Preppy Plaid, Tweed Texture, and More Will Dominate Nail Trends in 2026

Similar to next year’s color scheme—which is all about calm, soft shades—the biggest nail trends of 2026 are expected to be more subtle in their designs. It’s not about foregoing the fun and creativity that textures and 3D decals bring. (Maximalists, you can breathe easy now.) Instead, we’re being called to be more curated in the nail art we choose.

“The overall vibe for 2026 is elevated simplicity,” says celebrity nail artist Kim Truong. “People want their nails to feel clean, luxurious, and thoughtfully designed without being overly decorated.”

If you haven’t already, expect to see preppy plaid and the classic velvet nail to trend everywhere. Textile-inspired nail looks, thanks to our favorite runway shows (Chanel, Margiela, and Schiaparelli, to name just a few), will also push the boundaries on how we want our textured nails to look and feel.

Below are the seven biggest nail trends you’ll see in 2026. Scroll down to feel inspired (and excited) for the new year.

Prep-School Plaid

Drawing inspiration from our current obsession with argyle knits and Ralph Lauren everything, plaid nails took over our feeds late in 2025. And if you’ve been loving this trend, the good news is it’s here to stay. Celebrity manicurist and Kiss Nails and ImPress Beauty brand ambassador Gina Edwards predicts more preppy nail designs will trend next year, especially those already viral plaid and argyle prints. And just look at how fun these jelly plaid nails are. Created by celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt for Kylie Jenner, it’s a fun twist to a preppy look.

Velvet Chrome

Velvet has quickly become a staple for many, and Edwards says it will continue to trend in 2026. But for next year, expect cat-eye magnetic effects and a chrome overlay. Try something like Kiss’s Fine n Cool press-ons or ILNP’s Ritual polish.

Magnetic 3D

Speaking of magnetic, magnet nails have been a favorite for years, and according to celebrity nail artist Emi Kudo, they’ll continue their reign in the new year. Kudo recommends layering shades from Aprés Nails’ Astral Gels collection over a darker base, such as Aprés Midnight Shadow, to achieve an alluring shimmer finish. Edwards adds that you’ll find it paired with additional creative effects, such as 3D decals or a chrome overlay.

Chanel Tweed

Playing with fun textures on your nails is going to be a huge nail design trend next year, says Kudo, and we have Chanel’s latest collections to thank for that. “Chanel under Matthieu Blazy reminded the world once again of the power of textures,” Kudo says. “I’m inspired to reinterpret those elements—tweed, woven textures, and even refined leopard patterns—into nail art for next season.”

Here, celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein opted for Chanel-inspired tweed French tips with the classic “CC” logo stickers to dress up the bare base.

Sculpted Almond Shapes

Truong also sees nail silhouettes becoming a major part of nail design. One in particular stands out: sculpted almond nails. “Recent collections from Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli really capture the direction I think nails are headed in 2026,” she says. “Both houses showcased clean lines, sculptural silhouettes, and polished finishes.”

Ultra-Sheer Washes

Truong recommends using “whisper-thin layers of milk white, nude, or soft colors” to achieve a sheer finish. This will give nails a dreamy, ethereal feel that’s minimal but still makes a statement.

Lace and Silk

Agreeing with Kudo, Chanel and celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein predicts that textured nails are going to be big in 2026—specifically silk and lace nails. Small yet intricate details make for one of the more interesting nail-art looks you’ll see next year. Goldstein’s pro tip for re-creating these designs at home: a good nail art brush. “It just makes everything easier,” she says.

But no matter which 2026 nail-design trend calls to you, you can’t go wrong. “Nail art is subjective,” she says. “It’s all about personal style. Everyone has their own take on it, and that’s what makes it so fun and unique.”

Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? We want to know! Send Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor an email at beauty@vogue.com.