From the spring/summer 2013 Rag & Bone runway to the fingertips of the A-List, white nails are the fashion statement of the summer. We've asked Helena Biggs, deputy editor at Scratch magazine, to run us through the basics of rocking this bold look.
Nails by Roxanne Campbell for Tirade magazine
The likes of Zooey Deschanel, Jessie Ware and Anne Hathaway are all advocates of the trend, but if you’re worried your pinkies might look like they’ve had a run-in with a bottle of Tippex, follow our top tips for getting it all white on the night (sorry). Shape and length: Keep nails short and chic to really keep up your fashion credentials. The almond nail shape is hot this summer and elongates the fingers for an uber-feminine look. If practicality prevails or you’re something of a sporty chick, file off nails into a simple, effective square.
Skin tone: The true beauty of the white nail shade is that it can work with pretty much any skin tone. However, if you’re really on the pale side and afraid of looking washed out, add a touch of a nail art – perhaps some black for a bang on-trend monochrome look.
Image credit: Nails by Leah Light
Suggested shades: OPI’s Alpine Snow gives impeccable, opaque coverage in just two thin coats and is a great base for nail art. If you’re heading on your hols or in a bit of a hurry, try CND’s Vinylux in Studio White which lasts for a full seven days without chipping, and dries in just eight and a half minutes for super-sleek nails.
The Ciaté Caviar Manicure kit, £18
Feeling adventurous? It’s not just plain nails making a splash this summer. Try adding a touch of nail art to complement your favourite maxi dress or opt for textured nails – a huge hit for 2013. The Ciaté Caviar Manicure kit in white, £18, offers a quick, effective and oh-so chic 3D finish, while a halo design around nails in black polish can hide untidy paint-jobs.
If you still want to channel the bright, pastel shades of summer, try your hand at a geometric shape on nails, or even some dots – but if you haven’t got a steady hand, then a statement nail with a decal or some gems or studs might be more to your taste.
Nail Art: Inspiring Designs by the World's Leading Nail Technicians by Helena Biggs is available to from Amazon.
Check out Scratch magazine.
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