Why cube nails are the must-try 3D nail trend of the season

Nail trends come and go, but every now and then, one comes along that stops us mid-scroll.

Enter “cube nails” - a bold, boxy, and seriously eye-catching design that’s popping up all over TikTok and Instagram. 

Forget almond or coffin shapes; cube nails are all about clean lines, sharp edges, and making a statement. And while they’re not exactly practical, they’re turning heads in all the right ways.

What exactly are cube nails?

Cube nails are exactly what they sound like - nails shaped into miniature cubes, creating a surreal, sculptural effect. 

Each nail is built out with hard gel or acrylic, slowly shaped into perfect boxy squares. The goal? To make your fingertips look like tiny works of abstract art.

Cube nails break the mould of traditional looks. They’re futuristic, funky, and 100% on trend

How are cube nails created?

Creating cube nails is not for the faint-hearted – or the impatient. The entire process can take five to six hours, depending on your nail length and design.

1. Forming the Base: Nail forms are attached beneath each natural nail.
2. Sculpting: Builder gel or acrylic is applied layer by layer, forming flat top and sidewalls.
3. Shaping: Using a combination of filing and brushing, the nail is shaped into a symmetrical cube.
4. Designing: Once cured, artists apply polish, embedded gems, charms, or decals.
5. Final Seal:A top coat and UV cure finish off the set.

What can be embedded into cube nails?

Popular cube nail designs include:

• Transparent cubes filled with glitter or holographic film
• Encased gems, pearls, or smiley face charms
• Minimalist chrome finishes or high-gloss pastels
• Tiny figurines or abstract art for that gallery-on-your-fingertips vibe

Celebs leading the cube nail craze

From Hollywood to Seoul, cube nails are the new celebrity obsession. Here’s who’s already on board:

Doja Cat was spotted wearing icy-clear cube nails at Paris Fashion Week, showing off her set in a TikTok that racked up millions of views.

Cardi B, known for her extravagant nail game, rocked a crystal-embedded version designed by her long-time nail artist Jenny Bui.

Lisa from BLACKPINK wore a glittery geometric version in a recent music video promo, giving K-pop fans major style inspo.

While cube nails might not be ideal for texting or typing or opening a packet of Nik Naks, they’re the ultimate flex for fashion-forward nail lovers who live for creativity and drama. Whether you go full maximalist or opt for a sleek cube shape in a neutral tone, it’s all about pushing boundaries – one nail at a time.

IOL Lifestyle