Thursday, February 9, 2012

valentine's day ombre nail tutorial

My ombre nails matched my coffee cup!
Yesterday evening I was inspired to do something creative with my nails.  I've never strayed from solid colors and the occasional french manicure but as I searched the web for unique and pretty nail ideas I found this trend in a Seventeen article (tip #9). Instead of the suggested violet colors, I opted for my trusty butterLondon Macbeth shade seen in this post.

Although I didn't originally intend the look to be Valentine's appropriate, when I took the above picture I realized I had to share a tutorial.  Below is my second go-round of creating an ombre effect and I'll admit I am in love with the look and can't wait to go through my polish collection and try different colors! 

This effect doesn't take much longer than a regular manicure, but you do need to have a little jar handy for mixing the polish.  See the detailed steps below and please share if you decide to try it!
ombre nail tutorial
I think this effect worked so well because all my products where from the same brand.  I didn't fear what would happen when I mixed the clear polish with the color.  But feel free to use what you have on hand.
ombre nail tutorial
You obviously want to start with clean, trimmed, filed nails.
ombre nail tutorial
I love butter London foundation!  This truly creates a flawless start for your manicure.
ombre nail tutorial
*I tried to take photos of the mixture but it didn't come out focused!
Pour some clear polish into your small container, a little goes a long way.  Add 2-3 drops of your selected color.  Apply this to your entire nail for the lightest sheer color.  I also think I'll use this trick in the future for a very pale take on a bright polish.
ombre nail tutorial
For the second tier, dip your brush back into your selected color and mix with what you already have in the container.  This will create a slightly darker shade for you to use on half of your nail bed.
ombre nail tutorial
You really have two options for the tips.  You can either repeat the previous step (dip brush into color and mix) or you can apply straight from the bottle.  Obviously using the color from the bottle will create a more dramatic effect.  Choose whichever you're comfortable with and apply to 1/4 of the nail, just the tips.
ombre nail tutorial
The topcoat is essential because it blends the lines of each tier for a gradual effect!  Don't skip this!
ombre nail tutorial
Ta-da!  Now you have a beautiful ombre nail manicure!  Wear your favorite ring and go find someone's hand to hold!



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