The naked manicure trend proves that sometimes, less is more!
I have never been a fan of long nails. The colors, the cutting, the sharp edges—I just couldn’t deal. It wasn’t just a preference; it was a deep-seated aversion. While others flaunted their perfectly sculpted, almond-shaped nails in glossy reds and neon greens, I was just there, wondering how they managed to eat, type, or—heaven forbid—open a can of soda without injuring themselves.
In fact, I have such a complicated relationship with nails that, if given a choice, I’d rather cut someone else’s nails than grow my own. Even on my wedding day, when everyone insisted I needed some length and glam, I struggled—really struggled—to keep the artificial nails on. I remember staring at my fingers, feeling like I had ten tiny high heels stuck to my hands, and wondering if this was what people called “beauty is pain.” Spoiler alert: I ripped them off as soon as the photos were taken.
So, imagine my absolute joy when I found out that, towards 2025, the naked manicure trend is making a comeback. Yes! Finally, a trend that doesn’t require me to glue, file, or fear for my eye safety while scratching an itch. This is deeply personal for me because I can now embrace my natural nails, keep them short, and still look classy, feel good, and exude confidence—all without the click-clack sound of long nails tapping against my phone screen.
Now that my nail philosophy has officially become fashionable, let’s dive into why the naked manicure is one of the hottest trend in beauty right now.
SEE ALSO: Thinking About Eyelash Extensions In 2025? Read This First.
What Is the Naked Manicure?
Unlike traditional manicures that involve bright polishes, acrylics, or intricate nail art, the naked manicure is all about embracing the natural beauty of nails. This trend focuses on clean, short, and well-groomed nails, often with a sheer nude polish or just a glossy top coat to enhance their natural shine.
Some people go completely polish-free, while others opt for a barely-there tint like sheer pink, milky white, or light beige. The key to a great naked manicure isn’t about what you add—it’s about healthy, well-maintained nails that look effortlessly chic.
The naked manicure made waves at Schiaparelli’s Fall 2025 ready-to-wear show in Paris. Models strutted the runway with ultra-short, buffed nails—completely free of polish. Yes, no gels, no extensions, no rhinestones—just pure, naked, healthy nails. If the fashion world says it’s cool, who am I to argue?
At the 2025 Oscars, A-listers ditched the flashy nail art in favor of short, natural nails with a sheer polish. This trend also aligns with the “soap nails” movement—where fresh, clean, and timeless beauty takes center stage.
Let’s be honest—high-maintenance beauty routines can be exhausting. First, there was the “quiet luxury” trend in fashion, with understated elegance taking over. Now, the beauty industry is following suit. The naked manicure fits perfectly into this aesthetic: polished, effortless, and undeniably chic.
Plus, more people are prioritizing nail health over extreme enhancements. Gone are the days of suffocating our nails under layers of chemicals. Now, it’s all about strengthening, hydrating, and showing off what we naturally have—even if that means sporting the nails of a woman who has never, ever struggled to button a shirt.
How to Achieve the Perfect Naked Manicure
If you’re ready to embrace this effortlessly chic look, here’s how to achieve it:
1. Nail Care First
Healthy nails are the foundation of the naked manicure. Keep them strong by moisturizing your cuticles regularly and using a nail strengthener if needed.
2. Keep It Short and Clean
The ideal length is short to medium, with a softly rounded or squoval shape. This keeps the nails looking tidy and natural.
3. Use a Sheer or Clear Polish
A sheer pink, nude, or milky white polish enhances the natural nail color without looking artificial. If you prefer a truly naked look, a simple clear top coat will add a healthy shine.
4. Prioritize Hydration
Dry nails can look dull, so moisturize your hands and cuticles daily to maintain a fresh and polished appearance.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
To keep your nails strong, avoid acetone-based removers and limit gel or acrylic applications that can weaken the nail bed over time.
