46 Cat Eye Nail Ideas That Add Mesmerizing Sparkle to Your Mani

Erin Celletti

Published on January 27, 2026 07:00AM

Close-up of black and gray cat eye manicure — @melanated.mani / Instagram

There’s nothing like trying out a new (or ongoing) manicure trend to instantly refresh your look—and right now, cat eye nails are taking center stage. The technique is characterized by a subtle metallic line running diagonally across the nail, typically painted in a similar color to the base to creating an almost mirror-like effect. They’re close in nature to velvet nails, but the line is what makes a cat eye manicure (yes, inspired by a literal cat’s eye) stand out. Most nail techs are skilled at creating the look, but at home, many DIYers mimic it with a thin nail art brush or by using magnetic nail polish, which helps give that flicked illusion.

The cat eye nail trend can be as fierce or as subtle as you want it to be: It truly can elevate almost any hue or design. Ahead, we’ve rounded up 46 of our favorite cat eye manicures to try, from minimalistic moments to eye-catching color combos.

01of 46

Celestial Sky

Green and blue cat eye nails — @doras_nails_euphoria / Instagram

Green and blue combine to create this deep, dark, almost celestial cat eye. We love it on the less traditional, albeit subtle, elongating almond-shaped nails. Still, any nail shape can rock this look: It’s incredibly versatile.

02of 46

Dark Decadence

Close-up of dark chocolate brown manicure, hand wearing gold rings and peeking out of leather sleeve — @brushedbyb_ / Instagram

A chocolate brown manicure toes the line between a wearable neutral and a rich, bold statement. These nails are a prime example of how a cat eye effect can add interest to any look.

03of 46

Two-Toned

light blue and champagne cat eye nails — @lolo.nailedit / Instagram

Can’t decide between two shades? Go with both! These blue and champagne hues play off one another, both in tone and in finish.

04of 46

Pink Shimmer

short pink cat eye manicure — @nails.by.mickk / Instagram

Nails need not be long to be statement-making. Short nails are the ideal canvas for this simple yet stunning cat eye.

05of 46

Mauve Magic

Mauve-toned cat eye nails peeking out of gray sleeve with jeans in background — @heluviee / Instagram

This mauve-meets-plum shade is effortlessly luxe. It’s an unexpected jewel tone, yet it can pair beautifully with almost any look.

06of 46

24-Karat Gold

gold and yellow cateye nails — @_artisun / Instagram

It doesn’t get more luxurious than a yellow cat eye mani that shimmers like gold. Don’t forget to finish with a layer or two of top coat to keep things extra glossy.

07of 46

Mauve Madness

Neither neutral nor pink, these mauve nails are the ideal in-between. The cat eye velvet finish looks especially stunning in the sunlight.

08of 46

Modern Gothic

Short nails with gray and black cat eye design — @melanated.mani / Instagram

The dark graphite hues of this manicure contain multitudes. They fit well with gothic and vampy looks, yet they also have an undeniably futuristic vibe.

09of 46

Something Blue

These blue cat eye nails are as beautiful as they are bold. If you opt for a matte polish, don’t forget about the finish: A matte top coat is your best friend to keep things consistent.

10of 46

Gold-Dipped Tips

Manicure with gold cat eye tips — @swaknails / Instagram

Give your classic French mani a bit of a twist with these gold-dipped cat eye nails. These tips have a surreal melting effect, just like a Dalí painting.

11of 46

Multi-Chrome

Black polish gets a playful new life when you add a pop of green cat eye. Call it multicolored, oil slick, or multi-chrome: Whatever its name, it’s gorgeous.

12of 46

Tartan Shimmer

Glass tartan plaid nails with gold details — @amyytran / Instagram

Tartan and plaid are having a renaissance: Just look at PinkPantheress, as well as the continued nostalgia for Clueless and Vivienne Westwood. When it comes to trying the trend on your nails, this gray cat eye version with silver and gold stripes adds versatile modern polish.

13of 46

Fall in Line

Clean and linear cat eye nails in a yellow, orange, and green gradient — @nailpromagazine / Instagram

With a neutral base, this look uniquely encompasses the cat eye with the gradient color presentation on the actual line. Due to its intricate design, we recommend making an appointment with your nail tech to recreate this look.

14of 46

Black Cherry

Cat eye meets cosmic vibes in this black cherry masterpiece. The long, square-shaped nails take us back to Y2K, but the magnetic polish makes it modern.

15of 46

Edgy Baby Pink

Baby pink cat eye manicure with chrome flame and star designs — @sansungnails / Instagram

This manicure starts with a minimal pink cat eye base, but sometimes, we all want a mani with some edge. Chrome flame and star designs add just that, be it for a concert or an everyday confidence boost.

16of 46

The Speck Effect

This nail art takes the cat eye inspo a bit further with reflective specks that add even more dimension and shimmer. The black and blue color is highly adaptable, so feel free to dress it up or down (or both).

17of 46

Pretty in Hot Pink

gradient pink shimmer cat eye nails — @lolo.nailedit / Instagram

Combining two shades of pink for a nail look that brings boundless energy. The hint of shimmery cat eye ensures your mani stands out from the crowd.

18of 46

Shimmery Rainbow

Cat eye nails traditionally play with jewel tones, but this mani embraces all the colors of the rainbow for a glamorous, multidimensional shimmer. Needless to say, we can’t get enough.

19of 46

Head in the Clouds

Minimalist gray and blue cat eye nails — @mooncat / Instagram

Nail art doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, all it takes is a streak of blue to elevate gray nails with a simple cat eye design.

20of 46

Modern French

pink cat eye French tips with silver half moon design — @swaknails / Instagram

Nail art enthusiasts who lean toward minimalistic designs, take note. This look features a thin silver half-moon at the base and cat eye French tips in a neutral shade. It’s on-trend, simple, and elegant.

21of 46

Mirror Image

Close-up of neutral taupe cat eye manicure on short nails — @dandelion.id / Instagram

This iridescent finish is like a neutral for maximalists. Consider adding some nail gems to really create a “wow” factor: After all, more is more.

22of 46

Purple and Polished

black manicure with purple cat eye effect — @begirda.nails / Instagram

The high shine of this top coat might catch your eye first. But the longer you look, you’ll no doubt be mesmerized by the purple cat eye element.

23of 46

Green Almond

We’re not sure which is the best part of this mani: its almond shape, glittery accents, or cat eye design. We’re also lusting after the trending olive green color, in case you were wondering.

24of 46

Colorful Combos

Colorful cat eye manicure — @melanated.mani / Instagram

Experimenting with different color combinations is an excellent idea when it comes to creating your customized cat eye. Meanwhile, a diamond accent nail—and diamond jewelry (if you’re so lucky)—adds extra glam.

25of 46

Skittles Cat Eye

Multicolored cat eye nails — @mooncat / Instagram

Selecting a single color to use can be a feat. Good thing we have 10 fingers. Opt for a different base hue on every nail to get a mani that puts the fun in funky.

26of 46

Chocolate Dots

Brown glitter nails with white polka dot detail — @vanityprojects / Instagram

Take chocolate brown nails to the next level with a cat eye finish and some Pretty Woman-inspired polka dots. The look adds something extra to our craving for neutrals while satisfying our ’90s nostalgia.

27of 46

Negative Space

Dark blue cat eye manicure with French tip accents — @nailsbymaisyc / Instagram

Each nail comprising this mani is a work of art in itself, but together, they’re the complete oeuvre. The French tips on the negative space nails echo those that are fully painted.

28of 46

Cotton Candy

For a whimsical take on cat eye nails, opt for a cotton candy color palette. A blue base with pink details (or vice versa) is sure to turn heads.

29of 46

Gold and Taupe

Gold and taupe may not be the first color combo that comes to mind for a manicure, but you can’t deny just how pretty this final product is. It works beautifully against skin with warm or neutral undertones.

30of 46

Hot Pink Haze

Close-up of taupe manicure with hot pink cat eye effect — @disseynails / Instagram

This manicure takes its taupe polish into dreamy new territory with a hot pink cat eye effect. Playfully chic, it’s so much more than meets the eye at first glance.

31of 46

Green with Envy

Green cat eye nails — @melanated.mani / Instagram

The way this vibrant, emerald green reflects light is what cat eye nail dreams are made of. Try it on oval-shaped nails (as seen here), or your nail shape of choice.

32of 46

Edgy Emerald

This shade is somewhat similar to the above green look. But its darker, moodier color lets people know that whoever is wearing this polish is not to be messed with.

33of 46

Expedition Atlantis

Cat eye manicure with turquoise, taupe, purple, and black shades — @melanated.mani / Instagram

The reflective polish here creates a multi-chromatic cat eye look that’s impossible to forget. To create your own bespoke mani, choose your favorite cat eye shades and paint a different color on each nail.

34of 46

Radiant Red

Close-up of dark red cat eye manicure — @heluviee / Instagram

This isn’t your traditional red mani. Going a shade or two darker lends richness, while a faint cat eye shimmer adds some flair. It’s stunning for fall, or any time of year for that matter.

35of 46

Midnight Mood

Cat eye nails with dark base and golden stripe — @xmedzikx / Instagram

Part cat eye, part gemstone, black, gold, and purple blend beautifully to create an optical illusion IRL. While the polish may be unconventional, the oval nail shape makes it classic.

36of 46

Jewel-Toned

Jewel-colored cat eye nails — @melanated.mani / Instagram

Reminiscent of the night sky, these dark jewel tones combine to create a look that’s out of this world. Jewel tones tend to work best on those with cool or neutral undertones, but going a tad deeper satisfies warm tones, too.

37of 46

Moody Jewel Box

These color-coordinated nails in deep jewel tones are a subtler take on a Skittles gradient. It’s an ideal way to get playful if you prefer to stick to darker shimmers.

38of 46

Purple Haze

Purple cat eye nails — @nailpromagazine / Instagram

Deep purple nails are incredibly versatile. Think of this cat eye version as a a classic vampy manicure with a bit of extra spice.

39of 46

Tiger’s Eye

Golden cat eye nails — @brushedbyb_ / Instagram

Go big or go home with a golden tiger’s eye-inspired manicure. The way this one glistens in the light may just make you a convert to cat eye nails for life.

40of 46

Seeing Stars

silver cat eye nails with star and dot accent designs — @amyytran / Instagram

Instead of going for a uniform set, try mixing and matching different looks. Playing with designs in similar shades adds a touch of fun while still looking put-together.

41of 46

Mint Chocolate

Brown and teal cat eye nails — @melanated.mani / Instagram

The rich brown base color of this mani makes its minty teal cat eye accent pop. By combining warm earth tones with cool jewel tones, this palette will work on anyone, regardless of your undertones.

42of 46

Golden Martini

Close-up of golden cat eye manicure with olive accents — @sansungnails / Instagram

Calling all dirty martini lovers: This cocktail-inspired mani makes the vibes of your go-to drink that much more magical. Whether holding a glass or your going-out clutch, this golden beauty is a stunner.

43of 46

Breathtaking Blue

The prettiest shade of dark blue paired with an eye-catching metallic top coat is sure to turn heads. This version is classically glossy, but if you’re more into matte, it also translates well to nails sans shine.

44of 46

Unicorn

Ocean inspired cat eye nails — @mooncat / Instagram

Looking for a mani from your wildest fantasies? These sparkly, iridescent cat eye nails are fun, flirty, and most of all, magical.

45of 46

Powerfully Purple

Purple and pink glitter cat eye nails — @mooncat / Instagram

If you really want to kick things up a notch, swipe a glitter top coat onto your amethyst nails. It finishes the look with stunning dimension and sparkle.

46of 46

Blue Velvet

Blue cat eye nails with chrome accent designs and abstract chrome ring — @sansungnails / Instagram

While chrome designs made the earlier baby pink nails feel rocker-chic, they have a totally different effect on this blue cat eye. The result here is whimsical and nostalgic, like a manicure out of your inner child’s wildest dreams.

FAQ

How does cat eye nail polish work?

Achieving a cat eye nail look is often done with magnetic polish. This polish contains iron particles that come to the surface when a magnet is held over it. This leaves the particles sitting at the top, creating that cat eye effect.
How can I do a cat eye nail polish look?

Creating this look is as simple as getting some magnetic polish and crafting your favorite design. Magnetic polish can be purchased as a regular or gel polish (which requires UV light) and typically comes with a magnetic tool. After applying the polish, create your preferred design by moving the magnetic tool over the nail without touching it and guiding the polish to where you’d like.

Nails

46 Cat Eye Nail Ideas That Add Mesmerizing Sparkle to Your Mani

Erin Celletti

Published on January 27, 2026 07:00AM

01of 46

Celestial Sky

02of 46

Dark Decadence

A chocolate brown manicure toes the line between a wearable neutral and a rich, bold statement. These nails are a prime example of how a cat eye effect can add interest to any look.

03of 46

Two-Toned

Can’t decide between two shades? Go with both! These blue and champagne hues play off one another, both in tone and in finish.

04of 46

Pink Shimmer

Nails need not be long to be statement-making. Short nails are the ideal canvas for this simple yet stunning cat eye.

05of 46

Mauve Magic

This mauve-meets-plum shade is effortlessly luxe. It’s an unexpected jewel tone, yet it can pair beautifully with almost any look.

06of 46

24-Karat Gold

It doesn’t get more luxurious than a yellow cat eye mani that shimmers like gold. Don’t forget to finish with a layer or two of top coat to keep things extra glossy.

07of 46

Mauve Madness

Neither neutral nor pink, these mauve nails are the ideal in-between. The cat eye velvet finish looks especially stunning in the sunlight.

08of 46

Modern Gothic

The dark graphite hues of this manicure contain multitudes. They fit well with gothic and vampy looks, yet they also have an undeniably futuristic vibe.

09of 46

Something Blue

These blue cat eye nails are as beautiful as they are bold. If you opt for a matte polish, don’t forget about the finish: A matte top coat is your best friend to keep things consistent.

10of 46

Gold-Dipped Tips

Give your classic French mani a bit of a twist with these gold-dipped cat eye nails. These tips have a surreal melting effect, just like a Dalí painting.

11of 46

Multi-Chrome

Black polish gets a playful new life when you add a pop of green cat eye. Call it multicolored, oil slick, or multi-chrome: Whatever its name, it’s gorgeous.

12of 46

Tartan Shimmer

13of 46

Fall in Line

14of 46

Black Cherry

Cat eye meets cosmic vibes in this black cherry masterpiece. The long, square-shaped nails take us back to Y2K, but the magnetic polish makes it modern.

15of 46

Edgy Baby Pink

16of 46

The Speck Effect

17of 46

Pretty in Hot Pink

Combining two shades of pink for a nail look that brings boundless energy. The hint of shimmery cat eye ensures your mani stands out from the crowd.

18of 46

Shimmery Rainbow

Cat eye nails traditionally play with jewel tones, but this mani embraces all the colors of the rainbow for a glamorous, multidimensional shimmer. Needless to say, we can’t get enough.

19of 46

Head in the Clouds

Nail art doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, all it takes is a streak of blue to elevate gray nails with a simple cat eye design.

20of 46

Modern French

21of 46

Mirror Image

This iridescent finish is like a neutral for maximalists. Consider adding some nail gems to really create a “wow” factor: After all, more is more.

22of 46

Purple and Polished

The high shine of this top coat might catch your eye first. But the longer you look, you’ll no doubt be mesmerized by the purple cat eye element.

23of 46

Green Almond

We’re not sure which is the best part of this mani: its almond shape, glittery accents, or cat eye design. We’re also lusting after the trending olive green color, in case you were wondering.

24of 46

Colorful Combos

25of 46

Skittles Cat Eye

Selecting a single color to use can be a feat. Good thing we have 10 fingers. Opt for a different base hue on every nail to get a mani that puts the fun in funky.

26of 46

Chocolate Dots

27of 46

Negative Space

Each nail comprising this mani is a work of art in itself, but together, they’re the complete oeuvre. The French tips on the negative space nails echo those that are fully painted.

28of 46

Cotton Candy

For a whimsical take on cat eye nails, opt for a cotton candy color palette. A blue base with pink details (or vice versa) is sure to turn heads.

29of 46

Gold and Taupe

30of 46

Hot Pink Haze

This manicure takes its taupe polish into dreamy new territory with a hot pink cat eye effect. Playfully chic, it’s so much more than meets the eye at first glance.

31of 46

Green with Envy

The way this vibrant, emerald green reflects light is what cat eye nail dreams are made of. Try it on oval-shaped nails (as seen here), or your nail shape of choice.

32of 46

Edgy Emerald

This shade is somewhat similar to the above green look. But its darker, moodier color lets people know that whoever is wearing this polish is not to be messed with.

33of 46

Expedition Atlantis

34of 46

Radiant Red

This isn’t your traditional red mani. Going a shade or two darker lends richness, while a faint cat eye shimmer adds some flair. It’s stunning for fall, or any time of year for that matter.

35of 46

Midnight Mood

Part cat eye, part gemstone, black, gold, and purple blend beautifully to create an optical illusion IRL. While the polish may be unconventional, the oval nail shape makes it classic.

36of 46

Jewel-Toned

37of 46

Moody Jewel Box

These color-coordinated nails in deep jewel tones are a subtler take on a Skittles gradient. It’s an ideal way to get playful if you prefer to stick to darker shimmers.

38of 46

Purple Haze

Deep purple nails are incredibly versatile. Think of this cat eye version as a a classic vampy manicure with a bit of extra spice.

39of 46

Tiger’s Eye

Go big or go home with a golden tiger’s eye-inspired manicure. The way this one glistens in the light may just make you a convert to cat eye nails for life.

40of 46

Seeing Stars

Instead of going for a uniform set, try mixing and matching different looks. Playing with designs in similar shades adds a touch of fun while still looking put-together.

41of 46

Mint Chocolate

The rich brown base color of this mani makes its minty teal cat eye accent pop. By combining warm earth tones with cool jewel tones, this palette will work on anyone, regardless of your undertones.

42of 46

Golden Martini

43of 46

Breathtaking Blue

44of 46

Unicorn

Looking for a mani from your wildest fantasies? These sparkly, iridescent cat eye nails are fun, flirty, and most of all, magical.

45of 46

Powerfully Purple

If you really want to kick things up a notch, swipe a glitter top coat onto your amethyst nails. It finishes the look with stunning dimension and sparkle.

46of 46

Blue Velvet

FAQ

How does cat eye nail polish work?

Achieving a cat eye nail look is often done with magnetic polish. This polish contains iron particles that come to the surface when a magnet is held over it. This leaves the particles sitting at the top, creating that cat eye effect.
How can I do a cat eye nail polish look?

Creating this look is as simple as getting some magnetic polish and crafting your favorite design. Magnetic polish can be purchased as a regular or gel polish (which requires UV light) and typically comes with a magnetic tool. After applying the polish, create your preferred design by moving the magnetic tool over the nail without touching it and guiding the polish to where you’d like.

Nails

01of 46

Celestial Sky

02of 46

Dark Decadence

A chocolate brown manicure toes the line between a wearable neutral and a rich, bold statement. These nails are a prime example of how a cat eye effect can add interest to any look.

03of 46

Two-Toned

Can’t decide between two shades? Go with both! These blue and champagne hues play off one another, both in tone and in finish.

04of 46

Pink Shimmer

Nails need not be long to be statement-making. Short nails are the ideal canvas for this simple yet stunning cat eye.

05of 46

Mauve Magic

This mauve-meets-plum shade is effortlessly luxe. It’s an unexpected jewel tone, yet it can pair beautifully with almost any look.

06of 46

24-Karat Gold

It doesn’t get more luxurious than a yellow cat eye mani that shimmers like gold. Don’t forget to finish with a layer or two of top coat to keep things extra glossy.

07of 46

Mauve Madness

Neither neutral nor pink, these mauve nails are the ideal in-between. The cat eye velvet finish looks especially stunning in the sunlight.

08of 46

Modern Gothic

The dark graphite hues of this manicure contain multitudes. They fit well with gothic and vampy looks, yet they also have an undeniably futuristic vibe.

09of 46

Something Blue

These blue cat eye nails are as beautiful as they are bold. If you opt for a matte polish, don’t forget about the finish: A matte top coat is your best friend to keep things consistent.

10of 46

Gold-Dipped Tips

Give your classic French mani a bit of a twist with these gold-dipped cat eye nails. These tips have a surreal melting effect, just like a Dalí painting.

11of 46

Multi-Chrome

Black polish gets a playful new life when you add a pop of green cat eye. Call it multicolored, oil slick, or multi-chrome: Whatever its name, it’s gorgeous.

12of 46

Tartan Shimmer

13of 46

Fall in Line

14of 46

Black Cherry

Cat eye meets cosmic vibes in this black cherry masterpiece. The long, square-shaped nails take us back to Y2K, but the magnetic polish makes it modern.

15of 46

Edgy Baby Pink

16of 46

The Speck Effect

17of 46

Pretty in Hot Pink

Combining two shades of pink for a nail look that brings boundless energy. The hint of shimmery cat eye ensures your mani stands out from the crowd.

18of 46

Shimmery Rainbow

Cat eye nails traditionally play with jewel tones, but this mani embraces all the colors of the rainbow for a glamorous, multidimensional shimmer. Needless to say, we can’t get enough.

19of 46

Head in the Clouds

Nail art doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, all it takes is a streak of blue to elevate gray nails with a simple cat eye design.

20of 46

Modern French

21of 46

Mirror Image

This iridescent finish is like a neutral for maximalists. Consider adding some nail gems to really create a “wow” factor: After all, more is more.

22of 46

Purple and Polished

The high shine of this top coat might catch your eye first. But the longer you look, you’ll no doubt be mesmerized by the purple cat eye element.

23of 46

Green Almond

We’re not sure which is the best part of this mani: its almond shape, glittery accents, or cat eye design. We’re also lusting after the trending olive green color, in case you were wondering.

24of 46

Colorful Combos

25of 46

Skittles Cat Eye

Selecting a single color to use can be a feat. Good thing we have 10 fingers. Opt for a different base hue on every nail to get a mani that puts the fun in funky.

26of 46

Chocolate Dots

27of 46

Negative Space

Each nail comprising this mani is a work of art in itself, but together, they’re the complete oeuvre. The French tips on the negative space nails echo those that are fully painted.

28of 46

Cotton Candy

For a whimsical take on cat eye nails, opt for a cotton candy color palette. A blue base with pink details (or vice versa) is sure to turn heads.

29of 46

Gold and Taupe

30of 46

Hot Pink Haze

This manicure takes its taupe polish into dreamy new territory with a hot pink cat eye effect. Playfully chic, it’s so much more than meets the eye at first glance.

31of 46

Green with Envy

The way this vibrant, emerald green reflects light is what cat eye nail dreams are made of. Try it on oval-shaped nails (as seen here), or your nail shape of choice.

32of 46

Edgy Emerald

This shade is somewhat similar to the above green look. But its darker, moodier color lets people know that whoever is wearing this polish is not to be messed with.

33of 46

Expedition Atlantis

34of 46

Radiant Red

This isn’t your traditional red mani. Going a shade or two darker lends richness, while a faint cat eye shimmer adds some flair. It’s stunning for fall, or any time of year for that matter.

35of 46

Midnight Mood

Part cat eye, part gemstone, black, gold, and purple blend beautifully to create an optical illusion IRL. While the polish may be unconventional, the oval nail shape makes it classic.

36of 46

Jewel-Toned

37of 46

Moody Jewel Box

These color-coordinated nails in deep jewel tones are a subtler take on a Skittles gradient. It’s an ideal way to get playful if you prefer to stick to darker shimmers.

38of 46

Purple Haze

Deep purple nails are incredibly versatile. Think of this cat eye version as a a classic vampy manicure with a bit of extra spice.

39of 46

Tiger’s Eye

Go big or go home with a golden tiger’s eye-inspired manicure. The way this one glistens in the light may just make you a convert to cat eye nails for life.

40of 46

Seeing Stars

Instead of going for a uniform set, try mixing and matching different looks. Playing with designs in similar shades adds a touch of fun while still looking put-together.

41of 46

Mint Chocolate

The rich brown base color of this mani makes its minty teal cat eye accent pop. By combining warm earth tones with cool jewel tones, this palette will work on anyone, regardless of your undertones.

42of 46

Golden Martini

43of 46

Breathtaking Blue

44of 46

Unicorn

Looking for a mani from your wildest fantasies? These sparkly, iridescent cat eye nails are fun, flirty, and most of all, magical.

45of 46

Powerfully Purple

If you really want to kick things up a notch, swipe a glitter top coat onto your amethyst nails. It finishes the look with stunning dimension and sparkle.

46of 46

Blue Velvet

FAQ

How does cat eye nail polish work?

Achieving a cat eye nail look is often done with magnetic polish. This polish contains iron particles that come to the surface when a magnet is held over it. This leaves the particles sitting at the top, creating that cat eye effect.
How can I do a cat eye nail polish look?

Creating this look is as simple as getting some magnetic polish and crafting your favorite design. Magnetic polish can be purchased as a regular or gel polish (which requires UV light) and typically comes with a magnetic tool. After applying the polish, create your preferred design by moving the magnetic tool over the nail without touching it and guiding the polish to where you’d like.

01of 46

Celestial Sky

02of 46

Dark Decadence

A chocolate brown manicure toes the line between a wearable neutral and a rich, bold statement. These nails are a prime example of how a cat eye effect can add interest to any look.

03of 46

Two-Toned

Can’t decide between two shades? Go with both! These blue and champagne hues play off one another, both in tone and in finish.

04of 46

Pink Shimmer

Nails need not be long to be statement-making. Short nails are the ideal canvas for this simple yet stunning cat eye.

05of 46

Mauve Magic

This mauve-meets-plum shade is effortlessly luxe. It’s an unexpected jewel tone, yet it can pair beautifully with almost any look.

06of 46

24-Karat Gold

It doesn’t get more luxurious than a yellow cat eye mani that shimmers like gold. Don’t forget to finish with a layer or two of top coat to keep things extra glossy.

07of 46

Mauve Madness

Neither neutral nor pink, these mauve nails are the ideal in-between. The cat eye velvet finish looks especially stunning in the sunlight.

08of 46

Modern Gothic

The dark graphite hues of this manicure contain multitudes. They fit well with gothic and vampy looks, yet they also have an undeniably futuristic vibe.

09of 46

Something Blue

These blue cat eye nails are as beautiful as they are bold. If you opt for a matte polish, don’t forget about the finish: A matte top coat is your best friend to keep things consistent.

10of 46

Gold-Dipped Tips

Give your classic French mani a bit of a twist with these gold-dipped cat eye nails. These tips have a surreal melting effect, just like a Dalí painting.

11of 46

Multi-Chrome

Black polish gets a playful new life when you add a pop of green cat eye. Call it multicolored, oil slick, or multi-chrome: Whatever its name, it’s gorgeous.

12of 46

Tartan Shimmer

13of 46

Fall in Line

14of 46

Black Cherry

Cat eye meets cosmic vibes in this black cherry masterpiece. The long, square-shaped nails take us back to Y2K, but the magnetic polish makes it modern.

15of 46

Edgy Baby Pink

16of 46

The Speck Effect

17of 46

Pretty in Hot Pink

Combining two shades of pink for a nail look that brings boundless energy. The hint of shimmery cat eye ensures your mani stands out from the crowd.

18of 46

Shimmery Rainbow

Cat eye nails traditionally play with jewel tones, but this mani embraces all the colors of the rainbow for a glamorous, multidimensional shimmer. Needless to say, we can’t get enough.

19of 46

Head in the Clouds

Nail art doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, all it takes is a streak of blue to elevate gray nails with a simple cat eye design.

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Modern French

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Mirror Image

This iridescent finish is like a neutral for maximalists. Consider adding some nail gems to really create a “wow” factor: After all, more is more.

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Purple and Polished

The high shine of this top coat might catch your eye first. But the longer you look, you’ll no doubt be mesmerized by the purple cat eye element.

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Green Almond

We’re not sure which is the best part of this mani: its almond shape, glittery accents, or cat eye design. We’re also lusting after the trending olive green color, in case you were wondering.

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Colorful Combos

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Skittles Cat Eye

Selecting a single color to use can be a feat. Good thing we have 10 fingers. Opt for a different base hue on every nail to get a mani that puts the fun in funky.

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Chocolate Dots

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Negative Space

Each nail comprising this mani is a work of art in itself, but together, they’re the complete oeuvre. The French tips on the negative space nails echo those that are fully painted.

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Cotton Candy

For a whimsical take on cat eye nails, opt for a cotton candy color palette. A blue base with pink details (or vice versa) is sure to turn heads.

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Gold and Taupe

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Hot Pink Haze

This manicure takes its taupe polish into dreamy new territory with a hot pink cat eye effect. Playfully chic, it’s so much more than meets the eye at first glance.

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Green with Envy

The way this vibrant, emerald green reflects light is what cat eye nail dreams are made of. Try it on oval-shaped nails (as seen here), or your nail shape of choice.

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Edgy Emerald

This shade is somewhat similar to the above green look. But its darker, moodier color lets people know that whoever is wearing this polish is not to be messed with.

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Expedition Atlantis

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Radiant Red

This isn’t your traditional red mani. Going a shade or two darker lends richness, while a faint cat eye shimmer adds some flair. It’s stunning for fall, or any time of year for that matter.

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Midnight Mood

Part cat eye, part gemstone, black, gold, and purple blend beautifully to create an optical illusion IRL. While the polish may be unconventional, the oval nail shape makes it classic.

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Jewel-Toned

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Moody Jewel Box

These color-coordinated nails in deep jewel tones are a subtler take on a Skittles gradient. It’s an ideal way to get playful if you prefer to stick to darker shimmers.

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Purple Haze

Deep purple nails are incredibly versatile. Think of this cat eye version as a a classic vampy manicure with a bit of extra spice.

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Tiger’s Eye

Go big or go home with a golden tiger’s eye-inspired manicure. The way this one glistens in the light may just make you a convert to cat eye nails for life.

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Seeing Stars

Instead of going for a uniform set, try mixing and matching different looks. Playing with designs in similar shades adds a touch of fun while still looking put-together.

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Mint Chocolate

The rich brown base color of this mani makes its minty teal cat eye accent pop. By combining warm earth tones with cool jewel tones, this palette will work on anyone, regardless of your undertones.

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Golden Martini

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Breathtaking Blue

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Unicorn

Looking for a mani from your wildest fantasies? These sparkly, iridescent cat eye nails are fun, flirty, and most of all, magical.

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Powerfully Purple

If you really want to kick things up a notch, swipe a glitter top coat onto your amethyst nails. It finishes the look with stunning dimension and sparkle.

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Blue Velvet

Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/cat-eye-nails-11892240

46 Cat Eye Nail Ideas That Add Mesmerizing Sparkle to Your Mani

46 Cat Eye Nail Ideas That Add Mesmerizing Sparkle to Your Mani

Celestial Sky

Dark Decadence

Two-Toned

Pink Shimmer

Mauve Magic

24-Karat Gold

Mauve Madness

Modern Gothic

Something Blue

Gold-Dipped Tips

Multi-Chrome

Tartan Shimmer

Fall in Line

Black Cherry

Edgy Baby Pink

The Speck Effect

Pretty in Hot Pink

Shimmery Rainbow

Head in the Clouds

Modern French

Mirror Image

Purple and Polished

Green Almond

Colorful Combos

Skittles Cat Eye

Chocolate Dots

Negative Space

Cotton Candy

Gold and Taupe

Hot Pink Haze

Green with Envy

Edgy Emerald

Expedition Atlantis

Radiant Red

Midnight Mood

Jewel-Toned

Moody Jewel Box

Purple Haze

Tiger’s Eye

Seeing Stars

Mint Chocolate

Golden Martini

Breathtaking Blue

Unicorn

Powerfully Purple

Blue Velvet

Related Stories

46 Cat Eye Nail Ideas That Add Mesmerizing Sparkle to Your Mani

Celestial Sky

Dark Decadence

Two-Toned

Pink Shimmer

Mauve Magic

24-Karat Gold

Mauve Madness

Modern Gothic

Something Blue

Gold-Dipped Tips

Multi-Chrome

Tartan Shimmer

Fall in Line

Black Cherry

Edgy Baby Pink

The Speck Effect

Pretty in Hot Pink

Shimmery Rainbow

Head in the Clouds

Modern French

Mirror Image

Purple and Polished

Green Almond

Colorful Combos

Skittles Cat Eye

Chocolate Dots

Negative Space

Cotton Candy

Gold and Taupe

Hot Pink Haze