The French Manicure and Pedicure

Manicure

This neutral look makes nails look clean and healthy and suits all occasions

Although it takes a lot of practice it's worth the effort once you see the finished effect. Most polish ranges include soft pink and white shades that enable you to create an attractive French manicure

1. Clean and file your nails to the desired shape, then apply a thin base coat.
2. Apply white polish to the tip. Start at one side and sweep the loaded brush toward the centre of the nail in a diagonal swipe. Repeat from the other side. This will create a 'V'shape, which you can correct by filling the open top of the 'V'. Repeat on all nails.
3. When dry, apply sheer varnish (beige, clear or pink) over entire nail. Experiment with various colour options in order to create sophisticated variations on the classic French manicure.

Tips

• A simpler option is to find some pre-cut, self adhesive French manicure guides. Lift the edge of one strip and remove from the backing paper. Place it across the nail to divide thetip from the rest of the nsil, leaving a small strip. Press down firmly to smooth out any ripples. Repeat on all nails. Apply white nail varnish to the nail tip and allow to dry. Remove guides and apply sheer varnish over entire nail.
• Another option is to run a white pencil under the free edges of your nails to accentuate the tips.

Pedicure

This is a neutral option that makes almost any foot look good. If your toenails are not your best feature, opt for clear, pearlized or pale-coloured nail varnish so as not to draw too much attention to them.

1. Follow the basic steps for a pedicure until you have applied a basecoat.
2. Apply white polish to the nail tip by starting at one side and sweeping across the nail in a single, steady movement. Keep the strip as narrow as possible. Repeat for all the nails.
3. Apply sheer pink, natural or peach polish over the entire nail, painting a strip of colour down the centre of the nail, then overlapping with a strip on either side, but avoiding the cuticles. Leave to dry thoroughly before applying a second coat.
4. Apply a clear topcoat to seal in colour. Leave to dry for as long as possible before putting on your shoes - at least an hour, as socks or tights can leave unsightly imprints if you rush the drying stage.
   

source: http://www.ivillage.co.uk/