Milk nails: how to replicate the "quiet luxury" manicure style

Against the backdrop of bright neon coatings, multicoloured French ends and "jelly" Korean designs, a calm and refined trend - milk nails - has gained popularity this season.

It has become the embodiment of the aesthetics of "quiet luxury" on the nails, gaining the attention of those who prefer minimalism and restrained elegance, Elle writes.

What are "milk nails?"

According to Ami Streets, nail stylist at Kure Bazaar brand, they are a softer and more subtle version of the classic white manicure:

"A milk style manicure is created using a translucent white or light nude polish that gives your nails a delicate, creamy finish."

In fact, it's a translucent coating with a subtle milky finish that creates the effect of well-groomed, shiny nails without being too flashy.

Why has it become so popular?

Experts attribute the popularity of milk nails to the growing interest in "invisible luxury" and the trend for natural beauty.

"This manicure is suitable for any length of nails, makes hands well-groomed, while not dragging attention and suits any image. It's a simple yet sophisticated style," explains Streets.

Milk manicures also bring out skin tones and work well with both business and evening outfits.

Milk manicure variations

Although the classic option remains homogeneous translucent white, the master manicurist notes the appearance of different variations:

• milk base with chrome glitter or pearl shimmer - the perfect way to update the French manicure;

• decor in the form of 3D accents for a more expressive look;

• adding "aura" - an effect of depth with a smooth gradient and glow from the centre of the nail.

This design is easily adaptable to individual style and can be both minimalistic and more creative.

How to do milk nails at home?

Firstly, choose your nail shape - almond, square or oval- and your finish: regular polish, gel polish or BIAB.

If you're doing your own manicure, Ami Streets recommends looking at tried-and-tested shades:

"Essie Marshmallow or OPI Funny Bunny are perfect lacquers with a glossy finish. Funny Bunny is a particular favourite with celebrities."

If you want to create your own shade, use a drop of white lacquer added to a nude or pinkish translucent lacquer to create the perfect milk base, adjusting the density of coverage by the number of coats.

The main secret of milk nails is the perfect shine. It makes the coating fresh and visually expensive. Don't forget to finish your manicure with a glossy top to achieve this effect.