Backstage during New York Fashion Week last season, it was no surprise that nails were still a main accessory. Playing with texture keeps nail art interesting, proving it's here to stay. I spoke with Celebrity Manicurist, Jin Soon Choi, who broke down the top five nail trends for the season. Get ready to play!
1. Black Matte
Seen at: Karen Walker, Kaelen, Prabal Gurung, Tibi
Black matte is the hottest thing this fall and there are two different matte finishes available: A pure matte finish which is more young and edgy (Karen Walker) and a satin matte finish (Tibi) which gives a more finished matte look. I recommend matte black on short to medium length nails with any types of shapes and with natural make up. Another hot interesting black matte look is a shimmer black matte that was shown on the Tibi Fall 2013 Collection. Satin matte finish on shimmering black nail polish (JINsoon Obsidian and Matte Maker) goes with all different age groups and skin tones because it provides a satin sheen and it looks more finished than regular matte finish. Try JINsoon Matte Maker top coat for a satin matte finish instead of a dull unfinished look.
2. Matching Lips & Tips
Seen at: Zac Posen
If you wear unadorned dark oxblood nails, this look can be both modern and chic. If you want to match your lips and nails, make sure the makeup is very minimalistic, dewy, and not overdone so it will highlight the nails and lips. Fair skin tones would pull off this look the best.
The nails should be on the shorter side and the shape should be round to square.
3. Talons
Seen at: Kate Spade, Katie Gallagher
Talons make a really strong statement and are tricky to pull off if they are not done well, otherwise they look like fake nails. I would recommend talons for someone with long fingers. Talons work well in a hip hop version or for a super glam fashiony look. If you want to make even more of a statement with talons, you can apply simple studs or nail art.
4. Texture
Seen at: Houghton, Nicholas K., Ruffian,
Adding texture is very versatile - it enhances everything from talons to sophisticated high end "Punk" looks, and is especially applicable to nail art. It can be fun, creative, and hot. You can easily use a simple version of this in your daily style; just make sure to coordinate with your outfit and use the most appropriate studs or laces to go with it.
5. Ombre
Seen at: Vivienne Westwood
Ombre can go with all different looks, different length of nails, and different shapes. It can be casual or it can be theatrical like Vivienne Westwood herself. You can apply two to three colors and mix them up, but I would recommend a more clean pastel ombre (choose lighter colors from your outfit or make up) if you have strong make up or style. Be careful to avoid clashing Ombres with your make-up so your look isn't too exaggerated. Having a perfect color combination is the key for ombres to achieve a more fashiony, stylish look, rather than a cutesy, childish look.
