What Is an ‘American Manicure’?


Recent changes to the Air Force’s Dress and Grooming regulations have led to Google searches for the ‘American manicure’ taking off. But what exactly is this look, and how is it different from a classic French mani?

What is an ‘American Mani’?

Think French manicure but more subtle.

Instead of pink and white, the American mani utilizes nudes and creams to create a more seamless, natural look. In addition, you’re more likely to see a gradient or ombré effect in an American mani, rather than a clear line. The overall impact is a clean, refined look without the bright white of a traditional French mani.

You’ve probably seen this look before under a different name, as the past few years have been packed with neutral, naked, mannequin, wellness and other clean girl nail looks. And the American mani definitely fits into these trendy looks, offering the perfect amount of your-nails-but-better to make your nails shine.

New Air Force Rules Draw Attention

Recent regulation changes have taken effect in the American Air Force. The new chief of staff, David Allvin, released a memo last Friday removing 57 different accepted nail polish colors for airmen. This is a reversal from the last update in February 2024. Those regulation changes expanded the authorized nail polish colors and ponytails for female airmen, among others.

The new rules allow just three styles: “clear, French and American Manicure.”

Google Trends show search term
Google Trends ‘American Manicure’ over the last 30 days.

As a result, Google Trends reports a significant rise in searches for the American Manicure.

American Manicures We Love


1 / 5

Milky Gradient

Using an ivory tone that isn’t perfectly white, this artist creates a smooth, clean gradient into a skin-matching nude.

milky french manicure
IG: @avrnailswatches


2 / 5

Creamy Coffin Tips

Combine a gorgeous cream with a stunning shape and you have an instantly classic American manicure.

american manicure, ombre coffin nails
IG candacembeauty


3 / 5

Keep It Simple

This style looks beautiful on shorter nails too, creating a natural-looking ombré.

An ombre style French manicure
IG: @paintedbyjools


4 / 5

Classic Shine

This look combines the softer colors of an American mani with a high-shine gloss that leaves these nails looking extra sharp.

@denver_manic
IG: @denver_manic


5 / 5

French the American Way

The clean lines of the French mani meet the subdued and natural colors of the American for a fresh take on a classic.

Naked French manicure
IG: @tombachik



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