Nail the Look: Give Your French Manicure a Rocker-Chic Update

Unless you're hitting up your high school prom, a traditional French manicure can seem slightly dated among the latest and greatest nail innovations of today, but that doesn't mean we're ditching the pattern altogether. Just by switching up the tried-and-true pink-and-white color scheme, you can give the classic effect a modern edge. Choose coordinating tones for a sleek effect, or get extra dramatic with two contrasting hues. The studs, while optional, take the formerly prim and proper effect into punk rock territory, and the best part? It's easier to recreate than you think. Keep reading for the step-by-step guide to nailing this look!

1. Follow your base coat with two even layers of lacquer. We used Burberry Beauty's Pink Peony ($21; nordstrom.com), an ultra-bold magenta hue.

2. Using Burberry Beauty's nail lacquer in Pink Azalea ($21; nordstrom.com), we went for a monochromatic effect and swiped the deep wine shade across each of our tips. If you're a nail art novice, we recommend going a similar route—since the two colors are so similar, any unexpected smudges are easy to disguise.

3. While your nails are still slightly wet, take a trio of nail studs ($7 for 300; amazon.com), and press them into place across each of your tips. You can also opt for a solo statement nail if the effect is too busy for you. Finish with a generous layer of top coat to ensure your heavy metal stays put.

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