2026 is already shaping up to be a year of diverse aesthetics, making it almost impossible to predict one dominant trend. The same goes for manicures: trendy colors and nail trends for 2026 encompass a multitude of ideas, designs, and decorative solutions — to suit every taste.
However, this year, the most stylish manicures are united by the desire for self-expression, individuality and originality. In the spotlight are polka dots, laconic nude shades, a blue palette and unexpected natural colors like rich forest green. Of course, there will be timeless classics, as well as glitter, metallic and translucent finishes that create the effect of “glass” nails. Here are the manicure trends and colors that will be on your hands in 2026. One thing is for sure: it will not be boring.
No. 1. Charcoal gray manicure
It's not black or nude, but it has the style of both. Gray, especially in anthracite and charcoal shades, adds drama to nails while remaining understated. The only advice is to choose a short length so that the look doesn't seem “Halloween.”
Advertising.
View this post on Instagram
No. 2. Milk nails
Pantone has declared 2026 the year of Cloud Dancer, and milky white manicure is back in trend. Its main advantage is its versatility: it suits any skin tone, looks elegant in all seasons, and is the perfect base for glitter or pearlescent tops.
View this post on Instagram
No. 3. Aura nails
Aura nails are back — or maybe they never went away. Inspired by the light that every living thing radiates. This nail art combines tie-dye and ombre to create a gradient that seems to radiate from the center of the nail plate. The color is completely your choice.
View this post on Instagram
No. 4. Thematic manicure
The most interesting nail trends of 2026 do not recognize rules. They play with the combination of different designs and colors, creating unexpected, sometimes asymmetrical compositions, united by a common theme. Cocktails, flower bows or spaceships – a manicure should tell a story.
View this post on Instagram
No. 5. Brown is the new black
Brown has long been a wardrobe staple, and now it's also taking over manicures. Choose from a variety of shades: chocolate, coffee, mocha, hazelnut, and other warm variations.
View this post on Instagram
No. 6. Pop art graphics
If the Clean Girl era is truly over, 2026 is the perfect time to experiment with bright colors and graphic lines. In the summer, such striking designs will look especially good on tanned skin.
View this post on Instagram
No. 7. Dark natural shades
Dark colors are making a comeback in manicures in 2026. Among the favorites are the natural palette: swamp, forest green, woody brown, cedar shades. They are especially beautiful in the format of glossy “glass” nails.
View this post on Instagram
No. 8. Pink-nude manicure
Over the past year, there have been many trends that emphasize the natural color of nails with pink-nude polishes. The trend for “invisible”, glossy shades continues in 2026. It is the perfect base for minimalist nail art or delicate stickers.
View this post on Instagram
No. 9. Blue manicure
Blue nail polish is always mysterious and dramatic. Among the most relevant shades are midnight blue, Prussian blue and navy. In the spring we can also expect lighter, airy variations.
View this post on Instagram
No. 10. Polka dot manicure
Polka dots have been trending since 2025 and don't seem to be going away. They have a slightly retro feel, add playfulness to medium-length almond-shaped nails, and are perfect for spring looks.
View this post on Instagram
Based on material from: Vogue.com