Here’s How to Recreate the Celeb-Approved Jeweled Manicure Trend
Red carpets are known for statement outfits, envelope-pushing makeup, and swoon-worthy hairstyles, but, if you look closely enough, you’ll spot an equally amazing manicure. Celebs including Cardi B (shown above) and Blake Lively (shown below) rocked the 2019 awards season with bejeweled nail art designs featuring Swarovski crystals, pearls, metallic beads, gold, and even real precious diamonds. But you don’t need an award or a red carpet to rock the blinged-out look; simply adding a single stone can make a minimalist mani pop and shine like piece of jewelry. Celebrity manicurists Steph Stone and Betina Goldstein share their best tips to DIY the trendy nail art idea below. (Photo via Aurora Rose/Patrick McMullan/ Getty)
Before sitting down to paint your nails, take the time to organize your products and tools, and to map out your end look. “Choose jewels that are flat-backed and easy to apply, like Swarvoski crystals,” advises Stone, who works with Constance Wu and Lili Reinhart. Once you’ve selected your gems, gather an extra-strength nail glue, a dotting tool, base coat, top coat, and, if you want something other than clear, a base color. As for the layout, Goldstein, who works with Kendall Jenner and Anne Hathaway, recommends leaving a little bit of negative space in between each gem so that it doesn’t look crowded. “If you have smaller nail beds, go for a tiny pearl or jewel,” she says. “You can also focus on just one nail, for a simpler look that’s not overdone.”
Now that you have all your ducks (er — nail products) in a row, start by painting your base coat and color (Goldstein and Stone both prefer a sheer, nude tone as a neutral backdrop to the stones). Let it dry completely, then apply nail glue directly onto your nail where you want to place the gem. Next, dip your dotting tool into the bottle of top coat and gently tap it on the top side of the stone, so that it adheres on the tip of the tool. Carefully set the flat side of the jewel onto your nail and press it in place. Use the dotting tool to apply a bit more glue around the stone for added hold. Continue the process on every nail you want to accent, and finish with a thin layer of top coat on each.
Ready to try your hand at an over-the-top bejeweled manicure? Keep scrolling for a few of our favorite designs by Goldstein and Stone.
1. Pretty Pearls (via @betina_goldstein)
2. Negative Space Squares (via @stephstonenails)
3. Crystal Clear (via @betina_goldstein)
4. Hidden Details (via @stephstonenails)
5. Gold Rush (via @betina_goldstein)
6. Golden Touch (via @stephstonenails)
7. Beaded Leaves (via @betina_goldstein)
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