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8 best spring 2025 nail trends, according to an expert
Charms aren't just for your bags and keychains anymore
The overarching theme among spring's 2025 nail trends is simplicity. Sure, we have a few unexpected pops of colour and design elements (mismatched nail art, charms, we love you) but for the most part, things feel kinda minimal around here with a focus on nail health and simple nail designs rather than intricate art. “Overall, the vibe right now is all about soft, wearable, and effortlessly chic nails,” says nail artist Erica De Los Santos. “Whether you go for a clean sheer look or add a little texture and detail, it’s all about finding a style that feels polished but not overdone.”
Take a look at the below trends to see for yourself. Everything from pastel shades (makes sense) to basically naked nails to soft shimmery textures to short nail lengths – we’re in our fresh nail era. Sorta! I’m breaking down all of our favourite looks to give you endless inspo to DIY or bring to your next nail appointment.
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Baby blue nails
Blue is everywhere rn (dare I say... thank you, Sabrina Carpenter?), specifically this springy baby-blue hue on your nails. "It gives off a soft, effortless vibe – think of a clear spring sky or a cosy, worn-in pair of denim," says De Los Santos, who co-signs the trend. "These shades are easy to wear, complement a variety of styles, and feel fresh without being too loud."
Metallic nails
De Los Santos predicts we’ll see a big contrast to all these subdued looks, though. “Chrome and metallic add a cool, edgy feel that works with everything from casual street style to glam night-out looks,” she explains. The key to a mirrored finish is dusting your nails with a chrome powder (Manucurist's White Glazed Effect Powder is great for this at home, since you can easily paint it over your nail with the included brush in two seconds flat).
Nail charms
They're not just on your bags. The cute-ification of nail art is officially here, complete with hearts, stars, butterflies, cherries, and whatever you desire. Adorn them to your nails with hard gel for a long-lasting mani (just stick it on with hard gel, then cure under a UV nail lamp).
Glass nails
Naked nails have been trending for a few seasons, highlighting nail health and a move toward a softer nail look. This glowy iteration is basically like the glossy, dewy, glass skin of nails, complete with a neutral or clear coat. "It’s a fresh, effortless vibe that still feels polished," says De Los Santos. "Coming from a girl who loves a good nude or clear nail, this trend is perfect for those who want something low-maintenance but still chic," she adds. It's also a great base for any designs too, like a pop of colour with French tips, a charm accent, abstract details, or a shimmery top coat. "It gives that 'clean girl' aesthetic while allowing room for creativity."
De Los Santos recommends Dior's Vernis Base Polish because it helps cover uneven nails while still remaining natural. Or try a strengthening top coat, like Essie's To The Rescue UV Gel Damage Repair – it offers a light wash of colour on your nails to help fill in ridges and cracks for a smooth, shiny finish that actually helps fix your nails over time.
Mismatched nail art
If you’re kinda over one specific nail art trend all over your nails, just opt for one across each nail to break things up a bit. Take chrome nails, for example. “I believe we’ll still see plenty of chrome looks, but in a more refined way – think isolated accents and textured, 3D effects rather than full-on chrome coverage,” says De Los Santos.
Oval nails
No matter what colour you have on your nails, if they're in an oval shape, you're already ahead of the curve, says De Los Santos. “Oval nails are classic and super versatile, working with both minimal and bold designs,” she explains. “Plus, these shapes are practical – they’re less likely to break compared to sharper or super long styles, making them great for everyday wear.”
Butter yellow nails
“I anticipate pastel shades will remain a staple for spring,” says De Los Santos, and leading the pack is butter yellow. The light hue feels like a slightly more elevated version of all the neutral, eggshell and white nails we’ve seen over the years. “It aligns with the fresh, airy feel of spring and pairs well with seasonal fashion trends, such as floral prints,” she adds. Try two to three coats of Expressie Busy Beeline for an opaque, creamy shade.
Soap nails
De Los Santos is convinced the "it girl" manicure for spring 2025 will be the sheer, clean nail – aptly named "soap nails" on social media. "Effortless, polished, and chic, this look embodies that understated luxury vibe – think of the kind of nails you’d see on someone who always looks put together without trying too hard," she says. Usually, it involves a soft, milky nude (like OPI's Coconuts Over OPI) or a sheer pink polish (try Essie Mademoiselle) that leaves your nails with a healthy glow. "It’s the perfect balance between minimal and elevated, making it the go-to choice for those who love a timeless yet trendy look," she adds.
She recommends prepping your nails first by gently pushing back your cuticles with an orange wood stick and shaping your nails to your desired length. Then, wash your hands to clean your nail beds to remove any dust, oil, or residue. Apply your polish as usual (with one to two coats, depending on how sheer you want the look), and finish with cuticle oil to keep your nails groomed.
Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers skincare, makeup, hair, nails, and more across digital and print. She can generally be found in bright eyeshadow furiously typing her latest feature or hemming and hawing about a new product you "have to try." Prior to Cosmopolitan, she wrote and edited beauty content as an Editor at The Everygirl for four years. Follow her on Instagram for makeup selfies and a new hair 'do every few months.
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