Perfect French Manicure

A French Manicure is a sophisticated touch for the classic wedding look.  These quick and easy instructions will help you and your bridesmaids create that perfectly polished white-tipped style for any wedding event. 

  1. Shape Nails

    • Trim nails to desired length with a nail scissor or nail clip.
    • Shape and smooth edges with a nail board or file. Always file nails in one direction, from each side of the nail toward the center — this helps prevent nails from splitting.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: Nail Tip Shaping Set

  2. Groom Cuticles

    • Soak fingers in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften cuticles, pat dry.
    • Gently push back cuticles with a cotton-wrapped cuticle stick or cuticle pusher.
    • Carefully nip away excess cuticles and hangnails.
    • Apply cuticle treatment and massage. Remove any traces from nails before applying nail treatment.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: Vitamin E Moisturizing Nail & Cuticle Oil

  3. Prep Nails

    • Use nail polish remover to absorb any oils on the nail surface.
    • Apply a nail treatment or base coat to protect nails, smooth the nail surface and help manicures and pedicures last longer.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: Diamond Strength Instant Nail Hardener

  4. Apply Manicure Guides

    • Lift the edge of one guide strip and remove it from the paper backing.
    • Place the guide across the nail at the point shown in figure provided on nail guide to divide the nail tip from the rest of the nail. Leave about 1/4" overhang on each side.
    • Hint: Press one extending edge of the guide firmly in place on the finger itself. Then stretch the remainder of the guide across the nail along the curve of the nail to the other side of the finger and press firmly into place.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: French Manicure Kit

  5. Apply White Tip Color

    • Shake gently. Apply one coat of Natural White to nail tip above nail guide. Start at one side, stroking on a slant to the center. Then stroke from the other side to the center.
    • Allow to dry thoroughly, then gently lift guide off nail.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: French Manicure Kit

  6. Apply Nail Polish

    • Shake nail color gently.
    • Brush one coat of color over entire nail. Allow to dry. If a more opaque look is desired, apply a second coat.

      Sally Hansen's Bridal Best: French Manicure Kit

  7. Seal, Shine & Finish