Try as we might, there’s no beating the classic French manicure. Complex nail art and iridescent chromes have their time and place, but this chic design is one you’ll go back to time and time again throughout your life.
Quiet but never boring, the French manicure is king for suiting every mood, outfit and occasion and has long been on our mani rotation. ‘It’s like the nail equivalent of a crisp white shirt—clean, elegant, and goes with everything!’ says A-list manicurist and senior Mylee ambassador, Tinu Bello.
If any beauty trend has truly withstood the test of time, it’s French tips. The iconic look originated in 1975 when Hollywood film directors, tired of constantly changing actresses’ nail colours between scenes, turned to Orly founder Jeff Pink. He created a design that was not only pretty and fashionable but versatile enough to pair with everything. And so, the French manicure was born.
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In its traditional form, the French manicure sits in the same minimalist camp as barely-there manicures (think strawberry milk and glazed doughnut nails), comprised of a flesh-coloured base and crisp white tip to enhance the natural nail. However, in recent years Gen Z – as they do with most beauty trends – unleashed their creativity unto the classic style and dreamt up a whole host of new iterations, including multi-colour tips and the popular micro-French. It’s good news for us though, as we’re never short of inspiration.
What is the new French manicure?
Subverting the conventions of a trend is practically what Gen Z stand for. Doing away with the standard nude and white colourway, the clan (including today’s cohort of talented nail techs) created their own versions of the style making use of colour and fun nail art. It’s likely that these variations, in part, have kept it so relevant.
‘The longevity of the French manicure is down to its adaptability. While the traditional white tip is always on trend, adding subtle nail art, gradient tones or experimenting with different tip colours keeps it fresh and modern,’ says Bello.
The French manicure trends to know this summer
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to sporting the modern French manicure; you can really have fun with it and make it your own. But in case you need a little help, here’s a few of our favourite takes on the traditional style, feel free to screenshot yours and take it to your next appointment.
Colourful twists
‘This summer, the French manicure is all about vibrant twists on the classic look. Think bold red and neon tips that add a playful pop of colour while maintaining that signature simplicity,’ says Bello.
The pastel French
‘Similarly, Pastel French manicures are everywhere! Think replacing the white tip with soft, dreamy hues of blue, pink, green and yellow – perfect for the warm, sunny months.’
Micro florals
‘Another French manicure trend I’ve seeing a lot is the micro-French manicure with floral and nature-inspired designs, involving delicate flower or leafy patterns which adds a seasonal touch that’s both fresh and feminine.’
Just like some of today’s best beauty and fashion trends, many popular nail looks are inspired by the runway. ‘The runway is always an amazing source of inspiration, and this season showcased Pantone’s colour of SS24 ‘Peach Fuzz’, ballet-core shades of soft pink, bright red and leopard print which can all be translated into a French mani,’ says session manicurist, Ami Streets.
Honourable mention to the ‘Double French’. To recreate this French mani, you take a standard thick tip and underline it with a thin line of contrasting colour, and the effect is a bold and graphic finish.
How to do a French manicure at home
Another reason that explains the style’s long-standing popularity is how easy it is to create at home, whether that be with a gel kit or traditional polish. Lacking a steady hand? No problem, try a nail stamp. Simply paint a thin layer of polish onto the stamp and, holding the nail at a 45-degree angle, push the tip of the nail gently into the painted area. Slowly rock the finger side-to-side to cover the natural tip completely, et voila.
That said, if one of the more complex designs has taken your fancy, it might be time to call your nail tech. Either take one of these pictures to your next appointment as inspiration, or use them as a jumping off point to design your perfect colourful upgrade to a classic French.
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