Pic credit: So Nailicious
Nail art extraordinnaire Maria Vlesko of So Nailicious has created a festive French manicure using the NEW season Disco Collection – she shares a foolproof guide on how to create this simple design at home. Nail art has in the past been reserved for qualified professionals who have created detailed works of art with intricate technique and finesse. These days, nail art creativity is accessible to all from simple to complex designs, making it one of the leading nail trends today.
We asked Maria to share her nail art wisdom:
I’ve never done nail art before, do I need special training?
Anyone can do nail art right now. While you do need certain skills to learn how to paint your nails flawlessly, with a bit of practice and watching a few tutorials you are able to make a start. As for nail art, anything goes - abstract, minimalist, all sorts of prints and patterns. For instance, a French manicure with a few great nail polishes and a bit of practice means anyone can perfect this look and you can do it any colours you like to create a theme, like we did using Mavala’s NEW festive Disco colours to create a Christmas French manicure.
Pic credit: So Nailicious
Where do I start?
With a good base!! I like applying Mavala Mava-Strong because it also strengthens my nails while providing a great foundation for design.
What basic equipment do I need?
You'll need a good base coat, top coat, a few fun colours and nail art brushes. For nail art brushes, I'd recommend 02 Needle liner brush. It's very easy to use and perfect for beginners and pros. Also a must have, 04 Slayer angled brush, can be used to clean up around cuticles to get that perfect, neat manicure line. (dip the brush in acetone and then wipe around cuticles). Also for super easy nail art on the go, you can use good quality stickers. Just paint your nails, wait until they have dried, then add a sticker and secure it all with a top coat and… voila, beautiful nail art! The Super Stars sticker collection is popular over the festive season.
Pic credit: So Nailicious
How much time does it take?
It depends how skilled you are and what kind of nail art you're doing. Simple DIY nail art can take 2 minutes, like putting a few dots on your accent finger or 5 minutes by adding fun stickers to your nails. If you decide to paint a realistic mini artwork (nature, flowers or your favourite celebrities) on your nails, that can take hours!
What is the best way to make it last?
Always use a top coat to prolong the life of your manicure. I like Mavala's Gel Finish top coat because it dries quickly and gives that extra glossy, volumised look. It is also long-wearing and chip-resistant.
Any expert tips you can share for beginners?
Always wrap around the tip of your nail when applying nail polish, base and top coat. That will protect your manicure from chipping. Go slowly when doing a French manicure and pay attention to symmetry... for a French manicure to look beautiful - the curves need to be symmetrical and identical on each nail. Have fun experimenting with colours and prints!
Follow this simple video tutorial to create the festive French manicure.
Shop the festive French Manicure collection here
