This French manicure technique from the 1930s is making a comeback on celebrity nails this summer.

La French manicure remains a classic nail art in France and around the world. However, this technique, with its little white tip, is reinvented every summer. In 2026, celebrities and nail art enthusiasts will be sporting five variations.

The XL French manicure or Moon manicure: a return to Hollywood roots

We spotted it on Addison Rae at Coachella: a deep French manicure that covers almost the entire nail. This version, called French XL or Moon Manucure, marks a return to the “Old Hollywood” codes of the 1930s. Inspired by Madonna, Marilyn Monroe and Britney Spears, Addison Rae refers to the golden age of cinema.

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow sports a red version of this trend in the film Marty Supreme. This colorful variation on the French manicure proves that the French XL can be adapted to suit every mood. What’s more, it’s equally suited to short and long nails.

Reverse French: when the varnish changes sides

Another subversion of the classic manicure is all the rage: the inverted French manicure. Nail polish is no longer applied to the tip of the nail, but to the cuticle. This little “twist” has been seducing celebrities for several seasons now.

Keke Palmer, Cardi B and Blake Lively all love this offbeat version. This technique highlights the base of the nail. The result is a modern, graphic look that’s sure to catch the eye.

“Highly colorful, inverted or ultra discreet: it adapts and matches all trends.”

French manicure with polka dots: a daring touch on your nails

This variation plays the card of originality, with a neutral base followed by polka dots superimposed on the white or colored band. These tiny dots add relief and character to the traditional manicure. The result can be bold or subtle, depending on the colors chosen.

In fact, this polka-dot french is available in high color or black and white. It goes perfectly with this season’s polka-dot garments. This makes it a trendy choice for spring summer 2026.

• French XL recalls the glamour of the 1930s
• The reverse version places the varnish at cuticle level
• Polka dots add a modern, graphic touch
• French fondue offers a natural, delicate finish
• The microfrench remains discreet with a simple, fine line.

As a result, each style responds to a different desire. Lovers of discreet looks are just as happy as fans of bold nail art.

The inverted French fondue: chic minimalism inspired by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy

This minimalist trend is gaining momentum with the release of the Love Story series starring Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. French fondue unifies the nail with softness and subtlety. The white of the tip is applied first, followed by a coat of flesh-toned varnish.

This technique gives a more natural, delicate finish. It’s ideal for those who want an elegant manicure without an overly visible effect. This version now appeals to those who prefer discretion to glitz.

The ultra-thin French manicure: almost invisible but very trendy

The ultra-thin French manicure is all the rage with celebrities and models. The white of the nail tip is reduced to a timid, almost invisible line. This minimalist version revisits the classic with finesse.

Kylie Jenner was seen wearing a very discreet French shoe at a Knicks game last April. Model Kaia Gerber is also adopting this classic choice revisited. This micro-French works on both hands and feet.

In short, the French manicure continues to reinvent itself year after year. Each season brings its own creative variations. From old Hollywood-inspired XL nails to ultra-fine strokes, this technique crosses the decades without a wrinkle.

These five versions allow every woman to find her ideal style. The diversity of options proves the vitality of this nail art classic. Summer 2026 promises to be rich in inspiration for all lovers of beautiful nails.

• French manicure