Shine happy people! If the weather’s awful, there’s always a reason to shine with a freshly made glitter manicure. Glitters rhymes with cheers (poorly done pun) but clichés are not for us! If you agree with me, be generous with sparkles how and when you want.

This how-to article will show you how to create a couple of easy glittery manicures and how to get an even application with a step-by-step tutorial and some nail art ideas…

so, roll your bottles and get ready for some fun.

 

Why glitter nail polishes? (A cheap intro to special effect toppers)

 

That enchanting effect when the light strikes sequins and specks contributes to the everlasting popularity of glitters. The imaginative power of glitters has no rivals: there’s no rule, you can decide which topper, where and how to apply it. And if you think a little further, you’ll find how smart these nail polishes are when there’s a chip or smudge to hide!

HOW TO apply glitter nail polishes or… how to apply glitters evenly 
God, save me from correcting correct myself, but maybe there’s a rule when it comes to glitters application: avoid the nail polish brush. Brushes may work for a quick and casual look, but the result won’t ever be that smooth and even. After prepping your nail and applying your base colour:

• apply a drop on glittery topper on the edge of a latex sponge;
• gently dab the sponge on the nail to deposit your glitters (in the design you want) little by little;
• repeat the step to get a fuller coverage (if desired);
• seal with a glossy clear top coat.

Dabbing your glittery topper with a latex sponge instead of the usual brush will give you better control over the position of your glitters and their amount as well. The ‘sponge technique” makes the job easier, faster to dry and less messy. This because you’ll apply more glitters and less base nail polish which makes your paillettes float on your nails and dry damn slowly.

*The latex sponge, your cheap ally for perfectly neat glittery nails*

How to choose your design?

How? You tell me! Mood and taste play a big part in how you’ll design your glitter manicure. But the easier ways are:
1) Accent nail, that’s over one single nail, usually the ring finger.
2) Gradient nail, starting from the tip fading on its way to the lunette (less common the contrary sense).

You don’t need brand new inspiration but – if you really run out of – here’s my feathery glitter manicure with a step-by-step tutorial and a variation of the original nail art.