Sometimes it seems like the French manicure is reserved for brides. We can see why- it’s classy and chic, and doesn’t compete with the dress or the bouquet. Is is possible to rock the French mani in everyday?
Winter Bee:
A French manicure is my go-to when I break a nail down to the quick. I like my nails to be the same length and it kills me when I have to file all of them short! I am definitely in the ‘French Nail/Short Nail’ camp, I don’t like the look on long nails.
I also like the reverse french mani? (I don’t know if there is an actual name for it) when the tip of the nail is painted a dark color instead of white. I’ve done that before with navy blue and I felt like I had little butterflies on the tips of my fingers!
A DIY French mani isn’t really that hard to do. Nail hack! I paint the white over the broken nail bed to make a fake tip that matches the length of the other nails.
I always plan when I’m doing my nails because WATER IS DEATH TO MANICURES. I don’t do my nails within several hours of getting them soaked- in the shower, washing dishes, or cleaning. Usually I do them in the evening, and get the added benefit they can cure overnight. It’s a good thing to take time to pamper yourself- whether you’re doing a self manicure or going to a salon.
Left hand 
Right hand 
Left hand 1 week later!
How I do it:
My base coat (always) is NailTek® Ridge Filler. As I’ve gotten older, my nails have developed ridges and I think the NailTek does a great job making a smooth foundation.
The white is essie #10 blanc. I’ve found the easiest way for me to get a crisp line is to start the brush at the outside corner of the nail and roll my finger away from me, holding the brush still. If I get some of the white polish on my cuticle, I use an orange stick to remove as much as I can. The rest comes off in the morning when I wash my hands and face. I’m generous with the white so I do just one coat.
The overlay color I use is O*P*I lacquer Bubble Bath. One coat softens the white for a natural look. For the top coat I used essie gel*setter™.
I like my nails longer so I don’t often sport the French look, plus I like color. I don’t wear my nails as long as Rachel (although when I was younger I totally rocked the talons).
Tangerine Tea:
I totally agree with Pam! French manicures shouldn’t be reserved for special occasion. Every day of life is a special occasion and our nails should show that!
French manicures, to me, look the best on short nails. I like keeping my nails a little long, so I have not had a French manicure in quite awhile. However, they make me feel fancy! I think they look absolutely beautiful.
People often think that a French manicure is only about the white tip. The truth is, you can customize them to express you personality! As Pam mentioned, you can switch the tip color. I personally love anything with glitter or shimmer. You can also had a little detail, such as flowers or something like a dragonfly or butterfly. There are so many possibilities!
Although we have talked about how French manicures can be worn any day, I will be getting one for my wedding this summer!
How do you feel about French manicures? Or long nails in general? Do you paint them yourself or go to a salon?
