Building on 2025’s palette of easy, back-to-basics shades, the biggest nail color trends for 2026 are all about calming energy. As we approach the new year with a mix of optimism and caution, next year’s top nail colors perfectly match that mood. Experts agree we’ll be seeking shades that strike the ideal balance between muted and rich starting January 1. “2026 is all about soft futurism meeting wearable minimalism,” says celebrity nail artist Kim Truong.
But soft doesn’t mean boring. For 2026, expect classic nudes with a peach or sheer pink tint (and for those wanting something bolder, try a fun jelly finish). We’re drawing color inspiration from healing crystals and sage. And, of course, we have to discuss the Pantone Color of the Year. Below, experts share their predictions for the nine nail colors you’ll see everywhere in 2026.
Smoky Amethyst
Smoky amethyst is one of the rarest natural crystals. It combines smoky quartz, known for its grounding properties, with amethyst, which calms the soul and enhances intuition. Color-wise, it’s a deep purple with gray and dark undertones for an alluring look. Celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards predicts this magical shade will be everywhere next year, and its calming energy is always welcome. Even for crystal skeptics, the shade is undeniably stunning.
Peachy Neutrals
“The ‘clean girl’ and ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic isn’t going anywhere,” says Truong. “It’s just getting more defined.” For neutrals, she suggests choosing shades with peachy undertones for an unexpected yet subtle twist.
Chocolate Brown
If you embraced chocolate brown in 2025, good news: Celebrity and Chanel nail artist Betina Goldstein predicts it will remain everywhere next year. There are many ways to wear this rich hue, but we love it dark and moody.
Muted Mauve
If you want something less bold than smoky amethyst but still within the purple family, muted mauve is perfect. Another pick from Edwards, this pretty shade adds softness to any nail look.
Pinky Sheers
Truong loves a sheer nail for a classic everyday look but recommends opting for a pink tint. “These tones feel clean, modern, and elevated,” she says.We especially love a translucent pink jelly finish to add some fun to a basic staple.
Manucurist
Green Nail Polish in Hortencia
$14 | AMAZON
Tenoverten
Natural Nail Color in Eldridge
$14 | AMAZON
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Polish in Ballerina
$33 | CHANEL
Nails Inc.
Speedy Gloss Nail Polish in Taylor
$8 | AMAZON
Ocean Blue
Majestic and mysterious like the ocean, there’s just something about an indigo shade. Goldstein agrees, and this deep blue is one of her picks for 2026. Pro tip for best application: Go with three strokes. “I usually apply polish in three strokes: one down the middle, then one on the left, and one on the right,” she says. “Taking my time with each layer makes the whole process smoother.”
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Polish in Fugueuse
$33 | CHANEL
JINsoon
Nail Polish in Abyss
$18 | JINSOON
Hermès Beauty
Les Mains Hermès Nail Enamel in Bleu Encre
$62 | NORDSTROM
Essie
Gel Couture Nail Polish in Caviar Bar
$13 $10 (23% off) | AMAZON
Oyster Gray
Edwards also likes a cool oyster gray for your 2026 nail color needs. It’s creamy and gives nails some added dimension. If you’re looking to elevate the shade, she says to look for one with a shimmer finish.
Deborah Lippmann
Gel Lab Pro Nail Color in Stone Cold
$20 | NORDSTROM
Olive & June
Long Lasting Polish in AW
$10 | OLIVE & JUNE
Butter London
Patent Shine Nail Lacquer Polish in Ta-Ta!
$18 | AMAZON
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Polish in Muse
$33 | CHANEL
Spiritual Sage
Goldstein loves a sage nail color and predicts that it will be one of the shades to break out in 2026. With its cool and muted undertones, a soft sage green brings all the good energy while serving us such a pretty look.
Chanel
Le Vernis Nail Polish in Cavalier Seul
$33 | CHANEL
Zoya
Nail Polish in Sage
$12 | AMAZON
Essie
Nail Polish in Caught in the Rain
$10 $9 (10% off) | AMAZON
Manucurist
Green Nail Polish in Sage
$14 | MANUCURIST
Cloud Dancer
Even with its controversial debut as the Pantone color of 2026, the divisive shade has already been trending everywhere. Described as a “billowy white,” it is supposed to symbolize a serene blank space for creativity. And whether you buy into that or not, experts predict that shade of creamy white with cool undertones will be one of the biggest nail colors of next year. “We will continue to see variations of white,” says Edwards. “Warm winter whites, gray tones, French vanilla, and creamy light colors.”
Zoya
Nail Polish in Adel
$12 | AMAZON
Essie
Gel Couture Nail Polish in Pre-Show Jitters
$12 $10 (17% off) | AMAZON
Tenoverten
Natural Nail Color in Washington
$14 | AMAZON
ILNP
Jelly Studio Nail Polish in Coconut Cream
$10 | AMAZON
Have a beauty or wellness trend you’re curious about? We want to know! Send Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor an email at beauty@vogue.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about Top Nail Colors for 2026 Expert Picks designed to answer questions from beginners to beauty enthusiasts
General Beginner Questions
Q What are the top nail color trends for 2026
A Experts predict a focus on Digital Lavender a soft futuristic purple rich earthy Spiced Honey tones sophisticated Mushroom Grays luminous sheer Glazed Donut finishes and bold creamy Hyper Reds
Q Why should I care about future color trends
A Its a fun way to refresh your look and feel current Knowing the trends helps you choose polishes youll love for seasons to come whether youre buying a new shade or getting a professional manicure
Q Are these colors only for long nails or specific shapes
A Not at all These colors work on any nail length or shape The trend is about the shade and finish itself so you can rock it on short natural nails or long dramatic almond shapes
Q Where do these expert picks come from
A They are forecasts from color institutes fashion runways major nail polish brands and celebrity manicurists who analyze cultural design and social trends years in advance
Q Im not a trendfollower Will these colors still look good on me
A Absolutely Trends offer a wide palette For example Spiced Honey is a universally flattering neutral and a Hyper Red is a classic You can choose the trend shade that best complements your skin tone and personal style
Application Practical Tips
Q How can I make a trendy sheer or glazed look last
A The key is a flawless base Gently buff nails use a dehydrator and primer and apply thin even coats Seal with a highquality nonyellowing top coat and reapply the top coat every few days to refresh the gloss
Q Whats the best way to wear a bold color like Hyper Red or Digital Lavender
A For maximum impact keep the application perfectly clean and the shape of your nails neat These statement shades look