Your manicure goals are within a hand’s reach

19/03/2018 / Don't try this at home

We’ve all made panic snap decisions when we’re unprepared at the salon. Your default shade (rose blush, anyone?) is all too appealing when you’re put on the spot. But getting the manicure you want – and keeping it – just comes down to a bit of planning.

Go bold or go home...

You've got a dozen colours and a trained nail technician at your fingertips, so try something you wouldn't do in front of The Crown. Whether that's chic French tips, an ombré fade or zebra stripes is up to you – but it'll help if you bring in a picture on your phone to show the technician. It'll save you trying to describe the breed of zebra you want on your nails.

...But don't go bonkers

Gem-studded nails might just be one of the 21st century's most amazing inventions. But if we're really honest with ourselves, they're not that practical if you want them to last. The best way to keep your manicure looking pristine is to keep the design simple, as it'll be easier to fix at home with your own polish. Plus, subtle nails are more versatile. A glittery, neon finish will stand out on the dance floor but could prove tricky when being the more practical version of yourself.

Leave your skinny jeans behind

When your appointment finishes, your nails will be pretty much dry but not invincible (unless you've gone for a gel nail treatment– in which case the UV light will dry them completely). After up to an hour of indulgent pampering, you might want to nip to the loo before heading back to the real world. Fiddling with zips, buttons and skin-tight denim might smudge your brand new nails, so wear something easy to pull up and down when nature (or your BFF) calls.

Treat your nails well

Maintenance is key for a long-lasting mani. You'll need moisturiser, cuticle oil, nail polish and good habits. Tima Reshad of Notting Hill's Coco Nail Bar has the scoop on how to make your manicure last longer.

Image credits: paintboxnails, mpnails, izabellebellamy, intothegloss Instagram

You may also like

Beauty board

The minimalist manicure 09/02/2016

It's fresh, it's simple and it's about to hit a nail bar near you. The minimalist manicure is quickly becoming our favourite new way to mix things up in the nail department. Sitting somewhere between nail art and negative space design (a look that's been tipping the trend charts this season) you'll find it offers the update your bored, winter fingers have been waiting for. Stick to pale pastels, industrial tones of grey or even simple flashes of metallic to get the look, and ask your manicurist to leave a section of your natural nail exposed. If you can't go naked then…

View the board

Beauty board

Bridesmaid hair goals 03/07/2016

Bridesmaids! Don't let the bride stick you with a stuffy updo for the millionth time. At your next wedding try something modern and fresh. FYI there's nothing wrong with being fashion forward at a wedding, and our edit of beautifully crafted waves and updos will give you all the inspiration you need. Banish those stiff prom curls and hair-sprayed chignons, and replace them with matte, brushed out waves and textured top knots. If you're being forced to wear a hair accessory, keep the styling to a minimum, wearing your updo lower on your head to look less bride, more bridesmaid. We love…

View the board