NAILS / THE SPLIT FRENCH
As far as I can remember the last time I sported a french manicure was at prom - a decade ago; but based on looks seen at NYFW for S/S '16, the trend, although updated, is back with a vengeance. From a paint-splattered french at Zero + Maria Cornejo, gilded tips at Nicholas K, a feathered take from Tadashi Shoji, and finally the split french, which I've re-created, at the Tibi show, it's no question that french manicures are once again taking over.
HOW TO RE-CREATE
- Apply a base coat. My personal favourite – OPI Nail Envy.
- Apply one thin coat of Essie Nail Polish in Limo-scene to all nails in order to conceal any imperfections.
- Using a striping brush draw two parallel lines in the center of the nail with Essie Nail Polish in Blanc, extending approx. 1cm from the tip of the nail.
- Leaving the center strip blank, draw a slightly curved line from the bottom of each line towards the outer edge of the nail. Once the outline resembles a split french fill them in. Pro-Tip: To ensure lines are as symmetrical as possible keep the brush in one place and rotate your hand in order to create straight lines. This method is much more effective than using the brush alone.
- Go over the design once more using Essie Nail Polish in Blanc to ensure the design is opaque.
- Finish the manicure with a thick coat of the Seche-Vite Fast-Drying Top Coat to seal in the design.
SHOP THE POST
When was the last time you sported a french manicure?
Let me know/share your re-creations in the comment section below.