Key Takeaways
- “Laser Thread” nails are cat eye nails that feature a thin, horizontal, straight-across line.
- The trend is big in Asia, and just making its way to the US.
Have you ever had a cat wink at you? They might just have something in their eye, but it’s very cute—and kind of amazing, because some (the non-“something in their eye” camp) say cats are psychic.
Though cat eye manicures have less to do with actual cat eyes than they do with magnetic polish technology, there’s still something slightly knowing about the shimmery look. This fall, we’re going to be seeing a lot of straight across cat eye looks not dissimilar to a cute little wink. We’re calling it the “laser thread” manicure, because it looks like your base color is being pierced with a laser that’s, yes, as thin as thread.
Can I give it to you straight? Keep reading to learn all about the laser thread nails trend, and discover how to get the look yourself.
@nail_poem/Instagram
The Trend
Cat eye nails have been thriving for a few years, so it makes sense that we’re getting into the next iteration of the style. We have the technology (magnets and magnetic polish) to do some fun things with the look, such as tiny hearts and celestial designs. So, why not try a simple straight line?
@nail.nuha/Instagram
If cats were psychic (they are), they would’ve told us this was coming (they tried, with a wink). The look fits right in with the cozy, straightforward styles that always arrive in fall and winter. We’re at a point in the year when the jacket is the whole outfit, and a simple line can sell a nail art style on its own. Still, don’t forget that this is a shimmery single line. It has some holiday season pizzazz.
Get the Look
If you’ve ever tried to DIY cat eye nails, you’ll know that those polish pigments like to move around. This means that a straight line is actually tougher to accomplish than you’d think… but certainly not impossible.
To get the look, you’ll need a magnetic or cat eye polish and a straight magnet. Also: a steady hand—the most important part of the design involves holding your magnet nice and straight, parallel to where you want to the art to show up on your finger. Hold it steady for a few moments so all the pigments come together, and ta-da: laser thread nails.
Finish things up with a glossy top coat, then head out into the world with that same laser focus.
