Naked Manicures Are the Stripped-Down Trend Celebs Can’t Stop Wearing

Didn’t you hear? Naked is in. Yes, you read that right. The 2025 Oscars were filled with celebrities opting for a totally sheer ensemble with stars like Julia Fox and Olivia Wilde finding ways to make the bare approach their own. And now, celebs are stripping down another item on their body: their nails. Meet the naked manicure, a new trending style that looks just as you might expect.

What Is a Naked Manicure?

Just like the ensembles celebrities have been wearing on the red carpet, naked nails aren’t completely naked. There’s still some level of polish going on. The minimalistic design is categorized by having a short length, sheer polish, and glossy top coat. It’s simple and classic—and you’re about to see it everywhere. 

“This manicure is trending because of how effortlessly chic and clean it is,” explains Erica De Los Santos, nail artist and founder of Nail’d It Beauty Lounge. “It aligns perfectly with the soap nail trend, as both focus on a fresh, natural, and well-groomed aesthetic. These styles go hand in hand, emphasizing healthy nails with a subtle, polished look that feels both timeless and modern.”

In short, these are essentially a clear nail that have a natural and healthy-looking appearance. “It’s all about enhancing the natural nail rather than covering it with a color or intricate designs,” Santos adds. How naked you get is also up to you. “If you want to spice it up a little more, you may opt for a sheer or neutral-toned polish, subtle pinks, beiges, and soft whites that mimic the natural nail bed while providing a polished and well-groomed look,” she suggests.

How to Get the Look

The most crucial part is the prep. “You need a healthy base to achieve the naked look,” shares nail artist Priscilla Nguyen. She also recommends a good scrub and oil to get the skin soft and plump. 

For your nails, all you need is a few simple steps. “Gently push back the cuticles with an orange wood stick, shape your nails to your preferred length and gently buff the surface to smooth out any ridges,” Santos says. “Clean the nail bed by using an alcohol pad to remove any dust, oil, or residue from the nail bed. This helps the polish adhere better and ensures a flawless finish.”

Next, pick the sheer base coat you want to use or simply opt for a glossy or satin topcoat. The finish you want is up to you, with a matte or satin effect helping to create a more understated look.

The Best Polishes to Use

“My all-time favorite polish is Dior’s Vernis Base Polish,” shares Santos. “It does a great job of covering any unevenness in the nail bed while maintaining a natural look.” She also recommends the Zoya Nude Perfector for achieving a flawless nude finish.

Nguyen also recommends the Aprés Nail shade Breathless.