Matteo Valle
The overarching theme among spring’s 2025 nail trends is simplicity. Sure, we have a few unexpected pops of color 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 favorite looks to give you endless inspo to DIY or bring to your next nail appointment.
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 cozy, 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.” A few of our favorites? Gucci Lucy Baby Blue, Zoya Blu, and Manucurist Light Blue.
.
.
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 (Le Mini Macaron Liquid Nail Powder is great for this at home, since you can easily paint it over your nail with the included brush in two seconds flat).
.
.
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 color 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 color on your nails to help fill in ridges and cracks for a smooth, shiny finish that actually helps fix your nails over time.
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.
.
.
.
No matter what color 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.”
.
.
.
“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.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Originally posted from “Cosmopolitan” by BETH GILLETTE
No Comments