After what has felt like a never-ending heatwave here in the UK, the temperature has finally started to cool down, which can only mean one thing: autumn is officially on its way. As a beauty writer, I’m already looking ahead to the nail trends and nail colours that will be everywhere next season, and you might be pleased to know that this autumn's first trending manicure is here. It's a rather unexpected departure from the neutral hues we typically opt for at this time of year, but there's no denying how chic it looks. Enter mauve milk nails.

(Image credit: @raelondonnails)

What Are Mauve Milk Nails?

True to its name, the mauve milk manicure is defined by blending a soft, creamy base with a sheer touch of purple to create an ethereal wash of colour over the nails. This can be created by layering a see-through mauve over a white or nude base, or by opting for one to two coats of creamy lavender polish over the entire nail.

This delicate trend feels slightly more elevated than your typical nude or pink nail polish, but also remains understated enough for those of us who prefer a more pared-back manicure. Not to mention that the translucent nature of this nail trend makes it flattering on all skin tones and extremely versatile if you want to personalise it to suit your aesthetic.

(Image credit: @lolo.nailedit)

As a minimalist, I’ll personally be opting for a simple wash of colour over my nails; however, if you’re looking for more of a statement, keep scrolling, as I’ve rounded up some mauve milk nail inspiration to take with you to your first autumn salon visit. Then, have a browse of the products I recommend to re-create the look at home.

Mauve Milk Nail Inspiration

(Image credit: @raelondonnails)

Unexpected enough to feel fresh for autumn, but subtle enough to feel timelessly chic.

(Image credit: @meraki_nails_cardiff)

Proof that the mauve milk mani looks just as good on short nails.

(Image credit: @raelondonnails)

Minimalists will love this sheer wash of colour.

(Image credit: @georgiadoesnails)

For those who prefer a bold manicure, you can also incorporate this pretty trend into more complex designs such as aura nails.

(Image credit: @raelondonnails)

Mauve milk French tips? Sign me up!

(Image credit: @meraki_nails_cardiff)

Adding a cat-eye effect will only add to the whimsical nature of mauve milk nails.

Best Products for Mauve Milk Nails

Manucurist Nail Polish in Lisa Lilas

We're big fans of Manucurist's nail polishes at Who What Wear UK.

Chanel Le Vernis in Immortelle

Just so elegant.

H&M Nail Polish Soft Illusion

This pretty shimmer will give you the cat-eye look at home.

Essie Nail Polish in Lilacism

A slightly more subtle mauve hue for the minimalists amongst us.

Nailberry Nail Polish in Lavender Fields

Layer one coat of this over a nude or white base.

OPI Gel-Like Top Coat

Every good manicure ends with a glossy top coat.