Topless, Barefoot, and Bronzed

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You may have guessed from the title that my favorite season is Summer.  I just love everything about summer, the heat, the sun, beaches, bikinis, and a pretty umbrella in my refreshing cocktail!  With that in mind, this manicure was created in remembrance of my summer and all the fun times it brought.

This is a light and fun manicure that is understated and easy to do!  Although it is now fall and I am supposed to be thinking of jewel tones, it is incredibly simple and elegant, making it appropriate for any situation or season....

Step 1:  Coat your nails in a base coat.  I used Sally Hansen's Double Duty, because it works as a base coat and top coat...and that is just plain efficient!  However, any base coat you prefer will do.

Let dry completely.

Step 2:  Double coat your nails in Essie's Topless and Barefoot.  This color looks alright in just one coat, but the second coat is quite fabulous!

Let dry completely.

Step 3:  Using regular scotch tape, tear off 5 strips approximately 1 and a 1/2 inches in length.  Then cut each of the 5 strips in half, lengthwise.

Now you will have 10 strips of tape, 1 for each finger.

Step 4:  Place one piece of tape approximately 1/3 of the way from the tip of your finger nail.  I suggest you start by placing the tape directly to the center of the nail (as opposed to the side), which will help you get a straight line all the way across your nails.

Once the tape is straight across your nail, fold down any excess around your fingers.

Also, just start by taping only one hand, as two taped hands will make the painting process cumbersome.

This is not necessarily meant to be a french tip, rather slightly larger than the tip of your nail with more of a straight line.  Play around with it and see what works for you.

Step 5:  Coat the tips of your nails in Sephora by OPI's Already Famous.  One coat is plenty.

Let dry completely.

Step 6:  Once your tips are dry, slowly and carefully pull the tape off each of your fingers.

Depending on what kind of tape you use, you may have a sticky residue left on your nails.  If this happens, don't worry!  Just carefully wash off the residue with soap and warm water before you begin with the next steps.

Step 7:  Complete steps 4-6 on your second hand.

Step 8:  Using the same base/top coat (Sally Hansen Double Duty), polish your nails off with a thick top coat.

Let dry completely.

XOXO, Varnish