The Gatsby Nail

To me nails are the easiest way to jazz up any outfit and change your look and mood. Therefore, this is why, over the coming months you will hear (read) a lot from me about nails. Winter to me is miserable – I do not like crisp mornings unless I am in bed or do not have to go outside. For me winter is hell for hair, skin, and wardrobe! However, one thing I can almost guarantee is that my nails will be ok! During the winter, month’s people tend to eat more wholesome foods such as the classic ‘meat and two veg’ and more of it. This leads to healthier bodies (if you are not just eating biscuits and cakes), which in turn leads to stronger and healthier nails.

This season is all about showing off, whether you have long talons or short neat nail, you can be as create, as you like – there is not limit on colour or pattern. This season Illamasqua, whose roots stem from the dark and illicit 1920s club scene, have created a dark and sensual nail colour collection to make your mouth water. The Theatre Of The Nameless collection features four autumnal toned rich colours that will match any winter outfit in your wardrobe.

Taking from their 1920’s origins Glenis Baptise tells us how to achieve The Gatsby, a look adorned by Dita von Teese, quite possibly on of the most mesmerising women of our time.

The Gatsby – Get the look

 A classic look, the Gatsby Nail leaves the half-moon at the cuticle end of the nail bare for a very 1920s finish.

Start at the centre of the nail plate, about a third of the way up from the cuticle, then sweep the brush towards the nail tip in a single stroke. This creates your centre line.

Next, angle your brush so that the bristles form a curve from the edge of your centre line to the corner of your nail bed. To complete the half-moon shape, repeat on the other edge of your nail.

Don’t worry if you make a mistake, you can tidy up the half-moon using the pointed end of a cotton bud soaked in acetone-free nail varnish remover.

Leave to dry for a few minutes before applying a second coat, then apply Illamasqua Top Coat for a perfect finish.

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