2025's Biggest Nail Trends Have Something For Everyone

If bold nail art isn't your thing, the micro french manicure is the chic, understated trend to try next. "A thin ribbon of color to the tips of your nails — simple but so chic," says nail technician Mariela Bosnjak. It's minimalist, elegant, and works on every nail length (especially shorter styles).

Stained glass nails are fall's most eye-catching take on maximalist nail art, with layered, light-catching shades that mimic cathedral windows and jeweled mosaics. "Stained glass nails are perfect for fall because they capture the warm, cozy, and moody vibe of the season while still feeling elevated and artistic," says nail artist Tracy Lee Percival. The look shines in rich tones like burgundy, amber, emerald, and gold, transforming every manicure into a tiny piece of wearable art.

Polka-dot nails are all the rage right now. Celebrities like Kylie Jenner, Sabrina Carpenter, Hailey Bieber, and many more of been spotted (pun intended) wearing the trend. There are a variety of ways you can wear it, from all over the nail, in a negative-space style, or a French tip like this.

You can get the look in minutes with the Glamnetic Premium Press-On Nail Kit in North Star ($20).

If your first foray into glamour involved a plastic sheet of gem earrings from Claire's, you're going to love this nail trend. The latest wave of nostalgic nail art draws on childhood sticker sheets, costume jewelry, and the glittery rhinestone decals that once lived in birthday goodie bags. '90s gem nails feature flat-backed embellishments like hearts, stars, and moons placed over sheer or neutral polish. The result is playful and personal, like decorating your nails with leftover scrapbook supplies, but in the best way possible.

This take on the French manicure is perfect for minimalists looking for something a little funky. Instead of a single white tip, the style layers in two slim, curved black stripes over a neutral base, giving the effect of a chic triple French. First spotted on Kylie Jenner and coined by her manicurist Zola Ganzorigt, the design keeps the elegance of a French manicure while adding a subtle graphic twist.

Butter yellow is officially having a moment. The soft, creamy pastel has been everywhere this year — from runways to home decor and even on the nails of celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Selena Gomez. "I think it's bright and cheery without being obnoxious. It's a perfect neutral-ish shade for summertime," nail artist Kimmie Kyees says.

To get the trend, try Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Polish in Ovni ($33).

Soap nails have been trending over the last few months, and celebrities are all over the look. "Soap nails are a trend characterized by a soft, translucent, and glossy finish that mimics the smooth, slightly sheer look of a bar of soap," Thea Green, Nails Inc. founder, says.

Recreate the look with Olive & June Gel Polish in The Queen Takes Her Tea With Milk ($12).

Chrome nails made a strong comeback years ago, landing on the fingertips of celebrities all over Hollywood. Celebrity manicurist Elle Gerstein says, "This trend will never really go away — it adds a unique finish. You can wear this design in many different ways: "Metals and chrome, whether they're isolated, ombré, or blended, elevate any manicure by putting a finish on it." The Artdone Chrome Nail Powder Set ($10, originally $12) on Amazon contains 16 colors, allowing you to create any look you'd like.

"Patterns, whether it's animal prints or geometric, will remain very strong," says Gerstein. From tortoiseshell prints to fruit designs, bows, swirls, and polka dots, the options are limitless. For any easy pattern press-on manicure, try the Chillhouse Chill Tips in Groovy Baby ($12).

Nail trends extend past just colors and designs. This year, it's all about squoval. "While almond-shaped nails remain effortlessly elegant, 2025 is making space for the chic practicality of shorter nails with softly squared edges," says celebrity manicurist Rita Remark. "This polished shape whispers quiet luxury, especially when paired with a sheer, whitened neutral."

Cat-eye nails are back and better than ever. Also known as velvet nails, this design mimics the look of the ultra-soft, luxe fabric. It's created by manipulating a special polish with a magnet — like the Aprés Astral Gel ($15). You can get the design in every color of the rainbow. And if you needed any further convincing to give it a try, it has a long list of celebrity fans.