Oat, Almond, or Strawberry? The Top Milky Nail Polish Colors for a Stylish Summer Manicure.

      Thus far, 2025 has showcased a variety of nail trends. It's surprising to think we’re only at the year’s midpoint, considering how syrup manicures, butter-yellow tips, spicy coral polish, and more have circulated online and adorned the fingers of many. However, the standout trend of the year is definitely "milk" nails. This milky manicure has gained popularity among editors, content creators, and celebrities, solidifying its status as the hallmark nail trend of 2025.

      What Are "Milk" Nails?

      According to Lucy Tucker, a celebrity nail artist based in London, "Milk nails feature a soft, semi-sheer white finish reminiscent of watered-down milk. They occupy a space between sheer nude and fully opaque white, providing a clean, natural, and ethereal look." This "glossy" and "cloudy" manicure is ideal for those who prefer a minimalist style. "They’re extremely versatile," Tucker remarks. "They are understated enough for minimalists while still appearing polished and luxurious. They also serve as a great base for nail art, chrome overlays, or French tips."

      Recently, various types of milk nails have become mainstream, with Instagram and TikTok posts categorizing them into "oat milk," "almond milk," and even "strawberry milk" manicures. Read on to discover the differences among these fashionable subcategories, and find some stylish milky nail polishes to try.

      Why Are Milk Nails So Popular?

      Tucker explains the viral nature of milk nails stems from several factors. First, they are low maintenance, as they "grow out elegantly and are suitable for all nail lengths and skin tones." Secondly, they are appropriate for year-round wear—"refreshing for spring and summer, yet cozy for autumn and winter." Thirdly, they align with the "minimal, your-nails-but-better" beauty trend that is prevalent on TikTok and Instagram. Lastly, the impact of celebrities contributes to their popularity, with figures like Hailey Bieber, Zendaya, and Sofia Richie Grainge showcasing milk nails.

      Celebrity and editorial manicurist Marisa Carmichael agrees, noting that the trend makes sense amidst the more extravagant nail styles seen in recent years. "I think they align with the 'clean girl' aesthetic," she states. "They appear composed, yet understated. After the surge of elaborate nail art over the past few years, this serves as a refreshing change."

      Oat Milk Nails

      Similar to many other nail trends, "oat milk" is simply a playful and trendy name for an established look. This subcategory seeks to mimic the appearance of many people's preferred type of milk, featuring a glossy, off-white hue. The key is to keep a hint of transparency for that creamy, milk-like effect. Tucker notes that oat milk nails "tend to be slightly cooler or more opaque, often with a hint of beige or ivory" compared to other milky nail variations.

      Shop the Trend

      Essie

      Essie Marshmallow Nail Polish

      Carmichael suggests this classic, semi-sheer Essie shade.

      Manucurist

      Milky White Nail Polish

      This shade, called Milky White, is ideal for creating DIY oat milk nails.

      Londontown

      Double Scoop Nail Color

      Be sure not to overlook Londontown's Double Scoop, which is milky and glossy perfection.

      Almond Milk Nails

      Scrolling through social media, you're likely to come across discussions of "almond milk" nails as well. "The distinction [between almond milk and oat milk] is primarily aesthetic and based on whimsical naming rather than a specific application method," Tucker explains. This is why many similar nail styles are referred to interchangeably. However, there is a minor difference: oat milk nails lean towards a pure white color, whereas almond milk nails exhibit more beige and nude tones. "Almond milk nails typically have a slightly warmer, beige undertone that complements neutral skin tones," she adds.

      Shop the Trend

      ORLY

      Almond Milk Nail Color

      This shade is literally named Almond Milk. Enough said.

      LONDONTOWN

      Murray Me Nail Polish

      This light, beige-nude color is incredibly flattering.

      STATIC NAILS

      Barely There Liquid Glass Lacquer

      For a somewhat rosier version of "almond milk" nails, consider this shade from Static Nails.

      Strawberry Milk Nails

      Finally, "strawberry milk" nails represent the newest iteration of the trend. Rather than focusing on whites, beiges, or neutrals, "strawberry milk" nails embody a delicate pink shade. Picture the color of a strawberry milkshake or melted strawberry soft serve. The goal is to achieve a soft, subtle hue with a slightly transparent finish.

      Shop the Trend

      CHANEL

      Le Vernis Nail Color in Ballerina

      Chanel's Ballerina Nail Color is a classic choice, being soft, sheer, and incredibly appealing