Trends for 2026: Colors, shapes & finishes
The nail industry will start 2026 with renewed momentum. Fashion trends, beauty tech, and a growing awareness of individuality and expressive statement looks will shape the year. The result: strong contrasts, clear design language, and innovative surfaces.
COLORS: BETWEEN CALM AND POWER
In 2026, colors will be dominated by two major trends: subtle naturalness and energetic statement colors.
1. NUDE SHADES WITH CHARACTER
Beige, sand, cream tones, and rosé remain indispensable, but are becoming more multifaceted. Semi-transparent shades with a subtle shimmer create a modern, subtly natural aesthetic. Milky pastels are particularly popular, as they look elegant on any nail shape.
2. CLEAR, FUTURISTIC COLORS
In stark contrast to this are digitally inspired colors such as cool ice blue, holographic silver, or purple with a metallic sheen. These shades complement tech-inspired styling and give every manicure a modern edge.
3. EARTHY POWER SHADES
Rich terracotta, ochre, and olive shades reflect the trend toward closeness to nature. Combined with matte or porcelain-like finishes, these colors appear artisanal, modern, and authentic.
4. COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026 – LIGHTNESS IN ITS MOST ELEGANT FORM
The color of the year 2026 is a pure, bright white that radiates an extraordinary lightness. This shade appears effortlessly elegant, calm, and modern at the same time. It is reminiscent of floating clouds and conveys a feeling of clarity, purity, and timeless beauty.
This white is making a big impact in the nail industry, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for delicate designs and stylish combinations. Whether as a subtle full-color look, in transparent layering techniques, or as a delicate accent in the finest nail art, this shade gives every nail design an elegant, airy, and highly aesthetic look.
FORMS: CLASSIC, CREATIVE, AND CLEARLY DEFINED
International design trends show a wide range of styles, with a focus on individual fit that flatters the hands.
- SOFT SQUARE & MODERN OVAL
These two shapes will dominate in 2026.
- Soft Square: The nails end straight, with slightly rounded corners. This shape looks elegant, well-groomed, and particularly stable—ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy their manicure for a long time. It goes well with both minimalistic colors and eye-catching designs.
- Modern oval: The nail tip is softly rounded, making the hands appear longer and slimmer. Oval nails exude timeless elegance and can be easily combined with statement accents or subtle pastel shades.
- SHORT & SCULPTED
Shorter nails will continue to gain popularity in 2026.
- Short nails: These nails are practical, easy to care for, and ideal for everyday wear.
- Sculpted Short Nails: Precise modeling creates a defined shape that looks professional. Particularly popular with business clients, as they stylishly accentuate the hands without being impractical. Bold colors or subtle patterns also look great at this length.
- LONG MINIMALISM
Long nails remain relevant, but are worn in a more minimalist style.
- Tapered Square: The nails are slightly narrower at the sides and have a straight tip. This shape looks modern, clean, and minimalist.
- Modern Almond: The nail tip is gently pointed, reminiscent of an almond. Elegant and feminine without appearing playful.
- Style tip for 2026: For long shapes, the focus is on a perfect finish and clean lines, rather than elaborate embellishments. Minimalist designs and high-quality polishes emphasize the purity of the shape.
FINISHES: HIGH GLOSS IS A THING OF THE PAST – 2026 WILL BE ALL ABOUT TEXTURE
In addition to classic gloss finishes, new, innovative surfaces are emerging that create texture and depth.
1. VELVET & SUEDE FINISHES
Matte looks are being refined: velvety effects, soft surfaces, and slightly powdery finishes are becoming increasingly popular internationally. Velvet finishes are particularly effective in dark colors.
2. GLOSSY MILKY LAYERS
Multiple transparent layers create a “glass skin” effect for the nails. This technique looks luxurious and nourishing—ideal for high-end studio looks.
3. DESIGN-TEXTUREN
3D details, modeled lines, drip effects, and soft relief structures give nail art in 2026 a new spatial depth. The designs remain harmonious and less playful than in previous years.
A wide range of suitable products is available for all these finishes and effects – from matte top coats and ultra-high-gloss top coats to 3D and painting effect gels.
MUST-HAVE COLORS OF THE SEASON
- Jade & Teal – modern green, nature meets elegance
- Milky butter beige & greige – subtle, elegant nude tones
- Terracotta & ochre – warm, earthy shades
- Deep violet & aubergine – luxurious and expressive
- Strong digital colors (e.g., ice blue, fuchsia) – energetic, modern, and expressive
CONCLUSION: PERSONALITY TAKES CENTER STAGE
The nail trends for 2026 point in a clear direction: quality, expression, and individuality are gaining ground over short-lived hypes. Colors and shapes should emphasize personal style—from pure minimalism to futuristic statement looks. For studios and professionals, this means more variety, more consulting expertise, and more creative freedom.