Whilst nail trends come and go, I’d go as far as to say that French tips are forever. Perhaps it’s the neutral colourway, or the chic, understated design, but there’s no denying how stylish this nail trend looks. However, if you’re bored with your typical milky French tips, you’re in luck, as this month there are plenty of new ways to wear the sought-after manicure.
I’ve been busy scrolling through the best nail artists‘ Instagram accounts and now have so much inspiration for my next French tip manicure. Whether you fancy a pop of colour, a little bit of nail art or a subtle change to your classic white French tip, there’s something for everyone to sink their teeth into this month.
Below, you’ll find the seven very best French tip nail ideas for the season ahead, so keep on scrolling and don’t forget to screenshot your favourites.
7 French Tip Nail Ideas for May 2026
1. Butter Yellow
Butter yellow makes a comeback every single May, and not only in fashion. If this picture is anything to go by, butter yellow French tips are also incredibly stylish. Bonus points if you match your nails to your outfit.
Get the Look:
Manucurist
Mimosa Nail Polish
2. Under the Sea
These blue micro French tips scream summer, but in a chic, subtle kind of way. If you want to incorporate a small pop of colour into your look, this is the design to go for.
Get the Look:
Essie
Nail Polish 374 Salt Water Happy
I come back to this nail polish every single summer.
3. Glassy and Glossy
If you want to avoid colour altogether, a simple way to upgrade your French tip manicure this month is to opt for a glass-like finish. A high-shine top coat should do the trick.
Get the Look:
OPI
Mirror Shine Top Coat
As the name suggests, this OPI top coat delivers mirror-like shine.
4. Muted Pastels
Colours don’t always have to be bold and bright. Take this sophisticated muted pastel design. It’s fun but elegant, and the shorter nail shape only adds to the chicness.
Get the Look:
Manucurist
Fine Tip Brush
If you have shorter nails, you’ll want a fine brush to paint your French tips.
5. Neon Noise
If I’m honest, neon nail polishes aren’t usually up my street. However, as soon as I saw this design on Instagram, I was convinced to give neon yellow a go. Pair this manicure with an all-white outfit for the ultimate nail statement.
Get the Look:
Nails Inc.
Knightriders Street Neon Lite Nail Polish
This shade is bound to turn heads.
6. Sunset Tones
It might not be sunny right now, but these sunset hues already have me feeling brighter. Plus, how well do they pair with gold jewellery? Manicure goals.
Get the Look:
Manucurist
Pamplemousse Nail Polish
*Adds to basket immediately.*
7. Polka Dots
Polka dot nails were all the rage this time last year, but in 2026, polka dot French tips are the new way to wear the trending pattern.
Get the Look:
A dotting tool is the key to salon-worthy polka dot nails at home.
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