self leveling nail polish

13 MILKY WHITE NAIL POLISH COLORS FOR A MINIMALIST LOOK

Looking for a manicure that’s both chic and effortless? Look no further than milky white nail polish! This soft, ethereal shade is a perfect choice for achieving a minimalist look that’s both modern and timeless.  Whether you prefer a clean, one-coat application or a subtle hint of color, milky white polishes offer versatility and elegance for any occasion.  Dive into our list of 13 milky white polishes and get ready to elevate your nails to a whole new level of minimalist chic!

HOW TO GET MILKY WHITE NAILS AT HOME

Materials:

  • Nail clippers and file
  • Buffer (optional)
  • Base coat
  • Milky white nail polish (regular or gel)
  • Top coat

Instructions:

To achieve flawless milky white nails at home, start by shaping and prepping your nails to your desired length and shape. Clip and file them, and consider lightly buffing to create a smooth surface for the polish to adhere to, though this step is optional.

Next, apply a thin layer of base coat to all your nails. This step helps prevent staining and promotes better adhesion of the polish. Allow the base coat to dry completely before proceeding.

Now, it’s time to paint your nails milky white. You have two options: you can either use a milky white polish specifically formulated for a translucent look, applying thin coats and building up the color to your desired opacity, typically requiring 2-3 coats. Alternatively, you can create a milky effect by first applying a thin layer of white polish followed by a glossy top coat. This method adds a softer, milky sheen to your nails, and you can experiment with different white shades for variations.

Once you’ve achieved the desired milky effect, seal the deal with a generous layer of top coat applied to all your nails. This not only protects your manicure but also adds a beautiful shine. Allow the top coat to dry completely before going about your day.

For flawless milky nails, remember these tips: thin coats are key, so apply polish thinly and allow each coat to dry completely before adding another to prevent smudging and ensure a smooth finish. Clean up any mistakes by using a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover while the polish is still wet. Finally, don’t forget to moisturize your hands and cuticles after painting your nails to keep your skin healthy and prevent dryness around the nails.

BEST MILKY WHITE NAIL POLISH

ESSIE NAIL POLISH IN BLANC

A cult-favorite for a reason, this milky white polish from Essie is known for its opaque coverage and smooth application. It delivers a crisp, clean white that’s perfect for a classic French manicure or a chic opaque look. However, some reviewers note it can be slightly streaky on the first coat, so a thin third coat might be necessary for ultimate perfection. Despite this minor detail, Essie’s milky white polish remains a top choice for its long-lasting wear and chip-resistant formula.

DAZZLE DRY NAIL LACQUER IN WHITE LIGHTNING 

This polish lives up to its name! Dazzle Dry’s White Lightning is a fast-drying, long-lasting formula that applies flawlessly in just one coat. Perfect for those who are short on time but still want a flawless milky white manicure. Since it’s a one-coater, White Lightning minimizes the risk of clumps or streaks that can sometimes occur with milky polishes. Plus, Dazzle Dry’s non-toxic and vegan formula makes it a great option for those who are conscious about the ingredients in their nail products.

STATIC NAILS LIQUID GLASS LACQUER IN ELIXIR 

For a luxurious milky white mani, look no further than Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Elixir. This chip-resistant polish delivers a high-shine finish that looks as good as it feels. Formulated with nourishing ingredients like rose hip oil and coconut oil, Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Elixir strengthens and hydrates your nails while you wear it. Unlike traditional polishes, it boasts a long-lasting wear time of up to 10 days with proper use, making it perfect for busy women who want a chip-free manicure.

OLIVE & JUNE NAIL POLISH IN HD 

This milky white polish from Olive & June is a fan favorite for its creamy formula and easy application. It delivers a beautiful opaque finish that’s perfect for everyday wear. Praised for its chip-resistant formula, Olive & June’s milky white polish allows you to go about your day without worrying about constant touch-ups.  The polish’s creamy texture is self-leveling, minimizing the appearance of brushstrokes for a smooth, flawless finish. Plus, the on-trend milky white shade complements any skin tone, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

OPI NAIL LACQUER IN FUNNY BUNNY

A true classic, OPI’s Funny Bunny is a timeless milky white shade that’s universally flattering. This polish is known for its long-lasting wear and chip-resistant formula. However, some find the formula to be on the sheer side, requiring a few coats to achieve full opacity.  Despite this, OPI’s Funny Bunny is a favorite for layering and nail art designs thanks to its smooth application and easy blending.  Whether you prefer a subtle milky wash or a crisp white mani, Funny Bunny offers versatility and endless possibilities.

JINSOON NAIL POLISH IN DEW 

If you’re looking for a milky white polish with a hint of something extra, JINsoon’s Dew is a great option. This polish has a subtle shimmer that adds a touch of elegance to your nails. 

The shimmer in JINsoon’s Dew is incredibly delicate, offering a pearlescent sheen that catches the light beautifully. Unlike glittery polishes, the subtle shimmer remains classy and appropriate for any occasion. Plus, the formula applies smoothly and dries quickly, making your manicure a breeze to achieve.

MOONCAT NAIL LACQUER IN WHITE RABBIT

Mooncat’s milky white polish offers a delicate balance between sophistication and subtle allure, making it ideal for various occasions. Its pearlescent finish catches the light in a mesmerizing way, giving your nails a unique and elegant shimmer. Whether for a casual day out or a special event, this polish effortlessly elevates your manicure, ensuring your nails stand out with understated charm.

COLOR DEPT. NAIL POLISH IN COCONUT WATER

This vegan-friendly polish from Color Dept. is a great choice for those who are looking for a milky white shade that’s kind to their nails. It has a long-lasting formula that delivers a beautiful opaque finish. Color Dept.’s milky white polish is free of harsh chemicals commonly found in nail polishes, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.  Despite its gentle formulation, the polish boasts impressive chip resistance, ensuring your manicure stays polished for days.

TENOVERTEN NAIL COLOR IN WHITE

Tenoverten’s milky white polish is a great all-around option. It has a creamy formula that applies easily and delivers a flawless finish. Tenoverten’s milky white polish is formulated with non-toxic ingredients, making it a healthier choice for your nails. This polish goes beyond just color – it also strengthens nails with its nourishing properties, promoting healthy growth. Plus, Tenoverten’s commitment to vegan and cruelty-free practices aligns with eco-conscious consumers’ values.

DEBORAH LIPPMANN GEL LAB PRO

For a salon-quality milky white manicure at home, Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro is a great option. This long-lasting gel polish delivers a high-shine finish that will last for weeks. While Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro offers extended wear, keep in mind that gel polish requires a UV or LED lamp for curing. However, the trade-off for chip-resistant perfection can be worth it for those who crave a long-lasting manicure. Plus, the polish’s smooth, milky white shade provides a sophisticated and elegant look that complements any outfit.

TAUPE COAT NAIL POLISH IN PEARLIE 

Another great vegan-friendly option, Taupe Coat’s Pearlie is a milky white polish with a subtle shimmer. It’s a great choice for those who want a touch of elegance without going over-the-top.

Taupe Coat’s Pearlie offers the best of both worlds: a milky white base with a delicate shimmer for a touch of understated glamour. The subtle pearl effect adds dimension to your nails without appearing flashy, making it perfect for both casual and dressy occasions. This polish is also chip-resistant, ensuring your pearly whites stay polished for days on end.

LE PETITE MANI 

This indie brand offers a range of milky white polishes, each with a fun and whimsical name. They’re known for their long-lasting formula and chip-resistant wear. Despite the lighthearted names, these indie brand milky white polishes are serious about performance. Their long-lasting formula and chip-resistant wear ensure your manicure stays flawless for days. Plus, the playful range of milky white shades, each with a unique and quirky name, lets you express your personality with your fingertips.

OLIVE & JUNE TOP COAT 

No matter what milky white polish you choose, don’t forget to finish it off with a good top coat. Olive & June’s Top Coat is a great option that will help your manicure last longer and chip less. Absolutely! A high-quality top coat is the final touch for a flawless, long-lasting milky white manicure. Olive & June’s Top Coat is a popular choice, but any reputable quick-drying top coat will do the trick. Remember to apply a thin layer and seal the tips of your nails for extra protection against chipping. With proper care and a good top coat, your milky white manicure can stay chip-free for a week or even longer!

CONCLUSION

Alongside the lively hues of summer nail designs, white polish remains a beloved choice. Whether it’s creamy classics, subtle shimmers, or durable gels, there’s a milky white shade suited for every preference. Embracing versatility and refinement, milky white nails effortlessly complement any event, promising to be your go-to option. So, flaunt those flawless nails proudly, embracing the understated allure of minimalistic beauty!

7 ESSENTIAL STYLE TIPS FOR MEN OVER 50 BEFORE YOU SHOP

Navigating the world of fashion in your 50s (and beyond!) may seem daunting, but trust me, it’s entirely achievable. While I can’t personally guide every man receiving an AARP membership in the mail, I can offer you this comprehensive guide to dressing for mature men.

If you’re new to my writing, you might be asking yourself: Caroline, as a 29-year-old woman who spends her free time watching Nordic crime dramas and perfecting my homemade macaroni and cheese, what do I know about the style dilemmas faced by men approaching early retirement?

Well, for one, I have a soft spot for well-dressed older gentlemen.

Every man over 50 has unique wardrobe needs that reflect his personal style and lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for casual attire, looking for shopping recommendations, or simply wanting to elevate your fashion game, dressing well at this age can be just as exciting and diverse as it is for younger men.

Not sure where to begin? No need to fret! Below, 7 tips on nailing mature style for men:

Get a tailor

Everyone I’ve spoken with in the realm of men’s style, especially for those over 50, agrees on one crucial point: the difference between “a guy wearing clothes” and “a well-dressed man” often comes down to good tailoring.

Building a relationship with a tailor is essential for any mature man looking to elevate his style.

Consider your tailor your clothing’s doctor. Just as you have a dentist for your teeth, an internist for your health, and a dermatologist for those pesky moles, it’s time to have a tailor on speed dial to ensure your wardrobe is in top shape.

Now, I can already hear you thinking: “The clothes I own fit me just fine!”

But let’s be real—no man, and I mean none of you, can wear off-the-rack clothing perfectly.

Sure, you don’t need to have every t-shirt tailored or sweatpants hemmed, but those button-down shirts you wear daily with jeans or chinos? Get the sleeves adjusted to the right length.

And don’t forget about those jeans and chinos! 

What about the blazer you wear for dinner with your spouse each week? Could it use a little adjustment to fit you better?

Think of this process like visiting a doctor. You don’t go in every day for every little issue, but for the significant matters, you want to consult a professional. 

Focus on the finishing touches 

When it comes to presentation, the key differentiator between well-dressed men and those who simply wear clothes is the extra attention to detail. These subtle touches may not be immediately noticeable, but once you see them, they make a significant difference.

This attention to detail extends beyond your clothing to grooming, including a well-maintained beard (and nose hairs!), clean nails and cuticles, and a pleasant scent. Just look at the smart tie and coordinating socks worn by Stanley Tucci—voted the most stylish man of 2023 by Style Girlfriend followers!

Accessories are an excellent way to elevate your style as a man over 50. A beautiful scarf can enhance a simple blue overcoat, while the right shoes can complete your outfit—just as easily as the wrong ones can ruin it.

Investing in accessories is a smart choice for your wardrobe. Timeless pieces, like a classic pair of glasses, will never go out of style, and if you choose quality items built to last, you’ll enjoy them for years to come.

I’d like to highlight timepieces: they’re one of the first things I notice on a man. If you wear a watch, I can’t help but notice which one it is.

Let me be clear: you don’t need to spend a fortune on a watch. However, if you can invest in a quality timepiece, it’s often worth it. Even an affordable tank-style Seiko can make you look polished and distinguished.

Invest in forever pieces

By avoiding fleeting trends, you can invest more wisely in your wardrobe. Why? Because when you focus on timeless pieces, you know you’ll wear them for more than just one season.

Instead of purchasing multiple inexpensive shirts and trousers, consider buying one or two high-quality staple items. Then, invest in having those pieces tailored to fit you perfectly. The final step? Embrace the ease and simplicity of cultivating a signature personal style!

Look for brands that prioritize craftsmanship and quality. 

While you may not have the budget to splurge on every item in your closet, you can be strategic about your spending.

Identify the pieces you wear most frequently. If you rarely wear sweaters but often don blazers—think of a post-presidential Barack Obama—prioritize your budget accordingly to reflect your lifestyle.

Lean into a Monochromatic Color Palette

Monochromatic dressing involves combining pieces from the same color family to create a cohesive and polished look. This style not only elongates your body but also gives you a sleek, modern appearance with minimal effort.

Take, for example, the character Steve Martin, 79, plays on Only Murders in the Building. He often sports monochromatic ensembles, like blue jeans paired with a white shirt and a blue knit sweater or overcoat.

For men over 50, these outfits are not only simple to assemble but also effortlessly elevate your style.

You can approach monochromatic dressing in a few different ways. Our favorite at Team SG is the black and blue route—opting for rich, deep blues like navy—or embracing earth tones, such as pairing tan chinos with a chunky oatmeal rollneck sweater.

Aim for leveling up your personal style instead of chasing trends

Here’s a little secret: I often share this advice with my younger clients, but it’s especially true for older gentlemen—dressing for who you are, rather than trying to keep up with the latest trends, makes all the difference.

By midlife, you’ve witnessed countless trends come and go, which makes it easier to identify which cuts and styles flatter you and which colors and textures enhance your personal aesthetic.

Consider what clothing aligns with your lifestyle and which pieces don’t quite fit who you are. 

Think of this guideline not as a limitation, but as a permission slip to bypass fleeting trends. That’s a true luxury! As men age, they naturally become more distinguished—there’s a reason the term “silver fox” is a compliment.

Allyson B. Fanger, the costume designer for Netflix’s (criminally underrated, in my opinion) *Grace and Frankie*, shared that one of the joys of dressing older characters like Robert and Sol—played by Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, both in their eighties—is that these men have lived rich lives.

The show features two lawyers who leave their wives for each other after their kids have grown up, and their style is spot on.

Robert and Sol don’t need to evolve further in their fashion choices, which makes dressing them all the more enjoyable for Fanger.

They each have favorite brands, signature color palettes, and distinct approaches to style.

Robert is traditional, favoring button-down shirts and chinos—he’s a Brooks Brothers man through and through.

Sol, on the other hand, embodies the spirit of a hippie, opting for Cubavera camp shirts and comfortable Tommy Bahama linen pants.

These characters exemplify how, regardless of personal taste or style, it’s entirely possible to achieve top-notch personal fashion at any age.

Ultimately, knowing who you are and being confident in that is the cornerstone of any man’s style, and that understanding becomes more profound as you accumulate life experience.

Adopt a wardrobe uniform

Larry David, at 76, is a big advocate for uniform dressing. While many people think of a daily uniform as a traditional suit and tie, David exemplifies how versatile and liberating this approach can be.

He’s a king of casual style—if you’re searching for casual clothing ideas for men over 50, the *Curb Your Enthusiasm* star offers an excellent blueprint.

His go-to wardrobe staples include crewneck sweaters, zip-ups, AG 5-pocket chinos, and soft shoulder blazers. 

If the thought of choosing an outfit every day feels overwhelming, this dressing strategy might be perfect for you. 

Consider building a capsule wardrobe filled with a few pieces you love: your favorite pants, a handful of shirts that make you feel your best, and some knitwear or jackets.

And don’t hesitate to buy items you adore in multiple colors! (This is another trick David uses.)

This way, each morning, you can reach into your closet and confidently know that whatever you pick will likely coordinate beautifully.

Be yourself 

It might sound a bit silly to wrap up a list of style tips with a reminder to just accept yourself, but hear me out. You might think, “My style is just a ripped sports jersey and Crocs,” and to that, I say: maybe it’s time for a change! (Just kidding… or am I?)

What I really mean is don’t overthink dressing for a particular age. These style tips are helpful if you’re unsure where to start or want to elevate your look. But if you already have a signature style or enjoy dressing outside the norm, don’t let the number in front of your age hold you back. Embrace what makes you unique and wear it with confidence!

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, navigating style in your 50s and beyond doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Embrace the principles of good tailoring, invest in timeless pieces, and build a wardrobe that reflects who you are. Remember, personal style is all about confidence and authenticity—wear what makes you feel good, whether it’s a classic blazer or a funky shirt.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with accessories and details that can elevate your look. And most importantly, don’t let age define your fashion choices. Celebrate your individuality and express yourself through your clothing. After all, style is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to redefine your aesthetic!