2026 Nail Trends: The Looks Set to Shape the Year
2026 is set to be an exciting year for nail lovers, with bold twists on classic styles and fresh, eye-catching colours leading the way. From sleek minimalism to playful textures, 2026 nail trends are all about expressing personality while keeping your manicure polished and professional.
Whether you prefer a subtle, natural finish or love experimenting with creative designs, this year’s nail trend predictions promise something for every style.
Pull up a chair, grab a cuppa, and explore the top nail trends for 2026 — inspired by the looks already gaining traction across the industry and the upcoming styles we expect to see everywhere.
Earthy Tones: Grounded & Gorgeous
Natural, calming colours will be a major part of 2026 manicure trends. Muted terracotta, buttery clay, sage green, moss green, warm mocha, soft taupe, and dusty olive tones are set to dominate. These grounded shades bring warmth without overpowering, making them ideal for those who enjoy seasonally inspired nails.
Earthy colours pair beautifully with neutrals and add subtle depth to everyday manicures, cementing their place as one of the most wearable nail colour trends for 2026. To get the perfect base at home, we recommend the Navy Nail Kit 2.0, which helps trim nails and tidy cuticles for a clean, polished finish.
Bare & Beautiful: Your Nails, But Better
Minimalism is set to dominate nail trends in 2026, with soft, sheer, porcelain-pink shades, milky whites, and glossy neutral tones that let your natural nails shine through. These clean, understated colours feel modern, professional, and perfect for everyday wear.
Soft, milky, and sheer nails capture the ultimate “your nails, but better” look. A creamy white or blush-pink base works effortlessly for every occasion, while subtle metallic dots or micro-accents add a stylish, modern twist.
For those who truly love simplicity, completely bare nails are also set to make a statement in 2026. Left untouched, they highlight the natural beauty and health of your nails, offering effortless elegance that’s versatile and timeless. Paired with minimal accessories or left plain, bare nails bring a quiet confidence that fits perfectly with the year’s modern, professional aesthetic.
To support that fresh, minimal look, use the right tools: nourish cuticles with either the Navy™ Hand & Cuticle Serum or Navy™ Cuticle Balm, and shape nails with Doris Manicure Multi‑Tool for a polished, natural finish.
Bold Patterns: Playful, Confident & Creative
For those who crave expressive nails, bold patterns are expected to continue thriving in 2026. Polka dots, linear stripes, fabric-inspired textures, modern French tips, and delicate lace-inspired designs will make nails a playful, fashion-forward accessory. These looks add personality while keeping the overall style chic and on-trend.
For precise accents on bold patterns, the Dorothy Detailing Tool is perfect for creating tiny dots, stripes, or texture-inspired details — whether you’re doing your nails at home or in a professional salon.
Nail Shapes for 2026: Square & Squoval
In 2026, nail shape is just as important as colour and design. Square and squoval shapes are predicted to remain favourites, offering structure, elegance, and versatility. Square nails give a modern, clean edge, while squoval nails combine softness with practicality. Both shapes complement sheer shades, earthy tones, and bold patterns, forming the perfect foundation for every 2026 nail trend.
To achieve the perfect square or squoval shape, a high-quality nail file is key. Navy’s nail files help you shape and smooth nails effortlessly, ensuring a professional, polished finish that lasts.
From soft, sheer shades to earthy tones, bold patterns, and sleek shapes, 2026 promises a year of style, creativity, and self-expression for your nails. Whether you stick to minimal, “your nails, but better” looks or make a statement with colour and design, there’s plenty to experiment with and love.
No matter your style, the key is to have fun, embrace the trends that suit you, and let your nails reflect your personality. Here’s to a year of polished, professional, and perfectly on-trend nails!
Shop our Navy nail & hand care essentials here.
