Meghan Markle’s “Montecito Manicure” Is the Chic, Low-Key Nail Trend We’re Copying ASAP
If there’s one thing Meghan Markle always gets right, it’s effortless elegance. And now, her signature nail look—coined the “Montecito Manicure”—is officially the beauty trend we can’t stop obsessing over. Think chic, polished, but never overdone—basically, the nail version of her whole aesthetic.
What Is the Montecito Manicure, Anyway?
Meghan’s go-to nail look is the perfect milky nude manicure—not too pink, not too beige, just the right amount of glossy, understated perfection. The world got a closer look at it during her Netflix docuseries With Love, Meghan, and naturally, fans needed to know exactly what she was wearing.
So, Meghan did what any modern-day duchess would do—she dropped the details on her ShopMy page, confirming that her secret lies in layering two CND Shellac shades: Satin Slippers + Romantique = Peak minimalist manicure goals.
“You’ve asked about my nail polish on With Love, Meghan —one coat of each, plus a few of my other essentials. Enjoy!” Markle shared on her IG story, as reported by Byrdie.
Why Is Everyone Obsessed?
Meghan’s nail game is proof that sometimes, simple is better. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec explains it best:
“Right now, we really have two manicure trends: people who want custom, over-the-top nails, the more-is-more manicure, and those who want a super-neutral, goes-with-everything manicure. Obviously, she’s part of the latter,” Kandalec shared on her interview with Vogue.
And honestly, who wouldn’t want a nail color that looks flawless with everything from a crisp white button-down to a full-blown evening gown?
How to Get Meghan’s Signature Mani
Want to channel Meghan’s effortless nail energy? Here’s how to DIY her Montecito Manicure at home:
Step 1: File your nails into a soft square or oval shape for that polished-yet-natural look.
Step 2: Apply one coat of CND Shellac in Satin Slippers—this gives the base that creamy, sheer effect.
Step 3: Follow up with one coat of Romantique to add just the right amount of soft pink glow.
Step 4: Finish with a high-shine topcoat for that healthy, just-left-the-salon finish.
For an extra touch of Markle-approved glam, check out some of her other beauty faves—like the RMS Beauty Living Luminizer and Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, both listed on her ShopMy page.
Final Thoughts: Will You Try It?
Meghan Markle may have moved on from royal life, but her effortless, chic aesthetic is still setting trends. Whether you’re into bold nail art or just love a classic, polished look, her Montecito Manicure is the perfect go-to for an elevated, everyday vibe. Now, off to find those nail polishes before they sell out.