There are two types of nail trends: the cyclical classics that hold up to constant reinvention, like the many fresh takes on a classic French manicure, and the never-been-done-before (well, how else would you describe “fisherman core?”). We see our fair share of both each year, but 2025 seemed to have a particular agenda: Take those long-held favorites and make them feel unexpected, exciting, and maybe even a bit boundary-pushing.
With soapy metallics and literal princess-inspired pinks dominating our feeds—not to mention what might just be the boldest take on the standard manicure, which is no manicure at all—we’d say that’s a mission accomplished. Here, a look back at the year’s defining nail trends, and a taste of what we can expect as we head into 2026.
’90s/Y2K
Flip phones, pageboy hats, low-rise everything, flared yoga pants pulled down over Uggs like a Clydesdale: Look around and you’ll find all the proof you need that the ’90s and early ’00s are being resuscitated in a big way. On nails, that translates to both shape (as in the midi stiletto manicures worn by stars like Dakota Johnson and Jayme Lawson) and style (like Kylie Jenner’s deep French inspired by a specific 1997 cover of Nails magazine).
French Forever
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“About 30% of my clients choose only French; no experiments, no exceptions,” says nail artist and educator Valeriia Telemaniuk. We can’t say we’re surprised: Not only does the simple and chic classic work with just about anything and in any situation, but it also lends itself to continuous reinvention—from the licorice French to Hailey Bieber’s cheetah-print tips, and even a Tabi-inspired moment.
Princess Manicure
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Searches for “princess nails” spiked 300% this year, so it’s safe to say the soft, subdued tones and squoval shape inspired by real-life royals aren’t going anywhere any time soon. The look may have its origins in the late Queen Elizabeth’s loyalty to Essie Ballet Slippers and Catherine, Princess of Wales’s eternally elegant soft nude mani, but it’s being kept alive and well by stars like Victoria Beckham and TikTok creators who just can’t get enough of it.
Naked Nails
With nary a whisper of polish, a truly naked nail takes the concept of sheer nude one step further: What if the chicest, most expensive-looking manicure of all is just a shiny buff or clear top coat, leaving your lacquer at the door? The back-to-basics look appeared on the red carpet and at Paris Fashion Week, in A-list engagement announcements and Charli XCX’s “House” music video, proving that strong, healthy nails are the ultimate flex.
Soft Metallics
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Characterized by barely-there nudes with a subtle hint of chrome or shimmer, soft metallics have the squeaky-clean, spa-fresh appeal of soap nails with a fairytale twist. “Milky whites, sheer pinks, and soft beiges are very clean, very ‘your nails but better,’” says Telemaniuk. “Then we add clear or pearl chrome for that subtle, mirrorlike glow.” (Coincidentally, Halle Berry’s Oscars look proved them the perfect complement to actual mirrors.)
Smoked Shades
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With the toasted beauty trend dominating autumn, it’s only natural that winter’s foggy skies and chestnuts roasting over an open fire should usher in the popularity of cozy, smoky designs and hues. That can mean a literal layer of haziness added to a typically understated nude, as at Prabal Gurung spring-summer 2025, or an opaque soft mauve with dusty undertones. “This color sits beautifully between neutral and color, making it perfect for clients who want something subtle but with a pop of color,” says nail artist and educator Sofiia Mazur.
Plaid Nails
Minimalist nails may have reigned supreme for most of 2025, but this eleventh-hour entry makes a serious statement (that may or may not be “I studied English Literature at Oxford”). Reminiscent of chunky knits, argyle scarves, and heavy textbooks, the look was already a Kylie Jenner favorite for fall—now we’re predicting plaid nails will be here to stay in 2026.