10 Innovative Ideas For Your Next Manicure

A manicure can be more than a getting a nail trim and choosing a new color. It can reflect a seasonal style, showcase a specific design, or use contrasting colors to throw some whimsy into the look. Here are ten fun suggestions to use on your next trip to the nail salon.

1) Throw in some sparkle

Without going overboard, silver or gold glitter can make fingernails pop. It’s a versatile style as well. Glitter can cover the whole fingernail, or just cover the outer edge to highlight a more conservative color.

2) Mirror nails

Mirror nails use a reflective service to catch the light and everyone’s eye in the room. Use these with a dark backdrop, such as a black dress, to stand out.

3) Mix and match colors and finishes

Don’t be afraid to experiment with both colors and finishes on the same finger. For example, a gold band with a glossy finish next to a maroon matte base can look striking.

4) Polka-dot madness

Polka-dots are a fun, flexible design. The dots themselves can either be multicolored or a single color. Rainbow dots against a black base goes with anything. The dots can be any size, depending on how bold the customer wants to be.

5) Add in a Hand Massage

A manicure can be more than a style upgrade. Try a hand massage next time you’re at the salon. Studies show that a hand massage relaxes the muscles as well as the mind. In addition, they feel good, and the massaging lotion will reinvigorate the hands and skin.

6) Irregular Patterns

Not every pattern has to be predictable. A popular way to mix things up is to invert the color selection on one finger, such as a white lacquer with red edge, except for one finger that is all red. It’s a creative way to stand out and let the secondary color take center stage for a moment.

7) French Tips

A French tip typically starts with longer, blocky nails. Then the emerging part of the nail can stand in contrast to the rest of the nail. Don’t be afraid to throw a swirling or zigzag design on the tips to take advantage of this trend.

8) Try a Gel Manicure

Acrylic nails have been around for years, but the gels are on the rise. Start with a natural color to see if they match your preferred aesthetic, and they get increasingly daring the next time around.

9) The Ruffian

This style paints close to the nail bed and frames the primary color. Use a darker color along the ridge of the nail and fill the rest in with a lighter shade for an easy, mature look.

10) Get a Surprise!

Depending on the nail salon, a customer could let the manicurist choose the design for a surprise. They often have a deep reserve of colors and patterns with from which to draw. A few suggestions can help guide the style preference for those who get nervous with complete surprises.