We’ve all been there, sitting in the chair at the nail salon, desperately trying to decide what your next manicure should be – unable to pick your fave from all of the ideas you’ve got. With the endless cycle of new nail trends, from nightshade to cutesy flowers, if only there was a way to try all of them at once… Calling all maximalists, mismatched manicures might be the one for you.

Doing what it says on the tin, mismatched manicures are all about self-expression and ripping up the rulebook. Instead of matching, this nail trend goes one step further than the gentle gradient of ombre nails, turning each nail into its own singular work of art. “It’s playful, bold, and the perfect way to get creative with different colours, textures, and designs – all in one set,” explains Meg Slade from Shoreditch Nails.

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An early adopter, Ayo Edebiri took her mismatched manicure out for a spin while attending the 2025 Disney Upfront in New York. A feast of different styles, colours, and fun 3D charms – her manicure featured hot pinks and forest greens, swirls, gems, and crystals. The opportunities are endless, so don’t hold back and push it to the extreme.

If you’re up for trying the mismatched manicure yourself, Meg shares everything you need to know before attending your nail appointment. First, figure out what styles you want to try out, even if it’s more styles than nails – Shoreditch Nails has its own Pinterest with inspiration pictures or you can bring your own. The more, the merrier. “Your nail artist will then help refine your ideas and create a look you love,” she says.

While mismatched nails are all about embracing the chaos, for those who prefer more minimal manis, try dipping your toe in first. “Start with a cohesive colour palette,” advises Meg. “If going for a full mismatch feels like a leap, try adding mismatched designs on just a few nails.”