How to Create a Reverse French Manicure

French manicures can look sophisticated and beautiful, but using the same color palette of white, off-white and soft pink can leave advocates for other colors wanting more. A reverse French manicure will use a light color for the majority of the nail and a different color at the tip, either brighter or darker. This can break the monotony of the much-used French manicure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Warm water
• Orange (or cuticle) stick
• White nail polish
• Opaque colored polish
• Clear polish
• Nail polish remover

1. Soak hands in warm water to soften them and use an orange, or cuticle, stick to push back your softened cuticles, leaving more room to paint. This will also create a smoother surface for the nail polish.

2. Apply the white (or light pink) nail polish on each nail as usual. Start from the pinkie finger and move inward to the thumb on each hand. This is the base coat for the manicure. Let dry completely.

3. Begin using the darker (or brighter) opaque polish across the top of the nail. The polish can be applied in a straight line across the tip of the nail, or in a half-moon shape. If you cannot do this free-hand, use a guide, which can be purchased in stores in the beauty section. They are usually adhesive half moons that attach to the nail just below where you want to paint and can be easily removed.

4. Let the tips of the nails dry completely. Use the white polish again on top, if necessary. Otherwise skip straight to the clear top coat of polish. This will help lock in the polishes and create a shiny look.

Tips & Warnings

• The opaque color for the nail tips can be any shade you want. Black polish works nicely to create a dramatic look, as does red. Shades, such as pink, on the tips create a softer look.
• Keep nail polish remover handy in case of mistakes.