Naomi Watts and Uma Thurman’s Prada manicures send searches for ‘merlot nails’ up 786%

One of the biggest beauty talking points from Prada’s Spring/Summer 2027 show may have been on the front row.

Naomi Watts and Uma Thurman both chose short, high-shine manicures in deep wine reds, with Watts in a glossy red-wine tone and Thurman in a slightly darker one.
Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha, says the moment shows where nail trends are heading.

“Milan Fashion Week is always a strong indicator of what trends will come next, and this manicure is a good example. Seeing Naomi Watts and Uma Thurman in such similar shades at Prada shows how much the look is resonating.

Searches for ‘merlot nails’ are up 786% in the last year, so people are clearly ready to move on from classic red to something deeper.”

“Merlot has the impact of a red manicure, but it feels softer and more grown-up. It’s rich rather than loud,” she adds.

Why it’s predicted to be a hit

Merlot is easy to wear, which Annabelle says is the reason it will last beyond fashion week.

“Merlot is one of those shades that works for everyone,” she explains.

“It suits a wide range of skin tones and sits just as well with knitwear as it does with evening wear. There is no need for nail art, because the colour and shine do the work.”

Why the shape matters

Annabelle says the shape was as important as the colour.

“Short, soft squoval nails are one of the most in-trend shapes right now, and they suit dark shades brilliantly. A deep colour can feel heavy on a long nail, but on a shorter nail it looks clean, modern and polished.”

How to get the look at the salon

Merlot is one of the simpler trends to recreate, whether you’re booking in or doing it at home.

When in the salon chair, Annabelle says it’s important to be specific about the shape and shade.

“To get the merlot look, ask for a short length and a soft, square nail with gently rounded corners.”

Merlot means different things to different people, so bring a photo, ideally taken in natural light, so your technician can match the depth of the colour.

Ask for a deep red with a wine or burgundy undertone rather than an orange-based red. Most technicians will have a few options and can help you find the one that flatters your skin tone the most.”

She also recommends asking for a glossy top coat. Shine is what makes merlot look expensive. Gel is a great option here, as it keeps the colour glossy for longer, which matters with dark shades because chips and dull patches are more noticeable.

“If you’re not ready for a full set, a merlot accent or French tip is an easy way to try the look,” says Annabelle.

Keeping it fresh

“Because merlot is so glossy, dullness is the giveaway when it starts to look tired,” Annabelle explains.

“A fresh layer of top coat between appointments can bring the shine back, and daily cuticle oil will keep the skin around your nails looking healthy, which really shows on short nails.”