2025 Nail Trends

We are freshly into the new year, and we hope yours is off to a great start. This time marks an exciting beginning for change, growth, and transformation–or so we like to think as some of us set new year’s resolutions. Perhaps what’s more exciting are new nail products and nail art ideas. The synergy between nail products and innovative nail art creations along with the help of the almighty algorithm, result in the creation of nail trends. Some trends linger on while others are only momentary. Regardless, they help serve as inspiration for a fresh manicure. Of course, we don’t know all of the cool trends you’ll help create and set this year when it comes to nails, but we have a pretty good idea of some of the core nail looks that are going into 2025. Here is Sweetie Nail Supply’s forecast for 2025 nail trends:

1. Syrup Nails

The understated look of syrup nails, also referred to as lip gloss nails, jelly nails, and soap nails, is here to stay for 2025. As a one color look, syrup nails are minimal and clean. It’s elegant. It’s professional. It works for any look and any occasion. This semi-opaque nail look can be achieved using syrup gel–a sheer colored gel that is also buildable for color opacity. Syrup nails offer a soft aesthetic and can also serve as a perfect base for nail art. Since syrup nails may have premiered as a nail trend years back and never really left. We only anticipate syrup nails gaining more love and favorability going forward.

2. Magnetic Nails 

The mesmerizing effect of magnetic nails, also known as cat eye nails or velvet nails, was a big hit this holiday season and continues into the new year. This sparkly yet subtle nail look can be created using magnetic polish and a magnet to shift the glitter particles, creating various shimmering designs on the nails. While dark and bold colors were popular choices for the fall and winter season, we can expect brighter and pastel colors for the spring and summer. 

3. Ink Nails

This past year, we’ve seen the release of nail inks from numerous nail brands and definitely anticipate more ink art nails this year. Nail inks are easy to use and versatile. They can be used to create basic shapes and patterns for designs that feel organic and playful. Nail inks are also popular for nuance style nails, but can be incorporated for any nail style.

4. Aura Nails

Hazy orbs of color on a neutral base color are a fun way to add color to nails. The seamless transition of colors in aura nail designs create beautiful and colorful results without looking too busy or dissonant. Aura nail art can be easily achieved using pigment powder palettes and a sponge applicator. Whether you prefer a minimal look or something more extravagant, aura nails can be adapted into any nail style. 

5. 3D Art Nails

Raised shapes and designs on the nails are a fun way to add dimension and intrigue. With the advancement of nail art techniques, creativity of nail artists, and embraced by nail wearers, we only expect 3D nail art getting more prominent this year. High viscosity gels or embossing gels can be used to achieve 3D nail art. Whether it be fruits, flowers, or other objects inspired by nature or your favorite things, 3D nail art will be having its moment in 2025. 

6. Texture Art Nails

The sensory satisfaction of texture can enhance the nail experience. Whether using texture gels, oil-like gel paints, or creating texture through embossed or raised nail art, texture is an element that makes your nails more distinct. With the growing popularity of moodboard nails, where pinterest board images are used for inspiration to create distinct nail designs, we anticipate seeing more texture nail art this year.

7. Animal Print Nails 

Animal print is a look that comes and goes, but can be such a vibe! For 2025, we expect the return of animal print in nails, but with interesting twists. Rather than a full nail look, we expect animal prints will be more of an incorporated detail in mix-and-match nail art looks or as accent nails. Zebra, leopard, reptile, tiger, and cow prints are popular choices for edgy animal print designs. Can you think of other animal prints for a fun design? 

8. Chrome Powder Nails

Metallic, iridescent, and pearlescent details and finishes are a fascinating way to level up any manicure. While metallic nails are not as popular as they once were, metallic details such as french tips or embossed lines and shapes have been frequent options for nail art. Iridescent and pearlescent finishes add a subtle yet alluring sheen. These effects can be achieved using nail powders. The same iridescent or pearlescent powder can be applied over different base colors for varying effects. The versatility of powders and its endless effects make chrome powder nails a nail trend highly likely to rise in 2025. 

Trends borrow from the past, reflect the present, while ushering us forward towards innovation. Whether you have your own distinct style or like to try something different, nail trends can inspire new techniques, self-expression through nails, and new experiences. With the advancement of nail products, the creativity of nail artists, and the taste of trendsetters, it will be exhilarating to see the showcase of nails in 2025.