I go through major phases when it comes to manicures. In junior high, I changed my polish every week and only dressed in ways that would match it (yes, I’m serious). Then I went through a strict French tip phase in high school. After that, I only sported various tones of red. As I’m writing this, I’m in a natural nail phase — i.e.: nothing at all (mostly out of laziness). And I don’t know if it’s because I like to make things difficult on myself, when all of my nail polish is still in boxes after the move that’s making me want to be creative with manicures. But I am entering a nail art phase. So today we’re talking about 5 manicures that are inspiring me to ride out the rest of the summer and transition into fall.
the delicate decal –
Did any of you love nail art stickers when you were younger? Me too. This trend is just like that but adult(ish).
I love the simplicity. Apply a clear base coat and press star confetti into it. Wait a few minutes and apply a top coat so the decal doesn’t go anywhere. And voila!
But what I really love about this manicure is that it’s so easily adapted to your style and personal taste. You can use any color base, any type of sticker or embellishment, and completely personalize your mani at home.
the french w/ a twist –
Like I said, I used to be in a strict French manicure phase, and I still have a little love for it now. But, I don’t know, a traditional French manicure seems a bit dated in 2019.
Instead of the white tips, try adding a bit of a twist with … well … any color you want !
This photo includes a pop of red on one finger and some peachy and pastel blue tones. I also think it’d be cute to maybe use a pastel in place of white (or heck, throw a neon on there!)
the reverse french –
And if that doesn’t satisfy your French manicure desire, why not try it in reverse. I’ve seen this floating around the Internet for a few years, and while I’ve never tried it myself, I love how it looks.
Instead of painting the tips with white polish, you paint the moon shaped section at the bottom of your nail.
It’s still as subtle as a French manicure, and just as classic. But it provides a delicate statement that I think will be vvv Instagram approved.
the ‘i can’t decide’ –
Ah, now this is a manicure I’ve been seeing all over Instagram for the summer. I first started seeing it when Jamie Paige posted this photo on her Insta, and I fell immediately in love.
I dubbed this the “I can’t decide” manicure, because you get to use at least 3 polish shades. And it’s a fun way to use the color combinations you’ve been inspired by.
I love the neutral shades in the photo mixed with a bight pop of neon. But you could also do a gradient situation, using monochromatic colors, or even other thematic effects–like all neons, all pastels, or all jewel tones.
pro tip: I would try mixing finishes and textures to get the most impact.
the asymmetric mani –
And last but not least–this asymmetric situation that’s perfect for the last few weeks of summer!
It’s not too out there, and it’s not too difficult to achieve, making it a fun option for the last bit of summer.
Personally, I love this cerulean blue and mint mix, but you can pick and choose the colors you want. I’d just place a piece of tape on the part of your nail you want left free from color, and paint the rest. Much like you would if you were painting a wall. And then remove the tape and finish with a top coat!
And there you have it — five summer manicures that will carry you straight into the autumn season! What’s your favorite?
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