In the dynamic world of fashion, where every detail can make or break your look, choosing the perfect nail color to complement your outfit is almost as important as the outfit. 

And when it comes to red dresses, finding the best nail polish color is a great way to elevate your look.

Whether you lean more into the classic color and go for red polish or prefer exploring the spectrum of neutral colors for some subtle contrast, finding the best color for your red outfit is essential for achieving a polished and elegant look. 

From bold red nails to subtle pink nails or the contrasting olive green and the timeless charm of a French manicure.

Discover how the right nail color matched with the right shade of red dress, can elevate and enhance your red dress ensemble, and leave a lasting impression on your overall look.

• Red Christmas nail Ideas
• 35 Holiday Nail Ideas That Aren’t Red
• 47 Best Valentine’s Day Nail Art Ideas for 2024
• Spooky Halloween Nails
• Herbal DIY Nail Soak Recipe To Strengthen Your Nails Naturally

The Perfect Nail Polish Color for Red Dresses

Classic Red Nail Polish:

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Red nails are the perfect match for red dresses, it give off a classic look and complement a red dress effortlessly.

The monochromatic look is a bold look, and makes well, a bold fashion statement. This timeless combination will take your red outfit to the next level.

Add on some red shoes and red lipstick to tie in this monochromatic look.

Pink Nails:

Opting for pink nail polish introduces a playful and feminine touch to your red dress ensemble.

The soft contrast between the vibrant red and light pink adds a charming element, balancing the intensity of the outfit.

Pinks and reds are very complementary colors and is perfect for those seeking a lively and youthful vibe without compromising on style.

Metallic Nail Colors:

Elevate your red dress look with metallic nail colors, such as gold nails or silver nails. The reflective shine of metallics adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to your look. 

Beige Nails:

Neutral hues are also a perfect match for your formal event, beige nails offer a subtle complement to a red dress. 

Deep Purples:

Deep purples match well with deep reds.

The rich color complements the vibrancy of red, creating a captivating and harmonious blend.

This combination adds a layer of sophistication and drama to your overall appearance, making it an excellent choice for special events.

French Manicure:

The timeless elegance of a French manicure brings a refined and sophisticated touch to a red dress ensemble. The combination of neutral color white nail polish adds a classic and polished look. 

• How To Do Your French Manicure At Home

Olive Green:

Embrace a touch of earthy sophistication with olive green nails paired with a bright red dress.

The muted and natural tones of olive create a subtle contrast, offering a unique and unexpected twist to your overall appearance. 

White Nail Polish:

Crisp and clean, white nail polish provides a fresh and modern contrast to a red dress.

The high contrast between the bright white and bold red creates a striking visual impact. White nails are a popular choice for formal occasions.

Black Nail Polish (especially with black shoes):

For a bold and edgy look, opt for black nail polish to complement your red dress, especially when paired with black shoes.

This combination is perfect for evening events or occasions where you want to make a bold and memorable impression.

Black nail polish is a great choice not only for a black dress but also when you wear a darker shade of red.

Silver Nails:

Enhance the glamour of a red dress with silver nails, adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication.

The metallic shine of silver complements the vibrancy of red, creating a dazzling and eye-catching combination.

When opting for red nails, we suggest adding on some silver jewelry to really complement the look.

Gray Nail Polish:

Choose gray nail polish for a modern and understated complement to a red dress.

The neutral color provides a subtle backdrop, allowing the red outfit to stand out while maintaining a chic and contemporary aesthetic. 

Brown Nail Polish:

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Infuse warmth and earthy charm into your red outfit with brown nail polish. The rich and natural tones of brown create a harmonious balance, adding a touch of sophistication and depth.

This combination is perfect for those who prefer a muted and understated yet stylish look.

Gold Nails:

Add a touch of luxury and opulence to your red dress with gold nails. The warm and radiant tones of gold complement the richness of red, creating a cohesive combination.

This choice is especially great when paired with gold jewelry.

Deep Maroon Nail Colour:

Embrace a monochromatic and rich color scheme by pairing a deep maroon nail polish with a red dress.

The subtle variation in shades adds depth and sophistication, creating a cohesive and polished overall look. 

Navy Nail Polish: 

Elevate the elegance of a red dress with navy nails. The deep, sophisticated tones of navy create a stunning contrast against the vibrant red, offering a classic and refined aesthetic.

This combination is particularly suitable for dark skin.

Teal Nail Polish:

One of the more vibrant colors, teal nail polish is one of the more different colors to choose from.

The cool tone of teal adds a playful and contemporary twist to the overall look, creating a fun yet visually interesting look. This choice is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement.

Burgundy Color Nails:

Embrace a monochromatic and luxurious palette by pairing burgundy color nails with a red dress.

The subtle variation in shades adds depth and richness, creating a cohesive and polished appearance. 

Choosing The Right Nail Color For Different Undertones

Choosing the right nail color to complement your red dress involves considering different undertones of the skin, a crucial factor that can significantly impact your overall look.

For individuals with warm undertones, the richness of navy or the earthy charm of brown nail polish can create a harmonious balance, seamlessly blending with the warmth of the red outfit.

Teal, with its vibrant and cool undertones, serves as an excellent choice for those with cool tone skin, adding a pop of refreshing color to the ensemble.

Additionally, burgundy and deep maroon, with their deep and sophisticated hues, can suit many different undertones, offering a touch of luxury to any red dress look.

Experimenting with silver nails or gold nails can be versatile choices that complement different undertones.

The key lies in understanding your skin’s undertones and selecting nail colors that not only harmonize with your red dress but also enhance your natural beauty.

When you think of Valentine’s Day nails, you may think of pink and red nails with cute little hearts, but we’re here to show you Valentine’s Day nail art doesn’t have to be cheesy.

Plenty of Valentine’s Day nail designs are downright cool—and something you’ll want to wear well past the day of love.

Think monochromatic nail ideas but in shades of pastel or gradients of pink, sparkly rose-gold finishes that look grown-up, and of course, a few black-and-white options for those who can’t bring themselves to wear red and pink.

So whether you’re the type who’s into all things romantic or maybe you don’t even have a date for Valentine’s Day this year, at least your nails will look cute.

These are cute Valentine’s nail ideas that you can show your favorite nail tech to recreate, or if you’re a press-on girly, you can have your nails done in no time when you order these amazing press-ons from Amazon Prime.

Scroll on for the best Valentine’s Day nails for 2024.

• The Best Nail Polish Color For A Red Dress

Cute Valentine’s Day Nail Ideas

1. Pink Love Heart Valentine’s Day Square Short Nails

These cute Valentine’s Day nails are great to recreate, with their cute red and white hearts and neutral base that will just elevate any outfit this Valentine’s Day.

Related Post: How To Give Yourself A Manicure

2. Red French Tip Valentine’s Day Nails with Red Heart Designs

This nail design idea is very on-trend. Elevate the cliche Valentine’s Day nails with these red nails.

3. Almond Shaped Red & Pink Nails with Designs

If you love almond-shaped nails, this look is for you. These are a great set for the month of love, maybe even beyond.

4. Medium Coffin Heart French Tip Love Gradient Design

If you’re not into the pinks and the reds, these are a great set to dip your toes into the Valentine’s Day spirit.

5. Medium Square Black Hearts Valentine’s Nail Design

Another cute nail idea if you don’t like the in-your-face Valentine’s Day nail designs.

6. Medium Square Frosted Pink Gold Lines Valentine’s Day Nails

Torn between your favorite shades of pink, then try these nail ideas for girly and cute Valentine’s Day nail ideas.

7. French Pink Heart Almond Valentine’s Day Nail Ideas

If you love French nails and almond nail designs, these are great Valentine’s Day nail designs.

8. Medium Almond Glossy Nails with Heart Design

Another great idea if you love pinks, but also adding a French tip aspect to this.

9. Nude Short Square Heart Valentine’s Day Nail Designs

These heart press-on nails feature Valentine’s Day-inspired designs, including hearts and other classic motifs.

10. Valentine’s Day Short French Tip Nails

Really lean into the month of love with these cute nails.

11. Long Square Valentine’s Day Nails with Pearls Heart Bow Designs

Ok, if you love long nails and the maximalist look, these Valentine’s Day nail designs will be your go-to.

12. Heart Designs French Tip Valentine’s Day Nails

These nails are definitely Powerpuff Girl-coded, and I am here for it! Mix and match your favorite shades of pink to achieve this cute nail set.

13. Long ink Nude French Tip Valentine’s Day Nails

Another one for the girls who love long nails. This cute nude pink zebra French nail design is absolutely perfect for the month of February.

14. Long Square Glossy Valentine’s Day Nails with Cute Red Heart Nail Design

This is great for Valentine’s Day lovers, if you want to fully lean into Valentine’s Day, these nails are for you.

15. Short Square Colorful Heart Nail Design

Not feeling Valentine’s this February or simply want to shake up your color palette, this unique take on heart nails are a great idea for your Valentine’s Day nails.

16. Romantic Red Heart Valentine’s Day nail ideas

If you love both red and nude, try to combine them with this romantic Valentine’s Day nail set.

17. Valentine’s Day Red French Tip Nails

18. White Flower Heart Medium Length Glossy Valentine’s Day Nails

19. Valentine’s Day French Tip Nails With Pink Love Heart Pearls

20. Long coffine valentine’s day nails with Heart Designs

21. Valentine’s Day Medium Pink Almond Nails With Strawberry Design

22. Almond Valentine’s Day Nails With Heart Design

23. Valentine’s Day Coffee Square Nails with Rhinestone & Heart Design French Tip

24. Valentine’s Day 3D Art Bow Nail Design

25. Valentines Day Almond Nails with Pink Heart Pattern

26. French Red Heart Romantic Valentine’s day Nails

27. Short French Tip Valentine’s Day nails

28. Valentine’s Day Nails With Love Heart Rhinestones Designs

29. Short Valentine’s Day French Tip Nails

30. Long Coffin Glitter Nails With Pink Hearts French Tip

31. Black French Tip Coffin Valentine’s Day Nails With White Hearts

32. Valentine’s Day Short square Nude Red Nails

33. Romantic Red Love Heart Valentine’s Day Nails

34. Valentine’s Day Short Square Nails

35. Valentine’s Day Medium Square Matte Pink Heart Nails

36. Heart French Tip Nails

37. Valentine’s Day Long Coffin Nails with Rhinestones Red Heart

38. Valentine’s Day Medium Almond Nails on Nude Red

39. Long Pink Rose Matte Valentine’s Day Nails

40. Short Almond Valentine’s Day French Tip Heart Design

41. Valentine’s Day Medium Square Nails with Gold Line Designs

42. Valentine’s Day Medium Square Nails with French Tip

43. Almond Valentines Day Medium Gold Heart Nude Nails

44. Small Red Heart Valentine’s Day Nails

45. Long Coffin Valentine’s Day Heart Nails

46. Heart Medium Square Red French Tip Valentine’s Nails

47. French Tip Medium Square Nails

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Having strong and healthy nails not only enhances your overall appearance but also boosts your confidence. While professional manicures are a treat, you can achieve remarkable results right at home with a DIY nail soak that nourishes and strengthens your nails.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple yet effective DIY manicure nail soak that will leave your nails looking and feeling their best.

Related Post: How To Nail Your French Manicure At Home

Why Do A Nail Soak

A nail soak is a simple yet effective self-care practice that offers a range of benefits for your nails and cuticles. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider incorporating a nail soak into your routine:

1. Hydration and Moisturization: Soaking your nails helps hydrate and moisturize the nail plate and surrounding skin. This is especially beneficial if you have dry, brittle nails or if your cuticles tend to be rough and dry.
2. Nail and Cuticle Softening: Soaking softens the nails and cuticles, making them more pliable and easier to work with. This can be particularly useful before pushing back cuticles or trimming nails.
3. Promotes Nail Growth: A nail soak can stimulate blood circulation in the fingertips, which may promote healthier nail growth over time.
4. Enhanced Nail Care: If you’re planning to apply nail polish, a nail soak can help prepare your nails by removing any debris, oils, or residues, allowing the polish to adhere better and last longer.
5. Preparation for Nail Treatments: Before applying nail treatments like strengthening products or nail growth serums, a nail soak can help prepare your nails by cleansing and nourishing them.
6. Self-Care Ritual: Incorporating a nail soak into your routine provides an opportunity for self-care and pampering. It’s a simple yet effective way to show your nails some love and attention. Soaking your nails can be a soothing and calming experience, providing a few moments of relaxation and stress relief.

When creating a nail soak, you can tailor the ingredients to your specific needs.

Natural ingredients like lemon juice, olive oil, and honey offer nourishing properties that contribute to the overall health and appearance of your nails.

Whether you’re looking to strengthen, moisturize, or simply indulge in a relaxing moment, a nail soak can be a valuable addition to your beauty and self-care regimen.

The Best Oils To Add To Your Nail Soak

Several oils are known for their potential to promote nail growth and overall nail health. Incorporating these oils into your nail care routine can provide the nutrients and moisture needed to encourage strong, resilient nails. Here are some of the best oils for nail growth and strength:

1. Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by our skin. It helps moisturize and strengthen nails while preventing breakage. The vitamins and minerals in jojoba oil nourish the nail bed and cuticles.
2. Sweet Almond Oil: Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, sweet almond oil moisturizes and conditions the nails and cuticles. It can help improve nail flexibility and prevent them from becoming dry and brittle.
3. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is packed with nutrients that nourish the nails, making them stronger and less prone to breakage. Its antifungal properties can also help keep the nails and surrounding skin healthy.
4. Argan Oil: Argan oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and fatty acids that support nail growth and repair. It helps moisturize and strengthen nails, promoting their overall health.
5. Olive Oil: Olive oil contains essential nutrients that can penetrate the nails and cuticles, providing hydration and nourishment. Regular application can improve the appearance and strength of the nails.
6. Castor Oil: Castor oil is known for its potential to stimulate hair and nail growth. It contains ricinoleic acid, which has antimicrobial properties and can help maintain healthy nails.
7. Vitamin E Oil: Vitamin E oil is a powerful antioxidant that promotes blood circulation and enhances nail health. It can help repair and strengthen damaged nails.

When using these oils for nail growth, consider creating a DIY nail soak or cuticle oil by combining one or more of these oils.

Consistency is key, so incorporate this practice into your nail care routine for the best results. Remember that individual results may vary, and it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and overall good nail care practices for optimal nail health.

How To Make A Nail Soak

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1. Warm Water: To create a comfortable and relaxing soak.
2. Lemon Juice: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon juice helps brighten and strengthen nails.
3. Olive Oil: Packed with essential fatty acids, olive oil deeply moisturizes and nourishes nails and cuticles. (Or any other oil from the list)
4. Honey: With its natural humectant properties, honey retains moisture and promotes nail health.
5. Tea Tree Oil (Optional): Known for its antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil can help prevent infections and promote nail strength.

DIY Manicure Nail Soak Recipe:

1. Prepare Your Soak: Fill a bowl with warm water, enough to comfortably submerge your fingertips.
2. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl of warm water. Lemon juice’s vitamin C content helps strengthen nails and remove stains.
3. Incorporate Olive Oil: Pour a tablespoon of olive oil into the water. Olive oil’s nourishing properties help improve nail flexibility and prevent breakage.
4. Introduce Honey: Add a teaspoon of honey to the mix. Honey’s humectant nature ensures your nails retain moisture and stay hydrated.
5. (Optional) Incorporate Tea Tree Oil: If desired, add a few drops of tea tree oil. This step can help protect your nails from potential infections and maintain their health.
6. Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix the ingredients in the bowl to ensure they’re well combined.

The Nail Soak Process:

1. Soak Your Nails: Submerge your fingertips into the nail soak mixture. Relax and enjoy the nourishing soak for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Gently Massage: While soaking, gently massage your nails and cuticles. This promotes blood circulation, allowing the nutrients to penetrate and strengthen your nails.
3. Pat Dry: After soaking, pat your hands dry with a clean towel.

Follow up the nail soak with your preferred moisturizing cream or cuticle oil. Applying a nourishing product will seal in the benefits of the soak and leave your nails and cuticles feeling soft and revitalized.

Incorporating this DIY manicure nail soak into your routine once a week can make a significant difference in the strength and health of your nails. By harnessing the power of natural ingredients, you’re giving your nails the care they deserve, resulting in nails that are not only beautiful but also resilient and strong.

After getting a brand-new manicure or pedicure, there are few things more annoying than smudging your nail polish.

Regardless of who or what you unintentionally graze your nails against, the sinking sensation that follows is common. We all know the sinking sensation that comes from underestimating the polish’s drying time and unintentionally ruining our freshly painted nails.

Getting a manicure should be a joyful act of self-care. Give that lacquer enough time to dry if you want your nails to appear their best after a manicure. What is the actual duration of this process?

Most people are unaware that there are numerous influencing variables, such as the kind of nail polish used and whether the manicure was performed in a salon or at home. Continue reading to learn all there is to know about curing your nails and avoiding the dreaded smudging.

How Long Does It Actually Take Nail Polish To Dry?

Nail polish can cure in as little as 15 minutes, and the majority of applications should be completely dry in under an hour. Salons have UV-lit fan dryers, which can shorten the drying time. The number of layers you apply, the thickness of each coat, and the polish you select are all factors that affect drying time.

However, there are a variety of topcoats and quick-dry nail paint formulas available for air-drying nail polish. But it can take up to two hours total for nails to completely air dry, based on how many coats of nail polish are used, the more coats you use, the longer it will take to dry.

Professionals suggest waiting this long for your polish to cure before going to bed if you get your nails or feet done in the evening, just to be safe. The polish takes the same amount of time to dry on pedicures, but even when it feels dry to the skin, I advise waiting an hour before putting on closed-toe shoes or socks.

It’s best to wear flip-flops after getting your nails done because even if the paint doesn’t smudge, it will frequently get smudged with the imprint of your sock. Even if you delayed the advised period of time, mistakes still happen.

If you accidentally smudge your nail polish, try to remove it by dipping your finger in a nail polish remover, then paint on a light layer of polish. Remove all of the paint from that nail and reapply if the smudge cannot be removed.

How To Speed Up Nail Polish Drying Time

Always begin by adding a base coat, then two layers of nail polish, and finally a topcoat for the best outcomes, here is an in-depth tutorial on how to give yourself an at-home manicure or pedicure. But it cant be salon-worthy if we smudge it, so let’s see how we can speed up drying time:

1. Apply Thin Layers Of Nail Polish

Polish application is super important when it comes to fast drying times. Technique matters a lot. Use the fewest possible strokes when applying polish and avoid overworking it. This has a tendency to happen, particularly with lighter nail hues in an effort to make them look more even.

Even if the first layer appears a little streaky, be sure to paint it on thinly and have faith that the second coat will even out the color.

Instead of two thick coats, she says to opt for three thin ones as thinner layers dry faster than thicker ones

2. Wait Between Coats

While engaging in an enjoyable activity, like catching up on your favorite Netflix show, paint your nails while waiting two-three minutes between each coat of polish to pass the time.

When you allow the nail polish to adequately dry between coats, it avoids having a thick layer of coats that are wet and take much longer to dry. This way, you only have to wait for thin layers of polish to dry at a time.

3. Use A Hair Dryer To Dry The Nail Polish

Using a cool setting, as a higher temperature may cause the polish to bubble, and holding the dryer’s nozzle a few pinches away from your hands, direct the airflow at your nails for a few seconds at a time until they feel dry, is a surprising way to speed up the drying process for nail polish.

4. Use Quick Dry Top Coats Or Drops

Apply rapid dry drops or spray after the nails have cured for five minutes to speed up the drying process, as many salon professionals do. Try to avoid moving around too much in the meantime. The top coat’s ability to cure quickly really aids in reducing drying time.

A topcoat like Excuse Me Quick Dry Fast Drying Super Shiny Nail Polish Top Coat or Butter LONDON P.D. Quick Dry Conditioning Drops are two great recommendations.

It is best to avoid the process of running your nails under cold water because it is a common practice that actually doesn’t accomplish much. I don’t advise running underwater because you’ll have to shift and there’s a chance your polish will get dinged or smudged. You would still want to exercise caution because it would primarily only work on the top layers and the lower layers would be wet.

When using traditional nail polish removers, do you ever wonder what else might nail polish removers be removing in the process?

Nail polish remover removes your polish swiftly and effectively. But there are actually a few other approaches that will work if you want to get rid of your manicure and remove old nail polish from your nails without using a typical nail polish remover.

Acetone, a key component of what is typically considered to be a conventional remover, can severely harm your nails. Acetone is extremely harsh and dehydrating. However, [the nail polish removers] operate very quickly. Although non-acetone nail polish removers are kinder to the cuticles, they take a little longer to work.

Soak your cuticles in some warm water before beginning any of the removal procedures listed below. Your nail base will enlarge in water. This will aid in easing the polish and prime your nails for one of the alternative removal methods.

Unconventional Nail Polish Removers

1. Rubbing Alcohol

One of the best methods to remove polish without an acetate remover is with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Use a cotton swab or pad to apply some to your nail. After letting it rest for approximately 10 seconds, softly rub it back and forth.

It should be reasonably simple to remove your nail polish. Additionally, you will need more product than if you just used ordinary rubbing alcohol if your perfume contains alcohol.

Additionally, bear in mind that the scent might be too strong, so you shouldn’t use it as your first option.

2. Vinegar And Orange Juice

You can make your own homemade nail polish removal solution by combining white vinegar and your preferred citric juice. White vinegar and fresh orange juice should be combined in an identical ratio.

For about 10 seconds, press on your fingertips with the cotton ball/pad dipped in the mixture to soften the nail paint. The cotton paper should then be pulled down to remove the polish.

3. Lemon Slices

Regular lemon can also remove nail varnish. Apply a lemon slice to your nails, wait until the polish softens, then rub the lemon liquid off.

4. Hairspray

There’s a myth that hairspray can remove nail polish, and it does. But it must be aerosol hairspray. Apply hairspray to a cotton ball or cotton pad, then roll the cotton around your nail.

If you have an accidental spill, this strategy is especially helpful. Hairspray will remove the polish without fading the flooring or fabric.

5. Soy-Based Nail Polish Removers

In order to make nail paint removers without acetate, soy is increasingly being used as the primary ingredient. The idea behind soy-based removers and the other suggested remedies is to make the nail polish softer.

Polish is dissolved by the liquid acetone. Soy-based removers are a gentler alternative even though they won’t react as swiftly. After using the soy-based remover, you might need to wait up to 45 seconds before you can scrub your nails with a cotton cloth.

6. Toothpaste

Toothpaste is another household staple that you can try to remove your nail polish when you’re really in a bind.

Scrub your nails with a basic toothpaste, the paste contains ethyl acetate which is also present in the polish remover, or use one that has baking soda, which is a gentle abrasive. After a few minutes of scrubbing, use a cloth to wipe your nail and see if this method has worked.

7. Top Coat

If you have a nail polish top coat then there is no need to worry. All you need to do is apply the top coat on the nail polish and quickly wipe it off with a cotton pad. The top coat needs to be wet which helps to peel off the polish.

Make sure to take care of your nails after you’ve used your preferred technique to remove the polish. Use cuticle oil to replenish the moisture in your nail, cuticles, and nearby skin because hand sanitizer and rubbing alcohol can dry out your skin and nails.

Now a new mani trend is on the rise, the micro French mani.

We all know and love a good French manicure, our moms use to rock them when we were younger, they were the telltale signs of a classy woman.

But they soon died down and were taken over by more extravagant designs and trends.

Long gone are the long acrylic nails that the baddest b*tches were rocking.

But it’s not the French manicure we grew up watching our moms rocking, this is its grown-up more mature, and aesthetic sister.

Difference Between Micro French and The Classic French Manicure

The micro French manicure is a minimalist modern version of the classic, where the nail tip is decorated with the thinnest of lines.

Designs are up to you, and you have many options, you could try a pretty nude, or a really bold color for summer and even add nail art if that’s more your speed. Just because it’s a French mani, doesn’t mean it has to be boring.

This trend has it all, it’s classy, sleek, and sophisticated while giving you the freedom to choose between subtle or bold looks and works on short nails too!

This trend is versatile and all the girlies are just eating it up. It’s a stylish and modern manicure that every girl can participate in.

• The Best Nail Polish Color For A Red Dress

Easy Micro French Mani How-To

This might just become your go-to style, so why not learn how to do it at home?

With a few essential tools, you can have a professional-looking manicure in no time.

Step 1: Prep Your Nails

No mani will last without proper nail prep.

To ensure a chic and professional finish shaping and filing your nails is important, buff your top layer off, and moisturize your cuticles.

 Step 2: Add A Base Coat

Whenever you’re doing your nails, be it a manicure or a pedicure, always start with a base coat.

Make sure to wipe off any access cuticle oil before you do so to ensure smooth application. Apply one to two layers of the base coat in thin neat strokes to ensure faster drying time and a more professional finish.

Step 3: Choose Your Colors

You could go the classic French mani route with a sheer shade of white or pale pink for your base color.

You could go with a bold color for your tip to complement your nude base for a more bright look. Or, you could opt for a more subtle lighter color like white if you want to stay closer to the classic look.

Your options to choose from are endless for both your tip and base colors.

Step 4: Draw Your Line

Apply a thin strip of color at the tip of your nails.

You can use either a striping brush or the actual nail polish brush to create your thin line. It might be helpful to paint a slightly curved line at the end of the nail tips first before filling in the rest.

You might need to layer on the coats so that your color really stands out and contrasts your base layer.

You’re not gonna get it on the first try but you’ll get better as you practice. 

Step 5: Top Coat

Finally, use a top coat to seal in the French tip and get that seamless professional finish.

And there you have it, now you can have a micro french manicure on a budget.

There’s something about getting a pedicure or manicure that makes you feel fancy. And as soon as it’s sandal season, it’s time to whip your toes back into shape.

That being said, sometimes a trip to the salon just isn’t happening.

The good news is, doing your at-home pedicure can save you time and money.

With these easy steps, your feet will be looking better than if they had just come from an actual foot spa.

Step 1: Prep Your Toes For Your At-Home Pedicure

To kick off your at-home pedicure remove any old polish with a cotton pad and nail polish remover. Hold the pad on each nail for a few seconds to allow the nail polish to break down, then wipe it away.

A good nail polish remover will remove any stubborn colors quickly, but acetone is used for better results.

Step 2: Soak Your Feet and Toes in a Foot Bath

Now that you’re all set for your pedicure, whip out your foot bath and get ready to be transported to absolute bliss(if you don’t have a foot bath, you can fill up a bucket with water and use that instead).

Fill your bath/bucket with warm water and your favorite bath salt. Now submerge your feet.

Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes or until the water runs cold, this will help soften your cuticles and calluses. Then dry off your feet.

Step 3: Remove Calluses

Now it’s time to get down and dirty. This is most people’s favorite part of a pedicure. It can be satisfying to feel how smooth your feet get after grinding off all that dead skin.

Grab your foot file, pumice stone, or washcloth for a gentler approach, and begin grinding.

Focus on any problem areas you may have, calluses, corns, or rough heels.

Step 4: Trim, Shape, and Buff Your Nails

Cut down your nails and begin shaping them. Start by cutting toenails straight across and then filing down the edges, this will prevent ingrown nails.

Use your buffer to prep your nails for the polish, removing the top layer of the nail will help your pedicure last even longer.

Add a bit of cuticle oil on and around your prepped nails for a finishing touch.

Step 5: Massage Your Feet With Your Favorite Lotion

With a foot cream or body lotion of your choosing, begin massaging your toes and feet until they are tender and you feel more relaxed.

The massage will both relax you and hydrate your feet after you’ve just scrubbed off all your calluses, if you have a foot spa massager, you can use it to really get in there.

After you’ve finished, grab a new cotton pad and wipe away any excess oil and lotion. This will help your polish last longer. Now grab your toe separators and you’re all set for your polish.

Step 6: Apply Your Base Coat

After your nails are cleaned and buffed, it’s time to add your base coat.

The base coat acts as a barrier between your natural nails and the actual polish. Using this will help your pedicure last even longer, so don’t skip this step of your DIY pedicure if you want it to look professional.

Step 7: Paint Your Toenails

Once your base layer has dried and set, apply a layer of your nail polish of choice.

Let it dry and apply a second layer. Make sure to apply it in thin layers, because you can achieve an even finish and it allows for faster drying time.

Step 8: Finnish Off Your At-Home Spa With a Top Coat

Another very important step for a long-lasting, professional-looking pedicure.

A thin layer of top coat will seal everything in and prevents premature chipping after it has dried and a few drops of cuticle oil to really finish it off.

An at-home pedicure is as simple as you make it. In eight simple steps, you now have a salon-worthy pedicure in under 30 minutes.

For a full spa experience, try these at-home spa treatments and make sure to grab all the essentials to make it extra perfect.