The French Manicure

This neutral look makes nails look clean and healthy and suits all occasions

Although it takes a lot of practice it's worth the effort once you see the finished effect. Most polish ranges include soft pink and white shades that enable you to create an attractive French manicure

Clean and file your nails to the desired shape, then apply a thin base coat. Apply white polish to the tip. Start at one side and sweep the loaded brush toward the centre of the nail in a diagonal swipe. Repeat from the other side. This will create a 'V'shape, which you can correct by filling the open top of the 'V'. Repeat on all nails. When dry, apply sheer varnish (beige, clear or pink) over entire nail. Experiment with various colour options in order to create sophisticated variations on the classic French manicure.

Tips
A simpler option is to find some pre-cut, self adhesive French manicure guides. Lift the edge of one strip and remove from the backing paper. Place it across the nail to divide thetip from the rest of the nsil, leaving a small strip. Press down firmly to smooth out any ripples. Repeat on all nails. Apply white nail varnish to the nail tip and allow to dry. Remove guides and apply sheer varnish over entire nail.

Another option is to run a white pencil under the free edges of your nails to accentuate the tips.

Taken from A Complete Guide to Manicure & Pedicure by Leigh Toselli, published by New Holland Publishers priced £11.99