9 French tip manicure designs that upgrade the classic, elegant look
A modern twist on a classic...
You knew the nail appointment was coming. It's been in the diary just shy of a month. Yet, here you are, being asked to ‘pick a shade’ like it’s the easiest decision in the world. It feels like not even 30 seconds has passed and the same three words come at you again – with a little more urgency this time. A faint sheen of sweat starts to surface on your upper lip and you end up panic pointing to one of the most rogue colours on the nail wheel which will only serve to offend you for the next few weeks.
Whenever you find yourself in the above circumstance, there is one failsafe nail design that will have your back every single time. Enter the French manicure. Created back in 1975 by President and CEO of Orly International Jeff Pink, the iconic nail design continues to find its way onto runways and red carpets. “It really is a forever classic,” says London-based nail artist Nikki Parker. “The nude base gives you a seamless grow-out, while a crisp white tip keeps the look clean, classy and timeless. Plus, you can tailor it to different nail lengths and shapes.”
The good news? Going for a classic nude and white French tip manicure doesn’t mean you’re restricted. “Elevate the look by adding a touch of chrome, sparkles, delicate-coloured stripes or daisy detail on the tips.”
Here, find nine modern takes on the classic French tip manicure to save for your next appointment.
The chrome French tip manicure
Loved by Hailey Bieber, the glazed doughnut French manicure is a trending and timeless take on the classic, and involves buffing in a layer of chrome to finish. A winner all year round.
The pearlescent French tip manicure
A Bridgerton-inspired manicure if ever we saw one. Reserve the pearlescent finish for just the tips, or go all out with added pearls, switching the placement up on each nail.
The cat eye French tip manicure
Cat eye nails are created by the application of a magnetic polish, which is then positioned with the use of a magnet. The trend is very much here to stay, and this is the chicest way to give it a go.
The bejewelled French tip manicure
For when the dress code reads "put on your best cocktail dress." Keep it simple with silver or gold sparkle accents, or experiment with a mix of different coloured gems.
The floral French tip manicure
Florals + French tips = the ultimate spring-approved manicure. There's so many different options to choose from as you can experiment, placement, colour and type of flower.
The polka dot French tip manicure
The polka dot revival is still going strong, and as much as we're seeing the print on fits, we're seeing it on fingers. For a classic look, keep the spots black or try a pastel shade for a fun finish.
The futuristic French tip manicure
The 3D, molten-inspired mani is the futuristic upgrade to the classic, and is a regular go-to for ultimate cool girl Dua Lipa.
The starry French tip manicure
A quick and easy win to level up a mani is with a collection of star stickers, which are applied just before finishing with the top coat. Play around with placement, like having just one accent nail or adding to all.
The striped French tip manicure
Instead of a classic white tip, incorporate a different colour and layer to achieve a striped effect. This creates a sleek, graphic, almost wave-like French tip.
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