If you’ve been following the latest nail trends, you know that maximalism has fully taken over. Everyone is sporting different patterns and textured designs in a way that makes their nails look like an extended part of the jewellery they wear. As a beauty editor who keeps a close eye on the wide range of nail colours and designs that are popping off, I always notice one thing. Despite how out-there certain trends are, people will always return to a clean, minimalist approach at some point.

These days, when people aren’t going for bold designs, they still want their nails done in a way that isn’t just plain and polish-free. Instead, they’re leaning toward barely noticeable shades that feel elegant without all the effort. Think soft French manicures, milky nails, short nail designs, and, of course, soap nails. Clean girl makeup may have had its moment, but soap nails feel like a continuation of the clean girl aesthetic, just with a 2026 revamp.