Apologies, but Florals and Pastels—Celebrity Nail Artists are replacing outdated designs with these 6 Spring Nail Styles.

      Spring has arrived, and beauty lovers are already getting a sense of which nail trends will define this season. While spring 2025 celebrated nostalgia with striking negative space designs, micro-French manicures, and coquette nails adorned with 3D decals, we anticipate a fresh transformation in the nail scene as trends evolve once again. Experts suggest that this season's leading nail styles will appear markedly less "trendy" than those of recent years.

      In true Who What Wear beauty editor style, I consulted two celebrity nail artists to get the inside scoop on which designs will be fading away just as the temperatures start to rise, alongside what will take their place. If that interests you, keep reading!

      Which Nail Trends Will Fade This Spring?

      Celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen predicts a move away from the maximalist, high-drama nails that were popular last year. "You might not see trends like overly embellished 'junk nails', thick, high-contrast French tips, large 3D elements, or extreme shapes like ultra-sharp stilettos," Nguyen explains. Celebrity nail artist Analysse Hernandez notes that she and her clients are shifting towards fresh designs, moving away from the blooming gel flower nails that have dominated the last two springs. "I loved how buildable and versatile this flower design was, but I feel my clients are now leaning toward more realistic nail art," she adds. Last year's manicures leaned towards simple, solid colors, but Hernandez points out that while those shades are still relevant, they won't dominate this season. "This year is focused on adding personality through design," Hernandez explains.

      What Will Replace Them?

      Instead of reverting to last spring's bold, runway-inspired nail art featuring citrus shades and extremely long lengths, Nguyen foresees manicures becoming softer and more practical this spring. "Expect sheer, milky 'your nails but better' finishes, jelly nails for a more translucent effect, and delicate micro nail art, such as micro French tips or subtle gems," Nguyen elaborates. She also predicts a resurgence of shorter nail lengths with softer shapes like round, oval, and 'sqoval' forms. In place of gel flower nails, Hernandez anticipates a rise in popularity for floral milk nails, which encapsulate dried flowers within gel or acrylic. "Layer with a sheer, milky shade like OPI's I'm a Bubble Bunny to achieve that soft, spring-ready 'clean girl' look," she advises. Additionally, Hernandez observes a trend toward patterned nails featuring playful designs like polka dots, stripes, and gingham. "These styles embrace a mix of colors, textures, and creativity," she explains.

      Why Are These Trends Gaining Popularity?

      If you've noticed an increase in beauty trends inspired by lifestyle changes, you're not alone. Nguyen states that this season's manicures will emphasize low-maintenance, polished looks that reflect individuality and lifestyle. "Instead of repeating well-known, 'algorithm-driven' trends (like glazed doughnut or heavy chrome), people are drifting towards more personal, understated styles that still feel intentional and fun," she says. "I'm eager to see more techs explore this exciting realm and bring back maximalist nails!"

      For a clean, healthy shine, Nguyen recommends BIAB, as it's perfect for building a sheer, structured base to enhance natural nails. "If you're at home, I love the Orly Breathable 1 Step Manicure because it combines nail care with color. A favorite spring neutral is Kiss Me, I'm Kind, which offers the perfect soft, subtle pink."

      Then: Dotted Florals | Now: Polka Dots

      This stylish manicure by Milan-based nail artist Oksana Zavora merges the charm of a cat eye design with delicate polka dot details that beautifully catch the light. These whimsical and ethereal nails mix one of the season’s trending colors (vintage blue) with crisp cream, creating an adaptable, spring-inspired look that's timeless.

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      Then: Solid Shades | Now: Ultra-Detailed

      Solid, pastel shades of butter yellow and lively orange won't see as much popularity this spring, but experts are forecasting a rise in nails featuring bright spring colors accented with striking, elegant details. Clearly, Y2K-inspired styles are still thriving, as shown by these almond nails created by Stafford-based nail artist Stephanie Holland.

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      OPI

      Nail Polish in That’s Hula-Rious!

      Then: Big Elements | Now: Tiny Touches

      Maximalist, oversized 3D designs are officially on their way out, giving rise to delicate details that enhance mismatched designs. This nail look is the result of a freestyle mix-and-match session, culminating in nails adorned with animal prints, diffused auras, minimalist metals, chic chrome French tips, and faux nail piercings. The 3D elements are "tiny," yet significantly impact the overall appearance.

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      Manucurist

      Dotting Tool