The French manicure never really went out of style, but our devotion to all things noughties has put them firmly on top of nail trends. Alongside claw clips and baguette bags, lined tips have become the go-to mani for It-girls, A-listers and our besties.
Credited to manicurist and President of Orly International, Jeff Pink, the French manicure as we know it originated out of necessity in Hollywood in 1975. At the time it was taking too long for actresses to change their nail colour to match their costume, so Jeff created a neutral nail look that could go with everything. It’s name comes from the fact that the mani became so popular, it crossed the pond and became synonymous with models on the French runways in Paris. Hence, the French manicure.
It’s easy to see why its appeal endures – elegant and understated, the classic Frenchie not only flatters every nail shape but it also works with all the trends popping off on TikTok, from a nude and white vintage girl or old money manicure, to a brat French tip (just swap the white line out for black). There’s so many ways to wear them, including colourful and multi-coloured, or upgraded with extra nail art, stickers, gems and decals.
The shape itself offers flexibility – we’ve seen it chunky and ‘90s, or micro and delicate. Likewise, we’ve seen it straight and squared, or rounded, pointed or almond.
So, whatever your aesthetic, we have some of our favourite ways to wear the French manicure lined up below…
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Squared-off Frenchies
A classic pink and white Frenchie made modern with elongated squared-off tips.
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Bubblegum pink Frenchie
Swap nude and beige bases for cute (but still sophisticated) bubblegum pink).
