat Eye Nails: Styles, Tips, and Trends

In the ever-evolving world of nail art, one trend is making a dazzling comeback: cat eye nails. Inspired by the reflective glint of a cat’s eye, this magnetic gel manicure has become a favorite among beauty enthusiasts and celebrities alike. From Hailey Bieber’s cinnamon glaze to the latest fall trends, cat eye nails are taking center stage. In this guide, we’ll explore what cat eye nails are, how to create them, and the top styles for 2025.

What Are Cat-Eye Nails?

Cat-eye nails are a type of magnetic nail design that mimics the shimmering slit of a cat’s eye. This effect is achieved using gel polish infused with magnetic particles. When a magnet is placed over the uncured polish, it pulls these particles into a unique, light-catching pattern, creating a 3D shimmer that shifts with every movement.

As Daisy Kalnina, founder of The GelBottle, explains, “Cat-eye nails are the latest magnetic nail trend taking the beauty world by storm. The look mimics the glimmering slit of a cat’s eye, thanks to the gel polish formulation, containing magnetic particles.”

How Do You Do Cat-Eye Nails?

Creating cat eye nails may seem complex, but it’s actually easier than it looks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Gather Supplies: You’ll need a base coat, magnetic gel polish (which typically includes a magnet), and a shiny top coat.
Prep Your Nails: Clean your nails and apply a base coat to protect them and ensure a smooth surface for the polish.
Apply Magnetic Polish: Once the base color is dry, apply a coat of the magnetic cat eye nail polish to one nail at a time. Work quickly while the polish is still wet.
Create the Cat Eye Effect: Immediately after applying the magnetic polish to one nail, hold the magnet over the nail without touching it directly. Hover the magnet around the nail in a circular motion, being sure to avoid touching the polish. You’ll see the polish shift and create a cat-eye effect due to the magnetic particles in the polish reacting to the magnet.
Repeat for Each Nail: Repeat this process for each nail, working one at a time so you can create the cat eye effect while the polish is still wet. Each nail should take approximately 10 to 15 seconds.
Apply Top Coat and Cure: Seal your cat eye nails with a clear top coat and either allow it to dry or, if using a gel top coat, cure under light. This will also help protect your nail art and make it last longer.

What Are the Best Cat Eye Nail Trends for Fall 2025?

This season, cat eye nails are all about embracing jewel-tones, shimmering metallics, and luxurious layers and textures that catch the light just right. According to Daisy Kalnina, “With Hailey Bieber showcasing this trend and the influence of Korean beauty, cat eye nails are set to be the must-have manicure this season.”

Here are the top trends to note for the upcoming season:

Jewel-Toned Drama

Rich and opulent shades like maroon or emerald green are trending, adding a luxurious twist to the classic cat-eye effect.

Shimmering Metallics

Already a huge hit in Korean beauty, expect a surge in metallic neutrals that bring understated glamour—think reflective silver and reactive holographic shades.

Mixing Matte and Shine

Combining matte and glossy textures in one design adds depth and visual interest, making the 3D cat-eye effect even more captivating.

Minimalist Details

Simple, chic cat-eye accents, like a French tip, are gaining popularity for those who want a sophisticated, modern look—especially on shorter nails.

The Best Cat-Eye Nail Inspiration

Mix-and-Match Cat-Eye Nails

A cat-eye manicure can be perfectly complemented by any other neutral animal-inspired design; just take note of this tortoiseshell pairing.

Honey-Toned Cat-Eye Nails

This twinkling manicure is the perfect cat-eyed take on Hailey Bieber’s coveted maple glaze tips.

Sparkling Teal Cat-Eye Nails

This cool-toned fir shade is one whimsical example of how jewel-toned hues are about to be rife this fall.

Soft Lilac Cat-Eye Nails

These pretty, shimmering tips are feminine, playful, and effortlessly chic—not to mention an evergreen failsafe for every season.

Classic Cat-Eye Nails

This amber-meets-green shade is a true cat-eye nail color. Sophisticated tips inspired by our furry friends? Sign us up.

The Best Cat Eye Nail Polishes

To recreate this look, you’ll need a special polish. As Mazz Hanna, celebrity manicurist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood, says, “While there are some brands who make cateye polish with traditional lacquer, the easiest way to achieve this is with gel.” Some of her favorites for this are Oyster Velvet by Gelcare and Kinetic by Cirque Colors.

Conclusion

Cat eye nails are more than just a trend—they’re a statement. Whether you go bold with jewel tones or soft with neutral shimmer, these magnetic manicures are guaranteed to elevate your look. The best part? There’s a cat eye design for everyone. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.

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