The Biggest 2025 Nail Trends Everyone Will Be Wearing

There’s something about the start of a new year that makes people crave a fresh manicure. Maybe it’s the feeling of a clean slate or the excitement of swapping out winter’s moody shades for something lighter and fresher. Or maybe it’s just that we’ve spent too much time scrolling past perfectly sculpted nails on Instagram and finally want to book that appointment. Either way, 2025 nail trends are shaping up to be some of the most interesting we’ve seen in a while. Not just in terms of color—though there are a few must-have shades to know—but in textures, finishes, and unexpected details that make manicures feel less like a routine and more like an accessory in their own right.

And yes, for those who prefer a low-maintenance, polished look, there’s still plenty to love. If 2024 was all about minimalist “clean girl” nails, 2025 is letting you choose your lane—whether that’s barely-there neutrals or over-the-top embellishments. Either way, your nails are getting an upgrade this year.

Milk Bath Nails

There’s something about milky, barely-there nails that just works. It’s clean, it’s effortless, and it never looks out of place, no matter what you’re wearing. In 2025, this sheer, creamy finish will be everywhere, acting as an alternative to the more traditional nude manicure.

Think of it like lip gloss for your nails—just enough polish to make them look fresh and healthy, but sheer enough that you don’t have to stress over chips or regrowth. Soft white, blush pink, and barely-there lavender will be the go-to shades, with subtle ombré effects adding a bit of extra dimension.

For those who prefer short, natural-looking nails, this trend is an easy go-to. And if you want a little extra shine, layering a high-gloss topcoat over a milky base makes the finish even glassier.

The Cat-Eye Effect

Velvet nails had their moment in 2024, but 2025 is all about taking that shimmer and making it sharper. The cat-eye effect is what happens when metallic polish gets a high-tech update—magnetic pigments shift and catch the light, creating a soft, hypnotic glow across the nail.

It’s subtle in some shades (champagne, bronze, deep navy) and dramatic in others (chrome silver, gunmetal, galaxy purple). What makes it different from last year’s velvet trend is the structure—you can create diagonal lines or half-moon effects with a magnet tool, giving the polish a “lit from within” glow that shifts as you move your hands.

Expect to see this trend pop up everywhere, from barely-there neutrals to deep, moody jewel tones that add a little drama to an otherwise simple manicure.

Iridescent Chrome

Chrome nails aren’t exactly new, but in 2025, they’re getting a subtle upgrade. Instead of the full-mirror metallics that had their moment last year, we’re seeing a shift toward iridescent chrome—think pearlized finishes, subtle rainbow shifts, and softer, more wearable metallics.

The best versions of this trend feel airy and weightless, like an opal or soap bubble. Shades like soft pink, lavender, icy blue, and silvery white catch the light and change depending on the angle, making them perfect for anyone who wants something a little more interesting than basic polish but not quite as in-your-face as true chrome.

For those who want to lean into the trend, expect to see layered chrome effects—like using a sheer holographic powder over a milky nude base for a soft, otherworldly glow.

Oval Nails

For years, square and coffin-shaped nails dominated, but 2025 is making a strong case for softer, more natural shapes. Oval nails—slightly rounded at the tips, following the natural curve of the finger—are becoming the go-to for both short and long lengths.

There’s something about this shape that feels classic without being outdated. It elongates the fingers without looking overly dramatic and works with almost any nail trend, from minimal neutrals to bold, statement-making designs.

Longer almond nails are still sticking around, but the exaggerated stiletto and coffin shapes that were everywhere in 2022 and 2023 are taking a backseat to something a little more wearable.

3D Texture

If you thought nail art was fading into the background, think again. 2025 is making a case for raised, sculptural designs—whether that’s tiny pearls, embossed lace textures, or glossy, liquid-like drips that look like they’re sliding down the nail.

These designs take inspiration from couture fashion, translating runway embellishments into tiny, wearable details. The best versions feel modern and sleek, not bulky or over-the-top. Picture glossy black nails with sculpted droplets of clear gel for a water-inspired effect, or delicate gold accents that look like molten metal.

This trend is definitely more on the statement-making side, but for those who love intricate nail art, 3D embellishments are the next evolution.

Short Nails

Not everyone wants long, high-maintenance nails, and 2025 is the year that short nails finally get the attention they deserve. A well-shaped, neatly polished short nail feels intentional—not like you just forgot to book a salon appointment.

The best part? Short nails make almost every trend feel more wearable. Iridescent chrome looks sleek instead of flashy. Milk bath nails feel clean and effortless. Even the cat-eye effect gets a subtle upgrade when paired with a shorter, rounded shape.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance manicure that still feels polished, this is it. A simple oval or squoval shape, a glossy topcoat, and done.

Jelly Nails

Jelly nails—those sheer, candy-colored manicures that looked like stained glass—are evolving into something softer and more refined. Instead of bright, neon hues, expect to see sheer washes of color in muted tones, like rose, taupe, and soft coral.

The effect is delicate and slightly translucent, giving nails a “your natural nails, but better” look. They work beautifully on their own or layered under subtle nail art, like delicate white linework or barely-there shimmer.

This is a perfect trend for those who want a pop of color without going full opaque. It’s also surprisingly versatile—pairing just as well with casual denim as it does with a dressier outfit.

Big, Bold French Tips

French manicures aren’t going anywhere, but 2025 is making them a little more playful. Instead of the thin, classic white tips, expect to see bold, graphic takes on the trend—like extra-thick tips, unexpected color combos, and even ombré effects.

One of the biggest updates? Framed nails, where the French tip extends all the way around the edge of the nail, creating a border-like effect. It’s clean, modern, and a little more fun than the traditional version.

For those who love the idea of a French manicure but want something a little less predictable, this is a trend worth trying.