A French tip manicure polishes nails in two colors, one for the bed of the nail and another for the tip. Traditionally, French tip manicures create a polished and professional look that replicates the natural nail in pink and white, but modern variations may use other colors. The French tip manicure is one of the most popular choices today for both formal and everyday occasions.
A French tip manicure polishes nails in two colors, one for the bed of the nail and another for the tip. Traditionally, French tip manicures create a polished and professional look that replicates the natural nail in pink and white, but modern variations may use other colors. The French tip manicure is one of the most popular choices today for both formal and everyday occasions.
History
The French manicure began in the 1970s, when movie directors were looking for a nail look that could work throughout multiple wardrobe changes. A white nail tip and sheer pink, beige or nude nail bed provided the natural nail look, while still giving the appearance of a well-manicured hand. This new style took off on the Paris runways and was soon dubbed the "French manicure."
Appearance
The classic French tip manicure is done on short- to medium-length nails. The nails are shaped, either into a more rounded or squared shape. White polish is applied to the tips of each nail, then a sheer pink, flesh or beige tone is brushed over the nail bed. Top coat is applied to help your French tips last.
Function
French tip manicures are versatile, working well with everything from jeans to a wedding dress. Today, you can even match your French tips with a French pedicure. The classic pink and white look dresses up natural nails without adding color and hides small chips and dings to the polish well.
Considerations
You can do your own French manicure at home. You will need white polish made for French tips, a sheer pink tone and French tip guides to make it easy to polish the tips of your nails neatly. Apply a base coat to your nails; allow it to dry. Press the guides into place. Paint the tips with the white polish. Once dry, paint the entire nail with a sheer tone. Follow that coat with your topcoat.
Potential
French manicures remain popular, but there are many variations today. The classic look may be combined with nail art or the colors changed. Black tips are one option, as is a glittery or shimmery sheer instead of a solid. You can even opt for glittered nail tips and a natural-tone nail bed.
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