
Initially, it was Sabrina Carpenter, and now Dua Lipa: Celebrities Are Embracing This "Retro" Nail Trend.
I recently covered Sabrina Carpenter's manicure in her new music video "Manchild." The singer-songwriter and her nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt, have revived a mid-2000s print, transforming it into one of the trendiest summer nail designs for 2025. Yes, I’m talking about polka dots. If you’re anything like me, you haven’t sported polka dots since middle school, but they’re making a comeback, as evidenced by another rising internet star, Dua Lipa. Recently, she has been showing off a classic black-and-white polka-dot manicure all over her Instagram. Now, I find myself wanting to schedule a manicure appointment to embrace this "old-fashioned" nail design.
Take a look at Dua Lipa's take on the polka-dot manicure. She chose a timeless black-and-white style, which features French tips. It’s incredibly chic.
Here’s a closer look. Most of her nails showcase a black French tip with white polka dots on top, while her ring finger displays a slightly different pattern. I genuinely didn’t expect this nail trend to resurface (even beauty editors are taken by surprise sometimes!), but having seen it, I find it very stylish.
If you want to try the Polka-Dot Nail Trend:
**Essie Nail Polish in Licorice**
For a classic black-and-white polka-dot look like Dua Lipa’s, I suggest using Essie’s Nail Polish in Licorice. It’s a deep inky black.
**Essie Nail Polish in Blanc**
For the polka dots, I recommend Essie’s Nail Polish in Blanc, which is a bright white.
**Sally Hansen Nail Salon Pro Tool Kit**
To recreate this design at home, a dotting tool is essential, like the one included in this kit.
**Olive & June Press-Ons Polka Dot Tights**
Alternatively, you can bypass the DIY nail art and opt for press-ons, which are super easy.
**Glamnetic French Pearl Press-On Nails**
I’m also considering adding another set of polka-dot press-ons to my cart.
These press-ons may not feature traditional polka dots, but I believe the inlaid gems count. They would make an elegant manicure for a bridal or engagement party.









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Initially, it was Sabrina Carpenter, and now Dua Lipa: Celebrities Are Embracing This "Retro" Nail Trend.
That's it—I'm scheduling a manicure.