10 White Nail Looks to DIY or Bring to the Salon

One of the most classic nail looks of all time is a white manicure. White nails have always been in style and have ranged from opaque whites to milky whites and everything in between through the years. Plus, they work for just about every season and occasion—you can go for a white mani that looks more “dressy” for formal events or create a white nail design that works for every day like a white French tip. And thanks to Pinterest, TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms, there is no shortage of white nail inspiration to choose from. Here, we rounded up the best white nail designs all in one place that you can DIY at home or bring to the salon.
Why try white nails?
There’s such a timeless, gorgeous look to white nails, no matter the time of year or season. And one of the best advantages to white nails is that they go with just about any outfit, thanks to it being a neutral hue.
Plus, white nails are truly so versatile and there are so many different looks you can create. Currently, milky white nails are trending, a creamy, sheer white nail look that we’re loving at the moment. Another white nail mani that’s trending right now is different styles of white French tips, from micro French tips to double-lined white French tips.
And of course, there’s the simple and classic opaque white mani that never goes out of style. The only caveat about doing opaque white nails at home is that using the wrong polish or the wrong technique can make white nails look streaky and blotchy. One polish we’ve found that avoids this is OPI Nail Lacquer in Alpine Snow. And as far as application, slow and steady is your best bet. Start with a thin layer of polish, building up to your desired opaqueness as you go.