36 New Ways to Wear a French Manicure

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Perhaps the most undefeated nail trend to exist is the classic French manicure. This might sound like an effusive claim, but think about it, this chic nude and white combo has consistently stood steady among the endless cycle of nail trends. Why? It’s a timeless look. Even your favorite celebrities will agree— Emily Ratajkowski, Hailey Bieber, and Selena Gomez are among the many stars that rely on this unwavering style time after time.

However, if you’re looking to add some excitement to your nails, there are so many ways to experiment with French manicures that offer a refreshing departure from the traditional nude and white colorway. We would highly recommend choosing different shades, experimenting with various textures, or even dabbling in fun nail art. And if you’re in a bit of a creative rut, don’t you worry. We’ve curated a list of the most stylish French manicures for every mood. Whether you’re a simple gal who prefers the classic French mani look, or you’re trying to spice things up with a range of hues and designs, we’ve got an assortment of styles that you’ll definitely want to show your nail artist the next time you take a visit to the salon.

Inverse Neon French Manicure

Some nails are French manicures, some are half moons. Regardless, the color combination is so fun.

Floral French Manicure

Hand-painted flowers are a gorgeous and artful addition to a Black French manicure.

Matte and Glossy French Manicure

Two textures—matte and glossy—combine with a single shade for a very cool and edgy take on the French manicure.

Super Nude French Manicure

Nude tips are outlined by a thin white line for a finger-elongating and super simple update to the French manicure.

Red and Pink French Manicure

Two bold colors, like pink and red, look incredible when juxtaposed together.

Triangular French Manicure

Nail artist Julie K didn’t change up the shades for this French manicure—just the shape of the tip she painted on. The angle makes it modern and fresh.

Sips Tea

If you haven’t heard the news, Marsai Martin has her own collection of press-on nails and we’re obsessed. This elevated look is for anyone who loves a French mani with a touch of gold.

Twosome

If you look closely, you’ll notice that Paint Box’s set of press-on nails features two gorgeous shades of pink designed in geometric shapes. ELLE’s digital beauty director, Danielle James, is a huge fan of these press-ons and wears this set regularly. “Paintbox debuted press-ons for the first time this year at New York Fashion Week. When I need my nails done quickly, I can pop these on in ten minutes or less. They are limited editon, so hurry,” she says. This set gives the option of gel adhesive tabs and brush-on glue, depending on how long you want to wear them. Nevertheless, you’ll look like you spent a lot of effort on them.

Little Miss

We all know that red is the trending color of the year. Have some fun with Glamnetic’s sparkly red French tips, which are perfect for the holiday season.

French Twist Chill Tips Press-on Nails in White

For all the minimalist girlies out there, you’ll appreciate these press-ons from Chill Tips. With a simple silhouette and a traditional nude and white colorway, they’ll become your go-to tips.

Kiss Power Play Salon Acrylic Nail Kit

Get the nail salon look without the nail salon prices. For almost $9, this Kiss set is equipped with 28 durable nails, gel glue, a mini file, and a manicure stick.

Half Moon Guides

You don’t need a steady surgeon’s hand for the perfect French manicure. Let these White Tip Guides lead you to manicure heaven.

French Press On Nails

For a quick French manicure with no mess or no fuss, these OPI press-on nails will quickly get the nail job done for the days you can’t get an appointment with your nail tech.

Pastel Rainbow French Press-Ons

If you aren’t one for bold, bright colors, these press-ons have subtle pastel-colored tips for a French manicure that meets the rainbow. Costing only $10.00, you can pop them on Friday through the weekend, and quickly return to neutral nails on Monday if your job leans on the more corporate side.

French Tip Manicure Nail Plate

Get funky with these trendy geometric stamping plates. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!

Meet the Experts

Jin Soon Choi, celebrity manicurist and founder of JINsoon.

Rita Pinto, nail artist and founder of Vanity Projects, a nail salon in Manhattan and Miami.

What is a French manicure?

“The French manicure is one of the most easily recognized nail looks,” says Choi. “We have seen so many forms of the French manicure over the years as trends change. For example, we used to commonly see the white tips on squared nails, but now [many] opt for a softer look with the almond shape and play with different colors and finishes for a fresh and fun modern take.”

“Current fashion and beauty trends have been giving a nod to ’90s and ’00s nostalgia, and the French manicure is just one of the best examples of this,” Pinto adds. “This classic manicure never really goes out of style and now that nail art is infiltrating the trend, too.”

Are there any tricks to make it easier to give yourself a French manicure?

If you’re an at-home manicurist, try the half-moon stickers (they come in various shapes to give the desired effect).

“Silicone nail stamps are a very popular tool for DIY French manicures, so anyone at any skill level can easily pull it off,” Choi adds. “A good topcoat is also key to seal everything in for a smooth surface and neat tips.”

How should we care for our nails between appointments?>

"Cuticle oil, cuticle oil, cuticle oil!" Pinto says. "Hand cream is for skin hydration, oil is for cuticle bed hydration. These products will help retain the life of your manicure."

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

Margaux Anbouba has been telling ELLE readers all about the best in the world of beauty for almost four years. That includes one of her favorite topics—her nails. She loves nail art and long acrylics.

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