If There's One Thing I Know, It's Manicure Trends—6 Nail Colours to Wear This February
From ruby red to milky pink, one beauty editor shares the February nail colours to have on your radar.
January is finally over, and it felt like the longest four weeks of all time, so I couldn't be happier for February's arrival. With Valentine's Day on the horizon, I'm seeing lots of red nail trends on social media, but what other nail colours are set to dominate this month? This is where I come in.
As a beauty editor who writes about nail trends every week, I've become a bit of an expert at spotting upcoming shades. Not only that, but I spend a lot of time chatting with some of the best nail artists, as well as being lucky enough to receive the latest nail polish launches before they're even out. Therefore, I'd like to think I know a thing or two about which February nail colours will be on the most stylish of hands this season.
Yes, red nail designs will certainly dominate, but a range of neutral nail looks are also taking over this month. Below, I've rounded up the February nail colours to have on your radar, alongside some of the best polishes to get the look at home.
6 Most Stylish February Nail Colours 2026
1. Ruby Red
First up, ruby red. As mentioned, thanks to Valentine's Day, red nail shades are proving particularly popular, but it's this ruby red hue that takes the top spot this February. The rich, deep colour is impossibly chic, and I've spotted it on the coolest of people. If you like wearing neutral outfits, then this is sure to add a sophisticated pop of colour.
Get the Look:
A classic choice from Essie.
Add a touch of shine thanks to Manucurist.
2. Lavender Haze
It might not be spring just yet, but lavender is already making a comeback. Not only have I spotted this shade on social media, but I've also noticed a few lavender launches as of late. After a grey and drizzly January, this nail colour is just the pick-me-up I need.
Get the Look:
How stunning is this shade? Manucurist can really do no wrong.
This polish will add a high-shine finish for a seriously luxe touch.
3. Cappuccino
Neutral lovers, this one's for you. Whilst deep brown shades dominated on the run-up to Christmas, I've noticed people gravitating towards these softer cappuccino hues this February. I think this will be my Feb mani of choice. I mean, look at how chic it is.
Get the Look:
Pair this with an all-cream outfit for major fashion points.
This is the exact polish in the picture above.
4. Milky Pink
If red nails aren't your thing but you still want a Valentine's-themed manicure this month, why not opt for this soft, milky pink shade? It's subtle enough to pass for an everyday colour, but still feels flirty and fun. No wonder I've spotted multiple celebs wearing this nail colour trend.
Get the Look:
Bubble Bath is every editor's go-to milky pink.
If you want something slightly brighter, opt for this Essie shade.
5. Berry Red
If red nails are your thing, go all out with this striking berry hue. In my opinion, this is the perfect shade to start the month with a bang. It seems some of the best nail artists agree, as I've seen lots of berry red manicures this month.
Get the Look:
This is the ultimate statement shade.
This polish has a slight orange undertone to make it pop.
6. Au Naturel
Whilst there are lots of February nail colours to consider, I also know that lots of us have started a natural nail journey in 2026, which is why I predict that pared-back shades will be trending. Designed to look like "your nails, but better", these shades add a subtle tint, and a lot of polishes also contain strengthening ingredients to protect the natural nail underneath.
Get the Look:
If you want to keep things really natural, this polish will add a sheer, glossy finish.
This polish cares for your nails whilst adding a plump, glossy effect.
