Whether French tip nails originated from the country or were named for the stylish citizens, this style of nail polish application has been around for almost 100 years. Although updates have been made to the first designs, the classics are just as popular today as in the past. Today, you can use the concept to coordinate with virtually any outfit you own.
The most classic style begins with a pink or skin-tone base coat. Then, the tips are painted with a pure white shaped to the curvature of your fingertips. Over time, the color of French tip nails expanded into ivory and other off-white colors. A clear top coat helps the design to last.
Though all French manicures have a similar separation where the nail bed ends and the tips begin, the choices for both have widened dramatically. The tips of many modern designs take advantage of bold and glittery nail polish while maintaining a skin tone base.
If you plan to paint your own nails, it is important that you have a way to create clearly shaped lines. You can either purchase special tape made for this purpose or improvise with other adhesives that won’t harm your base coat. Otherwise, you will have difficulty obtaining consistent shape and application to your nails.
Although this manicure is not complicated, there is a learning curve involved. Investing the time to master the French manicure will simplify your beauty routine. If you don’t have the time for intricate nail art, this classic style will look great with virtually everything.
Instead of creating a rounded edge that coincides with your nail bed, you might decide to create a different shape. Whether you opt for a chevron or a some miniature flowers, this will add to your manicure options. Consider experimenting with shapes to complement items in your closet. For example, a floral border would look fantastic with a flowery spring dress.
A good manicure no longer means that each nail must look just like the rest. In fact, a bit of variation between them can add visual interest to the design. You can begin with a two-color French manicure and decorate from there.
Perhaps you will draw butterflies and flowers on a few of them. Instead, maybe you prefer to work with a galaxy or animal print motif. Remember that you can paint some nails solid to help accent the other designs. Experiment to see which creations you like the best.
As you become more adept at creating the French tipped nails, you are sure to enjoy painting your nails even more. Whether you need a quick classic look for a professional occasion or a unique design for a special situation, you will have the tools, techniques and materials available to make it happen.