11 Gray Nail Designs For Your Next Manicure

Minimalist beauty is everywhere right now, from what you’re seeing on TikTok to the makeup all over the red carpet to the nail-polish colors you find yourself reaching for at the salon. When it comes to the latter, one of the biggest colors that’s been trending of late? Gray.

The reason makes perfect sense. “Gray nails are making a mark because they’re a contemporary color but also cozy, soothing, and serene,” manicurist Michelle Saunders tells PS, adding that the many iterations of the shade encompass “the new nude,” making it a more neutral hue. “Gray signifies balance and serenity, and I think sometimes we forget how it feels to be still and neutral. Manicures are part of self-care and the perfect time to find a bit of peace; by choosing the ‘gray space’ theme, we can give ourselves a gentle reminder of this. Not only will this reflect on your nails but also in your overall appearance.”

Plus, when it comes to wearing gray nail designs and colors, you’ve got options: whether it’s a chalky, off-white shade or dark gray nails, you are limited only by your own creativity. There’s even a colorful side to the gray trend (hello, blue-gray tones). That versatility makes it the perfect complement to any outfit or accessory. This color can be cool and calming, or it can be the perfect base for a more done-up and exciting manicure with a bit of gray nail art added throughout the manicure. Gray nail art designs can be subtle or make a fashion-forward statement, making them as unique as any other manicure on the market.

The next time you’re at the salon — or just in desperate need of some R&R and want to DIY your own nail art — use the following photos as a source of inspiration. Keep scrolling for our favorite gray nail ideas out there that will give you instant peace of mind.

Experts Featured in This Article

Michelle Saunders is a celebrity manicurist and the owner of Saunders and James salons.