In the ever-evolving world of beauty and fashion, nail trends continually emerge, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and professionals alike. One such trend making waves in 2025 is "soap nails," a minimalist manicure style that exudes understated elegance and cleanliness.

What are soap nails?

Soap nails are characterised by their soft, sheer appearance, reminiscent of freshly washed hands. This manicure style focuses on simplicity, utilising neutral tones such as milky whites, delicate beiges, or pale pinks.

The nails are meticulously manicured and buffed to achieve a high-gloss finish that mimics the subtle shine of a bar of soap. The result is a clean, polished look that enhances the natural beauty of nails without overwhelming embellishments.

The appeal of soap nails

The allure of soap nails lies in their versatility and low-maintenance nature. This trend aligns with the "clean girl" aesthetic, emphasising natural beauty and effortless style. Soap nails are suitable for various occasions, from professional settings to casual outings, and complement a wide range of outfits. Their neutral palette makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a chic yet subtle manicure.

How to achieve the soap nails look

To achieve the perfect soap nails, start by trimming and shaping your nails to a short or medium length with rounded or soft square edges, which suit this minimalist style best. Next, gently push back your cuticles and remove any excess skin for a clean, well-groomed look.

Buffing the nail surface is essential to create a smooth base, ensuring the polish adheres evenly and enhances the glossy finish. Apply a thin layer of high-quality base coat to protect your natural nails and extend the longevity of your manicure.

Choose a sheer polish in a neutral shade that complements your skin tone, such as milky white, soft beige, or pale pink, and apply two thin coats, letting each layer dry completely before proceeding. Finally, seal the look with a high-gloss top coat to achieve the signature wet, translucent appearance that makes soap nails so chic and sophisticated.

Soap nails are proof that sometimes, less really is more. Whether you are typing away at work, sipping a latte at brunch, or casually flexing your fingers in a "just because" Instagram story, this sheer, glossy trend keeps you looking fresh and fabulous without trying too hard.

So, if you haven't already, it's time to lather up your nails in this clean, chic aesthetic — because nothing says put-together like a manicure that's as soft and sophisticated as a luxury hand wash.