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One color that doesn’t get nearly enough hype? Purple. Fortunately, the bold hue is one of the few colors we can rely on during that awkward time between seasons. No matter what time of year it is, purple is an easy choice. More specifically, purple chrome is an easy choice.
Whether you choose a lighter lavender shade or a dark purple hue as your base, the chrome finish will give it that show-stopping appeal. Ahead, explore 18 manicure ideas that include the signature purple chrome shade.
3D Mermaid Nails
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Prefer a softer purple hue? Opt for these pale iridescent lavender chrome nails. If you have a bit more time to get crafty (or to sit through a pro nail appointment), consider taking things to the next level with this 3D mermaid shell design.
3D Matte Purple Chrome Nails
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Here, the multi-chrome base gives the illusion of several shades of purple. The glossy dewdrop design on top is a striking contrast that plays well with the colorful matte polish. This is a great option for anyone looking for an out-of-the-box way to sport a purple chrome.
Royal Purple Chrome Nails
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This dusty royal purple chrome polish is the monochromatic manicure of our dreams. The mirror-like shine speaks for itself—no nail art necessary. To get the look, start with your favorite purple polish, then top it off with a lavender chrome powder and seal it all in with a gel top coat.
Abstract Purple Chrome Nails
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For an especially artsy nail look, check out this abstract magenta chrome design. The two swirly statement nails add dimension to the overall manicure and are easy to DIY at home. All you need is a metallic magenta polish, a nail art brush, and a touch of patience.
Lilac Chrome Nails
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Calling all lilac fans! This purple chrome nail idea is so soft and airy, it almost looks white. Recreate the look with a white or pale lilac polish topped off with iridescent chrome powder.
Dusty Purple Chrome Nails
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We can’t get enough of this bright purple chrome color. As you can see, it looks gorgeous on every nail shape, from sharp stiletto points to softer almond edges. This solid hue is a perfect option for a transitional end-of-summer (we don’t have to call it fall yet) salon appointment.
Iridescent Purple Chrome Nails
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If you prefer more blue-toned purple shades, we suggest this iridescent periwinkle mani. Depending on how each nail catches the light, the color can appear lavender or cornflower blue. But that just adds to the unique nature of this chrome finish.
Multichrome Purple Nails
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While the core color is purple, this multi-chrome application gives off an almost rainbow effect. This is a great option for anyone wanting to add more traditional sparkle and fun to the purple chrome trend.
Pale Purple Chrome French Tips
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Colorful French manicures are a hot trend and these pale purple tips are the perfect example. The dainty polish is a playful take on the classic crisp white nail art. Add a chrome topper and you’ll have a mani that looks extra dreamy.
Purple and Pink Mismatched Manicure
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Purple chrome pairs beautifully with pretty much every color of the rainbow, but we especially like how it looks combined with shades of pink and orange. However, what really takes this sunset manicure to the next level are the mismatched 3D designs on each nail. Use builder gel to sculpt out your own unique design.
Purple Chrome Aura Nails
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Don’t feel like you have to cover your entire nail in a shimmery violet color. Here, you can see how purple chrome stands out even in a centralized aura application. Use a bright or subtle base color to personalize this design.
Floral Tips
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We love this bright purple chrome color on its own but it looks even whimsical with peach and pale green floral nail art on top. Once your base color has dried, carefully draw on the floral accents along the tips of each nail. The more variety in shape and size the better!
Purple Chrome Polka Dot Nails
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Here’s further proof that a metallic magenta manicure should be in your future. This one is easy to DIY, too. Simply dip a dotting tool in the polish of your choice and get to work. For even more of an abstract design, try playing with different-sized polka dots on your accent nails.
Flaming Purple Chrome
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Why settle for a simple chrome finish? You can amp up the metal content in your purple chrome manicure with silvery swirls and flames.
Purple Chrome Wave Nails
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Here’s another iridescent chrome nail idea that made us do a double-take. The matte-shimmer waves serve as a beautiful base for the glossy dew drops on top. FYI: You can DIY the look with metallic purple polish and builder gel.
Sunset Ombre Nails
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Love the idea of a sunset-inspired purple chrome manicure? We’re big fans of this cuticle-to-tip ombre application. To recreate this at home, use a simple sponge to blot on your array of colors and top it off with pearl chrome powder.
Purple Pearls
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FYI: A glazed look isn’t the only way to do a simple chrome finish. These pearly purple fingernails couldn’t be sweeter.
Magenta Stripes
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While the purple shimmer chrome base coat would be lovely on its own, the magenta stripes presented here really add something special to this mani. Nail artist @overglowedit calls the look “Autumn velvet stripes.”