Raye
As next-to-nude manicures continue to dominate this summer, you’ll struggle to find a look that better epitomises, and modernises, the trend than the 'almond milk nail' manicure. Raye became the latest adopter of the stylish nail look, debuting a classic set of milky hues while performing on NBC’s Today show Citi Concert Series at Rockefeller Plaza in New York yesterday. The sophisticate manicure was arguably her most flattering style yet, not to mention the perfect transition nail for the final weeks of summer.
'Almond milk nails' are a semi-sheer, milky nude manicure inspired by the creamy, cloudy colour of almond milk, as the name suggests. This glossy trend sits perfectly between the classic, crisp white manicure (which, by today's standards, can feel stark and difficult to maintain) and a warm, flattering nude.
Unlike the coveted 'rosewater nails' trend, this shade leans into the complementary world of skin-like nude tones: delicate, earthy, and sheer, rather than illuminating, pink, and romantic. As a result, the manicure looks naturally polished, healthy, and glossy without appearing overly 'done.'
If you're wondering how the milky manicure became so popular, you need only look at this year's star-studded summer events. From Lily James to Priyanka Chopra, the cloudy 'almond milk manicure' was everywhere at Wimbledon last month, and the data suggests it's unlikely to disappear from our mood boards any time soon.
'Searches for "milky glass nails" have increased by more than 200% over the last 12 months,' says Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha. 'Focusing on translucent, light-reflecting finishes, this trend creates a clean, polished look while maintaining a natural feel.'
She continues to explain that consumers have been 'increasingly opting for beauty treatments that enhance natural features rather than mask them; there's no denying that nails have been, and continue to, follow in the same direction.'
Prefer the fresh appearance of a classic pink manicure? Give Victoria Beckham's signature 'pink nails' or Anne Hathaway's 'coconut water manicure' a try. They effortlessly harmonise with the barely-there aesthetic defining 2026's leading manicure trends: soapy hues, meticulous cuticle work, and soft, natural shapes.
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