26 Gradient Nail Ideas, From Auras to Skittles

We’re living in the golden age of nail art, which means there’s no reason to limit yourself to a single shade when it comes time for your next mani. And one of the best ways to play with color is through a gradient mani.

In simplest terms, a “gradient” is a blend of two or more colors that mix seamlessly to create a smooth transition. And when it comes to your nails, there are endless ways to experiment. You can create a gradient on a single nail by diffusing multiple different polish shades, or across your entire hand by mixing and matching similar tones within the same color family. Need proof? Scroll on for 26 examples to kick-start your inspiration.