This low-maintenance nail trend will be everywhere this summer

If you've read our guide to the biggest nail trends of 2023, then you'll know that milky nails are having a moment, and we predict that they will be one of the most popular manicures this summer.

That's right, forget neon nails, as everyone is opting for polishes with sheer, white hues. We love this trend as it's super low-maintenance, and is perfect for everyday. 

It seems that we aren't the only ones that are obsessed, as celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Jennifer Aniston and Lizzo have all been spotted with milky-white manis. 

In fact, Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse (one of London's best nail salons) shared that the Townhouse salons have seen a strong demand for sheer pink and milky tones.

So, if you want to try the milky nail trend out for yourself, keep on scrolling for everything you need to know.

What are milky nails?

"The best way to describe milky nails is the middle point between an opaque white and a sheer white which produces a translucent milky look," explains Michelle Class, Sally Hansen UK Nail Expert and Celebrity Manicurist. "It provides the perfect polished neutral to compliment any outfit."

As mentioned above, this nail trend involves milky white and pink polishes that allow your natural nails to shine through. We would recommend choosing a polish with a high-shine finish, or adding a gel-effect top coat for that luxury look. 

However, the trick to achieving a super clean finish is making sure that your nails are preened to perfection, so spend some time shaping your nails and taking care of your cuticles before applying your polish.

The best bit about this manicure is that you won't notice regrowth as much, which means you won't need to visit your nail salon or keep on top of your at-home manicures as regularly.

Milky nail inspiration

We love this 'your nails but better' look created by professional nail artist, Iram Shelton.

Townhouse have mastered the art of mixing milky white and pink polishes.

We'll be showing our nail artist this picture before our next appointment.

We love the idea of mixing milky nails with a classic French tip.

How to get the look

If you want to recreate the look, you're in luck, as Juanita has shared her step-by-step guide below.

1. First, file your nails with a nail file to your desired shape and length.
2. Apply a good quality base coat to create the perfect foundation for your polish.
3. Apply two coats of a sheer, milky-coloured polish, making sure to let each layer dry completely before applying the next. Funny Bunny by OPI is one of my personal favourites. For a subtle pink hue, layer a sheer pink followed by a sheer white - Bubble Bath (also by OPI) layered with Funny Bunny are a stunning combo.
4. Once the polish is completely dry, seal in the colour with a topcoat to add shine and help your manicure last.
5. Next, moisture, moisture, moisture – I love to use the Townhouse Cuticle Oil and the Chanel La Creme Main when I’m on the go to keep my nails looking their best!

We don't know about you, but sometimes we find that applying these nail polish shades can leave us with a slightly streaky look. If you struggle with this, Juanita recommends applying your polish thinly, using even strokes and not applying too much pressure. 

If you're keen to give it a go, we've linked some of our favourite nail polishes below. Milky nails here we come.