Just like next year’s color palette—filled with calm, soft shades—the biggest nail trends of 2026 will lean toward more subtle designs. This doesn’t mean giving up the fun and creativity of textures and 3D decals (maximalists, relax!). Instead, it’s about being more intentional with the nail art we choose.
“The overall vibe for 2026 is elevated simplicity,” says celebrity nail artist Kim Truong. “People want their nails to feel clean, luxurious, and thoughtfully designed without being overly decorated.”
Get ready to see preppy plaid and classic velvet nails everywhere. Thanks to runway shows from brands like Chanel, Margiela, and Schiaparelli, textile-inspired nail looks will also redefine how we think about texture and feel.
Here are the seven biggest nail trends you’ll see in 2026. Scroll down to get inspired (and excited) for the new year.
Prep-School Plaid
Inspired by our current love for argyle knits and all things Ralph Lauren, plaid nails took over social media in late 2025. If you’re a fan, you’ll be happy to know they’re here to stay. Celebrity manicurist and Kiss Nails and ImPress Beauty brand ambassador Gina Edwards predicts more preppy nail designs will trend next year, especially viral plaid and argyle prints. Take these playful jelly plaid nails created by celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt for Kylie Jenner—a fun twist on a classic look.
Velvet Chrome
Velvet has become a staple, and Edwards says it will continue to trend in 2026. Next year, expect to see it with cat-eye magnetic effects and chrome overlays. Try options like Kiss’s Fine n Cool press-ons or ILNP’s Ritual polish.
Magnetic 3D
Magnetic nails have been a favorite for years, and according to celebrity nail artist Emi Kudo, they’ll keep their popularity in the new year. Kudo recommends layering shades from Aprés Nails’ Astral Gels collection over a darker base, like Aprés Midnight Shadow, for a shimmering finish. Edwards adds that you’ll see them paired with creative effects like 3D decals or chrome overlays.
Chanel Tweed
Playing with texture will be a huge trend next year, says Kudo, and we have Chanel’s latest collections to thank. “Chanel under Matthieu Blazy reminded the world of the power of textures,” Kudo says. “I’m inspired to reinterpret tweed, woven textures, and even refined leopard patterns into nail art for next season.” Here, celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein chose Chanel-inspired tweed French tips with classic “CC” logo stickers to elevate a bare base.
Sculpted Almond Shapes
Truong also believes nail silhouettes will become a major part of nail design, especially sculpted almond nails. “Recent collections from Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli capture where I think nails are headed in 2026,” she says. “Both showcased clean lines, sculptural shapes, and polished finishes.”
Ultra-Sheer Washes
Truong recommends using “whisper-thin layers of milk white, nude, or soft colors” for a sheer finish. This creates a dreamy, ethereal look that’s minimal yet still makes a statement.
Lace and Silk
Agreeing with Kudo, Chanel and celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein predict that textured nails—specifically silk and lace—will be big in 2026. Small, intricate details will make for some of the most interesting nail art next year. Goldstein’s tip for recreating these designs at home: a good nail art brush. “It just makes everything easier,” she says.
No matter which 2026 trend speaks to you, you can’t go wrong. “Nail art is subjecti”It’s all about personal style,” she says. “Everyone has their own take on it, and that’s what makes it so fun and unique.”
Curious about a beauty or wellness trend? Let us know! Email Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor at beauty@vogue.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs The Top 7 Nail Trends for 2026
Q1 What are the top nail trends predicted for 2026
A According to nail experts the top 7 trends for 2026 are 1 BioGlazed Nails 2 Holographic Chrome 3 Digital Print Nail Art 4 Sculptural 3D Embellishments 5 Skin Tint Nudes 6 Negative Space Geometry and 7 EcoConscious Polish
Q2 What are BioGlazed nails
A Think of a super highshine glasslike finish that looks wet or glazed Its a super glossy top coat that creates a healthy plump and ultrareflective look often over sheer or neutral colors
Q3 Is holographic chrome the same as regular chrome powder
A Not quite Regular chrome is a solid metallic mirror finish Holographic chrome has that same mirror base but diffracts light to show a rainbow spectrum creating a shifting prismatic effect
Q4 How is Digital Print Nail Art done
A This is advanced nail art A highresolution image or pattern is printed directly onto the nail using a specialized printer and gel polish It allows for incredibly detailed photorealistic designs that are hard to achieve by hand
Q5 What does EcoConscious Polish mean
A These are polishes formulated with a focus on sustainability They might be vegan crueltyfree use nontoxic ingredients have recyclable packaging or be produced with a lower environmental footprint
Q6 Im a beginner Which 2026 trend is easiest to try at home
A Skin Tint Nudes or Negative Space Geometry are great starting points For skin tints just apply a sheer milky nude polish For negative space use nail art tape to block off sections of your natural nail before painting for a simple geometric look
Q7 Are sculptural 3D embellishments practical for everyday life
A They can be highmaintenance While stunning 3D charms pearls or gel sculpted shapes can snag on