I have a talent for identifying nail trends before they become popular—this edgy design is on the rise.

      I often joke about being psychic, but no one questions my insight when it comes to emerging nail trends. My finger(tip) is on the pulse of all the latest manicure styles before they explode on your Pinterest feed, whether it's the currently popular tiger-stripe nails or unconventional color combinations that professionals later endorse months down the line. Now that I have your attention, I'm thrilled to present a trend that transforms last year’s polka dot obsession into something fresh just in time for summer: Studded nails, as you’ll soon discover below.

      I first noticed this trend last October, when an image of a manicure adorned with silver studs appeared on my Pinterest. The look instantly caught my attention, not just because it reminded me of a handbag that Lorelai Gilmore was carrying on TV (I was doing my annual fall re-watch of Gilmore Girls, okay!), but also because it felt like a cooler, edgier way to showcase polka dots compared to the many celebrity renditions I'd seen online. Luckily, I had a nail appointment at Vanity Projects on New York's Lower East Side, where I promptly showed my nail technician both images (the inspiration manicure shot and a picture of Lorelai from my screen). Together, we created my silver-flecked, pale yellow manicure—a style that I saw make a comeback this spring, now in numerous variations. Keep scrolling for the complete trend overview.

      Though I got these nails in the fall, this butter yellow shade seems particularly suitable for spring and summer. To create the faux studs, my manicurist applied individual flat discs onto my nails using a bit of gel to secure them, curing them in the process. After sealing everything with a gel topcoat, we ended up with a glossy, effortlessly chic manicure that works all year round.

      This trend is as straightforward as it gets. For a bold interpretation, start with a deep black base, like this one created by manicurist Ramon Duran, then glue (for regular polish) or cure (for gel) small stud decals around the edges of the nail. This edgy look feels perfect for the colder months, but I think wearing these ‘anti-spring’ nails as the temperatures rise is particularly stylish.

      This glossy navy design is another I recently added to my nail inspiration board. Navy nails have been popular since early 2026, but adding some studs elevates them to spring/summer status. For a softer appearance (and one that’s easier to achieve at home), use a small dotting tool dipped in silver nail polish to stipple along the edges of your nails for the studded effect. A hairpin can also work in a pinch!

      This trend reminds me of a leather bag with metal studded accents (yes, the Gilmore Girls episode I mentioned earlier), and this all-black manicure with tiny silver dots embodies that perfectly. Nail art minimalists will appreciate these subtle accents that make a statement without being overwhelming.

      Mismatched nails continue to be on-trend, and I love this different-hand style paired with contrasting studs. Blue and brown are currently trending in fashion, so it's fitting to incorporate them into our manicures—complementing them with dots in the opposing colors for added flair.

      Celebrity manicurist Betina Goldstein showcased a slightly different version of this design—faux stitching to replicate seams in denim jeans—while maintaining the perimeter art theme. If metallic studs feel a bit too daring for you, consider a line of sweet stitching for a simpler touch.

      Don’t feel like committing to a full set of studded nails? No worries. This mix-and-match option shows that metallic dots look adorable when paired with tortoise print, polka dot French tips, and clusters of small studs.

      While I enjoy a unique spring beauty trend, I understand that dark nail polish isn't for everyone once the sun starts shining. For a lighter, more seasonal take, try this trend-packed look by celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen. This design includes everything: a milky polish base, fashionable polka dots, and the beloved floral nail art perfect for spring. Combine it all, and you've got a seasonal favorite.