How to do your own holiday french manicure

One of the main secrets to great nails is great preparation! The 1st thing I usually do is clean my nails with some nail polish remover. Even if my nails are bare, I do this anyway.

Continuing preparation, I will go ahead and fix my nails up with whatever is necessary. In this instance, I used a nail file, moisturizing oil, and clipper. Everyone has their own preferences.

After nail prep is finallyyyy finished, the 1st step is to apply 1 base coat to your nails.

This manicure is based off the traditional French manicure, so choose a neutral tone of polish for the main coat of color. Apply as many coats as you like, but I don't recommend making it too thick.

This is what mine looks like. I chose a very light color. Based on experience, you may not want the main polish too thick because it will make the polish for the tips difficult to apply and dry.

Take one of your selected colors & instead of at the very edge of the nail, apply a curved line right below where you would normally apply the white polish. Take your time & go very slow.

Next, take the white polish & make the traditional white curved line at the edge of your nail. A tip for keeping steady: lean the hand that your painting on, onto a table or surface.

Alternate the selected colors on your fingers how you please. I started with red on my thumb and continued alternating with green.

This is how my nails looked after painting. I added an extra line on my ring finger for fun. :)

Next, take your preferred top coat and apply to your nails. I would wait at least 5 minutes before applying, especially when you work with nail art polish. It minimizes smearing of the colors.

Last but not least, clean up the edges and surround skin of your nails. The cleaning does not have to be exact. The polish will come off after a few times of hand washing.

My final results...you now have an at home simple French mani with a hint of style. Happy Holidays! :)