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    1. Beauty

    Now is the time to embrace dopamine-delivering buttermilk nails—these chic looks prove it

    The shade comes Selena Gomez approved

    Jazzria Harris's avatar
    By Jazzria Harris
    Published 14 May 2024 In Buying Guides

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    A guest at Copenhagen fashion week wearing buttermilk yellow
    (Image credit: Getty Images)
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    Whether you’re a neutral nail fan or like to follow the nail trends, the latest spring mani shade is going to be right up both your streets. Sitting between a warm off-white and creamy yellow tone, buttermilk is the must have colour to be wearing on your nails right now. And it’s not only super wearable but it’s also a really pretty way to tap into the pastel mani trend that inevitably takes hold at this time of year.

    First spotted on Selena Gomez’ chic almond nails earlier this year, the cosy yellow tone has become an unexpected hit with some of the biggest nail artists all creating looks in the delicious hue. The great thing about this nail colour, is that while the joy inducing tone most definitely feels timely in the run up to summer, there’s also something understated about it too. Unlike last season’s love for lavender nails and statement colour pop styles, the buttermilk mani offers a more subtle take on spring nails as you can easily dial up or down the level of yellowy goodness depending on your taste.  

    A post shared by 𝙏𝙤𝙢 𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙠 Nails (@tombachik)

    A photo posted by on

    The buttermilk mani also looks great on all nail lengths, from ultra-long almonds like Selena’s to short and square styles. I'm so sold on this trend, I've even tested it out for myself—and it's safe to say I'm obsessed. The soft, milky-yellow shade is like a dopamine hit in a manicure.

    Buttermilk manicure listing

    (Image credit: Jazzria Harris)

    If you're into it as much as I am, I've pulled together the best buttermilk mani nail inspo, from simple, colour-block manis to fun nail art designs. Plus, I’ve also found the best buttermilk nail polishes and gel polishes, so you can easily embrace the buttery goodness from home. Keep scrolling to see for yourself… 

    Buttermilk nail inspiration

    A post shared by Alison • nailsbyalsn (@nailsbyalsn)

    A photo posted by on

    Sometimes simplicity wins out, and these almond-shaped butter nails are proof as to why. If the yellow is a little too bright for your taste, simply opt for a lighter, more cream-based tone for less butter, more buttermilk.

    A post shared by Charlotte Cliff (@charsgelnails_)

    A photo posted by on

    For a twist on the classic french tip, try this buttermilk yellow set complete with a co-ordinating daisy on the accent nail. 

    A post shared by Sarah Haidar (@heluviee)

    A photo posted by on

    One for the glazed mani obsessed girlies. Take buttermilk nails to the next level by opting for a chic french tip and topping with a shimmery chrome top coat. 

    A post shared by Eman • Nail Artist | Content Creator (@thecolornook)

    A photo posted by on

    Florals for spring? They really are groundbreaking when you pair them with a contrasting buttermilk base colour.

    A post shared by Manucure Russe | Ongles naturels Marignane (13)📍 (@latelier_de_rosy)

    A photo posted by on

    Make your buttermilk nails extra boujee by adding some shimmery gold details. 

    A post shared by @thedollzzhouse

    A photo posted by on

    Tap into the astrological trend with these pretty star-printed buttermilk nails. 

    Shop buttermilk nail polishes

    Nailberry L'oxygene in Folie Douce

    Nailberry Nail Lacquer in Folie Douce
    £16.50 AT SPACE NK

    Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Ovni

    Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Ovni
    £29 AT JOHN LEWIS

    H&M Nail polish in Lemon Parfait

    H&M Nail polish in Lemon Parfait
    £3 (WAS £3.99) AT H&M

    OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish in Blinded by the Ring Light

    OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish in Blinded by the Ring Light
    £8.75 (WAS £14.50) AT OPI

    Essie Love By Essie in On The Brighter Side

    The Gel Bottle in Banana Split
    £9.99 AT SUPERDRUG

    Mylee Custard Gel Polish

    Mylee Custard Gel Polish
    £8.99 AT MYLEE

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Jazzria Harris
    Jazzria Harris
    Freelance Fashion & Beauty Writer

    Jazzria Harris is a freelance fashion and beauty journalist with over 8 years experience working in the industry. At just 4ft 11, she’s an expert in petite dressing and previously wrote the column Jazz’s Short Stories giving tips and advice on dressing for petite proportions. Her wardrobe staples are a great black blazer, a hardworking slip skirt and of course a great pair of heels (for the extra inches, of course). Jazz has written for publications including ELLE UK, heat magazine, Eliza, Women & Home and more.

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