I've Done the Research—These 7 Nail Trends Will Reign Supreme in 2026
I asked the experts, and next year's nail trends prove that understated elegance is making a comeback.
It's almost the end of December (how has that happened?), which means it's time to start rounding up the biggest beauty trends of 2026. Here atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK, we like to think of ourselves as your official guides to what makeup looks, hairstyles, fragrances and winter nail trends to have on your radar for the year ahead. You'll often find us spending the month of December speaking to experts and doing extensive research on what's about to be big in beauty, and this month, I've taken it upon myself to cover off 2026 nails.
It might sound silly, but it's a subject I'm incredibly passionate about. You'll rarely find me without a manicure these days, as I'm always testing out Wholesale Replica Bag looks and trending techniques (I recently gave the brand new hard BIAB manicure a go, and it's safe to say I'm obsessed), so when it comes to writing about these things, I'm always up for sharing my findings with you.
Below, I've rounded up the seven biggest nail trends to know about as we head into the new year, and trust me when I say that each of these looks is not to be missed. "Nail trends for 2026 lean heavily into clean, understated luxury with a focus on soft, natural-looking beauty," says expert manicurist Ami Streets. From barely-there nail art designs to cloud-like polishes, I've included all the biggest looks, so keep on scrolling to start your first nail appointment of the new year off right...
7 Biggest Nail Trends 2026
1. Cloud Nails
First up, we all know milky nails dominated 2025, and according to Streets, this trend is going nowhere in 2026. "With Pantone announcing 'Cloud Dancer' as the colour of the year, we’ll see even more pretty, sheer milky nails inspired by this soft white shade," she tells me. "Think airy 'cloud-like' whites or very light sheer gels that give a subtle, clean finish."
Get the Look:
This is easily one of the chicest milky-white shades on the market.
If you want a slightly pinkier hue, Nailberry has got you covered.
2. Earthy Tones
If milky-white shades aren't your thing, why not embrace deep, earthy tones come January? "For those who like a subtle pop of colour, earthy rich browns, along with pale nature-inspired pastels like icy blue, greys or soft sage, offer a fresh yet wearable twist," says Streets.
Get the Look:
I'm a huge fan of brown nail polish, and I've got my eyes on this OPI shade.
How stunning is this mushroom-esque huge from Hermès?
3. Pearlescent Finishes
Another trend Streets says will dominate this year? Pearlescent finishes. "Soft, pearlescent gels or micro-sheen finishes giving nails a gentle glow without being flashy, ideal for a minimalist but luxe vibe," she explains.
Get the Look:
"The Nail Illuminator from Kure Bazaar mixes subtle tinted colour with brightening pigments to make natural nails look super healthy and glowing," Streets tells me. I'll be adding this to my basket ASAP.
I've tried this polish myself and can confirm it's just as pretty on the nails as it is in the bottle.
4. Micro French Tips
This classic design is going nowhere next year, but according to Streets, 2026 is all about micro French tips. This minimal take on the popular nail art looks impossibly chic and perfectly fits that quiet luxury aesthetic.
Get the Look:
A white nail polish is essential for this look.
As is a super-thin nail art brush.
5. Mixed Metals
While many of next year's nail trends are both subtle and understated, expert manicurist Ella Vivii tells me that if you are looking to make a statement, nail jewellery and mixed metals are set to be big news in 2026. This combination of silver and gold looks so cool, and the addition of nail jewellery will only take this trend further.
Get the Look:
Price shown is members' price.
This affordable gold nail polish from Beauty Pie looks so luxe.
If you feel like getting creative, Mylee has all the nail embellishments you need.
6. Delicate Florals
Much like micro French tips, Streets says that micro nail art will be big next year, especially "delicate florals that feel elegant rather than busy." I'm personally obsessed with the dainty, 3D design above, but there are lots of ways to wear this trend come January.
Get the Look:
This nail art can be hard to do at home, but these press-on nails make it so easy to get the look.
If you do fancy trying the nail art yourself, some good tools are key.
7. Soft Oval Shapes
Last but by no means least, when it comes to trending nail shapes, 2026 will see a focus on soft, oval nails. "Shapes [will] stay practical as short, natural lengths and soft ovals or almonds dominate," says Streets. With the quiet luxury aesthetic reigning supreme, it's no surprise that this understated nail shape is taking over.
Get the Look:
I personally love to use a glass nail file to get a neat finish.
For a salon-worthy manicure at home, once your nails are shaped and painted, finish things off with a hydrating cuticle oil.
