If you're into a classic, timeless manicure, you're probably familiar with OPI's iconic nude nail polish shade, Bubble Bath. This soft, barely-there pink is basically the definition of subtle elegance, and it's perfect for anyone who loves a ~clean~ aesthetic or the quiet luxury trend. I, for one, am still here for it! With that in mind, it's no wonder this shade has sparked a new trend in muted, milky manis, aptly named 'bubble bath nails'.
What sets the bubble bath trend apart from all other neutral nails is that they're not entirely sheer. Instead, they strike a balance between being light pink and milky white. However, sometimes I'm down for a sheer finish, and if you, like me, prefer to change it up sometimes, the look can be customised by adjusting the number of coats you apply and the exact nail polish shade you decide to use. Remember: there's more to choose from than just the original OPI edition! Now, keep reading for the need-to-know and inspo below...
What are bubble bath nails?
"Bubble bath nails are a sheer pinky nude nail look made popular by OPI's famous colour, Bubble Bath," says manicurist Mazz Hanna. Yup, shockingly, bubble bath nails have nothing to do with bathing or the bubble baths of our youth (we can practically smell the no-tears formula just thinking about it). Basically, it's a pinky-beige nail colour for those who want their nails to look polished while maintaining a natural vibe. Plus, it makes a dreamy base for natural nail designs.
How to get bubble bath nails
Bubble bath nails are easy to get at home or at the salon, according to Mazz. "Once you finish giving yourself an at-home manicure by grooming your cuticles and filing and shaping your nails, simply apply two coats of your pinky-beige nail polish of choice and then seal it in with a top coat," Mazz says. Easy, peasy!
The choice of colour depends on your skin tone, but some popular semi-sheer options include Essie's Ballet Slippers or Essie's Topless and Barefoot, as well as Chanel's Le Vernise in Ballerina, Nailberry's L'Oxygene and Dior's Base Vernis. While these products are designed not to be streaky (which can be a common issue when using sheer, light-coloured shades), to prevent potential streakiness, it's important to ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use.
Bubble bath bestsellers
Another thing to keep in mind when sporting a minimalist manicure is to ensure that your cuticles look healthy. After all, they're on display without vibrant nail art to distract you. Make sure to coat the skin around your nails with a cuticle oil every day to keep them moisturised and smooth.
Bubble bath nail inspiration
Short bubble bath nails
The bubble bath trend looks great on shorter nails, so if long nails aren't your thing, you're in luck. Having shorter nails also make it easy to replicate this look at home using the DIY guide above. Or if you're feeling lazy (relatable), you can easily bring this inspo pic to your local nail salon for your manicurist to recreate.
Almond-shaped bubble bath nails
There are so many different nail shapes to choose from, but the feeling you get when they're perfectly almond-shaped... and topped with a sheer pink shade? Stunning. There's a reason almond is most sought after shape at most nail salons these days.
Long bubble bath nails
Because bubble bath nails are so simple, you have room to play around with length and shape. They look great on grown-out nails filed into a point, on acrylic nail extensions or with a set of press-on nails (like these ones from OPI that are already pre-painted with a bubble bath shade).
Square-shaped bubble bath nails
These square bubble bath nails are the epitome of quiet luxury — understated, clean and classic. Sure, square nails aren't as popular as almond ones these days, but this look has me seriously reconsidering my current shape.
Sheer bubble bath nails
Neutral nails — including these sheer, milky nails — pair well with any season and, more importantly, any outfit you decide to put together. The last thing you want is for your nails to clash with your vibe, and these are ideal if your aesthetic is soft, cosy and luxurious.
Bubble bath nails with neon dots
Nail art can be fun but challenging for those with no artistic ability or shaky hands. Thankfully, adding a simple neon dot with a dotting tool is an easy way to spice up your bubble bath nails.
Iridescent bubble bath nails
If a simple coat of polish isn't enough for you to feel satisfied, why not add a sparkly coating on top like Zoë Kravitz? It's the quickest way to add a bit of playfulness while still keeping things simple-ish.
Meet the expert
- Mazz Hanna is a nail artist with celebrity clients like Halsey, Constance Wu and Julia Roberts. She's also the founder of her own line of skin and nail care.
Iman Balagam is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly five years. She has written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Harper's BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, Elle and more. She will try *nearly* anything and spends a lot of time looking for new ways to store her beauty products in a small New York apartment.
