Cat eye nails are a captivating trend that combines elegance with a mesmerizing optical illusion, resembling a cat’s eye. Thanks to the rise of press-on nails, achieving this striking look is now easier and faster than ever.
In this article, GELLY’ll explain what cat eye nails are and highlight six trending cat eye press-on nail designs you’ll want to try right away. Whether you're a nail art novice or a manicure enthusiast, prepare to fall in love with this magical look.

What are Cat Eye Nails?
Cat eye nails are created using magnetic nail polish that contains tiny metallic particles. When a magnet is passed over the wet polish, it causes the particles to shift and align. Thus, you have a dazzling, three-dimensional effect that’s like the glint of a cat’s eye.
This optical illusion has inspired some of the most creative press-on nail art designs in recent seasons.
Why Are Cat Eye Nails So Popular?
Cat eye press-on nails have become a go-to trend thanks to their shimmering, high-impact finish that changes under the light. Their versatility allows endless customization—from subtle and chic to bold and edgy.
If you’ve been searching for popular press-on nail trends, cat eye nails are the perfect way to stand out while staying elegant.
6 Stunning Cat Eye Nail Designs to Try
1. French Cat Eye

A modern twist on the classic French manicure, with a shimmering magnetic tip instead of white.
How to achieve French Cat Eyes?
Apply a nude base, then use a rectangular magnet to pull particles toward the free edge before curing.
Shop Korean Peach Blush with Shimmer Gold Line Press On Nails
These French cat eye press-on nails feature a soft peach blush tone accented with a shimmering gold line.
2. Wide Light Cat Eye

A diffused, all-over glow (no sharp lines), resembling crushed velvet.
How to achieve Wide Light Cat Eyes?
Hold the magnet parallel to the nail and move it side-to-side for a soft, ethereal effect.
Shop Lavender Sparkling Wide Cat Eye Press On Nails
These nails showcase a lavender hue with a wide cat eye effect, enhanced by subtle sparkles—ideal for a glowing, dreamy look.
3. Smile Line Cat Eye

This design features a crescent-moon shimmer near the nail tip, echoing a French manicure’s smile line.
How to achieve Smile Line Cat Eye?
Angle a cylindrical magnet horizontally near the base of the nail to focus the shimmer along the natural curve.
Shop Cherry Blossom Smiles Just for You Press-On Nails
Going for a feminine look? These cat eye nails blend a floral cherry blossom design with a subtle smile line effect.
4. Heart Shape Cat Eye

Romantic and playful, this look features heart-shaped designs created with magnetic polish. Great for date nights or Valentine’s Day.
How to achieve Heart Shape Cat Eye?
Bend a thin wire into a heart, place it over wet polish, and hover a magnet above to shape the particles into a heart.
Shop Heart Shape Cat Eye with Golden Love Press On Nails
With a soft pink color and magnetic heart designs, these nails are a tasty choice for romantic press-on nail lovers.
5. Crystal Ball Cat Eye

This magical style features a holographic orb in the center of each nail—like a crystal ball that shifts color in the light.
How to achieve Crystal Ball Cat Eye?
Use a circular magnet to create a concentrated "halo" effect at the center of the nail.
Shop Mercury Crystal Press-On Nails
These crystal ball cat eye nails combine a luxurious shimmer with multi-dimensional color—perfect for special occasions or a bold everyday look.
6. Side Cat Eye Nail

A bold diagonal streak like a traditional cat eye that offers a dramatic contrast.
How to achieve Side Cat Eye Nail?
Tilt a bar magnet at 45° over the nail for a sleek, high-impact line.
Shop Icy Light Blue Cat Eye Press-On Nails
Featuring an icy hue and side cat eye effect, these nails deliver a cool, futuristic style that stands out.
Ready to Mesmerize?
Whether you’re drawn to the classic French cat eye nails, the dreamy wide glow effect, or the romantic heart-shaped designs, this trend guarantees your nails will turn heads.
With GELLY’s press-on cat eye nail designs, you don’t need salon appointments or complicated tools. Just pick your favorite look, press on, and dazzle.
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