Your Step-By-Step Guide To A Modern French Manicure

If there was one nail trend that took the catwalks by storm at London Fashion Week, it was the French manicure revival. Designers went crazy for the cool yet classic look. It’s no makeup-makeup for your fingers and we’re making it easier than ever to apply, thanks to the new Super Gel French Manicure collection of nude and ivory polishes. To get you started, we’ve rounded up the easiest guide to a modern French manicure, and how to make it last. Spoiler: it’s all in the Super Gel formula.

1. SHAPE ‘EM UP

Keep your French manicure fresh by filing your nails into an on-trend shape. Try a pointy almond, squoval (square-oval) or – if in doubt - go for something short and neat.

2. PICK A POLISH

Obviously, you don’t want your French manicure to chip. The best way to prevent this is to go for a gel polish formula, like the four wearable shades in the Super Gel French Manicure collection.

Each of the colours veils your nails in the same glossy look and plump feel of a gel mani, and – combined with the Top Coat, £5.99 – stays flawless for up to 14 days.

3. FIND YOUR BASE

There are three base shades in the Super Gel French Manicure collection – a soft, subtle pink called English Rose, £5.99, a neutral hue named Caramel Nude, £5.99, and a your-nails-but-better sheen dubbed Ivory Tower, £5.99.

Choose one based on your undertones, slicking on the rosy shade if your skin errs on the cooler side, and opting for the nude if your complexion is warm-toned. Still not sure? That last pretty, sheeny polish suits everyone.

4. ADD A TIP

And, now for the detail. Grab the Porcelain Nail Polish, £5.99, to add white tips to your glossy nails. This is made super-easy by the fine brush that comes with the lacquer, which allows for precise, neat painting.

If you fancy getting creative, play with the shape of your tips by giving them a scalloped edge, or turning your French mani into the chicest half moon around.

5. TOP IT OFF

Seal the deal on your French manicure with the Super Gel Top Coat, £5.99. Apply it when your base and tips are dry, and it will lock your polished look down for up to 14 days.

Want more summer makeup ideas? Now you’ve nailed your manicure, check out the one eyeshadow tutorial you need this summer.