These Are the Only 2024 Nail Trends You Need to Know

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 even started thinking about what nails to go for in spring and summer and the nail trends we can expect to see in 2024.

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 we can expect to see everywhere this year. From more pared-back nail colours to statement art, Shelton has included something for everyone, and I already know which one I will be opting for when summer rolls around. Of course, I've also included my own trends that I believe will be bigger than ever, and I will certainly be giving them a go.

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

Nail Trends 2024

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 #chomenails racking up a cool 1.6 billion views on TikTok, it's definitely one to keep an eye on.

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 December, I will transition into more colourful chrome finishes for May and beyond.

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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 already rocking these looks."

My sources tell me leopard print is about to have a 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.

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3. Almond-Shaped Nails

According to Shelton, long, almond nail shapes will be big 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.

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4. Classic Red Shades

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

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

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5. Naked Nails

"Barely there, natural nails and nailcare will be huge [this year]," says Shelton. "People [will be] 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 will be 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.

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6. Short, Square Nail Shapes

Another nail shape that will be 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.

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7. Sky Blue Nails

If you've read our guide to the biggest spring and summer fashion trends, then you will know that sky blue shades are going to be everywhere, and nails are no exception.

This bright, pastel hue is perfect for spring and summer, and looks chic with both long and short nail shapes.

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8. Coquette Nails

The coquette aesthetic is everywhere right now, 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.

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