There are so many variations on the French manicure these days (like studded French manicures and double French manicures, to name a couple) that it's almost easy to forget what the OG looks like. The original French manicure was all about a nude base with a crisp white tip. And now, like many nail trends before, the French has come full circle back to its origins—but with a fresh twist.
White French nails are, pardon the pun, white-hot these days. But what makes them stand out is a fun take on the original. That means everything from oversized white stripes to textural touches like gemstones and pearls to extra accents. Check out these white French nail ideas for inspo for your next mani.
Give It A Swirl
French tips don't always literally have to be at the ends of your nails—let your imagination run wild.
Fluffy Fun
Are these clouds? Marshmallows? The only answer is they’re fun and fabulous, thanks to the over-the-top texture.
Black and White
This manicure proves there are so many ways and designs to play with this perennially cool color combination, from checkers to stripes to a yin-yang motif.
Super Size
A French tip doesn't always have to tread a fine line. Play with proportions and go big, like this design that thinks outside the box.
White Hot
Talk about hot stuff. These nails are on fire—literally! White is an unexpected hue for the flame motif.
What A Gem
A classic white French manicure is given a party-ready upgrade with the addition of colorful gemstones.
Cherry Bomb
Just as you would with a delicious dessert, add a cherry on top of your nails. It's a fun way to dress up a classic white French mani.
Bubble Machine
A thin white line is all you need to make a statement—especially when paired with contrasting blue and crystal-clear bubbles.
Shroom Boom
There is magic in these mushrooms! Enoki mushrooms were the muse behind this mani.
Seeing Spots
Spotted: Studs creating an eternally cool polka dot design on a crisp white French.
Pattern Play
Don't let one design have all the fun. A consistent white and negative space palette keeps any mix of designs cohesive.
Pinky Promise
Swirls of pink, pearls, and gold studs make for a fun white French manicure makeover that will keep them guessing.
Flower Power
Dress up a classic white French manicure with colorful little flowers for a cheery take on the traditional look.
Half and Half
Think of this delicious mani as a black and white cookie for your fingertips—yum!
Cookies 'n Cream
Have you ever seen a more delicious manicure? This cookies 'n cream design looks good enough to eat.
I Heart You
Simple yet sweet, cutout hearts on a couple of accent nails give a regular French mani a dash of romance.
Shades Of Gray
This design may look complicated, but the video proves how surprisingly easy it is to DIY this moody ombré mani.
Green Bean
You'll want to eat this right up and get your veggies the chicest way—on your nails, of course.
Pearl Jam
Not your grandmother's pearls, these accents make the perfect adornment for your fingertips.
Style In Spades
You don't have to be the betting type to know that this deck of cards-themed nail design is a winner.