From Jelly Textures to Cat-Eye Finishes—These Are the Trending Nail Looks to Try This Season

Jelly Nails

Bring jelly nails into the winter season with moodier shades. Nail artist and educator, Sofiia Mazur thinks jelly burgundy nails will be especially popular this season. “It’s rich, moody and elegant, but because it’s jelly, it feels lightweight instead of heavy. The translucency gives that glossy, syrupy look that makes nails appear longer and more luxurious. It’s perfect for clients who want depth without going too dark,” says Mazur. “Asian nail trends are taking over right now, and jelly colors are one of them. Because they’re just a hint of transparency, it gives you depth that you’re not able to achieve with regular opaque colors.”

Products to try: Cirque Colors Bonbon Jelly ($13), Olive & June Luxe Loafer ($10)

Metallic Finishes

Mazur predicts we’ll see a lot of warm metallic tones inspired by nature like bronze, clay gold and olive chrome. “Often layered with matte or stone-textured finishes, these tones reflect light softly, like sun on sand or minerals, giving nails a sophisticated, lived-in glow that looks expensive without trying,” she says, noting metallic nails were spotted on Balmain’s fall runway. “It caught my eye because it’s so glowing, but never loud. The earthy metallic tones can be done as a full nail or an accent shade.”

Products to try: Mineral Fusion Rosé All Day ($10), OPI Band Tease ($12)

Pearl Accents

“Pearl accents are making a comeback , with tiny appliqués and pearlescent topcoats adding a soft, luxe touch,” says celebrity nail artist and educator Julie Kandalec. She suggests adding pearl adhesives to any look to create a modern, dimensional effect.

Cat-Eye Finish

A cat-eye finish can elevate any color. “They add a cozy, dimensional shimmer without going into full glitter territory,” says Kandalec. However, nail artist and educator Valeriia Telemaniuk predicts one shade in particular will be trending big.

“The trend that’s truly stealing the spotlight is red cat eye. It takes the traditional red and transforms it into something hypnotic with a soft, luminous glow that shifts with every movement,” says Telemaniuk. “It’s festive without being cliché and glamorous without trying too hard. My clients are obsessed because it gives that perfect ‘I didn’t plan it, but wow’ kind of sparkle that catches the light in the most magical way.”

Products to try: Paloma Wow Cat No. W012 ($14), Holo Taco Sacrificial ($17)

Dainty Nail Art

The minimalists will have a moment this winter with dainty nail art getting the attention it deserves. If you don’t want to go too bold but want to lean into the festive season, “add a minimal touch, maybe a few dots, a thin line or a glittery gradient on the tips,” suggests Mazur. “These little details feel seasonal but still elegant and wearable for every day.”

Chrome Nails

“Chrome nails are consistently on trend as they’re a simple, fun way to make the nails multi-dimensional and completely elevate the look,” says Founder and CEO of Lights Lacquer Kathleen Lights. Although chromes have been trending for a while Telemaniuk says there is a new branch of chrome coming around this winter with pearly chromes taking the lead.

If you want to dip your toe into chrome, Mazur recommends trying the trend with nail art. “Try a chrome polka dot accent for a frosty, winter-inspired effect without going too bold!”

Products to try: ILNP Stardust ($13), Lights Lacquer Wedding Veil Aurora Powder ($10)

French Manicures

The French manicure is virtually always in vogue, and this season Telemaniuk predicts we’ll see both the traditional crisp white tips as well as soft modern variations on the look. “The French manicure is that rare trend that never leaves. It has always been and always will be in style. It’s clean, chic, effortless and works for absolutely everything: everyday wear, the office, events, holiday parties,” says Telemaniuk, who refers to it as an anchor in the nail space. “The French manicure is eternal. It’s the one look that truly ‘was, is and always will be.’”