Nail designs are still the most popular beauty trend, and 2025 is all about finding the right mix between pretty and personal. These designs are just as easy to wear as they are to take screenshots of. Whether you like soft pastels, graphics accents, or classic French tips with a twist, you’ll love them.
Are you ready to step up your manicure game? This editorial roundup lists the most beautiful nail designs that are all over the place right now, along with where to buy them or get ideas.
1. Glazed Donut Nails (Still Going Strong)
It’s official: Hailey Bieber’s “glazed donut” manicures that went viral aren’t going anywhere. They’ve changed their looks this year to be more feminine by employing milky pinks, sheer whites, and soft chrome finishes.
Why it’s a fave: These patterns are simple, understated, and go with anything. They’re great for weddings, job interviews, or just your everyday look.
Where to shop: Pearlescent polishes or chrome powders that give off a soft gloss. If you put it on top of a jelly base, it will look like glass.
2. Micro French Tips
The French manicure is back, and it’s getting a simple update. In 2025, there won’t be any broad white tips. Instead, there will be micro lines, delicate details, and exciting color changes.
Make it your own: Think of a soft pink base with thin black, red, or even shiny silver tips. You may also attempt ombré fades or colors that go together on each finger.
Get ideas: Look at these new French tip nail designs to see how people who love beauty are changing the classic.
3. Soft Gradient Nails (aka “Aura Nails”)
Aura nails are the lovely gradient trend that took over Instagram, and they’re not that hard to copy. This style mixes two or more delicate colors, like peach and lavender or mint and baby blue, to make a soft, airbrushed look.
Why we love it: It’s a fun take on minimalism that looks good on all nail shapes. Great for short nails as well!
Shop tip: Look for sheer gel polishes or sponge-on kits that help you mix the colors well.
4. Barbiecore Meets Summer Brights
Barbiecore isn’t only for 2024; hot pinks, brilliant corals, and juicy purples are still getting people to look. These bright manicure patterns are great for holidays, days at the beach, or any time you want your nails to stand out.
Pro tip: Add fun touches like hearts, cherries, or glitter finishes to get the Y2K-meets-Gen Z look.
Seasonal inspo: Don’t miss our summer nails trends for 2025 if you want even more colorful ideas.
5. Chrome Details and Metallic Accents
There is also an increase in flashy, high-impact finishes in 2025. Chrome detailing can make any nail seem more interesting and luxurious, from silver outlines to full-on gold foils.
Trend to try: A nude foundation with silver or rose gold chrome swirls is a trend to attempt. Or, be more daring and paint your nails all chrome and your accent fingers matte.
Perfect for: Holidays, special occasions, or just standing out in a crowd.
6. Floral and Nature-Inspired Nail Art
Delicate floral nail patterns are fashionable this year if you like gentle, romantic looks. Little daisies, vines, and pastel petals are great for spring and beyond.
Design idea: Try putting a little flower near the cuticle or spreading mini blooms across a clear base as a design suggestion.
DIY-friendly: Many press-on brands now offer ready-to-wear floral designs so that you can get the look without salon prices.
7. Minimalist Line Art
Not a fan of overly decorated nails? Minimalist line art, like simple waves, abstract shapes, or dots, is very popular right now. It looks just as stylish on short nails as it does on long ones.
Go-to color palette: For a trendy style, choose black, white, nude, or terracotta.
Match the vibe: These nails look great with simple, neutral clothes or gold jewelry that isn’t too flashy.
8. Clean Girl Neutrals
Soft beige, creamy ivory, pink, and taupe manicure designs are all examples of the “clean girl” look that is currently going strong. Gold foil, soft swirls, or barely-there ombré look great on this palette.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants a classic style that goes with everything.
Style pairing tip: To look polished from head to toe, make sure your nails match your clothes.
9. Statement Accent Nails
Accent designs are a great way to get dramatic nails without going all out. Add rhinestones, negative space, or little images to one or two nails, but keep the rest of them plain.
Trending combos: Matte and gloss, solid and marble, or classic French with one chrome nail.
Bonus: It’s a simple way to try out various styles without going overboard.
Pro Tips Before You Shop or Book
Here are some fast recommendations for when you’re shopping for press-ons, arranging a gel manicure, or planning a DIY night:
- Know your shape: Choose a nail shape that goes well with your fingers and the design—Almond, squoval, coffin, etc.
- Stick with seasonals: Pastels for spring, bright colors for summer, and darker colors for fall and winter can keep your nails in style.
- Prep matters: Taking care of your cuticles and putting on a nice base coat will help your nail art last longer and look better.
- Save your inspo: Take a screenshot of your favorite looks to show your nail tech, or hunt for exact matches in stores that sell press-on nails.
Final Word: Nail Designs Worth the Screenshot
This year’s nail art is all about showing who you are, whether that means bright neutrals or bold, artistic styles. The most beautiful ones aren’t just about color; they also show off your personality, style, and mood.
There are options for every taste and ability level, from tiny French tips to chrome accents. If you want to update your look classically, don’t forget to try out more timeless styles like French nails at home.
So go ahead and take a screenshot of your favorite things, pin your best picks, and give your nails something nice this season.
