Ice Cream Nails

The Dreamy Summer Trend Everyone's Craving

Craving something sweet — but make it chic? Ice Cream Nails are the latest soft-glam manicure moment that’s melting hearts everywhere. Creamy, translucent, and impossibly fresh, this look is your go-to for a subtle yet luxurious summer mani.

What Are Ice Cream Nails?

Ice Cream Nails are a minimalist nail trend featuring a sheer nude or pinkish base that fades softly into milky white tips. The result? A creamy, glazed effect that resembles a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a hot day.

With no harsh lines or loud colors, this look is all about soft transitions, elegance, and that clean-girl aesthetic — think glowy, hydrated skin and effortlessly polished nails. Nail artist Harriet Westmoreland (whose celeb clients include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Zendaya) popularized the trend for 2025.

It’s basically the modern update of the French manicure — just... dreamier.

STEP 1: Prep Your Nails - Start with clean, filed nails in your preferred shape (almond or oval works best). Push back cuticles and buff the surface.

STEP 2: Apply the Milky Tip First - Use a milky white polish to paint the tip of each nail — just like a soft, blurred French tip. You can use a sponge, detail brush, or even a blooming gel for a feathered effect.

STEP 3: Layer the Sheer Base - Once your tips are dry, apply a sheer nude or blush-toned polish over the entire nail, including the tips. This tones down the white and blends everything into a seamless gradient.

STEP 4: Blend with a second sheer coat (Optional) - For extra softness, add a second coat of the sheer polish to melt the look even further.

STEP 5: Finish with top coat - Seal everything in with a high-gloss top coat for that ice-cream-drip shine.

Frequently asked questions about Ice Cream Nails

Are Ice Cream Nails just a soft French manicure?

Similar, but softer! Unlike traditional French tips with defined white lines, Ice Cream Nails blend the white into the base for a blurred, milky finish.

Do Ice Cream Nails work on short nails?

Yes! While they look extra elegant on longer almond shapes, this look is also stunning on short, rounded nails — making your fingers appear clean and polished.

What colors can I use besides nude and white?

You can experiment with pale pinks, lilacs, or even pastel yellows as a base — but keep the transition soft and subtle to stay true to the “ice cream” feel.

Is this trend seasonal or wearable year-round?

Although perfect for summer, Ice Cream Nails are elegant and neutral enough to wear all year — especially for fans of minimalist beauty.