When celebrity nail pros Milly Mason and Harriet Westmoreland both declare: “French toes are back,” you’d better believe our ears pricked up. Not to mention, the French pedicure is suddenly everywhere on social media with Kylie Jenner popularising the look.
This summer has already seen a smorgasbord of nude nails grace our fingertips, from the milky 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 Milly. “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,” Milly 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 Milly.
On a practical note, the French pedicure also leans into social media’s viral ‘recession beauty’ trend that favours purse-friendly, low-maintenance beauty choices. “A French pedicure’s sheer base gives a clean, natural look – meaning it will look fresh even as the nails grow and you get a little longer out of your pedicure,” Milly 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:
The micro French pedicure
One of Milly’s favourite designs is the understated “Skinny French”, also known as a micro French pedicure. Distinguished by a super-thin line along the tip of the toenail, “it creates a delicate, modern edge,” Milly notes. While the classic nude-white colour combination works well in this style, opting for colourful or chrome tips works really well without being too overwhelming (thanks to the sliver of a tip).
The deep French pedicure
There’s also the deep French, where the curve travels further down each side of the nail bed for a bold finish. It’s not quite a deep, 90s French manicure, but a slightly more demure take for your toes.
The ‘Frombré’ pedicure
If you prefer a smooth colour transition from white to pink rather than a defined line, try the French ombré pedicure. It’s a softer twist on the classic French pedicure style.
The ’90s French pedicure
“You could even try a ’90s inspired French, characterised by its thick white tip, for a nostalgic twist,” says Milly.
How do you create a DIY French pedicure at home?
Now that you’re familiar with the styles that are at the forefront of the French pedicure update for 2026, here’s how you can achieve the look at home if you want to do it yourself.
- Start by prepping and shaping the nails. Trim your nails by clipping straight across, then file the top of the nail into a straight line before rounding the edges to your desired shape.
- “Apply a sheer base with a slight colour and allow it to dry completely,” advises Milly.
- Place a French tip stencil across the top of the nail (you can easily find these online).
- “Paint the tips with a crisp white polish, then gently peel away the stencils,” says Milly.
- “Allow the polish to dry thoroughly before finishing with a glossy top coat for that professional high-shine finish,” she says.
It really is that simple! Keep scrolling to find some of our favourite products for achieving the modern French pedicure and some cute French pedicure inspiration.
