Selena Gomez’s Lavender Milk Nails Are Starting a Major Manicure Trend

Springtime calls for an abundance of pastel hues right down to your fingertips. Selena Gomez—who’s catapulted more than a few nail trends in recent months—clearly got this memo and debuted the prettiest purple mani ever via her creamy lavender milk nails. The “Spring Fling” look was created by her go-manicurist Tom Bachik, and has since inspired countless others to go for the same soft, romantic vibe.

“This lavender shade is absolute magic. It’s like the grown-up version of pastel—sophisticated enough for meetings but still playful enough for brunch,” says Meagan Swartwood, professional manicurist at Arctic Fox. “The lavender milk shade adds this subtle pop that elevates any outfit without trying too hard. It’s the perfect alternative when you’re bored with nudes but still want something effortlessly chic.” 

Ahead, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about lavender milk nails, including how the hue is different from other purples and how to choose the perfect hue to mirror the look. (Psst! There’s a little hack you need to know!)

What Are Lavender Milk Nails? 

Lavender milk nails are the dreamy manicure everyone’s obsessing over right now—a soft, hazy purple with that perfect cloudy finish. Swartwood says they’re called “milk” nails because they have this gorgeous translucent quality that’s not quite sheer, not quite opaque. 

“They’re basically your favorite lavender latte swirled with cream right on your fingertips,” Swartwood says. “I recommend our insider trick of adding just a tiny drop of nail polish remover to create that coveted milky finish that’s taking over everyone’s feeds.”

It’s no wonder this dreamy hue is having a moment right now. Obvi it’s a perfect hue for spring, but it also is eye-catching while still being totally wearable. It feels fresh and timeless at once.

How to Get Lavender Milk Nails 

When getting lavender milk nails done at the salon, Swartwood says to ask for “a translucent lavender with a milky finish—not too sheer, not too opaque.” Bringing an inspo pick will help you get as close as possible to the look (to do: bookmark this page). Also mention you want that high-gloss topcoat to give it that dreamy, dimensional look.

If you’re doing this look at home, follow these steps from Swartwood: 

1. Prep with an even base coat. Healthy nails = better color payoff and longevity!
2. Mix magic: Add one or two drops of nail polish remover to a lavender purple nail polish (like Arctic Fox Periwinkle). 
3. Apply a few thin coats, letting each one dry between layers until you hit that perfect milky lavender dream
4. Seal with a high-shine top coat for that salon-level glossy finish that makes the color pop and your manicure more durable.