If you're clued up on royal beauty etiquette, you will know that minimalist nail colours are key. The women in the fold follow a strict rule book to ensure they demonstrate an elegant and sophisticated appearance. Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, still follows this rule, but we've noticed a subtle shift towards a 'milky white' signature shade.
During multiple episodes of her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan, where she invites celebrity guests for a day of cooking, sharing recipes and insightful chats - we couldn't help but notice her chic manicure. Her nail colour appears to be a snowy white shade, with a milky finish that is extremely effortless. Enter: milk bath nails.
We know what you're thinking but no, we're not talking about an actual bath. Milk-bath nails don't actually require stepping into the bathtub, the design is just inspired by the soft, dreamy look of it.They are simply an artistic portrayal of the beloved and unique beauty spa treatment. Once you leave a milk bath, your skin is left smooth and soft as silk.
© NetflixThe use of nude manicures is popular amongst the royal family. The late Queen Elizabeth II was famously known to sport Essie's 'Ballet Slippers,' a sheer pink almost transparent shade that exuded class. After her stamp of approval, it became beloved by other family members including the Princess of Wales
When the Duchess initially joined the royal family, she also adopted this blushing hue. On her wedding day in 2018, she reportedly wore CND’s Unmasked with two coats of Negligee layered on top for a perfect baby pink shade with an effortless shine.
During her time as a forward-facing royal, Meghan definitely embraced this rosy shade. However, one can't help but notice the shift she has made with her manicures since stepping back from her royal duties.
The Duchess has since embraced classic 90's French manicures, and now this milky nude one. During her most recent red carpet appearance in December at the Paley Gala, she sported a similar milky colour. Now, as she begins her new TV venture she has turned to the same hue again.
According to the experts, milk bath nails are a leading trend for spring 2025. Nail artist Tinu Bello previously told H! Fashion: "This design is a modern romantic take on the classic sheer manicure and works beautifully for spring."
© Variety via Getty ImagesAs usual, the Duchess' nails were filed short, kept neat and tidy and shaped in her signature 'squoval' shape throughout the episodes. Lauren Williams, director of leading nail care brand London Grace told H! Fashion, "If a client is looking for a square shape but has weaker or shorter nails, we'd advise squoval nails as they are more resilient and a universally flattering shape."
She continues, "To create a squoval nail, start with a square shape and then slightly round off the corners. The squoval shape looks great with a block colour, particularly darker on-trend hues at this time of year and is a great shape for showing off an accent nail effect such as glitter."
How to replicate Meghan Markle's nails from With Love, Meghan
© COURTESY OF NETFLIX- Prep the nails: Apply a thin layer of base coat to protect your nails and create a smooth foundation for the colour. Let it dry completely before moving on.
- Apply the ‘Milk Bath’ base colour: Apply one or two coats depending on the opacity of the polish. A semi-sheer white works best for this look as it gives the "milky" translucent effect, mimicking the look of a milk bath.Make sure each coat is dry before applying the next to avoid streaks.
- Add optional decorative elements: For the signature look, you can add small decorative elements like dried flowers, crushed pearls, or small glitters. These will float in the "milk" and create a stunning, ethereal effect.
- Apply a clear coat: Once the decorative elements are placed, seal your design with a clear top coat. This will protect your design and give your nails a glossy finish. Be careful while applying to avoid smudging the flowers or items you've placed. Apply a generous layer of top coat to smooth out the nails, giving them a glossy, shiny look that mimics the smoothness of a milk bath.
So, could milky white bath nails be Meghan's new signature shade? Only time will tell...
