Nail Trends That Are Completely Outdated In 2025

You've probably heard the motto, "new year, new me," and in addition to the many goals we have going into 2025, this moniker can be applied to our manicures. Over the years, nail trends have come and gone, many of which we were proud to leave to yesteryear. As the saying goes, you have to let go of the old to make way for something new.

In exclusive commentary shared with Women, nail expert Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood, offered their take on the trends that should be nailed to 2024. So, if you have been looking for that excuse to get out of your comfort zone to try something new, this is your chance! 

And as a disclaimer, when it comes to nails (or anything beauty related), you should always wear what makes you feel good. Trends come and go, but confidence and personal style never go out of fashion. That said, there are a few styles that seem to be taking a step back as we move into 2025.

Whether they are press-on, acrylic, or natural, long nails have been popular for decades and have only gotten longer over time. It was rare to see Instagram baddies without long decked out nails. However, Mazz Hanna told Women.com super long, overly sculpted nails might be "losing some of their spotlight in 2025." She added that "bold statement lengths," will always be around, but shorter lengths with "softer shapes" have become more popular and will continue to grow in popularity in 2025. And as much as we loved our super long nails, we did miss being able to pick our debit cards off the floor.

What better accessory is there than very eye-catching nails. Though, standard flat nail designs are enough to get people talking, those large and in charge 3D embellishments are the real conversation starters. From giant gems, gummy bears, butterflies, flowers and more, stars like Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B and others have made all of us want to load our nails with as many 3D details as possible because not only can it be beautiful, its truly a unique form of expression.

Mazz Hanna said in an exclusive quote, "excessively chunky embellishments that make nails impractical for daily life are starting to feel less relevant." For those that still want to rock the 3D look, she added that more "subtle details like pearls, "delicate crystals and hand-sculpted 3D elements" are still popular as people "shift toward designs that balance artistry with wearability in 2025."

We love a nail set that allows for the creative freedom to make every nail look different and sometimes each nail connects to a theme, and sometimes it doesn't. In an exclusive quote, Mazz Hanna said that this trend will be "taking a step back," as people turn to "more focused, cohesive designs where every detail feels intentional."

For people that still want to play around with a unique design, fear not, as you can continue to enjoy nonuniform designs by adding the classic accent nail. Whether it's one, two or three nails, you can have them stand out while also staying on theme!

There were a lot of things about 2024 that had many of us scratching our heads (like those drones in New Jersey), but duck nails were definitely in the top five. Duck nails, also known as flared nails, spoke more to the shape of the manicure, as opposed to the design as the nails were wide at the top and gradually narrowed towered the nail bed; kind of like an upside down triangle. 

The manicure can be used on various lengths and a variety of designs. And the trend took over social with many people debating whether they loved or hated the style. There were even some manicurists that created parodies acting as if they were refusing to do the manicure on clients. No matter where you fall on the spectrum of love it or hate it, because there's no in between, can we agree that maybe duck nails can be left in 2024.

With trends always being a revolving door, one thing that is steady on the mind of manicure lovers is nail health. Hanna exclusively told Women.com that demand is growing for "healthier alternatives like non-toxic polishes, structured manicures that support nail strength and gently soak-off methods." From polish removal, the constant need to buffer and the polishes themselves, "the focus is shifting toward nails that look good and also feel good long term."

Though our natural nails contain keratin, which provides a protective barrier, they are not indestructible. According to Healthline, what we put on our nails absolutely makes its way into our bodies. Though you can't completely escape chemicals when it comes to the nail industry, you can make a conscious effort to do your research and opt for products that prioritize safety and nail health.