The 'New Nails' TikTok trend emerged as a dual-purpose social media phenomenon. While it ostensibly features creators showcasing their latest manicure, it is most famously used as a 'soft launch' tactic to subtly introduce a new partner, pet, or expensive purchase in the background of the frame. The trend relies on the relatable behavior of wanting to show off beauty results while simultaneously dropping a major life update or 'flex' without being too obvious. It has become a staple of 'POV' content, often used to mock the performative nature of social media or to share inside jokes with followers about one's personal life under the guise of a simple fashion post.