summer style

SHAPE

This summer, we’ll be seeing a lot of almond-shaped nails, but square tips are also making a comeback. There will always be trends when it comes to the shape of fingernails, but they do come and go. The best bet for a flattering shape is one that matches your hands. For example, an oval shape is ideal for short and wide nail beds, and a square shape is better suited if the base of your nail is long and narrow.

SEASONAL COLOURS

Keeping with the neutral trend, the shades of a more modern burnt caramel are particularly popular this season. Want to go wild? The return of pale yellow, a star of the last spring-summer fashion shows, as well as blue— Pantone colour of the year— are predicted to hit hands in all their variations. Timeless bright red is also among the spring favourites.

APPLICATION TECHNIQUE

If you’re into nail DIY, it’s all in the brushstroke: You have to apply the right amount of pressure to open the brush into a fan without allowing the bristles to touch the cuticle. Once positioned three-quarters of the way down, push gently toward the cuticle and then, before touching it, slide upward. This technique prevents the buildup of polish at the base of the nail. Thin layers of polish, as well as the essential protective base and finishing coats, are key, along with making sure the polish dries completely. To speed up the process, a few specially formulated drying drops can be applied after the polish. To limit the mess, paint your dominant hand first.