Naked Nails: The Stripped-Down Manicure Everyone’s Wearing Right Now
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6 months ago
Minimalists, this one's for you
Clean girl season isn’t quite over yet, it seems. It’s flooding back into the salons this summer, with the arrival of naked nails marking yet another pivot from vibrant colours to muted minimalism. Here’s how to get the look.
What Are Naked Nails?
Naked nails is a minimal manicure comprised of barely-there colour – or no colour at all – that matches or mildly enhances the colour of the natural nail beneath.
Having initially gained traction thanks to the internet’s clean girl aesthetic obsession and, later, the quiet luxury movement, this manicure has been a consistently popular look in salons. And, with almost 100 million views on videos tagged #minimalnails on TikTok, we don’t see it fading into obscurity any time soon.
@sophiappauline i know it’s just nude but is it or is it not the perfect nude #nailtiktok #minimalnails #opinails ♬ Cognac Queen – Megan Thee Stallion
‘The naked trend is super popular right now across makeup, hair and nails,’ confirms Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse. ‘The minimal look started really gaining momentum in early 2023 and has steadily increased in popularity, with the growing focus on natural beauty and the “clean girl” trend popularised by celebs and beauty influencers like Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Namvo and Sofia Richie. Naked nails are chic, stylish and super wearable for all nail lengths.’
How To Recreate The Look At Home
Prep Your Nails
The minimal approach to this manicure makes it pretty easy to execute at home – although the best way to go about the trend is by making sure the nail itself is in a healthy state. ‘It all starts with a flawless manicure,’ says Juanita. ‘The preparation of the nail – including filing, buffing and cuticle work – plays a crucial role in achieving a polished and professional finish. These steps ensure the perfect canvas for a minimalist manicure to shine.’
Choose Your Shade
Softer shades – especially those close to your natural colour – are key to mastering the look. ‘To achieve the perfect naked look, select a soft shade to enhance the natural colour of your nails,’ confirms Juanita. ‘Neutral tones of pink, milky white or nude are perfect for creating that healthy glow.’
@dannaed_ Tried gel X for the first time and I love it! Also this color is so cute. Mention my DC: “dannaed” for 15% off at @pinkpollynailbar #cleangirl #nailscheck #nails #neutralnails ♬ super freaky girl x luxurious – xxtristanxo
Take It Further
If you want something a little extra, then you can elevate your naked nails with other similar-themed nail trends. Juanita recommends trying the glazed doughnut or micro French manicure as an add-on.
‘The glazed donut was popularized by Hailey Bieber, and is created with a milky white base colour and a white chrome powder on top, creating a gorgeous mirror shine effect. It’s simple, but super chic,’ explains Juanita. ‘The micro French is another firm favourite at Townhouse. This look is super flattering for a shorter natural nail and customisable to your style; think classic white through to colour pops and chic black.’
Manicure Inspiration
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Featured image: Townhouse
