1. Maximalism

GET THE LOOK: Maximalist Mani

Nails are the accessory now.

Minimalism is taking a long nap and 2026 is all about louder color, brighter finishes and extra energy. Bold color combinations, playful textures, shiny chrome accents, tiny charms and layered effects are leading every nail trend search right now.

Think nails that steal the outfit. Nails that make you scroll back up. In 2026 your manicure is the main character and the outfit follows the vibe. This is the year of bold nail art and fashion forward nails that show up first.

2. Sparkles/Chrome

GET THE LOOK: Burgundy Studs Nails

We’re calling it: sparkle season is 12 months long in 2026.

Glitter, chrome, shimmer and every shiny finish in between are taking over nail trends on TikTok and Pinterest. We’ll see them everywhere this year, especially on celebs who are fully leaning into the all-year chrome trend.

Sparkly nails give that extra glow, almost like adding one more highlight to your makeup, and they make even a regular Tuesday feel a little festive. When the biggest names in beauty are wearing shimmer nonstop, it becomes clear that glitter manicures and chrome nail trends are not just holiday moments anymore. Shine is the everyday manicure trend for 2026 and the nail world is fully obsessed.

3. Barely there nails

GET THE LOOK: Soap Nails

We said that minimalism is asleep in 2026, but Barely There Nails are the one exception.

This trend is all about sheer tints, milky shine and that clean, glossy manicure that looks naturally perfect. It is the kind of nail look that feels effortless and healthy.

The low-maintenance beauty trends are popping up on all our for you pages, and Barely There Nails are the nail version of this trend. They are simple, soft and wearable for literally any moment.

4. French redefined

GET THE LOOK: Buttery Chrome Nails

We have been seeing it already throughout 2025. The French manicure is getting a full glow up, and in 2026 we are going to see even more versions of this trend.

Modern French manicure trends are everywhere right now. We are seeing color blocked French tips, metallic French edges, inverted French lines, double layered tips and the rise of micro French nail art. These styles keep the clean, timeless feel of a traditional French manicure but add a fresh twist that looks more fashion forward.

French nails are officially in their remix era. They feel modern, playful and perfect for anyone looking for new French manicure ideas that are chic, wearable and completely on trend for 2026.

5. Cat eye

GET THE LOOK: Pink Cat Eye

Cat eye nails are having a major moment, and they are only getting bigger in 2026.

With magnetic pigments that shift and move in the light, this manicure trend creates a cool, dimensional swirl that looks like tiny galaxies on your fingertips. The cat eye effect is bold but still chic, sparkly without feeling over the top and honestly a little addictive once you try it.

It is the perfect nail trend for anyone who wants a manicure with personality, movement and that hypnotic shimmer that always catches the light. Expect to see cat eye nails all over nail art searches, beauty feeds and TikTok tutorials this year.