The Naked Manicure Is Like Your Nails But Better—Here’s How to Do It Yourself

While flashy nail art is certainly a major trend right now (hello dew drop nails, chrome finishes, and 3D embellishments), there’s also a strong wave of minimalism happening at the same time. Part of the quiet luxury and clean aesthetic trends we’re seeing, the naked manicure keeps things simple, chic, and gorgeous. Ahead, we’re detailing what the naked manicure is and teaching you how to get the look at home. 

What Are Naked Nails? 

Naked nails aren’t truly bare. Rather, they’re like a “your nails, but better” approach to a manicure. 

“The naked manicure is all about achieving a polished, natural look that enhances your nails without bold colors or heavy designs,” says professional nail artist Sojin Oh. “It’s called “naked” because it gives the illusion of bare nails—just healthier, shinier, and more refined. It’s clean, minimal, and quietly elegant.” 

Ye Won Jang, manicurist and lead product developer at Kiss New York, says that it’s trending as part of the greater quiet luxury style we’re seeing, and adds that it’s also very fitting for spring. 

“In a time where people are seeking simplicity, minimalistic beauty trends, the naked manicure feels more relevant than ever,” Jang tells us. “It’s a chic way to maintain polished nails while embracing a minimalist aesthetic. It also pairs well with any fashion style, making it easy to leave a clean and fresh impression on many people.” 

How to Do a Naked Manicure At Home

While it might be hard to pull off mermaid nails or a cat eye look at home, the naked manicure is simpler to pull off.

Step 1: Shape & Prep  

All manis start with a good canvas, but it’s especially important to nail it with a naked manicure. (It’s as important as perfecting a glowing, light base when doing no makeup makeup!) Trim and file your nails—they should all be the same length and nail shape. From there, Oh says, “Push back cuticles, lightly buff the surface, and make sure nails are clean and dry.” 

Step 2: Apply Your Preferred Hue

As with all trends, the best way to choose a color is a version that makes you feel like your best and happiest self. “

The true naked manicure is one without any color at all, so a simple buff or an easy clear coat on top [works],” says Olivia Van Iderstine, Olive & June‘s trend expert. “If you’d prefer a bit of coverage, go for a single coat of whatever sheer polish you love, like a sheer mauve, a sheer creamy beige, or a milky white.”

You could also try a mani with a bit of a rosy undertone, or even one with hints of lavender. Whatever the case, keep it sheer. 

Step 3: Seal With a Glossy Topcoat 

Seal your naked manicure with a glossy topcoat. Matte finishes don’t really work since they don’t look natural; the goal is to create a look that’s like your nails but a little more enhanced. 

Step 4: Hydrate Your Cuticles

All naked manicures benefit from healthy, happy, hydrated cuticles. Van Iderstine says, “Without a bold pop of color, all eyes will be on your nails and cuticles so ensure you are keeping up with your hydration routine.” Keep some cuticle oil in your purse or at your desk so you can easily hydrate wherever you are.