10 Nail Trends from 2024 That Will Remain Classic for Years to Come

There are some manicures that’ll remain iconic favorites no matter how many years have passed. A subtle French tip, classic red talons, and pale bubble bath pink nails are just a few. In 2024, we saw all sorts of nail trends take off. Some, like “brat green” nails, have already run their course, but others are definitely here to stay for a long time to come. We asked celebrity manicurists to do a little forecasting for us to see which nail trends that cropped up in 2024 are destined to hang around. 

1. Velvet Nails

New to the nail scene in 2024, velvet nails are luxe, have a depth of richness, and mesmerize no matter the color you choose. They’re achieved via magnetic polishes and, true to their name, resemble the texture of velvet fabric. 

“This trend adapts beautifully to any season since you can opt for a shade that matches the current season,” says Mazz Hanna, celebrity manicurist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood. “Jewel tones like emerald and burgundy will work well for winter, and soft pastel hues work well for spring.” 

2. Glazed Nails 

As a sharp juxtaposition to velvet nails, ultra minimalist glazed nails took off in 2024 and their wearability is a recipe for a timeless manicure option for well into the future.  

“Their timeless appeal ensures they’re here to stay,” says Christina Kao, nail expert and co-founder of Le Mini Macaron. “This trend adds a subtle, sophisticated touch to a simple manicure, making it clean, elevated, and effortlessly chic. It aligns perfectly with the ongoing ‘demure’ aesthetic.” 

3. Chrome Manicures 

From silver-tipped nails to Moscow Mule nails, chrome seriously popped off in 2024. 

“I think this trend will never end because there’s so many new techniques and colors available now to be able to use and create different looks with,” says Leslie Ayala, nail expert and founder of Nail Witch Studios in Miami, Fla. “Chrome is just now looked at as an extra piece of jewelry on your hands because of the super shiny finish that it leaves.” 

4. Cherry Mocha Nails 

Brown nails, in general, were a trend across the entirety of 2024. One variation that really took off was cherry mocha. 

“Cherry mocha nails gained traction after a TikTok featuring DND’s ‘Cherry Mocha’ shade went viral, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down,” Hanna says. “This deep burgundy with purple undertones looks particularly stunning on short to medium almond or rounded nails since the soft shape complements the richness of the color.” 

5. Textured 3D Nails 

Turning nails into an accessory was a definite do in 2024, and textural designs with 3D features helped with that. Ayala tells us you can expect to see this trend stick around for a long time. 

“Textured nails are created using a thick, gooey gel that gives a chic look once applied. It  really amps up any design, making it look more lifelike and eye-catching. Plus, 3D gel comes in tons of colors, both opaque and translucent, making it super fun and easy to mix into any nail art,” she says. 

6. Minimalist Nail Art

While showy and flashy designs had their moment in 2024 (hello, brat green nails and bows galore), there was a concurrent theme of minimalism that experts predict will remain a fave for years to come.  

“Minimalist nail art features understated designs like fine lines, dots, or subtle geometric patterns for a sleek, modern aesthetic,” says Hanna. “It’s incredibly wearable, pairs effortlessly with any outfit, and transitions seamlessly between seasons, which makes it a timeless option for 2024 and beyond.” 

7. Soap Nails

Speaking of minimalism, soap nails have to take the cake with that one. Taking their cue from the “clean girl” aesthetic, this mani keeps things super simple with a sheer wash of pinkish color on shaped, buffed, and filed medium to short nails. 

8. Aura Nails

A twist on ombre nails, aura manicures went viral on #nailtok this year with their halo-like glow emanating from the center and blooming outward. The fact that it’s such a simple but striking design—and that it can be recreated with tons of color combos—makes it ripe for a “classic mani” mainstay. 

9. Clean Ombre Nails

Dubbed the “modern French,” clean ombre nails were mega popular in 2024. “The ombre took a classic look and modernized hit,” Ayala says. “I think the ombre nail will always be a trend because it elevates such a classic French and gives it so many more options and ways to wear without any harsh lines.”

10. Mermaid Nails 

Mermaid-inspired nails have always come and gone, but in 2024 we saw a notable peak in popularity. “Mermaid nails had a big moment this summer, featuring shimmering, velvety, or holographic finishes in pastel tones,” Kao says. “According to Pinterest predictions, the ‘sea witchery’ trend will extend this whimsical aesthetic into next year’s fashion and beauty landscapes.”