Millennials are split over the emerging ‘camel toe’ beauty trend, with some suggesting that images of this style can ‘ruin’ their day.

If you've ever donned tight-fitting leggings or shorts while exercising, you might have encountered what is colloquially known as a ‘camel toe’.

This widely recognized term refers to a visual phenomenon where one's pants adhere closely to the crotch area, revealing the outline of the labia.

Historically, the camel toe has been frowned upon, with various websites labeling it an ‘embarrassing’ fashion misstep.

Yet, it seems Gen-Z is embracing this trend enthusiastically… though perhaps not in the way one might expect.

Journalists from online platforms like Allure, The FADER, and Vogue have all highlighted how this contentious style has finally secured its place in the beauty realm.

Attendees at New York Fashion Week earlier this month were seen flaunting a camel toe manicure - essentially nails featuring a pronounced split down the middle.

The Tabi manicure trend seems to evoke strong reactions among critics - they either love it or hate it (Maison Gel)

Images of various interpretations of this beauty trend have gone viral, sparking widespread discussion.

“Try running fingers through your hair with those,” one Twitter user commented.

Another remarked: “This seems like a terrible idea.”

A third noted: “This just ruined my day.”

Nevertheless, not everyone shares this sentiment, with some social media users calling the nail art trend ‘so cute and creative’, while another person stated: “Camel toe never goes out of style.”

Camel toe manicure inspired by Tabi shoes

The divisive manicure trend appears to be inspired by the iconic Tabi split-toe shoes.

Tabi shoes are characterized by a split between the big toe and the other toes, enhancing balance and stability for natural movement.

Inspired by the traditional 15th-century Japanese sock bearing the same name, the modern thonged footwear has been revived by Parisian haute couture house Maison Margiela.

Its designer, Martin Margiela, introduced the first Tabi boot in 1988, according to Vogue, and celebrities have been enamored with the distinctive shoe ever since.

Singer Dua Lipa is among the many famous fans of the cult shoes (Ricky Vigil M /Justin E Palmer/GC Images)

Fans of these avant-garde shoes include Kylie Jenner, Barcelona and Spain footballer Alexia Putellas, Dua Lipa, and The Last of Us’ Pedro Pascal.

In a 2019 interview, Margiela described the iconic footwear as ‘the most important footprint’ of his career.

“It’s distinctive, it has persisted for over 25 years, and it has never been replicated."

How to achieve the camel-toe Tabi nail trend

As reported by the New York Post, artist Ramon Duran outlined the ideal nail length for showcasing the viral, animal-like trend.

He suggested it looks best on individuals with medium-length, rounded or oval nails, as ‘you need that extra space for the design to truly stand out’.

“You can technically make them shorter,” he mentioned, “but the look is more sophisticated with some added length.”

Duran explained to the publication that the signature split-toe design can be achieved by drilling a needle bit into the top of each nail, and he ensures ‘everything’ - including embellishments like bows or glitter - is sealed with a top coat.

This technique keeps the edges smooth and neat, according to the expert.