Copenhagen Fashion Week has cemented itself as a global trendsetting powerhouse. And while Scandinavian style is synonymous with minimalism, the Spring/Summer 2026 runways confirmed a powerful counter-movement: "Scandi-maximalism".
This "more-is-more" energy is the defining nail story of 2026. As seen backstage at fashion weeks globally, nails are no longer an afterthought; they are a primary accessory.
But what is the secret to achieving these complex, high-impact runway looks? Press-on nails.
Backstage, nail artists rely on pre-prepared press-on sets to execute intricate, "showstopping" designs and allow for rapid changes between looks. A 'schics' manicure gives you that same "backstage" power—transforming your nails into runway-ready art.
Here are the top 5 maximalist trends from the S/S 2026 runways and forecasts, and how to get the CPHFW look.
1. CPHFW Trend: 'It-Girl Power Stripes'
As Seen At: Marimekko
The Marimekko SS26 "Art of Pattern" show was a vibrant celebration of the brand's archives, with one pattern stealing the spotlight: "stripes – thick, thin, and diagonal". The classic 'Piccolo' (thin vertical stripe) and "candy-hued" 'Basso' stripes were everywhere.
On the Nails: This translates directly to the "It-Girl Power Stripes" trend. Forget subtle lines; think "bold lines in 'candy brights'" or "moody jewel tones". A 'schics' press-on set provides the crisp, perfect lines that are notoriously difficult to hand-paint.
2. CPHFW Trend: 'Moody Luxe Tones'
As Seen At: Baum und Pferdgarten
The Baum und Pferdgarten SS26 show was a chic "equestrian" affair, drawing inspiration from derby textures like leather and silk. A key look? A sporty striped track jacket rendered in a sophisticated "muted purple".
On the Nails: This look captures the 2026 'Moody Luxe Tones' trend. We are moving into rich, atmospheric shades: "deep chocolate, inky blues, mossy greens". It also includes WGSN's 2026 Colour of the Year, 'Transformative Teal' (a deep, fluid blue-green). A high-gloss 'schics' set in a single, "inky blue" or "muted purple" is the ultimate CPHFW-approved accessory.
3. Future Trend: 'Futuristic Abstracts' & 3D Sculpture
The Forecast: 2026 nail art is taking on an "architectural edge". This is about "sculptural 3D elements, liquid-metal finishes, and asymmetrical patterns". At New York Fashion Week, this was seen as "pierced details" and tiny hinges at Grace Ling and "glass-blown" bubbles at Head of State.
On the Nails: This is where press-ons are truly essential. These "wearable micro-sculptures" —like "3D flowers," "gemstone clusters," and "dripping chrome" effects —are nearly impossible to achieve in a standard salon visit but come fully formed in a high-design press-on set.
4. Future Trend: 'Starry Chic' & 'Polka Dot Pop'
The Forecast: This trend blends Y2K nostalgia with a couture sensibility. Stars are "reborn as bold, graphic motifs" in "metallic or contrasting tones". Polka dots are similarly "playful," layered, and artistic.41 This playful, colorful spirit perfectly matches the design DNA of CPHFW staples like Marimekko and Baum und Pferdgarten.
5. Future Trend: 'Cat-Eye' Chrome
The Forecast: Chrome is not gone; it has evolved. The new iteration is "magnetic chrome swirls" and "smoky iridescent 'cat-eye' panels". It’s less "mirror" and more "intergalactic glam" , fitting perfectly with the "futuristic" mood of 2026.
Fashion is about expression, from minimalist balance to maximalist fantasy. 'schics' is your toolkit for both.
