If you're anything like us, your nails are more than just an afterthought - they're a canvas for creativity. Every year, a wave of fresh trends graces our Insta and TikTok feeds. From chic colour choices to innovative shapes and designs, there's something for everyone to get excited about.
So, whether you’re planning your next salon visit or setting up your at-home nail station, we’ve got the latest on the current nail trends to get on board with.
Nail Colour Trends We’ve Been Seeing Everywhere
Want some nail colour inspo? Here are the trends that you need to add to your Pinterest board.
Milk Chocolate Nails
Milk chocolate shades are here to satisfy. This rich, warm brown has been showing up all over social media and in salons, and it's not hard to see why.
A versatile shade that feels cosy, yet sophisticated, it’s perfect for those who want something a little different from the usual nudes and pinks. Plus, it pairs beautifully with both gold and silver jewellery, so you can mix and match to your heart’s content.
Short Red Nails
Red nails are timeless, but the trend this year is to keep them short and sweet. We think a fiery shade paired with a more modest length is the epitome of chic - it’s bold, confident and easy to maintain.
They give off that polished, ‘I have my life together’ vibe without being too OTT. Whether you’re heading to a board meeting or a brunch date, these nails are sure to make a statement.
Earthy Neutrals
Like the comfy sweater of nail colours, earthy neutrals are warm, inviting, and go with everything - especially great if you want a more pared-back, everyday look.
Think soft clay, muted taupe, and warm sand colours. These shades bring a grounded, natural elegance to your nails that’s perfect for any occasion.
Milky White
If you’re a fan of the clean girl aesthetic, milky white nails might already be in your repertoire. If not, we recommend making them your new go-to. This soft, semi-opaque shade is all about subtlety and sophistication. It’s a step-up from a classic clear or nude, offering a little more brightness, while remaining understated.
We think it’s just perfect for when you want that fresh, ‘just got my nails done’ feeling, without going overboard. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile - pair them with gold accents, dainty designs or just wear them on their own for a slick finish.
The Current Nail Shape Trends We Love
Now that we’ve covered colours, let’s talk about the nail shapes we’re seeing everywhere and why they’re so popular.
Almond
Almond nails are still the queen bee of nail shapes, and for good reason. This shape is universally flattering, working to elongate the fingers and add a touch of femininity to any hand.
They strike the balance between chic and practical - they’re not as sharp as stiletto nails, but they still offer that elegant, tapered look.
Whether you’re into minimalist designs or something more elaborate, this shape makes the ideal canvas.
Squoval
If you’re torn between square and oval nails, say hello to the squoval. This shape gives you the best of both worlds - square with soft, rounded edges.
These are great if you want a modern, clean look that’s still durable enough for everyday wear. They’re particularly good for those who like to keep their nails at a shorter length for a sleek, understated feel.
Ballerina
Ballerina nails, remain a staple for those who love a bit of drama. This shape is characterised by its long length and squared-off tips, resembling a ballerina slipper.
They are perfect if you want to go all out with nail art or ombre effects, as they offer plenty of surface area to play with. So, if you’re looking to make a statement with a design, this one is for you.
Popular Nail Designs You Might Want to Try
Let’s explore the trendy nail art designs you’ll want to show off this year.
Aura Nails
If you’re into spirituality or just love a nail design that feels fresh and unique, this design could be perfect!
Aura nails are all about creating a halo effect of colour stemming from the centre of the nail, mimicking the look of a ‘radiant aura’. These designs often involve a gradient of colours – we've seen this achieved with soft pastels or bold neon shades, so you can tailor this to your personal preferences.
French Mani with a Twist
A bona fide classic that gets a revamp each season, the French manicure can do no wrong. This year's memo? Colourful tips, double lines, or even diagonal swipes of colour.
This trend allows you to keep the timeless elegance of the classic design while injecting a bit of your personality into it. The possibilities are endless—think neon tips, metallic accents, or even a mix of colours.
Glazed Nails
Inspired by the viral “glazed donut” look, they give off that ultra-shiny, almost wet finish. Achieved with layers of sheer, pearlescent polish, this design gives off a luminous, ethereal glow that’s impossible to ignore.
They’re perfect for anyone who loves a bit of sparkle but wants to keep things on the more sophisticated side. Pair these with a soft, neutral base colour, or go bold with a pastel or metallic for a touch of glam.
Bows
Bows are the nail accessory you didn’t know you needed. Whether they’re painted on with polish, jewels or glitter, they add a touch of playfulness and charm to any manicure.
They’re perfect for special occasions or just when you’re in the mood for something a little extra. We love them added to a simple French manicure or a soft pastel base.
Feeling inspired?
Whether you’re into something bold and dramatic or subtle and chic, there’s something for everyone this year, and these designs are set to take over our Insta feeds and salons.
So why not treat yourself to a little nail makeover courtesy of this year’s nail trends? Don’t forget to invest in a good moisturiser with help from our guide to the best hand creams, so your hands can look just as flawless as your nails.
