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The understated elegance of ‘soap nails’ has ushered in 2025’s most refined take on minimalist beauty.
This pristine manicure, with its ethereal milky gleam, brilliantly captures the zeitgeist of modern luxury – one that prizes subtle sophistication over elaborate artistry.
Picture the luminous sheen of fine pearl soap caught in the morning light; this is the exact radiance celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik achieved for Selena Gomez, sparking a trend that’s rippled through high-fashion circles.
The look masterfully balances simplicity with polish – think perfectly tapered almond shapes bathed in translucent, opalescent tones that recall the most sumptuous of skincare rituals.
Whilst maximalist trends like Aura Nails and Pinterest’s Castlecore still command their devoted following, this elevated interpretation of the clean aesthetic speaks to a cultural shift towards considered minimalism.
What Are Soap Nails?
The gleaming allure of ‘soap nails’ captures the essence of refined simplicity in manicure form. Imagine the pearlescent sheen of luxury soap transformed into a nail finish – that’s the precise magic of this emerging beauty trend.
At its heart, a soap nail manicure features a translucent, milky-white base that catches the light with an almost opalescent quality. The finish mimics the luminous surface of fine-milled soap, creating a look that’s simultaneously pristine and softly dimensional.
The technique typically involves applying a sheer, buildable polish in cool-toned ivory or the palest pink. Each layer adds depth without obscuring the natural nail beneath, culminating in that coveted glossy finish that’s become the signature of this look.
Nail artists often pair this ethereal colour with thoughtfully shaped tips – usually a graceful almond or elegant oval that enhances the manicure’s refined appeal.
Celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik brought this trend into the spotlight using Aprés Nail’s Gel Couleur in ‘Spring Sigh’, though similar effects can be achieved with traditional polishes in translucent, milky tones.
The result?
A manicure that embodies polished minimalism – sophisticated enough for formal occasions yet understated enough for everyday wear.
The look works brilliantly across all nail lengths and shapes, though it particularly shines on well-maintained, medium-length nails where the interplay of light and colour can truly develop.
How To Get The ‘Soap Nails’ Look
As ORLY’s UK Ambassador Lou Stokes explains, “Soap nails are essentially a very well-manicured nail, in creamy milky tones or soft pink shades with semi-sheer, neutral coverage that emulates that clean, fresh and glossy feeling.” This perfectly encapsulates the essence of 2025’s most sophisticated nail trend.
The foundation of this pristine manicure lies in thorough preparation. Much like a flawless skincare routine, the magic starts well before the polish touches your nails.
Essential Prep Steps:
- Begin with a professional cuticle treatment – either apply a dedicated remover or soak in warm water to soften
- Buff each nail with careful precision for that essential smooth canvas
- Shape your nails thoughtfully – while Selena’s almond style creates beautiful elongation, shorter lengths shine equally in classic round or square shapes
Creating The Signature Finish:
- Select your perfect milky shade (think cool-toned ivory or the softest ballet pink)
- Apply your chosen polish in measured, even layers
- Double up on top coat application for that coveted glass-like shine
- Finish with a nourishing cuticle oil to frame your handiwork beautifully
Pro tip: Remember to be patient between layers. Allow each coat to settle completely – rushing this step can compromise that mirror-like finish that defines the soap nail aesthetic.
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