The nail mood for 2026 is clear: less gimmick, more intention. The pendulum has swung toward shades that feel wearable, considered and grown-up. The It-girl manicure now sits somewhere between restraint and subtle statement – polished (quite literally). 

Here’s what’s in.

Smoky Shades

High-gloss jellies are stepping aside for moodier tones. Washed-out blues, foggy greys, taupes and muted greens are leading the shift. These shades read cool without trying. They feel urban, slightly undone and infinitely more wearable than hyper-saturated brights. It’s colour - just with the volume turned down.

Dior Vernis 206 Gris Dior, ZOYA Sage, Essie 77 Chinchilly

Earth Tones

We’re grounding things. Clay browns, moss greens, bark-inspired neutrals and orange terracotta are emerging as the new go-to. They’re calming, flattering and quietly directional - the nail equivalent of good tailoring. Expect to see them everywhere from short natural nails to longer almond shapes.

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Slick Slate, Manicurist Green Nailpolish Khaki, KIKO Milano 249 Sunset Sangria

Cool Pastels

Bright dopamine shades aren’t disappearing - they’re just being edited. Soft mauve, dusty blue and cool lilac are replacing punchy neons. These tones complement a strong wardrobe rather than compete with it. Understated, modern and easy to repeat.

KIKO Milano 246 Breeze Please, Sephora Collection 401 Fresh Mint, Essie Gel Couture Style In Excess

Milky (But Not White)

Milky white had its clean-girl reign, but 2026 is softening the formula. Think sheer pink veils, creamy nudes and pastel-tinted washes that feel less bridal, more everyday. It’s the same minimal energy - just warmer, more dimensional and far more flattering across skin tones. The finish should look expensive, not stark.

Hermes 01 Rose Porcelaine, Essie 138 Pre-Show Jitters Gel Couture, OPI Nail Lacquer Bubble Bath

Red Gets Darker

Classic red isn’t going anywhere - but it’s evolving. Instead of fire-engine crimson, richer berry tones are taking centre stage. Think depth, wine, plum-adjacent hues that feel romantic without tipping into festive. It’s red, recalibrated.

Dior Vernis 047 Nuit 1947, OPI Nail Laquer Dark Cherry Chutney, Hermes 85 Rouge H