Nail art is an ever-evolving form of self-expression that speaks volumes, even through the most understated designs. Right now, the trend that’s capturing hearts and flooding our social media feeds is the “Minimalist” nail trend—a welcomed departure from the head-turning nail drama we saw this past season.
Minimalist manis are taking over as the ultimate expression of the demure, “less is more” approach to fashion. And let’s not forget, it’s incredibly versatile—these manis are like the little black dress of nail art, seamlessly transitioning from day to night, casual to formal, making them a go-to for anyone looking to stay effortlessly chic in any situation. Say goodbye (for now) to over-the-top nail art, and hello to high-fashion, understated glamour.
Why Go Minimal?
This is the manicure that plays well with every outfit in your spring wardrobe, giving you that understated chic vibe that’s totally on-trend. We’re talking clean and classy lines, barely-there shades, monochromatic neutral, pink, and beige tones that whisper quiet luxury – a fresh take that’s saying a polite ‘thank you, next’ to bold shades and busy nail art. Whether it’s delicate embellishments over a glossy nude base, French tips sans the frill, or those chic, simple, and subtle strokes that are anything but basic, you’re signing up for a look that’s effortlessly luxe. The minimalist manicure goes hand-in-hand with the delicate coquette aesthetic, the ballet core and of course, the glazed donut nail phenomena.
And for those of you who can’t let go of the glitz, remember, glitter isn’t gone—it’s just grown up. A strategically placed sparkle on a minimalist mani is like the cherry on top of your favorite sundae—just the right amount of sweet.
Now, let’s bring it home with a roundup of my favorite KISS and imPRESS minimalist manis that you can shop or screenshot for inspo. And the best part? You can skip the salon and still score these sleek looks in minutes—right in the comfort of your home. So, whether you’re a DIY diva or a salon devotee, minimalist manis are the no-fuss, high-style answer to nailing this season’s must-have mani. Need proof? Even celebrity nail stylist Gina Edwards is obsessed with the minimalist vibe.
SHOP KISS MINIMALIST MANIS
Salon X-tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit ‘Pure’ ($22.99)
Salon X-tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit ‘Tone’ ($22.99)
Salon X-tend LED Soft Gel System Starter Kit ‘Idol’ ($22.99)
Salon Acrylic French Color ‘Sprinkles’ ($8.99)
Gel Fantasy Dreamdust ‘Unfiltered’ ($9.99)
Voguish Fantasy ‘Kindred’ ($8.99)
Voguish Fantasy ‘Underwater’ ($8.99)
Bare but Better Premium ‘Shine’ ($9.99)
Bare but Better Premium ‘Hazel’ ($9.99)
Bare but Better Premium ‘Syrup’ ($9.99)
SHOP IMPRESS NO GLUE MINIMALIST MANIS
imPRESS Design Modern French ‘Fearless’ ($9.49)
imPRESS Design Playback ($9.49)
imPRESS Design Bare French ‘Genuine’ ($9.49)
imPRESS Design Classic French ‘Everlasting’ ($9.49)
imPRESS Design Bare French ‘Heroic’ ($9.49)
imPRESS Color ‘Balance’ ($7.99)
imPRESS Color ‘Flare’ ($7.99)
imPRESS Color ‘Brushed Pale’ ($7.99)
imPRESS Design ‘This Feeling’ ($9.49)