With all the time being spent at home, it’s also perfect timing for a beauty switch-up, too. While sheer, nude nails and cute pastel manis feel just right for the bikini-clad months, we’re going over to the dark(er) side for this trending nail art. A modern take on nail art designs—done with a simple graphic touch. Read on for the nail ideas inspiring us right now, and break out the polish to DIY.
- Fall for the perfect nail shade.
. Here are a few of our faves for nails, all from the high-gloss L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Oil-Infused Nail Polish line
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Oil-Infused Nail Polish in Rouge Sauvage: What could be sweeter and more classic than a red shade.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Oil-Infused Nail Polish in Orange Triomphe: We’re obsessed with this vibrant red-orange.
L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Oil-Infused Nail Polish in Grenat Irrévérent: Nothing amps up the drama like this blackened burgundy wine.
- Prep and paint your nail art.
After you’ve cut and shaped your nails, filed the edges and tended to your cuticles with a nourishing oil, you’re ready for your polish. Before dipping into the colour, don’t forget to brush on a base coat, which creates a smooth canvas, prevents potential staining and makes your mani last extra-long. Apply your polish in thin, even coats so that your nails dry as quickly as possible—reducing the risk of accidental smudging or bubbling. Two or three coats should do for streak-free, totally opaque coverage.
One of our favourite nail art trends this fall is also one of the easiest to DIY: a thin, empty chevron. If your technique is a bit shaky, you can get chevron-shaped nail stickers and stick them where you don’t want any polish (a.k.a., the “negative space”). Once you’re done painting, just peel them off. Or, if you’re feeling steady and ready to tackle any nail designs, you can try doing it free hand.
- Tidy up and seal it all in.
If you need to sharpen up the edges of your nail art, or if your polish strayed onto your cuticles, no need to stress or start all over from scratch: Just drip a fine-tipped brush into a little nail polish remover for a super-precise clean-up. Once you’re happy with your nails, set the lacquer with your favour