Yes, it's an awkward position to put your hand in just to show off your nails. But the nails are kind of worth it. Photo: Getty
Nail varnish - has it ever been this fashionable? We think not! Here’s our pick of the prettiest, most wearable trends that are easier-than-easy to perfect.
Putting on the glitz
Moving on from winter’s chunky glitter-based glazes, right now it’s all about super-fine shimmers in antique shades such as copper and bronze. Although some designers like Joy Cioci, were keen to experiment with loose glitter and beads, you can’t go wrong with subtle shimmers like Butter London Nail Lacquer in The Full Monty, (below) and The Old Bill, $22 each, from Adore Beauty, adorebeauty.com.au that are easy to layer and dry rock-solid.
The French Revolution
Just like dewy skin and tangerine lipstick, the dual-toned manicure is here to stay. You can make like the models at Alexis Mabille with black reverse v shaped tips layered over a soft pink polish. Or, for something a little more beachy, try painting an aquatic shade like sea-foam green or turquoise blue from the middle of the nail up to the tip for an effortless half-moon mani. Either way, you can nail each look in less than ten minutes flat.
See-through shades
Although nail art is here to stay, there was no shortage of nudes on the runway with a handful of designers, like Anne Valérie Hash and Dolce and Gabbana, opting for barely-there-looking lacquers. Safe but pretty, blush-toned shades like soft pink and mushroom grey were the biggest standouts. Except unlike last season’s rich opaque finishes, this time around it’s all about sheer, nude-looking formulas that are big on shine. If you’re new to nudes, you owe it to yourself to try OPI Nail Lacquer in Samoan Sand, $19.95.
Mark our words: Green polish is going to be everywhere for summer, with everything from bottle green to dark emerald shades up for grabs. Hot tip: try pairing it with tonal shades of makeup and clothing, like turquoise, teal and light blue for a less Christmas-y, more tropical island feel.
