If you’re looking to refresh your nail game this spring, you’ve landed in the right place. Whether you’re a salon regular, a DIY nail artist, or just browsing for inspiration, this post is your go-to guide for all things trending in the world of nails this season. From timeless classics to bold new innovations, we’re covering everything from acrylics to silk wraps, and the hottest nail looks dominating Pinterest and Amazon right now.
Spring 2025 Nail Trends: What Changed from Last Year
Last spring, we saw a harmonious blend of minimalism and maximalist nostalgia. Trends like “soap nails” (ultra-glossy, translucent designs) and “licorice French tips” (black twist on a classic) rose in popularity. The fresh use of lilac tones, real dried petals, and medium-length, squoval nail shapes gave wearers options to mix elegance with playfulness.
Why it worked:
- Balanced aesthetic appeal and practicality.
- Perfectly in sync with cottagecore, soft glam, and Gen Z creativity.
- Highly shareable designs that dominated TikTok and Pinterest boards.
Why they’re evolving:
- Beauty lovers now crave more individuality and expressive looks.
- New textures, bolder colors, and hybrid styles are leading the charge.
- Accessibility of pro-level DIY tools has empowered more people to create salon-quality nails at home.
Top Trending Nail Types (Spring 2025)
This season, nail lovers are leaning into different mediums depending on their personal style, lifestyle, and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of what’s trending by nail type and what makes each one unique.
Acrylic Nails
- What They Are: Durable nails sculpted using liquid monomer and powder polymer, ideal for long-lasting designs.
- Best For: Long wear, dramatic lengths, and bold art.
- Lifestyles: Best for low-contact lifestyles or glam lovers who want nails to last 3–4 weeks.
- DIY vs Salon: DIY kits ($25–$40) vs $60–$100 per set = Save $720+ annually.
Top Trends for Acrylics
- Encapsulated Floral Art: Dried petals within clear acrylic. Works well with soft spring dresses, outdoor weddings, and brunch gatherings. It’s trending because it captures nature’s beauty in a wearable way.
- 3D Chrome Appliqués: Sculpted metallic accents that catch light and attention. These pair great with edgy outfits or party wear. Their rise stems from the Y2K revival and love for all things shiny and futuristic.
Gel Nails
- What They Are: Polish cured under UV/LED light that lasts 2–3 weeks without chipping.
- Best For: Glossy finishes, quick-dry needs, and minimal damage.
- Lifestyles: Great for busy professionals and travel lovers.
- DIY vs Salon: $40 gel kits vs $50–$70 per salon visit = Save ~$700/year.
Top Trends for Gel
- Milky Gradient Ombré: Subtle transitions in nude or soft pinks that go with both casual and formal outfits. Trending because it’s classy and Instagram-worthy.
- Negative Space Hearts: Tiny heart shapes cut out in negative space. Perfect for dates and day trips. People love this for its minimalist romantic vibe.
Press-On Nails
- What They Are: Pre-designed nails that adhere with glue or adhesive tabs.
- Best For: Temporary glam and quick swaps.
- Lifestyles: Ideal for events, travel, or anyone who changes styles often.
- DIY vs Salon: $8–$20 per set vs $60+ at salons = Save ~$500/year.
Top Trends for Press-Ons
- Marble Pastels: Swirled shades that go with denim, floral dresses, or even formalwear. Popular due to the dreamy, artsy vibe.
- Glossy Animal Prints: Zebra or cow prints made glossy. Bold, fun, and popular with influencers.
Dip Powder Nails
- What They Are: Colored powder layered and sealed with adhesive for long wear.
- Best For: Strength, chip-resistance, and smooth finish.
- Lifestyles: Great for anyone hard on their hands—nurses, stylists, etc.
- DIY vs Salon: $40 dip kit (lasts months) vs $50–$70 per visit = Save ~$600–$800/year.
Top Trends for Dip Powder
- Peach Sorbet Nails: Sunny and soft. Looks perfect with white, beige, or coral outfits.
- Tiny Polka Dots: Chic with a touch of whimsy. Trendy due to its simplicity and versatility.
Silk Wrap Nails
- What They Are: Layers of silk wrapped over the natural nail to strengthen and smooth.
- Best For: Repairing weak or cracked nails.
- Lifestyles: Great for low-maintenance wearers or people growing out nails.
- DIY vs Salon: Silk wrap kits ($15–$30) vs $50–$60 per salon visit = Save ~$500/year.
Top Trends for Silk Wraps
- Soft Shimmer Overlays: A whisper of sparkle. Looks great in business casual settings or wedding parties.
- Micro Floral Prints: Tiny blooms, subtle and sweet. Popular for their dainty, fashion-forward appeal.
Top 6 Nail Art Design Trends (Spring 2025)
1. Petal Press Nails
- What it is: Encapsulated flower petals inside acrylic or gel nails for a nature-inspired, delicate look. Imagine clear nails adorned with pastel-colored petals, like dried forget-me-nots or roses, suspended in the design. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern style.
- Why it’s trending: These nails evoke springtime romance and elegance, making them perfect for weddings, spring outings, or garden parties.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $15 for a floral encapsulation kit.
- Salon: $60+ for a custom petal encapsulation.
- Savings: Save $540+ annually by doing this yourself.
2. Lilac Love
- What it is: Soft pastel purple shades that blend seamlessly across different nail types—whether on acrylics, gels, or press-ons. Think of an elegant, light purple hue that feels both soothing and fresh, embodying the essence of spring.
- Why it’s trending: Lilac represents calmness and creativity. It’s a universally flattering shade that works well for both professional and playful looks. It pairs beautifully with floral prints and light spring wardrobes.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $10 for lilac gel polish.
- Salon: $45+ per session for professional lilac nails.
- Savings: Save about $420+ annually.
3. Soap Nails
- What it is: Ultra-glossy, translucent nails with a high-shine finish that looks almost like soap bubbles or wet glass. The light reflects off the surface to give a smooth, clean look, often with hints of subtle color or design beneath the gloss.
- Why it’s trending: The clean, minimal look of soap nails fits perfectly with the ongoing trend for fresh, dewy, and glossy aesthetics. It’s the perfect style for those who love sleek, polished looks without the fuss.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $10 for a high-gloss topcoat.
- Salon: $50+ for soap nails done professionally.
- Savings: Save $480+ annually by opting for DIY.
4. Squoval Nail Shapes
- What it is: A hybrid shape between square and oval nails. The edges are rounded but maintain the angular, clean look of a square. It’s ideal for anyone who loves the strong look of square nails but prefers a bit of softness.
- Why it’s trending: Squoval nails are versatile and wearable, making them perfect for both professional settings and casual spring vibes. They’re flattering on most hands and are easy to maintain.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: Nail file kit costs about $10.
- Salon: Shaping costs about $20 per session.
- Savings: Save $200 annually by shaping at home.
5. Pastel French Tips
- What it is: A modern twist on the classic French manicure, but with pastel colors like mint green, soft pink, or lavender instead of the traditional white tips. It’s clean, sophisticated, and vibrant all at once.
- Why it’s trending: Pastel French tips are fresh and playful, perfect for spring. They can be worn in both casual and formal settings, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $12 for tip guides and pastel polish.
- Salon: $50 for a French manicure with pastel tips.
- Savings: Save $450 annually with DIY.
6. Milky Ombré Shades
- What it is: A gradient effect that moves from a creamy white or nude base to a slightly deeper color at the tips. The effect is soft, elegant, and understated. It’s like a cloud of color, giving the nails a fresh and airy feel.
- Why it’s trending: Milky ombré nails are perfect for any occasion, offering a modern twist on classic ombré. They give a serene, sophisticated vibe that suits every outfit from brunch to formal events.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $15 for gel polish and ombré brushes.
- Salon: $60+ per session for a professionally done ombré effect.
- Savings: Save about $500 annually.
Top 6 Nail Art Designs Trending on Pinterest (Spring 2025)
Pinterest is the ultimate hub for discovering new trends, and these nail art designs are all over the platform right now. They’re visually stunning and have caught the attention of nail artists and fashionistas alike.
1. Butterfly Accents
- What it is: Delicate butterfly illustrations or 3D embellishments added to nails. Picture soft pastel butterflies fluttering across your nails, or even intricate, detailed designs in bold shades of yellow, pink, or blue. These designs can be minimalist or elaborate.
- Why it’s trending: Butterflies symbolize change and beauty, making them the perfect design for spring. They’re elegant and whimsical, ideal for those who want a soft but trendy look.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $5 for butterfly decals.
- Salon: $55+ for hand-painted butterfly designs.
- Savings: Save ~$600/year by using decals.
2. Jelly Nails
- What it is: Transparent nails tinted with vibrant, jelly-like colors. Think of neon greens, reds, or blues that give a bold, glossy finish. Jelly nails are fun, bright, and have a cool, vintage vibe.
- Why it’s trending: These nails bring back a ’90s vibe and pair perfectly with spring’s love of color. They’re especially great for festivals or any casual outing that calls for a pop of color.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $12 for jelly polish.
- Salon: $50+ for professional jelly nails.
- Savings: Save about $450/year with DIY.
3. Mini Fruit Prints
- What it is: Nail art featuring tiny illustrations of fruits like strawberries, cherries, and lemons. They’re playful and fun, often done in bright, cheerful colors. Imagine a nail with a single, small strawberry design or a row of little lemons near the tips.
- Why it’s trending: Fruit designs are fun, colorful, and scream spring. They’re perfect for festivals, beach days, or anyone looking for a cheerful nail look to match the season.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $8 for a stamping kit with fruit patterns.
- Salon: $55+ for hand-painted fruit art.
- Savings: Save $500+/year with DIY.
4. Watercolor Blooms
- What it is: Soft, blended florals painted in watercolor styles on nails. These designs often feature florals in soft, muted colors, giving them a dreamy, artistic appearance. It’s like having a mini painting on each nail.
- Why it’s trending: Watercolor florals are romantic and artistic, making them perfect for special occasions like weddings or tea parties. They’re also very Instagram-friendly.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $10 for a watercolor brush and pastel paints.
- Salon: $60+ for watercolor-style floral nails.
- Savings: Save $500+/year by DIYing.
5. Chrome Tips
- What it is: A futuristic take on the French manicure, where the tips are coated in shiny, metallic chrome. The reflective surface gives a bold, edgy vibe. The rest of the nail can be kept neutral or enhanced with chrome accents.
- Why it’s trending: Chrome nails have a sleek, high-fashion vibe that’s both modern and eye-catching. They’re popular with those looking to make a statement with their nails.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $15 for chrome powder kit.
- Salon: $65+ for chrome nail applications.
- Savings: Save $600+/year with DIY.
6. Aura Nails
- What it is: A soft gradient of color that mimics an aura around the nail, typically in pastel or iridescent hues. These nails have a glowing, ethereal vibe that transitions smoothly from one color to another.
- Why it’s trending: Aura nails evoke feelings of calm and spiritual balance. Their soft, glowing effect is popular for those looking for a delicate yet trendy design.
- DIY vs Salon:
- DIY: $20 for an airbrush kit.
- Salon: $70 for professionally done aura nails.
- Savings: Save $600+/year with DIY.
Top 6 Nail Products on Amazon (Spring 2025)
Amazon is packed with incredible nail products that can help you achieve professional-quality nails at home. Here are six that are top-rated, high-quality, and cost-effective.
1. Beetles Gel Nail Polish Kit
- What it is: A gel nail polish kit with all the essentials—polish, UV light, base and top coat, plus tools. Everything you need for salon-quality nails at home.
- Why it’s loved: Easy to use, long-lasting, and available in a variety of colors, this kit has earned rave reviews from users who love the high shine and smooth finish.
- Price: $39.99 vs salon gel sets at $600+ annually.
- Savings: Huge savings by DIYing your nails with this kit.
2. Modelones Dip Powder Starter Kit
- What it is: A complete dip powder kit with powders, a brush, and activator, all designed for a long-lasting, chip-free manicure.
- Why it’s loved: Dip powder nails are known for their strength and durability. This kit makes it easy to create salon-quality nails without the hassle.
- Price: $32.99 vs $720/year at the salon.
- Savings: Save a lot by switching to dip powder at home.
3. Kiss Gel Fantasy Press-On Nails
- What it is: Pre-designed press-on nails in a variety of styles and colors. These nails come with glue or adhesive tabs for easy application.
- Why it’s loved: They’re quick, easy, and come in chic designs perfect for last-minute events.
- Price: $8.99/set vs $60+ at salons.
- Savings: Save $500/year with press-ons.
4. Saviland Chrome Powder Kit
- What it is: A kit that includes chrome powder for creating shiny, metallic nails. This allows you to add a futuristic touch to any look.
- Why it’s loved: The versatility and shine of chrome powder make it a favorite for those who want to stand out with their nails.
- Price: $13.99 vs $65 salon.
- Savings: Save $500/year with DIY chrome nails.
5. Makartt Nail Art Brushes Set
- What it is: A set of high-quality brushes designed for intricate nail art, including detailed designs like floral prints and geometric patterns.
- Why it’s loved: Essential for any DIY nail artist, this brush set allows for precision and creativity in every design.
- Price: $14.99 vs $20–$30 per design add-on at the salon.
- Savings: Save $200+ annually by doing your own nail art.
6. Morovan Acrylic Nail Kit with Drill
- What it is: A full acrylic nail kit that includes everything you need to apply acrylic nails, from a nail drill to acrylic powders and tools.
- Why it’s loved: This kit is loved by DIY enthusiasts for its comprehensive set and ease of use.
- Price: $49.99 vs $100 per salon visit.
- Savings: Save $1,000+/year by doing acrylic nails at home.
Final Conclusion: Spring Nails Are a Must!
Spring 2025 nails are all about fresh, vibrant, and expressive designs that reflect individuality and creativity. Whether you opt for long-lasting acrylics, playful press-ons, or sleek gels, there’s something for everyone this season. Plus, with the amazing DIY products available, you can save big while still rocking the latest trends.
Are you ready to try a new style? Whether you’re heading to the salon or embracing DIY, let this season’s nail trends inspire your next manicure. 🌸💅
