Like hairstyles and jean rises, nail trends come and go – and thankfully for us, there are always so many different nail shapes and colours to choose from each year.
Here, we round up all our favourite trending designs and styles we’re looking forward to in the year ahead.
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Trending nails in 2025
Subtle nails
Gone are the days of bright, OTT nails with sharp and elongated shapes. 2025 is ushering a new era of soft, feminine nails. Also known as minimalist nails, subtle nails are exactly what you can imagine: a sheer and natural hue that looks to enhance your natural beauty.
These can take shape in a number of ways including nude shades, sheer polishes, a delicate French tip, or a light shimmer. These are a great option if you want to pare back your vibe or if you need a break from colour.
Milky nails
Leaning into the whole subtle nail trends, milky nails will also be big in 2025. It’s characterised by a creamy, shiny white colour (kind of like the sheen from jelly nails) that’s slightly sheer. It gives off a very elegant look and can be totally customisable depending on if you prefer a more white or nude look.
Some do-it-yourself nail designs for milky nails can include delicate gem stones or a wash of glitter over an accent nail.
Pearl nails
Pearl nails are just one up from milky nails.
Drawing inspiration from the pearl you find in a mussel or oyster, this nail look involves a milky-nude base with an iridescent glow. It’s less metallic and more like a satiny, shimmery gleam. You may also know it as “glazed donut” nails.
Clean nails
Your nails but better; clean nails emphasise the look of well-manicured, bare nails.
While subtle nails often include a delicate wash of colour, this trend focuses on nail hygiene and health. Pay particular attention to the length and natural shape of your nails, your cuticles, any excess or dry skin around the nails, while finishing off with a clear coat of polish.
What type of nails look the most natural?
The most natural looking nails are those that mimic, well, your natural nails! All hands and finger shapes are different so take a look at your hands and nails, and use it as inspiration. Generally speaking, a rounded nail shape with a clear or sheer wash of polish will look quite natural.
What nail shape is most feminine?
Oval or almond-shaped nails are considered to be a very feminine look. It mirrors the natural look of your fingernails while also helping to elongate to make your fingers look slimmer and longer. Almond shapes are ever-so-slightly pointed to also give off that slimming look which can be considered quite feminine.
How do you make your nails look good naturally?
Good, healthy natural nails come down to good maintenance and care. Be sure to moisturise your hands and nails, and use a cuticle oil. Regularly trim your nails and avoid any harsh chemicals.
Eating a diet rich in biotin is always a great way to make your nails look thicker and healthier. These include foods such as cauliflower, eggs, bananas and salmon.
Our favourite nail products right now
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