LOUD & CLEAR
Shout out to the maximalist mani
1 SPARK NAKED DIFFICULTY 1/3
If you’re seeking Cardi B luxe with minimal effort, let Anna Sui guide the way with a simple lick of twinkling polish. According to Ama Quashie, session manicurist and founder of Ama salon, the base is key for keeping this look lowmaintenance: “Glitter is high-impact, but it can be a nightmare to remove when you’re over it.” Start with a nude base, followed by a few coats of chunky glitter polish. Ama suggests applying thin layers to keep glitter distribution even and drying time to a minimum. Finish with a topcoat and prepare to dazzle.
2 GRAPHIC LINES DIFFICULTY 3/3
Things got sketchy at Moschino S/S 19 with cartoonish manicures all round, but don’t whip out your Sharpie just yet – this takes a little prep. “First, cut your nails down so there is no tip,” instructs Quashie. “Then use a transparent, ‘stiletto’-shaped fake nail to create the perfect base.” For the diagonal doodles, any black polish will do. “Use the brush provided, but turn it to the side for a narrower line. Clean most of the polish off the brush to give the desired ‘stroke’ effect.” Et voilà – your manimasterpiece is complete.
3 CROWN JEWELS DIFFICULTY 2/3
As tempting as this opulent aesthetic from Adeam S/S 19 is, Quashie stresses it’s important not to rush into trying it on your natural nails, warning that “the weight of the jewels will cause more damage than they’re worth”. Instead, fake it, literally, with basic stick-on nails. Prep nail beds with a swipe of nail varnish remover, then attach your falsies with adhesive nail tabs (steer clear of nail glue – your talons will thank you later). And for that regal encrusting? Head to Ebay, which, Quashie insists, is your best friend when mining for cheap gems (we also love Ardell’s new nail jewels, above left). The result? Wholly impractical but seriously impressive power talons.