French Tips Aren't My Thing—I'm Requesting the "Naked French" Instead to Look Polished

If there is one thing I love, it’s a minimal manicure. Give me all the sheer nail polishes, Bubble Bath nails and classy neutral nail colours. I might push the boat out with a dark red manicure or a new nail trend every once in a while, but for the most part I favour a neutral hue. There is one minimal nail look that I’ve never really gotten on board with, and that’s a French manicure. While I love the timeless nail art look on others, the stark white tips can almost look too bright on my hands. So, when I discovered the “naked French” manicure via celebrity manicurist Georgia Rae, I was quickly converted. So what exactly is the “naked French”?

What Is The “Naked French” Manicure?

Rather than using a standard white polish to create the French tips, the “naked French” instead uses a sheer white or cream polish. The result is much softer but still has the perfecting effects to make your natural nails look neat—think of it as a skin tint for your nail tips. It conceals while letting your natural nails shine through. “Applying this as a French tip as opposed to a solid white looks so fresh and gives the illusion of naturally perfect nails,” says Rae.

Naked French Manicure Ideas

The naked French manicure looks great on short, rounded nails when you want your hands to look pulled together. Apply a soft, sheer pink nail polish first before using a fine-tipped nail art brush to apply a coat of sheer white polish on the tips to define and perfect.

Proof that the naked French mani looks chic on all nail shapes, including this long rounded look.

Yes, this trend also works for short nails. A micro French tip along the free edge of the nail is sure-fire way to ensure your hands look neat.

If you want something a little bolder, opt for a creamy beige tip which will give more definition while remaining more subdued that a bright white French tip. I love this manicure from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

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