By Alexandra Engler, Self
Juicy colors and dynamic designs will up your nail art game.
Nail art can be a fun way to express your individuality and creativity. Currently, the trend is veering from cat caricatures and diamond designs to a more minimal approach. Here manicurist Natalie Pavloski creates six subtle manicures that will still grab your attention. The good news: These simple graphic shapes are easy to DIY, and each look features the hottest polish shades for spring.
[post_ads_2]
1
Round Off
No two nails alike! Changing the focal point and colors "gives this look energy," says Pavloski. To create it, paint two coats of the base color, either Sephora Formula X in White Matter (used throughout) or Zoya in Sia ($10). For that semicircle, use a thin nail-art brush to draw the outline. Drop a bead of polish in the center and spread it out to the edge.
2
Line Drive
A racer stripe makes bright pink— like this Chanel Le Vernis in Camélia —instantly sporty. With a thin brush, swipe a horizontal line in a single stroke, so the width is as large as the brush. For extra help, Pavloski suggests using a strip of tape as a guide.
[post_ads_2]
3
Half Time
"It's the French tip with a major twist," says Pavloski. To get it, paint the base color—like this Sally Hansen in Mardi Grape —over the entire nail. Then use a narrow brush to draw a straight line across. With the brush from the bottle, fill in the contrasting shade.
4
High Point
Create this sharp look: Dot the tip of each triangle with a pointed brush, using CoverGirl XL Nail Gel in Overblown Orange for the color. Drag the brush toward the edge. Repeat on the other side, then fill in the triangle. With such a strong design, keep the nail shape clean and natural.
[post_ads_2]
5
Square Up
A modern update on the classic red mani—perfect with Morgan Taylor in Fire Cracker. For those boxes, mark each square's corners and draw lines out from them. Go over them with a regular brush. If it's a bit messy, Pavloski says, just grab an angled makeup brush, dip it in remover and wipe away any mistakes.
6
Clean Slice
"This is a simple way to try the trend," says Pavloski. With a fine brush, draw a diagonal across the nail, then paint each section using Essie in Nama-Stay the Night for the blue. Finish all of these looks with a top coat to really make them shine!
See more at: SELF
