As We are Reflecting on the History of Nail Fashion: The French Tip
When reflecting on the history of nail fashion, one iconic and timeless look immediately comes to mind: The French tip. There's something undeniably elegant and chic about French tips that makes them a versatile choice for any occasion. The origin of French nails traces back to iconic figures from Barbara Streisand and Cher to Michelle Pfeiffer and Jenner Lopez. These icons popularized the look that Jeff Orly coined with pink kit nails to address the need for quick nail changes between costume switches while maintaining a fresh and natural appearance. Today, as we embrace the fall season, we can match our nails to every occasion and, in doing so, become the trendsetters and icons of our time.
To look back at French tips is to look back at the history of nails...
Half-Moon Inspired Frenchie
Michelle Pfeiffer’s elegant hands in Scarface inspired us to try our own French manicure that, today, rebirths itself into all kinds of variations, with the vibrant colors of the 70s and color-blocking patterns, the 70s are the beginning of the French tip, but dated looks always come back. An era full of vibrant youth that was, and still can be, represented in many ways—nails being one of them
Neon & Colorful French Tip
The legacy of Frenchies lives on, inspired elegantly by the eras that shaped it into what it is today. The stars and icons of the 80s ruled the world and inspired all of our decisions. The young trend starters and followers of the 80s looked to Madonna and her colorful, yellow variant of the French tip and knew it was time for bold and fresh variations of the French tip to emerge.
The 90s Nail
In the 90s, grunge came and conquered, establishing itself in shades of maroon and black—but at the same time, on the other side, the classic French tip is remembered as the “90s nail”, your classic french tip, and the 90s nail never fails.
Chrome & Black French Tip
Still evolving to this day, today, chrome French nails make for memorable celebrations, and “birthday nails”. While black French tips are perfect for Halloween, embracing! your inner spook. It's as if there's a new variation for everything!
Article by Renata Salazar, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Alexa Dyer, Graphic Designer, PhotoBook Magazine
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