Whether you go professional or DIY, your wedding manicure is definitely something you don't want to neglect - your hands will be in photos all day long! Here's our guide to getting the best wedding nails...
Prep, prep, prep
Just as makeup looks best on healthy, cared-for skin, manicures look smoother and last longer on properly prepped nails. Using a cuticle oil daily will help keep the skin around your nails soft and supple (no more cracks or hangnails) while applying a nail strengthener is a good way to avoid breakage and flaking nails. Contrary to what you might think, keeping polish on your nails is a good way to strengthen them, as 'naked' nails absorb more water, becoming soft and are more likely to snap. Avoid over-buffing too, as this makes nails thin and weak.Â
DIY vs salon
If you're doing your wedding manicure yourself, then we recommend doing it the day before (the last thing you want is to be rushing around with wet nails on the day!). Be sure to check that your polish is in good condition before the day you paint, as old favourites can easily clog up and be unusable, and take the bottle with you to the venue in case of last-minute chips.Â
If you're having your nails done in a salon, ideally it would be one you've visited before and are familiar with. We recommend having a gel manicure, as these will stay put for up to two weeks, meaning you can have perfect nails for the honeymoon too!Â
Choosing your colour
When it comes to a wedding manicure, you can't go wrong with nude. Be sure to pick a shade that flatters your skin tone for the most natural look - cool-toned ladies should pick nudes with more pink tones, while warm-toned brides can opt for more peachy shades. Darker skin tones can pull off pretty much any shade, including deep chocolate tones.Â
You don't have to stick to nude if that's not your style - a classic red can look super chic on a bride, or you could opt for modern silver, bold burgundy or bubblegum pink. We love the idea of pale blue on toes as your 'something blue', too!Â
Feeling inspired? Find your nearest beauty salon here and book your manicure in now!