Nail trends are constantly evolving, and this year is no different. Whether you love bold designs, subtle elegance, or something completely out of the box, there’s a trend for everyone. From fresh takes on French tips to futuristic chrome finishes, the options are endless.
So, if you’re ready to level up your nail game, keep reading. We’ve rounded up 25 of the hottest nail trends you’ll want to try this year. Some are timeless classics with a twist, while others will push you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible.
1. Glossy Chrome Nails
Chrome nails are making waves in the beauty world, giving a sleek, mirror-like shine that looks futuristic and elegant. This trend features a metallic finish that reflects light beautifully, making your nails look polished and modern.
The best part about chrome nails is their versatility. You can go for classic silver, gold, or rose gold shades, or opt for more adventurous holographic and pastel hues. Some people prefer a full chrome effect, while others mix it up with French tips or ombré styles for added dimension.
Chrome nails work for any occasion, whether you’re heading to a party, a wedding, or just want a stylish everyday look. They pair well with both casual and formal outfits, making them a go-to trend for many nail lovers.
2. 3D Nail Art
For those who love statement nails, 3D nail art is a must-try. This trend brings texture and dimension to your manicure by adding raised details like pearls, rhinestones, sculpted designs, and even miniature charms.
Some of the most popular 3D designs include floral patterns, geometric shapes, and playful embellishments like bows and gems. You can choose a subtle look with small accents or go all out with fully sculpted nails that resemble tiny works of art.
This style is perfect for special occasions where you want your nails to stand out. If you love bold and creative manicures, 3D nail art is a fantastic trend to experiment with.
3. Aura Nails
Aura nails create a soft, glowing effect that looks ethereal and dreamlike. Inspired by energy fields, this trend features an airbrushed gradient that blends two or more colors seamlessly.
The most popular aura nail designs include shades of pink, blue, purple, and neon green. The colors are softly diffused, giving a radiant effect that looks like an aura surrounding the nails. Some prefer a glossy finish, while others opt for a matte topcoat for a velvety look.
This style works on both short and long nails, making it accessible for everyone. Whether you want a subtle, calming vibe or a bold, colorful statement, aura nails offer a fresh and artistic option.
4. Velvet Nails
Velvet nails are all about soft, shimmering textures that resemble luxurious fabric. This trend uses special reflective pigments to create a plush, velvet-like effect that changes with the light.
The key to achieving this look is magnetic polish, which creates depth and movement on the nails. Popular shades include rich jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and deep burgundy, but pastels and neutral shades also look stunning with this technique.
Velvet nails are elegant and eye-catching, making them perfect for formal events or colder seasons when cozy textures are in style. If you love nails that feel as rich as they look, this trend is worth trying.
5. Mismatched Nails
Gone are the days when every nail had to match. Mismatched nails celebrate creativity by combining different colors, patterns, and textures on each nail.
Some people mix various pastel shades for a soft, playful look, while others choose bold contrasts like black and white or neon combinations. Patterns like checkered prints, florals, and abstract designs can also be mixed and matched for a fun and artistic touch.
This trend is perfect for those who can’t decide on just one design. It allows you to experiment with multiple styles at once, making your manicure completely unique.
6. Milky White Nails
Milky white nails are the perfect balance between soft and sophisticated. This semi-sheer, creamy white shade gives a clean, minimalist look that works for any occasion.
Unlike stark white polish, milky nails have a softer, more natural appearance. They can be worn alone for a simple and chic effect or paired with delicate nail art like tiny pearls, gold accents, or subtle glitter for a bit of glamour.
This trend is ideal for those who prefer a timeless and elegant look. Milky white nails complement all nail shapes and lengths, making them a staple choice for many.
7. Glazed Donut Nails
Glazed donut nails took the beauty world by storm, thanks to their glossy, pearly finish. This trend features a sheer, milky base topped with an iridescent chrome powder, creating a soft glow that resembles a glazed donut.
Originally made famous by celebrities, this style is now a favorite for those who love minimalist but sophisticated nails. The pearlescent shine gives a fresh and clean look that pairs beautifully with both casual and dressy outfits.
This trend is perfect for those who love an understated yet glamorous manicure. It’s easy to wear and works well in any season, making it a year-round favorite.
8. Holographic Nails
If you love futuristic and eye-catching nails, holographic nails are a must-try. This trend features a dazzling, color-shifting effect that reflects different hues depending on the light.
Holographic nails can be done in bold neon shades, soft pastels, or classic silver tones. The multi-dimensional shine gives a mesmerizing look that stands out in any setting. Some people combine holographic polish with geometric patterns or minimalist accents for an even more unique effect.
This trend is ideal for those who love bold, fun, and attention-grabbing nails. Whether you’re heading to a festival or just want to add some sparkle to your everyday look, holographic nails won’t disappoint.
9. Pastel French Tips
French tips have been a classic nail design for years, but this year, they’re getting a pastel makeover. Instead of the traditional white tips, this trend uses soft pastel colors like baby blue, lavender, mint green, and peach.
This style keeps the elegance of French manicures while adding a fun and modern twist. Pastel French tips are subtle enough for professional settings but still playful and stylish for everyday wear.
If you want a manicure that feels fresh and youthful without being too bold, pastel French tips are a perfect choice. They’re versatile, chic, and easy to match with different outfits.
10. Negative Space Nails
Negative space nails take a minimalist approach by leaving parts of the nail bare while incorporating creative designs. This trend uses clear or nude bases with patterns like thin lines, geometric shapes, or cut-out effects.
The beauty of negative space nails is their versatility. You can keep it subtle with simple accents or go bold with intricate patterns. The design options are endless, making it a favorite among nail artists.
This trend is perfect for those who love modern and artistic nails without being too flashy. It’s a great way to experiment with nail art while still maintaining a clean and stylish look.
11. Mermaid Nails
Mermaid nails are a dreamy and mystical trend inspired by the ocean’s shimmering beauty. This style features iridescent finishes, pearlescent colors, and aquatic-themed designs like seashells, scales, and holographic effects.
Soft blues, greens, and purples are the go-to colors for this trend, often blended into an ombré effect. Some designs also incorporate tiny pearls, glitter, or gold foil to mimic underwater treasures.
If you love a whimsical and fairytale-like manicure, mermaid nails are a perfect choice. They bring a magical touch to your look and are ideal for summer vacations or beachy vibes.
12. Micro French Nails
Micro French nails take the classic French manicure and make it even more delicate. This trend features ultra-thin tips instead of the traditional thick white edge, giving a sleek and subtle effect.
The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity. The thin lines can be done in classic white or playful colors like neon, metallic, or pastel. This look is perfect for short nails, as it makes them appear longer and more refined.
Micro French nails are great for those who love a minimal yet polished aesthetic. They work well for both professional settings and casual outings, making them a timeless favorite.
13. Ombre Nails
Ombre nails blend two or more colors seamlessly, creating a smooth gradient effect. This trend has been around for a while, but it continues to evolve with new color combinations and finishes.
Popular ombré styles include nude-to-white (perfect for a soft and elegant look), neon blends, and even glitter ombré for a touch of glam. The colors transition beautifully from one to another, giving depth and dimension to your nails.
This trend works on both short and long nails, and it’s a great way to experiment with color without being too bold. If you want a manicure that feels artistic yet effortless, ombré nails are the way to go.
14. Barbie Pink Nails
Barbie pink nails are bold, fun, and full of personality. This trend embraces vibrant pink shades, from hot pink to bubblegum hues, making your nails stand out instantly.
Many people add extra glam with rhinestones, glitter, or glossy topcoats to enhance the Barbie-inspired effect. Some even mix pink with metallic or nude tones for a trendy contrast.
If you love playful, ultra-feminine nails, this is the perfect style to try. Whether you go for a solid pink look or a more detailed design, Barbie nails will make a statement.
15. Black and Gold Nails
Black and gold nails bring a luxurious and dramatic flair to any manicure. This trend pairs deep, glossy black with shiny gold accents, creating a high-contrast and elegant look.
You can experiment with different styles, such as black nails with gold foil, gold tips on a black base, or intricate gold detailing like swirls and geometric designs. This trend is especially popular for formal occasions and evening events.
Black and gold nails are perfect for those who love sophisticated and bold manicures. They exude confidence and elegance, making them a top choice for stylish nail lovers.
16. Matte Nails
Matte nails offer a modern and velvety finish that looks sleek and sophisticated. This trend removes the usual glossy shine, giving your nails a soft, powdery effect.
Matte polish works well with all colors, from deep reds and blues to soft nudes and pastels. It also pairs beautifully with subtle nail art like thin lines, small gems, or glossy accents for contrast.
This trend is ideal for those who prefer understated yet chic nails. It’s a simple way to elevate your manicure and give it a contemporary twist.
17. Abstract Nail Art
Abstract nail art is all about creativity and self-expression. This trend features free-flowing shapes, mismatched patterns, and artistic brush strokes that make each nail unique.
Popular abstract designs include minimalist lines, colorful swirls, and asymmetrical patterns. Some people mix different styles on each nail, creating a playful and artsy look.
This style is great for those who love experimenting with unique and modern nail art. It allows you to showcase your personality while keeping your manicure fresh and exciting.
18. Jelly Nails
Jelly nails have a translucent, glass-like effect that looks light and playful. This trend is inspired by jelly sandals and comes in bright, sheer colors like pink, blue, orange, and green.
The see-through quality of jelly nails gives them a fresh and youthful appearance. Some people add fun elements like glitter, tiny charms, or floral designs inside the layers for extra creativity.
This trend is perfect for summer and adds a fun, nostalgic touch to your nails. If you love vibrant and unique styles, jelly nails are worth a try.
19. Cat Eye Nails
Cat eye nails feature a magnetic polish that creates a mesmerizing, reflective stripe effect. This trend mimics the glow of a cat’s eye, shifting colors as the light hits it.
The most popular shades for cat eye nails include deep purples, greens, blues, and metallic silvers. Some designs incorporate diagonal or wavy lines to make the effect even more dynamic.
This trend is perfect for those who love a mystical and edgy look. The way the polish catches the light makes cat eye nails stand out in a mesmerizing way.
20. Pop Art Nails
Pop art nails bring comic book-style graphics to life on your nails. This trend features bold outlines, bright colors, and cartoon-like highlights that give the nails a 3D effect.
The most popular pop art designs include speech bubbles, exaggerated shading, and vibrant color contrasts. Some people also add tiny polka dots or comic-inspired symbols for an extra fun touch.
If you love playful and artistic nails, pop art designs will make your manicure look unique and eye-catching. They’re great for making a bold style statement.
21. Stiletto Nails
Stiletto nails are long, pointed, and ultra-glamorous. This shape creates a bold and fierce look, making your hands appear elongated and elegant.
Many stiletto nails are paired with dramatic designs like glitter, rhinestones, or sharp color contrasts. Some people go for a minimalist stiletto look with solid colors or subtle ombré effects.
If you love statement nails that feel powerful and edgy, stiletto nails are the ultimate choice. They work well for both classic and trendy nail designs.
22. Reverse French Manicure
The reverse French manicure is a modern twist on the classic French tips. Instead of painting the tips of the nails, this style highlights the cuticle area with a contrasting color.
Popular combinations include nude with metallic gold, white with bold red, or even pastel shades for a softer look. This design adds an unexpected and stylish touch to a traditional manicure.
If you love subtle yet innovative nail trends, the reverse French manicure is a great way to switch up your usual style.
23. Speckled Egg Nails
Speckled egg nails mimic the look of real bird eggs, featuring a soft, natural base with tiny black speckles. This trend is inspired by delicate, organic textures and pastel tones.
The most popular colors for this trend include soft blues, nudes, and pale yellows. The speckled effect adds a unique charm without being too bold, making it a great choice for minimalists.
If you want a fresh and nature-inspired manicure, speckled egg nails are a subtle yet beautiful option.
24. Holographic Foil Nails
Holographic foil nails use shiny, reflective foils to create a futuristic and high-shine effect. This trend features multi-dimensional colors that shift under different lighting.
Foil nails can be applied as full coverage or as accents on certain areas of the nail. They look stunning in silver, gold, and rainbow hues, adding an ultra-modern touch to your manicure.
If you love bold and futuristic nails, holographic foils offer an eye-catching and stylish option.
25. Floral Pressed Nails
Floral pressed nails feature real dried flowers embedded in a clear or nude base, creating a delicate and botanical-inspired look. This trend embraces natural beauty and soft, feminine designs.
Different flowers can be used, from tiny daisies to elegant roses, depending on your style preference. The combination of clear polish and florals gives a romantic and fresh feel.
If you love nature-inspired designs, floral pressed nails offer a unique and elegant manicure choice.
Conclusion
This year’s nail trends offer something for everyone, from soft and elegant designs to bold and experimental looks. Whether you prefer glossy chrome, delicate pastel tips, or artistic 3D embellishments, there’s a style that matches your personality and mood.
Trying new nail trends is a fun way to express yourself and keep your manicure fresh and exciting. So, next time you visit the nail salon or do your nails at home, experiment with one of these trends and let your creativity shine!