The popularity of the French manicure is undeniable. Maybe it's because of the versatility that is offered by a French manicure. They allow you to have groomed and polished looking hands without having to worry about picking a color. Picking a color is one of my least favorite things about getting a manicure, especially at a nail salon. I always end up picking a color that I don't like once it's on my nails. Then I either have to live with the unfortunate color or embarrassedly ask the manicurist to change the color. That's the beauty of a French manicure. There really aren't that many decisions to be made. Sure you may have to choose between white and off white for your tips, or possibly have to choose between blush and beige for the base color; compared to having to choose between wild orchid or pink palm, that decision is for amateurs.
French manicure designs are normally done in nail salons. This is because salons carry all the equipment (and talent) to create some amazing designs. A popular method of applying a French manicure is through an airbrush machine, which gives the nails a smooth, even line when painting the tips white. Often manicurists will use the airbrush machine to create stunning designs. For example, instead of airbrushing a classic white line on the tips, you can use a stencil to create upward points (resembling triangles). This gives you the classic look of a French manicure while providing a special and unique touch. If you prefer to add color to your French manicure, you could have the manicurist draw or airbrush a small design on your fingernail. Popular designs include symbolic holiday designs, such as Christmas trees for the winter, pumpkins for the fall, or hearts for Valentine's Day. Other designs frequently used for French manicures are flowers, palm trees, or letter initials.
Another great think about the French manicure is that it usually lasts longer than a traditional manicure with color, if only because it shows fewer chips and imperfections.
Another popular design used on the French manicure is known as "nail tattoos." These are transfers rubbed onto your nail directly from printed paper. They are very similar to the application of faux tattoos, and are then covered with a top coat to help maintain longevity. These come in a wide variety of designs, and the salon should be able to provide you with a selection of available nail tattoos.
Now that I've sold you on the great art of French manicures, I will have to tell you that it is more difficult to give yourself a French manicure than it is to just paint your fingernails one solid color. I do have a quick fix as an alternative. If I am in a hurry, but still want my nails to look great. I will dig my fingernails into a bar of dove or ivory soap. Really and white soap will do just fine. Then, I wash my hands thoroughly. The soap really helps to whiten the tips of my nails. Lastly, I will quickly apply a clear coat of polish. The affects are not quite the same as taking the time to do an actual French manicure, but it works in a pinch.
The popularity of having a French manicure started around the seventies, and is just as popular today. People have been getting French manicures for years. You can see these types of manicures just about anywhere from magazines, to moms at the grocery store.
For a French Manicure without acrylic tips, prices usually range from $10-$15. You can expect to pay around $30 at a salon for a French Manicure using the tips. The kits to do it yourself at home are sold at any drug or department store for around $8. If you decide to go to a salon, you can rest assured that nearly any nail salon will be trained in the French Manicure application.
In recent years, there has been a new addition to the French manicure family. It's the French pedicure. They have all of the flexibility and versatility of the French manicure. I love that I can wear pink shoes, red shoes, or black shoes without having to rethink my toenail polish.