Stripes, Stripes & More Stripes
2026 is a big year for simple but chic patterns. We know that polka dots will be a hot pick this year, but stripes have made their way onto the top trends list as well.
Stripes are perfect for a minimalistic look that still makes a statement. Allure also notes that “as with polka dots, there are a thousand ways to do it. Draw inspiration from wide, beach umbrella awning stripes, the varied width and colors of barcode stripes, or diagonal candy stripes.“
So, in 2026, feel free to mix horizontal with vertical, thin with thick, and add plenty of colors, sparkles, and metallics for a daring, fashion-forward mani.
Jelly Nail Nostalgia
If you’re looking for a nail trend that feels light, youthful, and playful, this is the one for you!
Jelly nails are definitely nostalgic, and they have that perfect retro chic vibe for 2026. Translucent shades of pink, tangerine, crimson, and sky blue will add a beautiful pop of color to your outfits without being as bold as an opaque polish.
Nail artist San Sung Kim also told In Style that “This year, we’ll start incorporating [jelly nails] into more involved looks, like layering jellies for nuanced nails, swiping them over velvet for a glass effect, and painting them under mattes.“
Velvet Textures
Velvet nails are so soft and so sophisticated, adding texture and style to your look without overdone details or designs. For spring, I definitely recommend choosing soft, classic pastels (like the icy blue, muted pink, and spring green above!)
This design can be incorporated into a manicure in so many ways, so definitely play around and find your favorite way to wear velvet nails this spring!
Aura Upgrade
Aura nails are next on my list of spring 2026 nail trends to watch! These glowing gradient designs are soft, dreamy, and ethereal, and I love the subtle contrast between the blended tones.
The looks above by Sephora and Diana (the pink and green designs, respectively) are perfect for spring; they’re light and airy with an emphasis on earthy tones and soft pastels.
Elevated Earth Tones
If the bolder, brighter nail trends above aren’t your cup of tea, consider simple, elevated earth tones. These shades are gorgeous yet grounding, adding a tranquil vibe while remaining versatile and effortlessly chic.
Baccarat Glass Nails
I don’t know about you, but I’m already starting to see this nail trend pop up more and more on my For You Page, and I’m definitely not mad about it!
Simple 3D Art
While I love a good maximalist manicure, minimalist nail art is perfect for adding texture, dimension, and other details while maintaining a clean, refined look.
Molten details, pearl or jewel embellishments, and small, simple sculpted elements are the way to go for this trend. Plus, you can add these accents to any color, meaning this nail trend can work for any aesthetic.
Pretty, Preppy Plaid
I love how plaid nails are attention-grabbing yet elegant, and you can use this design to accent your nails or go big and bold with an all-over plaid look. If you want this pattern to feel more subtle and understated, use neutral colors. However, if you’re looking to draw attention, choose vibrant hues instead.
No matter which way you go, I recommend choosing a simpler color palette to avoid overwhelming the design.
Short Nails
Finally, one of the biggest spring 2026 nail trends isn’t about the design or color, but the length. Short nails are in, and I love the way these clean, short manicures blend practicality with polished beauty.