5 nail art trends set to dominate spring 2026

This spring/summer, nail trends are encapsulating a variety of preferences. From delicate, fine line artwork and subtle shades to bold, maximalist manicures, the season truly celebrates diversity in expression.

Let’s take a look at this year’s five signature spring nail styles…

1. Blooming botanicals

Floral and foliage-themed fingertips are firm favourites during the warmer months. As spring approaches, we will see an increase in dainty daisies, pastel petals and leafy looks.

Colour trend report, Pinterest Palette 2026, revealed that a desire to reconnect with the natural world will see people gravitate towards luxurious and jewel-toned hue, jade. “It’s nature, dressed up,” said the social media platform. In a similar vein, Pinterest Predicts 2026 tipped ‘Wilderkind’ as one of this year’s standout styles. ‘A trend that whispers instead of roars’, its colour palette is ruled by soft greens and petal pinks.

Take a look at our gallery of floral fingertips.

2. Give it a swirl

Swirl nails are the ultimate customisable claws. From the shades used to the degree of blending, they can be tailored to suit every preference.

The rising appeal of the style is reflected in Google Trends data, which shows that searches for ‘pastel swirl nails’ have increased by 70% over the past year.

Check out our roundup of marbled manis.

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3. Pearlescent perfection

Pinterest has revealed that searches for the term, ‘opalescent’, have risen by 115% over the past year. Trends such as glazed donut nails and cat eye effects dominated in 2025, and they are not going anywhere. Think micro glitters, clear chrome and shimmering pigments.

Sara Pinto, nail product & academy director at professional nail brand, Andreia Professional, comments: “Opalescent pastels – such as lavender, mint and peach, will trend this spring/summer. Colour palettes are shifting from solid, saturated tones to layered hues, intricate shimmers and subtle, iridescent shades.”

Craving the perfect pearlescent nail finish? Take a look at our gallery of inspo.

4. Jovial geometrics

Pinterest Predicts 2026 lists ‘Neo Deco’ as a style that is set to stun. “After years of heavy minimalism, this retro aesthetic is back with crisp chevrons, fan arches and other geometric hits,” the social media platform states.

The rise of power clash nails sees the spring 2026 iteration of geometric designs favour bright, contrasting colours and eye-catching, abstract shapes. In addition, as social media is currently spotlighting 2016 styling, prints such as checkerboard and zigzags – signature patterns of the year – are firmly back in the zeitgeist.

Click here to view our roundup of art deco digits.

5. Cloudy claws

Inspired by Pantone’s Color of the Year 2026: Cloud Dancer, milky white manicures are on the rise. A neutral base for nail art, the soft white shade is versatile, wearable and quietly sophisticated. From enhancing the white hue with subtle shimmer to opting for a white-on-white French manicure, the options are endless.

Lancashire-based salon owner, Holly Morris-Last of Hollystic Nails, comments: “Spring/summer 2026 catwalks were full of light, sheer fabrics embracing natural form. This will influence the nail world to enhance the natural nail with sheer tints and milky neutrals.”

Discover five ways to wear Pantone’s Color of the Year 2026.