2026 Nail Trends: What's In and What's Out

Nail experts have identified the key manicure trends for 2026, signaling a shift in beauty preferences. While the 'clean girl' aesthetic remains popular, maximalist designs are making a strong comeback. Experts predict specific styles like aura nails with outlines, cool-toned cat-eye manicures, and chocolate-brown shades will dominate the year.

Conversely, chrome nails are falling out of favor due to longevity issues and high costs. Stiletto shapes and neon colors are also considered out, with professionals recommending safer, more practical alternatives. The trends reflect a blend of artistic expression and practical maintenance, influenced by the growing popularity of at-home manicures.

The upcoming year is set to embrace a mix of refined classics and bold patterns. Nail artists predict that aura nails will evolve by adding an outline around the perimeter of the nail. Celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec explains that adding this outline creates a sharp juxtaposition that is very eye-catching.

Color choices are also shifting toward specific shades. Blue hues are expected to be a staple, particularly in January. Celebrity nail tech Erica De Los Santos recommends the shade Blue Moon Bloom, while Mazz Hanna highlights Gelcare's Cobalt Blue as a trending color for the year.

Other popular designs include:

• Polka dots: Celebrity nail artist Sonya Meesh describes this as a chic pattern that is accessible to anyone.
• Chocolate-brown shades: From deep tones to lighter hues, colors like Stellar Gel's Mocha Latte will be popular.
• Cool-toned metallics: Silvers, gunmetals, and specific shades of pink are trending, especially for cat-eye manicures.

Two distinct aesthetics are competing for attention in 2026. The clean-girl aesthetic is sticking around, largely because more people are maintaining their nails at home. Sonya Meesh notes that designs like soap nails—which use soft pinks to accentuate the natural nail bed—are ideal for easy maintenance and longevity.

However, Mazz Hanna predicts a significant return to maximalism. She anticipates that 'wild, out-there nail art' will become trendy, including intricate florals and layered patterns. Thanks to advancements in gel technology, artists are blending elements like velvet, sheer jelly, and cat-eye finishes to create complex, maximalist looks.

As trends evolve, several popular styles are being phased out. Chrome nails are predicted to fall out of favor primarily due to durability concerns. Mazz Hanna warns that chrome lacks longevity and is difficult to apply correctly without highly skilled professionals. Additionally, the high cost of chrome manicures is a factor as consumers look to stretch their budgets.

Stiletto nails are also being discouraged due to the potential for damage. Julie Kandalec explains that achieving the proper pointed shape often requires enhancements like Gel-X extensions. If done incorrectly, these can compromise the structural integrity of the natural nail, causing pain and damage.

Finally, neon colors are out. While they typically spike in popularity during summer, experts suggest opting for bright alternatives like Barbie pink instead.

The nail trends of 2026 offer a diverse palette for self-expression, balancing the desire for low-maintenance natural looks with a hunger for bold, artistic designs. Whether opting for a subtle soap nail or a maximalist floral pattern, the focus for the coming year is on durability, cost-effectiveness, and personal style.