Selena Gomez's lavender milk nails: How to achieve this dreamy manicure

Spring has sprung, with it comes a fresh wave of nail trends. Leading the charge? Selena Gomez recently showcased the dreamy "lavender milk" manicure crafted by her go-to nail artist, Tom Bachik. This soft, hazy purple hue with a creamy finish quickly becomes the season's must-have look.

What Are Lavender Milk Nails?

Lavender milk nails blend the gentle allure of pastel lavender with a milky, semi-translucent finish. The result is a sophisticated yet playful manicure versatile enough for professional settings and weekend brunches. 

© Getty Images

Why Everyone's Loving This Trend

The appeal of lavender milk nails lies in their subtle elegance. They offer a refreshing pop of color without overpowering, making them an excellent alternative to traditional nudes. Celebrity manicurist Meagan Swartwood tells Real Simple, "The lavender milk shade adds this subtle pop that elevates any outfit without trying too hard." 

Moreover, the milky finish adds a soft touch, creating an eye-catching and effortlessly chic manicure. Unsurprisingly, this dreamy hue is gaining popularity, especially as a fresh option for spring.

How to Achieve Lavender Milk Nails

Achieving this look is easier than you might think. Ask your manicurist for a translucent lavender shade with a milky finish for a salon visit. Bringing reference photos ensures you get the exact look you're aiming for.

If you opt for an at-home manicure, start with clean, prepped nails. Apply a base coat to protect your nails, then choose a pastel lavender polish. To achieve the milky effect, professional manicurists recommend adding a tiny drop of nail polish remover to the polish before application. 

© Getty Images

This insider trick creates the coveted semi-sheer, creamy finish. Finish with a glossy topcoat to seal in the color and add shine. 

Maintaining Your Manicure

To keep your lavender milk nails looking fresh, apply a topcoat every few days to maintain the shine and prevent chipping. Moisturizing your hands and cuticles regularly will also help prolong the life of your manicure and keep your hands looking their best.

© FilmMagic

Pairing your lavender milk nails

Pairing your lavender milk nails with a soothing cup of lavender milk creates a cohesive aesthetic and a relaxing experience. 

© Getty Images

Here's a simple recipe to make your own lavender milk at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon culinary lavender buds
• 1-2 teaspoons honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

• Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk over medium heat until it's steaming but not boiling.
• Add Lavender: Stir in the culinary lavender buds, ensuring they're fully submerged.
• Steep: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the lavender steep in the milk for about 5 minutes.
• Strain: Pour the milk through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a mug to remove the lavender buds.
• Sweeten and Flavor: Add honey and vanilla extract to the strained milk, stirring until fully dissolved.
• Serve: Enjoy the lavender milk warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled over ice for a refreshing alternative.

This delightful beverage complements your lavender-themed nails and provides a calming treat, perfect for unwinding after a long day.