Dapper French

As much as I wish I had a super quick french manicure hack, the truth is, it’s a little different for every nail shape and length. I find, for me, the best way is to sketch out the smile line, fill in and then perfect with a tapered clean up brush.

The real show stopper here is the Ultra Diamond No-Wipe Top Coat, it’s such an easy way tp add a nice even layer of glitz for the holidays.

You can save 10% off your Kokoist USA goodies when you shop using code RACHEL10. This is an affiliate link, disclosure statement here.

Nuance Tortoise Shell Tutorial

In my studio, we go gaga for tortoise shell designs of all kinds. You want a punchy traditional amber tortoise? say no more. You want a blonde tortoise? I got you. The one type of tortoise that was missing from my arsenal was a melty, caramel swishy tortoise. The kind of tortoise that would adorn a vintage compact or music box.

VIntage Tortoise Shell Box for Inspiration

This technique utilizes wet layers, meaning we’re going to me smushing and swirling a a bit before the hand ever goes in to the lamp for a cure. The trick with wet layers, is that you want to give them a moment to settle in and disperse before you cure.

Let those wet layers swirl and twirl, don’t overwork them.

Products Used:

Kokoist Color Gel in E-223 Midnight Chocolate

Kokoist Color Gel in E-239S Giallo Yellow Glass

Vetro No. 19 Gel Pod in #261 Jewel Umber

Nail Labo Gold Foil

Vetro No. 19 Gel Pod in #260 Jewel Topaz

Kokoist Ultra Glossy Non Wipe Top Coat Gel

Kokoist Round Brush

Nail Thoughts x Kokoist Detailer

Variegated Monstera Nail Art Tutorial

If you have found yourself on Plant TikTok or Plant Instagram lately, you’ve for SURE seen these rare and coveted mutant monstera plants. I too have spent a bit too much time on Etsy cruising for affordable clippings (FYI the cheapest I’ve found are upwards of $300)- so don’t worry, you’re not alone.

So, instead of spending an inordinate amount on clippings, let’s create some nail art. Because it’s 2021, we really can have it all. Also, I am fully obsessed with the From the Nail Cereal Glitter gel, it creates the perfect speckled ceramic vibe. I also opted for an easy to draw stylized monstera, that I promise, you’ll be able to recreate with a little bit of practice.