37 Trendy Nail Designs Everyone Will Be Asking For In 2026
The power of a good manicure shouldn’t be underestimated: aside from helping you instantly feel better, custom nail designs are a means of self-expression. With that in mind, it makes sense to start a new year with a manicure you’re obsessed with, and luckily, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best years for nail trends.
The year 2025 was marked by the minimalist manicure, with understated trends like soap nails and milky white manicures dominating our feeds (and our salons). So it’s no surprise that we’re heading into 2026 with a taste for something bolder. Nail expert and Sally Beauty brand ambassador Juli Russell predicts that maximalism will set the tone for this year’s nail trends. “The goal is intentional excess: neat, uncluttered nails,” she says.
Of course, “maximalism” could be interpreted in countless different nail designs, but Russell predicts that a few aesthetics will reign supreme. “The maximalist nail trend will be defined by mix-and-match designs on a full set, intricate hand-painted details, and deliberate play of textures,” says Russell. “Expect to see glossy gels paired with matte finishes, chrome layered over clear bases, and 3D embellishments such as pearls, sculpted acrylic shapes, and metallic accents.”
As the new year approaches, famous manicure trendsetters like Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner have already swapped their neutral polish manicures for a set of designs. Jenner recently wore a multi-colored checkered manicure, while Bieber ushered in the holidays with a matching animal print manicure-pedicure.
Even simple, solid-toned manicures are set to get an upgrade in 2026: trendy nail effects like the magnetic current cat’s eye treatment are only gaining momentum. “This year, cat-eye nails in soft, neutral tones will be all the rage,” says Russell. “The shimmer is subtle, the movement is intentional, and the overall effect is understated luxury. It’s the kind of manicure that catches the light and compliments it without much effort.”
