Some might say it’s the ring that takes center stage for those “just engaged” IG posts, but we know better. Nothing showcases that shiny new rock more than a carefully curated manicure—whether it be simple and classic or bold and maximalist. Here are some ideas to get you going.
Nails by Aprés
The icy blues, iridescent sparkle, and crystalline texture of this unconventional engagement manicure make it look like you’re not only earring a diamond…you are the diamond.
DIRECTIONS
*Note: the middle and ring finger have slightly different steps
*for thumb, index and pinky fingers
Step 1
Apply 501 MORNING SIGHS and 506 SUN KIND OF WAY on each half of nails, and blend the border with an ombré brush. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 2
Repeat Step 1
Step 3
Apply a layer of CE01 TEMPERANCE and use the magnetic wand to gather the magnetic particles to the center. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 4
Using Extend Gel Novice, create a bumpy surface. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 5
Apply a thin layer of Top Gelcoat. Cut for 30 seconds.
*for middle finger
Step 1
Apply 2 layers of 501 MORNING SIGHS and 506 SUN KIND OF WAY. cure each layer for 30 seconds.
Step 2
Use 504 LOVE ISLAND at the center. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Use 504 LOVE ISLAND to draw a distorted oval in the center. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 4
Apply CE01 TEMPERANCE over the distorted oval, then use a magnetic wand to activate the magnetic particles. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 5
Use Extend Gel Novice to create a bumpy “stone” on the distorted oval. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 6
Apply a layer of Top Gelcoat. Cure for 30 seconds.
*ring finger
Step 1
Apply 501 MORNING SIGHS and 506 SUN KIND OF WAY on each half of nails, and blend the border with an ombré brush. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 2
Repeat Step 1
Step 3
Apply a layer of CE01 TEMPERANCE and use the magnetic wand to gather the magnetic particles to the center. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 4
Apply P01 CELESTIAL to the tip with the intention of leaving a texture surface. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 5
Apply a layer of Top Gelcoat. Cure for 30 seconds.
PRODUCT BREAKDOWN:
501 MORNING SIGHS
506 SUN KIND OF WAY
CE01 TEMPERANCE
504 LOVE ISLAND
P01 CELESTIAL
Extend Gel Novice
Top Gelcoat
Ombré Brush
Nails by Aiste Haas @heygreatnails
The oh-so soft pinks, delicate petals, and dainty pearls of this manicure give off major princess vibes.
DIRECTIONS
Step 1
Shape as desired and prep nails with a smooth base coat. Cure thoroughly.
Step 2
Apply 405 FOR ONCE to create a sheer, natural nude base. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 3
For marbling—place small dots of 405 FOR ONCE, 406 CATCHING FEELINGS, 407 FLUSHED, and 410 WHEN IT HITS on your palette. Light load an ombré brush with a mixture of all four shades and swipe across the nail, gently shifting from side to side to help the color softly blend together. Once you’ve achieved your desired “marbled” look, cure for 30 seconds.
Step 4
For flower details—Using a small round brush and shades Strawberry Milk Chocolate - CUFFED and Strawberry Milk Chocolate - JUST FOR YOU, create delicate flower petals at the tip of the nail. Cure for 30 seconds.
Step 5
Seal with a shiny top coat. Cure for 30+ seconds.
Step 6
Carefully place pearls and gold foil at the center of each flower using builder or rhinestone gel. Seal and cure.
PRODUCT BREAKDOWN:
405 FOR ONCE
406 CATCHING FEELINGS
407 FLUSHED
410 WHEN IT HITS
Strawberry Milk Chocolate - CUFFED
Strawberry Milk Chocolate - JUST FOR YOU
Cuticle Serum - SPRING STEPS