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
Photo: Instagram (@sarahbrezel)
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.
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
Photo: Instagram (@sarahbrezel)
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.
