It was only a matter of time before TikTok's Vanilla Girl Aesthetic made its way into the nail space – where else would the trend for chic neutral-toned, glossy minimalism make more sense? Vanilla French Nails are the brainchild of celebrity nail artist Zola Ganzorigt and she's already got it adorning the mitts of our fave A-listers, including Adele, Kylie Jenner and Nicola Peltz Beckham.
Coining the trend in an Instagram post, Zola says the style is her 'new obsession', while her celeb clientele have been loving it, too – we can see why. An update on the classic French mani, the look is a softer, high-shine version of the original. And, thanks to a toned down white tip (a hallmark in any French mani) the look manages to be an even more elegant option to opt for. Yes, apparently there is something out there that is chicer than the French manicure.
To create the look Zola uses a combination of two polishes, OPI's Nail Lacquer in Put It In Neutral, £14.90, a subtle beige pink and Funny Bunny, £14.90, which features a soft white hue. Both work in harmony to create the covetable muted looks created by Zola and it's their sheer coverage that truly enables you to create that natural-looking, your-nails-but-better finish.
Some have equated the look to the American Manicure, a style that has been around since the '90s and saw the tips in a French mani painted in a less intense shade of white (something creamy and off-white) paired against a flattering skin tone base. Softness was often achieved by painting on the tips first and then following up with a natural toned sheer base on top of the whole nail, tips included. Over the years the style has been spotted on everyone from JLo to Selena Gomez.
Move over glazed donut nails, and make way for Vanilla French.
Main image: Instagram @kyliejenner and @nailsbyzola
Shop: Vanilla French Nails
Vanilla French Nails Essentials
OPI Nail Lacquer Funny Bunny
To create the subdues white tips that are essential to this look, try this. Be sure to apply a sheer coat to get that muted look or go one better by applying the tips first.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Put It In Neutral
Pick a base colour that suits your skin tone best, the beauty of this look is all in its natural-looking finish. Apply the base coat over the entire nail to create that soft finish.