COLUMN: Accessorize by adding flair to a nail job
Any true fashionista knows the importance of adding the right accessories to an outfit. The perfect shoe, necklace or belt can showcase your personal style and take an outfit to the next level.
Fashion trends change with the seasons, and accessories are no exception. This means if you’re a fashionista on a budget, keeping up with current trends isn’t always possible.
For those who crave change but can’t afford it, there is a new trend in the fashion industry that is fun and college student friendly — nail art.
Nails might not be the first things that come to mind when it comes to fashion or accessories. However, during the past few runway seasons, nail polish has become a popular way to add interest and personal style to any ensemble.
Nail polish is not only affordable, it’s also perfect for trendsetters living on a Ramen diet.
These are the nail trends to try this fall:
Metallics – The runways display a hint of shimmer and flare, and nail polish is no exception. Metallic polish is the perfect addition to a party or holiday ensemble. Instead of your classic gold or silver, try a metallic military green or blue.
Neutrals and Nudes – Dark taupe, olive green and earthy brown make hands look polished and chic. The trick to keeping this look from being boring is to look for deep hues. When it comes to nude polish, choose a color that is at least two shades darker than your skin color. It will prevent your fingers from looking abnormally long.
Updated French Manicures – Add some fun to the classic French manicure by using metallic or black polish on the tip, rather than white. Try a nude base color and black tips or a dark color with silver tips.
Moons – This is a 1940s classic that’s fun and easy to do. To achieve the look, chose a base color and paint the crescents of your nails in black or white polish. To paint the moons use a nail polish pen or a nail art polish, which features a thinner brush perfect for adding details.
Nail Appliqués – This new trend is a little more expensive than polish, but it’s long lasting. The appliques have different patterns and designs and can last up to two weeks without chipping. Keep them chip free and add some shine with a top coat.
Texture – From crackle to matte, texture is a great way to change up your polish routine. Use a textured polish or create the illusion of texture with thin lines or glitter. Use a nail art polish for this as well.
Color Blocks – What started as a clothing trend has turned into a nail polish trend as well. To create this look, paint half of your nail one color and the other half another color. Try blocks of contrasting colors or the same color in different hues.
Keep hands looking neat and polished by trimming and filing nails. Remember to keep your hands moisturized and pay special attention to cuticles, which can easily crack during the cold winter months. Always add a top coat to your new fun polish, as this will add some shine and help prevent chipping.
This fall accessorizing is all in the details. Changing your look is as simple as adding some fun polish. With so many nail trends to choose from there is something for everyone.
– Jimena Herrero is a Liberal Arts Major minoring in Journalism. She attended ABM in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and majored in fashion design. Her column runs once a month. Comments or suggestions on how she can keep you trendy? E-mail her at jimena.h@aggiemail.usu.edu