WHAT'S NEW IN NAILS?

With a new season approaching, we asked some nail techs about the latest trends that will influence client requests

When it comes to nail trends, the arrival of a new season means we can look forward to new shades, novel twists on traditional looks and some changes in client preferences.

“We are going to see a lot of the ‘clean girl nails’ aesthetic this spring/summer,” says Arune Astrauskiene, owner of Fab Nails in Thurles, Co Tipperary. “This means that natural and healthy-looking nails, and nude tones will be popular, as will short nails or ‘everyday nails’, which is where style meets function. These are very versatile and suit clients with busy lifestyles. Dark blue and navy shades are on trend too – they are a great alternative to black. In the salon, we have noticed more clients opting for variations of very dark colours. And spring always brings in pastel colours and lighter shades, such as lilacs.”

“Lavender milk will be popular for clients seeking a soft, calm look, and Tiffany blue will suit those looking for a bold, fresh pop of colour’

“Lavender milk will be popular for clients seeking a soft, calm look, and Tiffany blue will suit those looking for a bold, fresh pop of colour,” says Aram Jamaseb, owner of Beauty Stories in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin. “We can also expect to see muted neons, iridescent pastels and warm, earthy tones, along with metallics and crisp whites. Shimmering chrome will definitely be a key trend – from a donut-glazed finish to a touch of elegant rose gold, these reflective tones will add some luxe and modernity to seasonal nail looks.”

“Mocha Mousse, which is the Pantone Colour of the Year 2025, fits perfectly with the neutral trend we are seeing,” says Sara Madigan, owner of Gloss House in Booterstown, Co Dublin. “Lots of brands have been showcasing their versions of this shade. I think we’re going to see less design and more focus on textures and finishes. The cat eye trend is big right now, as is colourful chrome, which is great for clients who love to express themselves. When it comes to nail shapes, I think we are going to see a lot of oval, particularly a long, tapered oval shape. There is a demand for that elegant, sophisticated look, which suits most hands.”

French fancy

The French manicure is always popular at this time of year, and it is often the go-to choice for summer brides. “For 2025, we can expect pastel French tips, metallic accents, double lines and reverse French manicures,” says Jamaseb. “I think brides will be opting for the classic French, along with sheer nudes and subtle shimmers. We will also see glazed nails, minimalist floral details and delicate pearls for a refined, modern bridal look.”

“The micro French, which has been trending in the last few years, is here to stay, but with different variations such as a straight line across the nail rather than the classic French tip,” notes Astrauskiene. “Coloured combinations will be in too. A coloured French tip is a great way for clients to experiment – it’s a lowcommitment option that grows out easily. Brides tend to choose timeless, classy looks such as milky pinks, soft shimmers and nudes, with minimal or no nail art.”

Nail health

Meanwhile, this season will see clients continue to opt for regular manicures and pedicures to keep nails healthy, according to our experts. “Many of our clients have started getting their nails done more frequently,” says Astrauskiene. “It’s part of their self-care routine – something that is low-maintenance, makes them feel great and adds to their personal style. A lot of them tell me that they would give up other things in their life, but won't give up having their nails done.

“More and more clients are also increasingly concerned about the health of their nails. There is so much information available online now, so they are paying more attention to the ingredients used in nail products. In our salon, we make sure the products we use are EU-certified and are from well-known manufacturers. Quality costs money, so if a product is cheap, it should be avoided.

“Lots of nail techs are learning about nail health now, which is great as it shows knowledge and professionalism. Clients notice when you know what you are talking about, and the more you know, the more confident you are as a nail professional. This is important because sometimes you have to say no to a client if you believe a particular nail treatment might not be suitable for them – for example, if they have had an allergic reaction previously, or if they have onycholysis, which is when the nail becomes detached from the nail bed.”

“Health and self-care are important to clients now,” agrees Madigan. “We are seeing a move away from gel polishes to longer lasting gels such as BIAB, to reduce the amount of buffing on the natural nail. With these types of long-term nail solutions, there are great homecare products available to help to keep the nails in good condition in between salon visits.”

“There is a big focus now on nourishing treatments, strengthening products and cuticle care,” adds Jamaseb, who has also noticed that some clients are becoming more adventurous. “They are less inclined now to stick to the same style all the time. Regular clients are coming back every three to four weeks and mixing things up a bit. That said, classic looks such as pale pink nails, French manicures and red nails will always be on trend. Some clients never get tired of these timeless styles.”

Stay social

It goes without saying that you need to stay tuned to social media to keep updated with these ever-evolving nail trends. “I always ask my clients where they get their inspo from, and they generally tell me that it is from social media or a Google search,” says Astrauskiene. “They like to see what styles are out there and often bring in screenshots of an influencer's hands to show me what they want.”

“Social media remains a powerful tool for driving trends and showcasing techniques,” says Madigan. “For instance, the ‘mob wife’ look was partly driven by clips of The Sopranos on TikTok. I love TikTok – content creators can really engage with their audience on that plaform.”

“When it comes to nail shapes, I think we are going to see a lot of oval, particularly a long, tapered oval shape’

Of course trends come and go, but giving a consistent and exceptional service will never go out of fashion. It’s a guaranteed way to help to boost loyalty and your business. “The best way to keep clients coming back to your salon is by giving them the best care,” says Jamaseb. “In my experience, when you pay attention to every detail of a client’s manicure or pedicure, and deliver results that last, they will appreciate your work. Clients who see their nails looking flawless won’t go to any other salon. A combination of consistent quality, personalised care and attention to detail will ensure client loyalty, and will open the door to upselling and crossselling.”