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Em's Nail Art Supplies

Bubble Tea Glitter Nails: The Trend You Need to Try

Bubble Tea Glitter Nails: The Trend You Need to Try

If your For You page has been serving you pastel nails with chunky, translucent glitter spheres nestled into gel — you've already met bubble tea nails. The aesthetic is exactly what it sounds like: nails that look like they're filled with the tapioca pearls from your favourite boba drink. It's playful, it's maximalist, and it's absolutely having a moment.

Here's how to recreate the look at home using supplies from our Glitters collection.

What Makes Bubble Tea Nails?

The signature look combines:

  • A sheer or milky base — think translucent nude, soft pink, or pastel lavender
  • Chunky glitter or iridescent spheres suspended in the gel for that "boba pearl" effect
  • A glossy, domed top coat to give the nails that satisfying rounded finish

The result is a nail that looks almost edible — in the best possible way.

How to Do Bubble Tea Nails at Home

What You'll Need

  • A sheer or milky gel base colour
  • Chunky iridescent or holographic glitter (shop our Glitters collection)
  • Builder gel or thick clear gel for the dome effect
  • UV/LED lamp
  • A silicone brush or dotting tool
  • Glossy top coat

Step 1: Apply Your Base

Apply two thin coats of your sheer or milky base colour and cure each layer. The translucency is key — it gives the glitter that suspended, floating look.

Step 2: Add the Glitter

Apply a thin layer of clear gel and, while it's still wet, press chunky glitter pieces into the surface using a silicone brush. Cluster them slightly off-centre or toward the cuticle for a natural, organic look. Cure under your lamp.

Step 3: Build the Dome

This is what gives bubble tea nails their signature look. Apply a generous layer of builder gel or thick clear gel over the entire nail, building it up slightly in the centre to create a soft dome shape. Cure fully.

Step 4: Finish with Gloss

Apply a high-shine top coat and cure. The glossier, the better — it amplifies the boba pearl effect and makes the glitter look like it's floating inside the nail.

Colour Combinations to Try

  • Classic boba: Warm nude base + brown or amber chunky glitter
  • Strawberry milk: Sheer pink base + red and pink iridescent glitter
  • Taro dream: Soft lavender base + purple holographic glitter
  • Matcha moment: Sage green base + gold and green chunky glitter
  • Lychee fizz: Clear or white base + white and silver glitter for a sparkling, icy finish

Get the Look

Browse our Glitters collection for chunky, iridescent, and holographic options that are perfect for the bubble tea nail trend. Pair with pieces from our Nail Charm & Embellishments range to take the look even further — a tiny pearl or bow charm nestled among the glitter is *chef's kiss*.