Jelly Nails: The Korean-Inspired Nail Trend Taking Over Summer

May 12 / TGB Academy
Korean beauty trends meet modern salon services. Discover why jelly nails are everywhere this summer and how translucent, buildable finishes are giving nail techs new ways to create standout, client‑approved designs.

From syrup nails to glass skin finishes, Korean beauty trends have long influenced the way we approach colour, texture and shine — and now, jelly nails are officially having their moment. 

At TGB Academy, we’re always watching how trends evolve globally and how they can be translated into wearable, salon-friendly services for nail techs and clients alike. Enter: The Gelly Drop. Soft, translucent and ultra-glossy, jelly nail designs bring a playful, layered finish that feels fresh, modern and perfect for summer nail designs. But beyond the trend itself, jelly gel polish shades also open up a whole new world of creativity for nail artists. 

What Are Jelly Nails?

 Jelly nails are created using translucent and semi-sheer gel nail colours that allow light to pass through the nail, creating a glossy, “see-through” effect similar to glass, syrup or jelly sweets. Unlike traditional opaque gel polishes, gel jelly polish is designed to be buildable. One thin coat creates a soft wash of colour, while additional layers intensify the tone without fully losing that signature translucent finish. The result? Nails that look juicy, dimensional and ultra-modern. 

Our professional jelly gel polish features a slightly thicker viscosity than a traditional gel polish, making these shades ideal for layering, blending and creating seamless colour transitions without patchiness. 

Where Did the Jelly Nail Trend Come From?

Jelly nail designs first rose to popularity within Korean nail art trends, where nail design often focuses on texture, depth, translucency and intricate layered effects. 
Korean nail artists have become known for pushing creative boundaries with finishes that mimic glass, syrup, watercolour and reflective textures — all while maintaining a soft, wearable aesthetic. 

The Jelly Nails Shift

As Korean beauty trends continue to influence global salons and social feeds, jelly nails are moving from niche editorial looks into everyday salon requests across. The Gelly Drop taps straight into that shift, giving you playful, buildable shades designed for modern summer nail art. From glossy fruit nail art to layered aura effects and transparent nail art, translucent colour is quickly becoming a staple in every nail tech’s kit. Ready to nail the trend? Shop the drop here, then head to the Education Hub to unlock free jelly nail art videos, designed to bring the jelly look straight to your nail desk.