The 7 manicure trends everyone will be asking for in 2026
Audrey NobleJanuary 13, 2026
Much like next year’s colour palette, which leans towards calm, soft shades, the biggest manicure trends for 2026 will be more subtle in their design. This is not about giving up the fun and creativity that textures and 3D details bring. Maximalists, you can relax. Instead, the focus is shifting towards more thoughtful, carefully executed nail art.
“The overall mood for 2026 is refined simplicity,” says celebrity nail artist Kim Truong. “People want their nails to look clean, luxurious and intentionally designed, without excessive decoration.”
If you have not already noticed, expect to see preppy plaid patterns and classic velvet nails everywhere. Textile-inspired nail looks, thanks to our favourite fashion runways such as Chanel, Margiela and Schiaparelli, to name just a few, will continue to push the boundaries of how we want textured nails to look and how we experience them to the touch.
Below, we round up the seven biggest manicure trends you will be seeing throughout 2026. Take a closer look and get inspired.
Preppy plaid nails
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Inspired by the current obsession with argyle knits and everything connected to the Ralph Lauren aesthetic, plaid nails took over our feeds at the end of 2025. And if you loved the trend, here is the good news: it is not going anywhere.
Celebrity manicurist and Kiss Nails and ImPress Beauty ambassador Gina Edwards predicts that preppy nail designs will be even bigger next year, especially the already-viral plaid and argyle patterns. And just look at how playful these jelly plaid nails are. Created by celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt for Kylie Jenner, they offer a fun, modern twist on the classic preppy look.
Velvet chrome nails
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Velvet nails quickly became an undeniable must-have trend, and Edwards says their popularity will continue well into 2026. Next year, however, expect to see cat-eye variations, magnetic effects and chrome finishes take centre stage. Try, for instance, the Kiss Fine n Cool press-on nails or the Ritual polish by ILNP.
Magnetic 3D effects
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Speaking of magnets, magnetic nails have been a long-time favourite, and according to celebrity nail artist Emi Kudo, their reign will continue into the new year. Kudo recommends layering shades from Aprés Nails’ Astral Gels collection over a darker base, such as Aprés Midnight Shadow, to achieve a seductive, light-catching finish.
Edwards adds that magnetic nails will often be paired with additional creative effects, such as 3D embellishments or a chrome top layer.
Chanel tweed
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Playing with texture on nails will be one of the biggest nail design trends next year, says Kudo, and we can thank Chanel’s latest collections for that.
“Under Matthieu Blazy, Chanel has once again reminded the world of the power of texture,” Kudo explains. “I am inspired by reinterpreting these elements, from tweed and woven fabrics to even refined leopard patterns, into nail art for the upcoming season.”
Here, celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein opted for a French manicure inspired by Chanel’s signature tweed, complete with classic ‘CC’ logo decals that elevate the minimalist base.
Sculptural almond shape
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Truong also notes that nail shape will become a key part of the overall design. One silhouette in particular stands out: sculptural almond nails.
“Recent collections from Maison Margiela and Schiaparelli truly reflect the direction I believe nails are heading in for 2026,” she says. “Both fashion houses showcased clean lines, sculptural silhouettes and polished finishes.”
Ultra-sheer layers
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Echoing Kudo’s sentiments, Chanel and celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein predict that textured nails will be hugely popular in 2026, particularly designs inspired by silk and lace. Delicate yet highly detailed elements will make for some of the most intriguing nail-art looks you will see next year.
Goldstein’s professional tip for recreating these designs at home: invest in a good nail-art brush. “It simply makes everything easier,” she says.
But no matter which nail design trend for 2026 speaks to you most, you really cannot go wrong. “Nail art is subjective,” Goldstein adds. “It all comes down to personal style. Everyone has their own interpretation, and that is exactly what makes it so fun and unique.”
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