Royal Beauty

Kate Middleton’s nail trends and Royal manicure styles taking over this summer

From coral hues to pearlescent finishes, these elegant manicure colors and designs are inspired by the Princess of Wales

By: Elisa García Faya, Carolina Urquiola

AUGUST 6, 2025 7:25 PM EDTAUG 6, 2025, 7:25 PM EDT

The royals have long been admired for their impeccable fashion and hairstyles, but now, it’s their manicures that are sparking global inspiration. This Summer 2025, nail trends are all about natural elegance, sophisticated shades, and subtle artistry, many of which are already favored by European royals like Kate Middleton, Queen Letizia of Spain, and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

Carolina de Mónaco, 2018 — Caroline of Mónaco, 2018

Carolina de Mónaco, 2015 — Caroline of Mónaco, 2015

Timeless Shades

For many royals, classic colors are a year-round staple. Shades like rich red, deep burgundy, and glossy black transcend seasons and occasions, making them versatile and timeless. Judith Garcia, founder of Mani Cure, one of Europe’s most exclusive nail salons, explains, “Once a woman finds a shade that matches her style and personality, she wears it no matter the season.”

Princess Amalia of The Netherlands, 2023

Burgundy Elegance

One of the most beloved royal shades is burgundy, a timeless hue that pairs beautifully with floral prints and vibrant summer wardrobes. Although often associated with fall and winter, brides and fashionistas alike are embracing burgundy for even warm-weather events, thanks to its richness and elegance.

Vibrant Summer Hues

Vibrant shades are also making a comeback this summer. From pastels to neons, these bold tones add a fun twist to any summer look. Princess Charlotte Casiraghi was spotted wearing bright hues in 2023, and the trend is back stronger than ever. According to Judith, “Bright colors enhance a summer tan and bring a youthful glow to the hands.”

Charlotte Casiraghi 2023 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.

Minimalist Designs

This summer, minimalism is key. Think soft neutrals with delicate details. Judith notes that even the most classic women are open to subtle creativity, like minimalist designs with clean lines or muted accents. Sofya Kashanova, co-owner of Siberia Salon, adds: “Thin lines and barely-there accents offer elegance without overwhelming the look.”

Queen Margrethe of Denmark, 2025 — Princess Josephine of Denmark 2025

Princess Isabella of Denmark, 2023 — Princess Josephine of Denmark 2025

For those who prefer bold, artistic nails, here are a few designs gaining popularity this season:

Blush Nails: Soft ombré gradients in pinks, oranges, and lilacs over nude bases.
Chameleon Effect: Iridescent colors that shift with the light for a magical touch.
Pressed Flowers: Real dried flowers embedded in polish for a natural, romantic finish.
Sliders: Quick decorative elements like ombré French tips, metallic lines, or palm leaf decals, perfect for a summer getaway.

Coral: Royal Summer Staple

For Queen Margrethe of Denmark, coral is a seasonal go-to. Whether for a simple manicure or a sun-kissed statement, coral’s warm undertones always deliver. Judith says, “Coral flatters every skin tone, especially with a summer tan.” Sofya adds that this year, coral gets an upgrade with a pearlescent glow, in line with the current “glass skin” and luminous beauty trends.

The Right Shade of Red

Deep reds and classic deep red remain royal favorites year-round. Queen Sofia of Sweden has been spotted wearing dark burgundy since 2022, proving its timeless charm. Meanwhile, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands often opts for red with a touch of orange, a fresh and summery twist that retains its royal edge while enhancing bronzed skin.

Yes to white, but choose wisely

Camille Gottlieb, daughter of Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, typically embraces classic reds but isn’t afraid to explore trendier looks. Recently, she’s been seen with chic white nails, a shade that requires skill and precision to look flawless. As Sofya explains, “White polish is difficult to apply perfectly. For a clean result, opt for a light white base or a one-coat formula that offers smooth, even coverage.”

The Clean Nail Trend

Minimal, clean nails are taking over, and royals are leading the way. Princess Charlene of Monaco, Queen Letizia, and Kate Middleton often choose bare or milky nails for their understated elegance.

To achieve the royal clean look, Sofya recommends:

Daily hydration with cuticle oil
Regular filing to maintain the shape
Gentle buffing for a natural shine

“Natural nails tend to be more fragile, so minimal care is essential,” she advises. Royals often opt for short lengths in soft square or rounded shapes to maintain a polished yet functional aesthetic.

Why royals love the clean look

Function meets elegance. Queen Letizia, for example, is known for using her hands expressively when speaking. A bright nail color could distract from her message, making clean, neutral nails a smart and stylish choice.

Milky Nails: The modern classic

When looking for something more polished than bare nails but still natural, milky nails are the go-to option. Judith says it’s a trend that’s here to stay, while Sofya believes it’s already a classic: “Milky nails are elegant, versatile, and perfect for all seasons, even fall and winter.”

Whether it’s Kate Middleton’s bare elegance, Queen Máxima’s vibrant red tones, or a fresh milky manicure, one thing is sure: royal manicures are setting the tone for Summer 2025. Sophisticated, stylish, and always well-maintained, the key is to find the shade and shape that reflect your own royal energy.

Which royal-inspired manicure will you try next?