I wouldn't characterize these spring nail trends as outdated, but I'm much more enthusiastic about their 2025 enhancements.
Whether you adore it or despise it, the rapid pace at which beauty trends emerge and fade is undeniable. In particular, keeping up with nail trends can feel overwhelming, as what's considered "in" can change so quickly. Often, the stylish looks I saved on Instagram seem outdated by the time my next manicure rolls around. Most of the time, this doesn't bother me—I have a good sense of which lengths and colors work for me and frequently revisit classic nail art designs I've worn before. However, as we approach spring 2025, I can't help but notice some striking and fashionable styles that make traditional options feel outdated in comparison.
This season, we’re moving away from the usual florals and pastels, as well as recent staples like short lengths and simple French tips. Doubt me? Just take a look below for the evidence. Here are the spring nail trends I'm setting aside, the new ones I'm excited to explore, and the products you'll need to recreate them at home.
1. **Pausing: Naked Nails**
**Trying: High-Shine Nails**
Like many trends on this list, this isn’t a complete departure but rather an evolution. Natural "naked" nails have been popular for years—I appreciate their clean and fresh look along with their low maintenance. For spring 2025, they get an upgrade with a striking high-shine finish, which we're calling "glass nails." You can easily achieve this at home with a thick, glossy, clear coat over your natural nails.
**Shop the Trend:**
- *Manucurist Active Shine Treatment*: Just one coat of this polish enhances your natural nails.
- *OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Gel-Like Clear Nail Polish*: I've tried many top coats, but this one provides the most glossy, glass-like finish.
2. **Pause: Plain French Tip**
**Trying: Cat Eye French Tip**
I’m declaring that the cat eye finish will be to 2025 what chrome nails were to 2022. This innovative technique adds depth and a color shift that plays with the light. Expect to see this style everywhere this year, especially as a stylish upgrade to the classic French tip.
**Shop the Trend:**
- *Mylee Cat Eye Gel Nail Polish Blood Moon*: Now you can try a cat-eye French tip comfortably at home.
- *Manucurist Nail Art Brush*: An essential for any French-tip design.
3. **Pause: Pastels**
**Trying: Muted Brights**
With "millennial pink" and "Gen Z purple" (a light lilac) dominating in recent years, pastels have been favorites, especially in spring. This year, fewer pale pastels are making an appearance, while we see more muted versions of vivid colors like lime green and coral pink. It’s fun and refreshing, and I’m all for it.
**Shop the Trend:**
- *Sephora Collection Nail Polish in Lime Zest*: This true lime green is high on my wishlist.
- *Nailberry Oxygenated Nail Lacquer in Decadence*: A coral shade that brings summer vibes.
4. **Pause: Floral Nail Art**
**Trying: Minimal Nail Art**
As a beauty editor, I spend a lot of time looking at professional manicurists’ Instagram feeds for inspiration. What’s stood out to me this year is that we’re halfway through March without seeing a single floral design. Instead, I've come across many charming minimal designs—think micro nail art featuring love hearts, chili peppers, smiley faces, and kiss prints.
**Shop the Trend:**
- *Le Mini Macaron Flower Power Mini Nail Stickers*: These easy-to-use stickers offer a quicker and more affordable option than a salon visit.
- This pen, while only available in white, is ideal for minimal nail art designs.
5. **Pause: Short Nails**
**Trying: Long Nails**
I must confess that I enjoy short nails for their practicality and low maintenance. However, I’ve noticed that longer nails are gaining popularity this spring. The familiar short squoval shapes are being replaced by longer, almond-shaped nails.
**Shop the Trend:**
- If you’re new to long nails, try a press-on set.
- *Elegant Touch Acrylic Nail Kit - Coconut Water*: This kit is perfect for anyone whose natural nails won’t grow long.
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I wouldn't characterize these spring nail trends as outdated, but I'm much more enthusiastic about their 2025 enhancements.
Think of them as contemporary classics.