The French manicure seems to be the old trend making a comeback at New York Fashion Week. From streetwear brand Kith to designers Prabal Gurung and Christian Siriano, the style over the years has not lost its allure.
This style of manicure has always been around. Much like anything that has to do with fashion, it goes on trend, gets outdated, then becomes popular again. But how exactly did the French manicure come about?
Nailsmag says it is unclear where the term came from since there is no concrete proof that it originated in France or whether it was started by a French person. The term was reportedly first coined by Jeff Pink, founder of nail polish American brand Orly, in the late 1970s. Others say it was Max Factor, father of modern cosmetics, who should be credited after creating the look in the 1930s.
Whatever manner the look came about, there is no argument that the French manicure remains timeless. These days, all we see are brightly colored studded nails and I think it’s high time we go back to the classics.
Now let me show you how you can achieve those runway-ready fingernails without spending too much. Just follow this step-by-step process:
Step #1: Cleaning
Of course we always want to apply product on clean nails. If you’re still sporting an old manicure, use cotton and nail polish remover to get rid of the color.
Step #2: Base coat
Once you’re done removing the previous color, it’s now time to apply a new one. First you need a base coat, which can be clear or has a pink hue. Apply it evenly on your nails, then wait for it to dry. The Bobbie Base Coat Nail Polish is one of the most affordable nail products in the market. It’s long lasting and perfect as a base coat for you French manicure. Available on Shopee.
Step #3: Paint the tips
Once the base coat has dried, you need a white nail polish to put on the tip of your fingernails. This is what makes a French manicure. Remember to apply it only at the tip and wait for it to dry. The light hue of Pampered White from the Happy Skin and Posh Nails collab line is exactly what you need to achieve a French manicure. It’s also healthy for your nails because it has almond oil and hydrolyzed keratin to help nourish your nails and make them stronger. It’s vegan too so you you can apply it guilt-free, Available at Beauty Bar.
Step #4: Top coat
This is the last step of the French manicure process. All you need to do is apply the top coat nail polish and wait for it to dry. This top coat from Bench is said to be ultra-high shine which will make your manicure pop more. Available at Bench stores.
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Now you have French manicured nails without spending more. Just remember: Being on trend does not always have to be expensive.
Photo courtesy of Betina Goldstein’s Instagram account
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