22 White Nail Ideas For When You Need a Blank Slate

With so many nail ideas always circling the internet, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by trying to decipher what’s in. We can’t always have blueberry milk, old money, glazed donut, or pink chrome nails—sometimes, the manicure appointments just don’t line up with the trend cycle! Although we love a colorful nail, falling back on classic white designs when we need a bit of a break is always satisfying. Keeping things simple can be refreshing—and a white set of nails doesn’t have to equal a boring set of nails. It’s almost like starting with a blank white canvas, and the possibilities are endless.

We took a deep dive into the best white nail ideas on the internet, and came away with some serious inspo. Here they are in all their glory: 22 white nail ideas that will make you fall in love with white nails again. Enjoy!

1. Classic White Nails

Source: @lolo.nailedit

Start here: clean and classic white nails.

2. Classic French Manicure

Source: @gelsbybry

If you want to keep it basic but slightly elevated, the classic white French manicure is your girl.

3. Milky White Nails

Source: @matejanova

Milky nails are super in right now, so what better way to participate than a milky white? To achieve this look, find a polish that’s designed to have a translucent look.

4. Glazed French Nails

Source: @gelsbybry

These zebra nails are a team favorite. The subtle yet complex design is super eye-catching and looks so chic for a fun animal print moment.

5. White Ombré Nails

Source: @monmayernails

These ombré nails are great for the girls wanting to try something just past a French manicure—the perfect combo of white and nude.

6. White with Black French

Source: @lolo.nailedit

If you love a French manicure but want a switch-up that will wow a crowd, go for this white set with a black outline and some extra sparkle.

7. White Sparkle Icons

Source: @lolo.nailedit

These nails include some drawn white sparkles and icons, and the neutral base keeps them looking clean yet cute. Add a few cherries for a fun pop of red.

8. White Flowers

Source: @pearliepressed

These flower designs are oh-so-70s, and we love that about them. The flowers add some fun to a classic white nail while keeping it simple.

9. White Swirl Nails

Source: @totallypolishedbyffion

These swirling patterns on a set of white nails are eye-catching and customizable to your preferred swirly shape. Try these swirls on an accent nail or on your own hand.

10. Cow Print Nails

Source: @gelsbybry

Cowprint continues to make its appearance in the trend cycle with the coastal cowgirl look, and we love it on the nails. Spice up the usual white French with some brown spots to achieve this look.

11. White With Clear Overlay

Source: @acrylical.cyn

If you’re looking for something a bit more eye-catching, try these white nails with clear raised designs on top. It creates a 3D effect that totally gives mermaid.

12. Crocodile Print Nails

Source: @bnb_nails512

If animal prints are your thing, these crocodile designs are the perfect way to switch up your white nail ideas. Imagine these holding a croc handbag—we’re obsessed.

13. White Strawberry Nails

Source: @mel.loves.nails

Strawberry nails, but make them completely white! Perfect for anyone looking for a softer, cutesy take on the classic French manicure.

14. Tiny White Hearts

Source: @matejanova

If you’re sick of a French manicure but still want to go for a white-and-neutral look, choose these clear nails with white heart designs.

15. Glazed Donut Nails

Source: @lolo.nailedit

One trend that we can’t help but include with our white nail ideas: the glazed donut nails made famous by Hailey Bieber. They’re popular for a reason!

16. French Manicure With Pearls

Source: @gelsbybry

Add some pearl gems to your next French manicure to elevate your typical look. The addition is so simple, yet it makes all the difference.

17. Smoky White Nails

Source: @gel.bymegan

These smoky white nails are so unique and entrancing. Try this set out if you’re looking for something that is definitely going to garner some compliments.

18. Thin White Squiggles

Source: @gel.bymegan

If you want to evoke a chalkboard effect with your nails, look no further than these cute white squiggles on a neutral base.

19. White with Gold Accents

Source: @nails_bypooja

If you’re a gold girl, you’ll love these ombré white nails with gold accents. Just a little glam, but customizable to be as glitzy as you’d like. 

20. Chrome with White Designs

Source: @gelsbybry

Let’s keep with the chrome nail trend here, why don’t we? A shiny chrome base with some fun white designs is all it takes to level up your nail designs.

21. White with Butterfly Wings

Source: @lolo.nailedit

Add this super fun butterfly design to your nails if you’re craving some extra color. With a stark white base, any color design truly pops.

22. White Glitter Nails

Source: @themaniclub

Sometimes you’re just in the mood for some good ole glitter. Sparkly and shiny, this nail will hit all the points for you.