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Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Hitting the Nail on the Head

Nails.  They make for an expressive accessory of creativity.  Keep with the theme of a look or switch it up for a fun, unexpected twist.

Nails are also one of those subtle details that contributes, more than we often think, to one's overall appearance.  Even well maintained plain nails are a sign of well-kept people who finds pride in taking care of themselves.  A few simple steps that you can do anytime can make all the difference.

Moisturize - Keep a small bottle/tube of lotion in your bag or at your desk.  Not only is it good to have with you when you realize how dry your skin or nails have become, seeing it there will remind you to be consistent  with application.  Plus, moisturized, fragrant hands always brighten the moment.
I keep a yummy lotion at my desk but carry Vaseline's Hand & Nail Conditioning Lotion in my bag.

Cuticle cream is another great idea.  I found Burt's Bees Cuticle Cream a couple years back and am so glad I went for it.  It is perfect for someone who works with her hands, which can easily dry and roughen the nail beds.  I see incredible results and recommend it to anyone considering trying this product.

Trim - This includes more than nails.  Look at your cuticles.  This is the time to clean them up and trim any hang-nails.  Grab those trimmers(look for a decent pair) and even out your nails, including any uneven or broken nails.  Trim and shape.  Whether you prefer short or long nails, remember to consider both practicality and style.  There is an appropriate medium for everyone.

I suggest trimming nails when they are wet and soft.  You can soak them beforehand if you need to.

*While square nails are popular and most common, I prefer a rounder, more oval shaped long nail.  This is what they gave me in Thailand and I was surprised how feminine and beautiful it looked.  I suppose it's the 'twist' to my often casual(even tomboyish at times), everyday style.  Square nails are also lovely, and great for those who want a trendy, yet beautiful nail.

File - This is when you refine your nail shape.  Any too-sharp corners or inconsistent edges can be reworked here.  Remember that pointed edges may be more prone to breaking or chipping.  Rounder, softer edges will stand against wear more sufficiently.  Also, if you have thick nails, take this time to round off the edges from top to bottom for easier to apply and longer lasting polish.

This is my least favorite part.  It sends shivers down my spine just thinking about it.  While it may be easier to file wet, soft nails, it may result in jagged or cracked nails when they dry.  So try to tough it out.  Eventually you will get the hang of it and the process will become quicker.

Give nails a peek and assure they are consistent and even.  When you are happy, move on to the fun part!

Color Application - Ah, the joy of it all.  This is the most obvious attribute of our lovely hands.  Whether you like to rock crazy colors, or a french manicure is more your thing, here is when you get to really express yourself.  But don't fret too much over it.  Polish isn't permanent.  Play it up, take chances, and wear what you like.

Remember:
-Base coat
-Color(layers)
-Top coat

While application may take more time, your polish will be set and stay beautiful longer, without chipping or peeling(or staining your nails).  Also, don't glop it on.  Several thin layers will work out much smoother.

*I suggest OPI products.  I use it almost exclusively, as it is always quality, easy, and dependable.

*I personally prefer neutrals and deeper dark polishes.  Sometimes rocking an unexpected color with a classic, tame outfit can be just the pop you need, also.  Here are some colors I'm currently craving:

Chicago Champagne Toast     Midnight in Moscow
Lincoln Park After Dark     Roadhouse Blues

When you are comfortable, why not go for some fun details?  Pinterest is a great place to find creative ideas.

What is your favorite nail product?
What colors do you lean toward?
Do you prefer a simple, clean look or do you go all out with details?

23 comments:

  1. OPI has a great array of polish colors. My favorite is Bubble Bath - it's a pretty, opaque pinkish-neutral tone that coordinates with everything.

    Christina-Lauren
    http://inspirationsandcelebrations.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oooh, that IS a really nice color. Have been on the lookout for a nice light neutral. Maybe this is it.

      Samii

      Delete
  2. Beautiful!!
    We would be very grateful if you could check out our last post and tell us what you think of Gabriella Fenwick's dress of which she has designed and sewn herself.



    LOVE,
    A&G
    Lookbook of the Dress - Gabriella Fenwick Couture
    Our Blog - F A S H I O N O X Y G E N
    Our Instagram - F A S H I O N O X Y G E N INSTAGRAM
    Our Facebook- F A S H I O N O X Y G E N FACEBOOK

    ReplyDelete
  3. I LOVE OPI NAIL POLISHES...THEY ARE AMAZING...
    www.theprincessgown.com

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love the darker plum shades of nail polish! Thanks for stoping by my blog :)

    xoxo, Tiffany
    http://lamstyleguide.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  5. I love the darker shades for my toes--but the lighter ones for nannies! You can never have enough moisturizer and Burt's Bees is my fave when you want a natural!
    xx

    Love,
    -Lauren at adorn la femme
    http://adornlafemme.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  6. I love all of these tips! The moisturizer is big for me this time of year! xo

    ReplyDelete
  7. OPI is the best, I swear by OPI and OPI for Sephora. And I'm loving any nail color with sparkle this time of the year!

    -Ashley
    Breakfastatsaks.com

    ReplyDelete
  8. Great tips! And I love love love OPI! Their nail polishes are incredible! :))

    XO,
    http://rosychicc.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  9. I'm obsessed with pinterest for nail inspiration!
    Erica xo

    www.sushiturtlesandlife.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  10. OPI is great, but I love Essie too and it's slightly cheaper! I love anything glittery, metallic, or dark colours like black, wine red etc
    Lucia
    http://luciasloves.blogspot.co.uk
    x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Glittery and metallic are sure fun, aren't they? There are some great options out right now, too.

      Samii

      Delete
  11. I love handcare products!

    We should def follow eachother on bloglovin and gfc to stay in touch??
    Get back to me :)
    >> milna89.blogspot.com <<

    ReplyDelete
  12. I love doing my nails too but I seem to bite them a lot lol! I really like your blog! It would be nice if you could stop by my blog sometime too (I'm from England) as I post my outfits, likes and more :) :)

    www.raindropsofsapphire.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My sister had the same problem. Getting acrylic nails helped her.
      Thanks, I will go check yours out. :)

      Samii

      Delete
  13. I've always had horrible nails, the kind that flake and split off in layers. But my most beloved and magical nail product solved that - nailtiques formula 2. Amazing stuff. Also, if you're not a fan of regular nail files, I suggest trying a glass one, I think they're much more effective, don't split your nails as much, and have a less annoying grating sound too!

    http://nomadic-d.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hm, I will look for a glass one. Thanks for the tip!

      Samii

      Delete
  14. What is your favorite nail product?
    My favourite nail products are : chanel and dior vernis, mavala nail laquer and yamamay nail laquer

    What colors do you lean toward?
    Beige, Nude,Deep Blue, Red, Deep Violet

    Do you prefer a simple, clean look or do you go all out with details?
    I prefer a simple look (only nail polish) or a clean frenck maincure!

    Kisses
    RigillaMas
    The Glamour Voice

    ReplyDelete
  15. Thanks for stopping by ;)
    I love O.P.I

    www.viewrama.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. The nail-polish is really nice.
    We, the Midnight Couture Team, want to wish you a very Merry Christmas! We did a little Christmas Special photoshoot in one of Berlin's IN Clubs. Come along and share your thoughts with us. We are happy to welcome you :)
    All the best,

    Jana & Vanessa from charming Berlin ♥

    ReplyDelete
  17. Ah, I love nude colors most of all: pinks, peaches, beiges and sometimes soft metallics like gold! They're natural and subtle. I'd say my favorite brand is Butter London, but it's so expensive that I usually stick with China Glaze.

    Much love and holiday wishes,

    d a n i e l l e | daniellewu.com

    ReplyDelete