Hi, hello and welcome to the Cosmo confessional. My name is Lia and I am a nail neglector… Yep, as disappointed as I am to admit, the bar for my manicure game is lower than my Hinge game – aka, in the depths of hell. So, in a bid to improve the appearance of my talons (which, consequently, I hope will lead to more romantic dates, too 👀) I sought out the advice of two experts – because there’s no better time to re-up my nails than with a new year fast approaching.
Ahead, nail artists Liga Tukmane and Shea Osei share their predictions on what will be the most popular nail trends in 2025. Spoiler: In the new year, texture, tone and 3D art are set to be bigger and better than ever. So, what are you waiting for? Get scrolling and book in a mani-pedi ASAP!
Naked revival
Remember the ‘clean girl aesthetic’ that boomed circa the summer of 2023? Well, both Liga and Shea agree that this very aesthetic will reign supreme in 2025, with many of us settling for low-fuss, low-maintenance and natural-looking nails.
Liga says: “Minimalism will take centre stage with the ‘naked manicure’ – a clean, natural look where short nails are enhanced with sheer nude or clear gloss finishes. This trend highlights healthy, well-groomed nails, offering effortless sophistication. It’s perfect for clients who value simplicity with a polished feel.”
Shea says: “A clean, nude, barely-there type of look is going to be popular in 2025. It pairs well with short, medium or long nails as well as coffin, stiletto or square shapes, meaning it’s an all-around winner. There’s a choice for everyone!”
Creative French
Yep, it feels like French tips have been around longer than humans themselves, but as Liga says, we’re reimagining the style with colour in 2025. Go bold or go home!
Liga says: “The timeless French tip is getting reimagined with vibrant colours, deep side swoops, metallic edges and asymmetrical shapes. Think: Bold neon tips, chrome outlines, or mismatched designs – adding a playful, modern twist to this classic style.”
More 3D shapes
I like to think of my nails as a permanent accessory; when polished, they add a certain va va voom to my look, just as a statement necklace would. And translating that statement necklace vibe to our tips comes 3D nail art. Though, this fun and experimental style is not for the faint-hearted…
Shea says: “3D shapes add depth and texture to the nails, making them look like a mini work of art. And they’re very eye-catching, too.”
Velvet texture
Both Liga and Shea agree that textured, cat eye designs are set to go viral… Futuristic nails are in! Holographic powders, chrome overlays and mirrored finishes are the foundations of this look and will continue to shine in 2025. They offer a multidimensional and bold finish for the fashion-forward girlies among us.
Liga says: “Velvet nails, created using magnetic polishes, will dominate in 2025. The soft, reflective shimmer gives nails a luxurious, velvety effect that catches the light beautifully. This trend pairs especially well with jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue or deep burgundy.”
Shea says: “Cat eye nails will be in for 2025! Everyone loves a bit of shimmer or metallic effect and this trend is perfect for achieving that.”
Mocha and earthy tones
As makeup artists have also predicted, ‘Mocha Mousse’ is going to dominate all aspects of 2025 beauty. From the shadow we wear on our eyes to the polish we wear on our nails, there’s no escaping brown tones.
Liga says: “Inspired by Pantone’s Colour of the Year, ‘Mocha Mousse’, warm browns, caramels and earthy shades will rule the nail world. These hues are universally flattering and add a cosy yet chic vibe; it’s the perfect look for any season.”
Micro nail art
A trend that I can get behind? Itsy bitsy, cutesy patooty nail art. I mean, just look at those adorable hand-painted raspberries by nail artist Betina R. Goldstein.
Liga says: “Delicate, fine details are gaining traction, with tiny florals, geometric accents, and minimal linework becoming client favourites. This trend is ideal for those looking for subtle but impressive nail art.”
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