When celebrity nail pros Milly Mason and Harriet Westmoreland both declared, “French toes are back,” you’d better believe our ears pricked up.
The French pedicure is suddenly everywhere on social media with Kylie Jenner cosigning the look and content creators revealing how to take our favorite manicure style to our toes. This summer has already seen a smorgasbord of nude nails grace our fingertips—from the cloudy French and BB cream nails to barely-there rose water and princess nails—so it’s perhaps unsurprising that our toes are now set to get the same treatment. It’s what they deserve!
Why should you get a French pedicure?
As the name implies, the French pedicure shares the same DNA as a French manicure. It also holds the same appeal. With its soft pink or nude base, crisp white tips and glossy topcoat, “the French pedicure is having a moment because it strikes the perfect balance between timeless and modern,” says Mason. “It’s chic, understated and works with absolutely any outfit, any shoe and any occasion.”
And, just like the French manicure, it’s also had a timely makeover. “The French pedicure has evolved far beyond the traditional look,” Mason says, adding that its modern iteration is now super versatile. If you thought that it was a style that only works in spring or summer, think again.
For starters, you’re no longer restricted to just a white tip—pastel or even metallic edges are a fresh riff on the traditional design. You can experiment with the texture of the nude base, too, opting for a gradient ombré or a milky pink polish to create a creamy, translucent finish. “Add in different nail shapes—soft square or rounded—and there’s something to suit everyone,” says Mason.
On a practical note, the French pedicure also leans into TikTok’s viral ‘recession beauty’ trend that favors purse-friendly, low-maintenance beauty choices. “A French pedicure’s sheer base gives a clean, natural look—ƒmeaning it will look fresh even as the nails grow, and you get a little longer out of your pedicure,” Mason adds.
Are there different types of French pedicures?
The short answer is yes. To help you get to grips with the modern version of the nail trend, here are the four types of French pedicure that are currently trending:
