TREND NEUTRAL NAILS A NOT E ON NUDE
This neutral tone is so much more than just a pale putty hue. A “nude” is now a natural-shade category that includes sheer, pale pink, grey and even white.
THE “ACTIVE” MANI This was the mani of the season. Backstage at Alexander Wang, nail guru Michelle Saunders defined it as a “short rounded nail with barely any free edge, which prevents catching. It’s a sporty, feminine and hassle-free manicure.”
ON WHITE “It’s clean and fresh with different versions, whether it’s pink, sheer or opalescent,” said manicurist Deborah Lippmann, who used a nude shade at all six of her New York shows, including Theory and Narciso Rodriguez.
ON NAIL ART “It’s on a downward cycle, but give it a few years and it will come back up again,” said manicurist Marian Newman, who conceived the nails at Vivienne Westwood, Manish Arora and Giles. “I’m a big believer in making it bespoke. Make it just for you.”
ON SHAPE “When you think of nudes this season, round is the It shape—people are looking for a feminine touch,” said manicurist Jin Soon, who combined two taupes to create a “rosy beige” that flattered all skin tones at Derek Lam.
SHOPPING LIST Clockwise, from top left: Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer in Lady ($28); YSL La Laque Couture in Nuit Blanche ($27); CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Daisy Bloom ($8.49); Deborah Lippmann Nail Lacquer in A Fine Romance ($20); CND VINYLUX Weekly Polish in Dandelion ($11.90). For details, see Shopping Guide.
GO DIGITAL Madeline Poole—manicurist of meteoric rise and the lady responsible for the nails at Stella McCartney—created an exclusive nail look for ELLE Canada inspired by asymmetrical haircuts and ’70s-style camel suede boots. Here’s how to replicate it: 1. Paint nails with two coats of Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Camelflage ($8.95). 2. Paint shapes using Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Dark Huemoor ($8.95). Fix mistakes by reapplying the first shade. 3. Seal with Sally Hansen Big Matte Top Coat ($7.95).