Of All the Nail Trends Out There, These 8 Dominated Last Year

I'm not ashamed to say I've already planned my next manicure. In fact, I've had it booked for weeks. You see, as a beauty editor, it's my job to be ahead of the trends, and I speak to lots of experts on a daily basis about which nail shades and nail art designs are going to be big for the upcoming seasons. Because of this, I often get a little too excited and end up planning my next manicure weeks in advance. So, it shouldn't come as a surprise that I've started thinking about what nails to go throughout 2025.

But before we get into that, I thought I'd round up what the biggest nail trends of 2024 were. To help me with my research, I reached out to nail expert and OPI global ambassador Iram Shelton. There's no one I trust more to fill me in on all of the 2024 nail trends that have proved to be integral in 2024, and what lies instead for 2025 nail trends. From more pared-back nail colours to statement art, Shelton has included all the biggest trends of the last year. Of course, I've also included my own trends that I think dominated 2024, as well as some key products to help get the look if you wish.

So, if you get as excited about your nails as I do, keep scrolling for everything you need to know.

The 8 Biggest Nail Trends of 2024 (So Far):

1. Metallic and Chrome Finishes

First up, we've got metallic and chrome finishes. Shelton says that although this trend is huge right now, it's not going anywhere. I've seen so many celebs rocking this manicure, and with the hashtag #chromenails racking up a cool 1.6 billion views on TikTok, it's definitely one to keep an eye on for autumn, where we're likely to see chrome layered over darker colours such as brown.

I'm personally a big fan of the trend, as I think it makes your manicure look ultra luxe. Although I opted for gold and silver shades in winter, I'm transitioning into more colourful chrome finishes for summer and beyond.

I'm a big fan of this metallic nail art.

Simple and chic.

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2. Animal Print Nail Art

"Who doesn’t love an animal print?" says Shelton. "Nail prints will be in and will be the new go-to. Celebs are rocking these looks as we head into the second half of 2024." We've seen a return to animal print this autumn and winter, so we'll no doubt be seeing the trend translating into our manicures too.

My sources tell me leopard print is about to have a big renaissance, so why not wear this trend on your nails too? It's perfect for those of you who like to make a statement with your manicure.

Not a fan of leopard? Why not try zebra if you prefer a monochromatic look.

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3. Almond-Shaped Nails

According to Shelton, long, almond nail shapes are one of the most requested shapes she's being asked for this year. "They're one of the most flattering nail shapes in my opinion," she says.

The reason this nail shape is so flattering is that it can elongate the look of your fingers and hands, not to mention the fact that it looks super chic. In fact, it's one of the most timeless nail shapes around.

Neutral pink and almond nails are a dream pairing.

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4. Classic Red Shades

Another trend that Shelton says isn't going anywhere in 2024 is a classic red mani, and I totally agree. In my opinion, this timeless shade will always be in style, and it's a chic choice for autumn.

Not only is it a sophisticated choice, but it adds a fun pop of colour to any look.

Why not give red French tips a go this summer?

This shade looks chic with both long and short nail shapes.

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5. Naked Nails

"Barely there, natural nails and nailcare is huge [this year]," says Shelton. "People are taking care of [their] natural nails and looking into nail treatments more." We've seen more people opting for clean, minimal makeup and hair looks, so it only makes sense that this is a big trend for nails too.

The great thing about the naked nail trend is that it's easy to re-create and maintain at home, and your nails will definitely thank you.

The perfect low-maintenance summer mani.

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6. Short, Square Nail Shapes

Another nail shape that's proving popular this year is short, square nails. "My personal preference is short because it’s more practical and gives that clean, old-money look," explains Shelton. "They’re also so much easier to maintain and more achievable for those who don’t like nail enhancements."

This is definitely a much more practical nail shape, and I always find that my nails look so much healthier when I keep them short.

So chic.

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7. Brown Nails

It's official, brown nails are a major nail trend right now, with Google searches for the nail colour on the up for autumn 2024. It's a great neutral shade to see you through the season, and there is a shade to suit everyone from deep cacao to milk chocolate.

Brown looks particularly chic on short, squoval nails.

Brown and chrome? *Chef's kiss*

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8. Coquette Nails

The coquette aesthetic has been everywhere this year and coquette nails are an easy way to incorporate the trend into your look. There are so many ways to give this manicure a go, from floral nail art to bows and even pearl embellishments.

Whether you like a pop of colour or you prefer to keep things neutral, there are endless options when it comes to the coquette nail trend.

Summer manicure goals.

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This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.