People Are 100% More Likely to Think You Look Demure and Polished If You Have a “Vanilla French” Manicure

Is there anything more elegant than a French tip manicure? This nail trend is so popular right now, and there's no denying how polished it looks. That being said, as someone who loves a more muted manicure, I've been keen to find a softer alternative to a bright white French tip. Luckily for me, "vanilla French" nails are a thing, and they are even chicer than they sound...
What Is a Vanilla French Manicure?
Originally coined by celebrity nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt, a vanilla French mani is essentially a softer, creamier take on your typical French tip. Instead of opting for a classic white nail polish, this trend involves using more subtle, milky hues to give a gorgeous "vanilla" effect. It often features a slightly sheer finish too, which makes it look even more sophisticated in my opinion.
Although this trend originally came about in early 2023, according to Google Trends, searches are on the rise, and I can totally see why. This cosy, creamy hue is perfect for transitioning into the autumn months, so I have no doubt that it will be popular as we move into September and beyond.
If you're thinking about giving it a go, keep on scrolling for all the inspo you need...
Vanilla French Manicure Inspiration
This soft, blended vanilla French tip looks so understated and chic.
Jennifer Lopez recently showed off her vanilla French mani.
For a creamy finish, go over your French tip with a sheer, milky shade.
Hailey Bieber is a fan of this trend.
Vanilla latte French tips, anyone?
Another gorgeous ombré design.
A creamy white nail polish and a shiny top coat will give the perfect "vanilla" finish.
Products You Need for a Vanilla French Manicure
This milky, off-white shade would make the most beautiful, soft French tip.
If you want something slightly darker, I love this Gucci option.
Use a thin nail art brush to get that French tip effect.

Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.
As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.
-
I'm an Expert in Nail Trends—These Are the 6 Nail Colors Everyone Will Be Wearing This Spring
Fresh mani inspo.
By Jazzria Harris
-
I'm Calling It: This Chic OPI Shade Will Be the Biggest Nail Polish Color of the Season
Neutral nail lovers, rejoice!
By Grace Lindsay
-
I Know Expensive-Looking Nails When I See Them, and I'm Swooning Over This "Candy Floss" Mani
I couldn't have screenshotted it any faster.
By Jamie Schneider
-
Sydney Sweeney Just Cosigned Chocolate Croc Nails (Plus a Matching Corset) for Spring
I'm officially copying it all season.
By Jamie Schneider
-
I'm Bored of Demure Manicures, so I Tried the Ornate Spring Nail Trend That's All Over Pinterest
I can't get enough.
By Alyssa Brascia
-
The "Baby French" Is Officially Spring's Most Elegant Nail Trend—Hailey Bieber Agrees
Go ahead and book that first spring nail appointment.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
I Thought Easter Nails Were Tacky Until I Saw These 9 Elevated, Effortlessly Chic Designs
You’ll want to bring these pics to your next nail appointment.
By Alyssa Brascia
-
Selena Gomez's Date-Night Nail Polish of Choice? This Nostalgic $13 Shade of Cherry
I'm buying a fresh bottle.
By Kaitlyn McLintock