I write about beauty and perfume a lot on this blog, but nails have never been something I obsess over. A good hand cream and neatly trimmed nails are usually enough for me. That said, I do love a simple colour or subtle detail, as long as it doesn’t require constant upkeep.
Here are a few spring 2026 nail trends that feel fresh, wearable, and realistically low maintenance. These are exactly the kinds of styles I’d actually try.
Cafe au lait nails – the creamy neutral manicure trend that goes with everything
Why it’s trending: matching your nails to your coffee
Neutral manicures are having a big moment this spring, especially creamy taupe shades often dubbed “café au lait nails.” These soft neutrals feel polished without being distracting, which makes them perfect if you prefer something versatile. Neutral tones are trending alongside the “quiet luxury” aesthetic seen across beauty in 2026.
This colour works with almost any outfit, which is ideal for a low maintenance approach. While you could elevate the look with ombré, subtle nail art or a touch of shimmer, I’d keep it simple with a warm-toned taupe polish.
Modern pastel nails for spring – softer colours with a fresh, grown-up twist
Why it’s trending: elevating the pastel game this spring with different finishes
Pastels for spring might not be groundbreaking, but this year they feel softer and more refined. Instead of opaque baby pinks or lilacs, think sheer lavender washes or muted mint with a subtle chrome sheen.
These tones feel fresh without being overly sweet, and they’re an easy way to nod to the season without committing to bold colour.
Ultra sheer washes – barely-there manicures that look clean and minimal
Why it’s trending: minimal, modern and polished
This is probably the trend I’m most excited about because it feels so minimal and effortless. Think milky pinks, barely-there nudes in polishes with a jelly finish that enhance your natural nails rather than covering them.
So gorgeous! And because it’s “barely there” it won’t be too noticeable when one chips – right?
Super short nails – embracing natural nail length with a glossy finish
Why it’s trending: celebrating your nails’ natural health
Finally, a trend I’m already on board with. Short natural nails are being celebrated for their practicality and healthy appearance.
The look is finished with a neutral toned polish to keep things looking clean and easy to maintain.
Subtle shimmer nails – a low effort way to add a touch of elegance
Why it’s trending: adding extra dimension to an everyday manicure
Think a polish with a slight pearlescent finish, adding just enough interest without feeling overdone. It subtly elevates a regular manicure into something more refined.
To me, this is the ultimate low effort, maximum impact option — a simple upgrade to an everyday manicure. And it doesn’t require artistic techniques Picasso would be jealous of. Love.
I particularly like this “Gloss” shade by Manucurist and Nails Inc Glowing Somewhere.
Soap nails – the ultra glossy “clean manicure” trend that looks effortlessly fresh
Why it’s trending: Chic and suitable for all occasions
One trend that continues to pop up everywhere is the so-called “soap nail.” It’s a super glossy, slightly pink-toned manicure that makes nails look clean, healthy and quietly polished. It’s like the nail equivalent of freshly washed skin. Hence the term “soap nail” I guess.
Soap nails are all about enhancing what’s already there. Think sheer blush tones, translucent milky pinks, or barely-there nudes finished with a high shine top coat. The result feels soft, minimal and incredibly wearable.
I like this trends because it isn’t too difficult to do and doesn’t demand constant upkeep. It’s the kind of manicure that suits every occasion which, for me, is always a win.
Nail trends don’t have to feel complicated or high maintenance to be enjoyable or look good. Whether you’re drawn to soft neutrals, sheer finishes or a touch of shimmer, spring is a great excuse to try something new, and these trends still feel practical.
Personally, I’ll always gravitate towards styles that are easy to live with. The kind that look polished without requiring constant attention.
Do you follow nail trends, or stick to a signature look?
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