Home Tips & Trends Nail Trend ’90s Nail Trends Making a Major Comeback This Spring 2025


’90s Nail Trends Making a Major Comeback This Spring 2025

Your Tamagotchi might not have survived, but your nails? They’re thriving.

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'90s Nail Trends

The ’90s called—they want their nail trends back. But instead of returning them, we’re stealing the look for spring 2025. As someone who rocked a Sopranos-style French manicure with square tips religiously in high school (yes, I had the prom pics and Instagram reel below to prove it), I know a thing or two about this iconic nail era. Fast forward to 2025, and these retro trends are making a big comeback this spring—but now we have better tools (read: no streaky polish or shaky hands required).

So yes, this spring, the ’90s nail trends are officially the vibe. Whether you’re all about frosted pink, bold metallics, or the OG French tips, these easy-to-apply press-ons from KISS and imPRESS let you skip the salon and go straight to nostalgia.

1. Square-Tipped French Manicure

90s Nail Trends

The French manicure wasn’t just a trend in the ’90s—it was a lifestyle. Think super square tips with stark white edges that screamed sophistication. Every cool girl in the ’90s rocked this look, whether she was walking the halls of her high school or hitting the mall with her flip phone. Today’s version? Still iconic, but you might see modern twists like skinny tips or pastel edges.

Try It: KISS Salon French in ‘ Paris Lover’ nails the classic square-tipped French mani look without the hassle of a salon.

2. Frosted Pink Everything

90s Nail Trends

If your nails weren’t frosted in the ’90s, were you even trying? Frosted pink was the it shade—soft, shimmery, and ready to reflect every disco ball in town. It paired perfectly with glitter eyeshadow and rhinestone chokers (don’t act like you didn’t have a stash of both). This spring, frosted pink is back and better than ever, giving major “pop star in the making” vibes.

Try It: colorFX by imPRESS in ‘Adorable’ brings back that dreamy shimmer with a modern, press-on upgrade.

3. Metallic Blues That Pop

90s Nail Trends

Let’s be honest—metallic blue nails were the moment in the ’90s. Whether you were channeling your inner space-age babe or just matching your glittery blue eyeshadow, this shade was unapologetically bold. And guess what? It’s making a comeback in all its electric, head-turning glory this spring.

Try It: colorFX by imPRESS in ‘Reconnect’ are edgy, effortless, and don’t require a single stroke of messy polish.

4. Glitter Overload

90s Nail Trends

If your nails weren’t coated in glitter in the ’90s, were you even allowed to sit with the cool kids? Glitter polish was basically an accessory, and the chunkier, the better. Of course, it took hours to remove (we’ve all been there), but today’s glitter nails deliver all the sparkle without the drama.

Try It: KISS Classy Premium Nails in ‘My Muse’  bring that dazzling retro vibe without the clean-up nightmare.

5. Spicy Brown

90s Nail Trends

Spicy Brown wasn’t just for your lips in the ’90s—it was a nail polish powerhouse too. Rich, spice shades were everywhere, offering a warm, understated elegance. Pair this with a velvet scrunchie, and you’re ready to relive your coolest mall-rat days.

Try It: imPRESS Color in ‘Espress(y) Yourself’ are chic, nostalgic, and effortlessly wearable.

6. Sheer Nudes That Said “I Have It Together”

90s Nail Trends

In the ’90s, sheer nude nails were basically your way of telling the world, “I’m effortlessly classy.” These minimalist nails looked like you had your life together, even if your backpack was overflowing with Lisa Frank folders and Tamagotchis. The modern take? Just as polished and perfect for spring.

Try It: KISS Bare But Better in ‘Bare Nude’ give you that “your nails but better” vibe that’s always in style.

7. Grape Crush Purples

90s Nail Trends

Playful and bright, Prince-inspired grape-toned purples were a fun way to show your personality in the ’90s. Whether you were swapping slap bracelets or curating your mixtape collection, purple nails added a splash of bold color to any look. This spring, the hue is back with a grown-up twist.

Try It: colorFX by imPRESS in ‘Infinity’ bring back that fun-loving spirit without missing a beat.

Beauty Editor Tips for Applying Press-On Nails

  • Prep is Everything: Start with clean, dry nails and use the prep pad included in your press-on kit for a flawless application.
  • Shape to Fit: Customize the fit of each nail by lightly filing the edges for a perfect match to your natural nail shape.
  • Press Firmly: Apply each nail and hold it down for 30 seconds to ensure a secure bond.
  • Avoid Water Immediately After: Give your nails at least an hour to fully set before exposing them to water or heavy tasks.
  • Moisturize Regularly: Keep your hands hydrated with a cuticle oil or nourishing hand cream to maintain that salon-fresh look and feel.
  • Switch it Up: Press-ons are quick and easy to change! Refresh your look anytime by soaking your nails in warm, soapy water to gently remove them.

Follow me on Instagram for more tips & tricks! HERE

author avatar
Janene Mascarella