1. Shape and texture — a new level of expressiveness

  • Oval and almond shapes. Oval (egg-shaped) and narrow almond-shaped nails remain among the most popular shapes in 2026 — they are elegant, versatile, and successfully emphasize a woman’s hands.

  • Squoval — a shape that combines a square with soft curves — is a trend that combines style and comfort. Short squoval nails are back in the spotlight thanks to their practicality without compromising on aesthetics.

  • Textured and dramatic coatings. Rich textures are in vogue: soap nails, Velvet Glass, metallic and chrome finishes, and the cat-eye effect, reminiscent of the shimmering glint of a cat’s eye.

2. Trendy colors — from natural to shiny

  • Mocha Mousse is Pantone’s official color of 2025. A warm, creamy coffee shade with a delicate undertone — elegance and understated luxury in the details.

  • Nude versions and natural shades — especially beige with cool pink, light gray-blue notes, caramel and poppy — have become the basis for classic manicures in a new interpretation.

  • Bright accent colors — classic reds, deep cherries, Tiffany Blue, sea wave, light caramel, and grays with blue undertones — are trendy solutions for those who want brightness or a slight color contrast.

  • Innovative color textures—metallic glitter, iridescent coatings, salon shine, and bi-surface milky tones—add drama to classic colors.

3. Techniques and nail art — a balance between classic and creative

2026 is a time of combining naturalness and experimentation. One of the key trends is gradients and ombre, which allow shades to blend smoothly from light to dark. Both classic variations in pastel tones and bolder contrasts with neon colors are in fashion.

French manicures are back in the spotlight, but with a modern twist. Nail artists are offering colored, metallic, and even transparent nail tips instead of the classic white. Micro-French manicures have also become popular, with a thin, barely noticeable smile line, creating a neat and elegant look.

Chrome manicures and mirror coatings are also worth mentioning, as they add a futuristic effect. Velvet nails are particularly in demand — a manicure with a deep, soft shine reminiscent of fabric texture.

The year 2026 also offers freedom for creativity thanks to nail art with mini-drawings, abstract patterns, 3D elements, and rhinestones. At the same time, the main emphasis is not on an overload of details, but on a stylish and concise combination.

Conclusion: the fashion trends in manicures for 2026 demonstrate harmony between elegant classics and bold self-expression. Naturalness, modern colors, new shapes, and innovative techniques allow you to choose a style for any mood and look.