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9 Nails Trends That Are Blossoming This Spring, According to Nail Artists

I see so mani options

nail trends for spring
Getty Images/PureWow

Ready to usher in this season with a fresh manicure? Now, I'm aware we're already two weeks into spring, but there are still so many options you haven't consider yet. I’m seeing eye-catching nail colors, minimal styles (hello, soap nails) and fun designs taking over our tips.

I wanted to stay ahead of the curve, so I chatted with four manicurists to find out the buzzy nail trends for spring. If you're looking for something now through May, keep reading to find out nine looks you should consider for your next mani appointment.

Meet the Nail Artists

  • Juli Russell is a manicurist and DIY nail expert for Sally Beauty. She specializes in trendy nail looks and intricate nail art and educates others on nail care via Instagram.
  • Naomi Yasuda is a celebrity nail artist and founder of Studio Naomi in New York. She specializes in gel manicures, nail art and gel X extensions. Her work has been featured in editorial, runway and red carpet. Her previous clients include Madonna, Greta Lee and Lady Gaga. 
  • Juan Alvear is a celebrity nail artist known for his versatility from subtle styles to some of the wildest sculptural nail art. His work has been featured on publications such as V Magazine, Vogue and W Korea. His previous clients include Chappell Roan, Charli XCX and Julia Fox.
  • Erica De Los Santos is a freelance nail artist and founder of Nail'd It Beauty Lounge. She specializes in gel, gel-X, acrylic, hard gel and dip techniques. Her expertise has taken her beyond the salon, working on editorial shoots for L'Officiel and assisting on brand campaigns for Fenty, Ulta Beauty and Express.

1. Blooming Florals

Nothing says spring like a floral manicure, but Russell predicts we’re going to take it up a notch this season. She suggests using blooming gel, a clear polish that helps spread your gel color polish of choice evenly to help create vibrant nail art (like these tiny bouquets above). “Blooming gel manicures are everywhere right now because they make intricate nail art effortless. The way the polish naturally spreads and blends creates a soft look that feels both modern and artistic,” says Russell. “You can get everything from delicate floral designs to bold marble and watercolor effects without needing a steady hand or advanced skills. Plus, no two nails ever look exactly the same, making each set feel one-of-a-kind.”

2. Foundation Nails

This latest nail trend for spring is an all-around minimal manicure—and no, your favorite tinted moisturizer has nothing to do with it. As Russell explains, “Spring is all about fresh starts, and this clean, barely there mani compliments the season perfectly. It’s versatile, timeless and pairs effortlessly with any occasion. I’ve seen this trend work mostly for the busy babe—as the manicure grows out it is barely visible, so you can go longer between fills.” Reach for a neutral shade that complements your skin tone—like soft pinks, beige or milk nudes. Then, apply thin, even layers of polish for a glossy, translucent finish.

3. Cat-Eye Nails

Velvet or cat-eye nails are right up there with glazed donut nails for being some of the most popular (and most enduring) manicure trends over the last few years. Yasuda believes it will continue to be the most requested manicure this spring. “Cat-eye nails use a type of nail polish that contains metallic particles that react to a magnet. As you move the magnet around it creates a shimmering effect as a result. The way the magnetic polish catches and reflects the spring sunlight is just fun to look at from all angles.” You can try your hand at doing it at home, or sport some press-ons (like these from Sally Hansen) to shine just as bright.

4. Stained Glass Nails

Calling all Beauty & The Beast fans. This magical manicure will be all the rage for spring. “I’ve seen them on a few celebrities like Lizzo and Jennifer Coolidge. The base colors for the stained-glass look are more pastel or sheer with pops of small floral designs. The delicate colors and flowers feel like the perfect mani for spring,” says Yasuda. Find sheer nail polishes for the ‘glass look’ and use a steady hand to create fine lines for the structure. She adds, “You can just have fun with it because stained glass comes in all shapes, sizes and colors.”

5. Mis-Matched Omakase Nails

If you’re searching for a bold, celebrity-approved manicure, Alvear says this one can’t be overlooked this season. “I saw it everywhere on my recent trip to Japan and I also did a set like this for singer Lisa’s Alter Ego album release look—where each nail represented one of her five ‘alter egos,’” says Alvear. “Omakase nails basically allow the nail artist to pick the direction for you. It’s fun and allows you to experiment with your nail tech.” There’s also a chance to try it at home, so dab with different styles like animal print, French ombré, chrome, you name it. And if you want to add some charms into the mix, Alvear recommends keeping a strong adhesive on stand by so they won’t budge all season long.

6. Soap Nails

I predicted soap nails was going to be the buzziest mani of 2025—and one nail artist agrees. From Hailey Bieber to Meghan Markle, it's turning out to be one to look out for. "The clean, fresh look matches the clean girl aesthetic that’s still trending hard. It’s soft, minimal and perfect for spring renewal vibes," says De Los Santos. All you need is a milky white or pink polish and just 1-2 coats of polish for a natural, translucent look.

7. Strawberry Milkshake French

If you think the cheeky nail names were over, you are sorely mistaken. Let me introduce you to strawberry milkshake nails. As De Los Santos explains, "It's inspired by glazed donut nails. It can be light pink with a chrome finish, covering the full nail or just the tip of the nail that's super sweet and subtle." In order to achieve the trend, use a striping brush to create a French tip before covering the entire nail in a lighter pink base. Need more guidance? This tutorial from celebrity manicurist Zola Ganzorigt will point you in the right direction.

8. Butter Yellow Nails

While butter yellow popped up last summer, De Los Santos believes it'll be blossoming up earlier than expected for spring. "This creamy pastel yellow is having a moment. It’s cheerful and warm—perfect for welcoming spring without being too bright or neon. Add a light yellow chrome to give this look a glazed effect— pure perfection," she shares.

9. Pastel Nails

There's nothing revelatory about pastel nails for spring, but this year we're adding more nail art into the mix. De Los Santos predicts more swirls, ombré and bolder styles for 2025. "Pastels always come back in spring—they echo blooming flowers and soft skies. They’re versatile and can be playful or sophisticated. I'm seeing it all over Instagram, Pinterest boards and red carpets—especially for upcoming spring events like Coachella or Met Gala," she tells me.



Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

  • Oversees all beauty content at PureWow
  • Has over a decade of experience in writing and editing, both in print and digital media
  • Produces 'Youngish' newsletter, a guide to beauty in your 30s and beyond

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Beauty and Cultures Editor

  • Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
  • Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
  • Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz

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