That short nails are in this season is a fact. And don’t think that short nails have to be dull or boring just because they're short. While it’s true that the most elaborate nail art is usually found in an XL manicure, which offers a perfect canvas with more space and possibilities, that doesn’t stop you from achieving a stunning and trendy finish with much less space. In other words, there is life (and lots of it) beyond the French manicure, and whoever discovers it never goes back.
The latest viral trend to conquer short nails? Velvet nails, also known as cat-eye nails. A name as suggestive as the technique in question reproduces the changing shine of the fabric. The result is a play of light that gives the manicure an almost three-dimensional depth, with a subtle shine because, yes, shine can also be a shine that hypnotises, like velvet itself. Velvet nails seem to transform depending on the angle from which you look at them, as if they were in motion. And the best part is that getting them is much simpler than it might seem.
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All you need is a velvet effect magnetic polish, a semi-permanent base coat, a top coat and a special magnet for the technique.
First, we will prepare the nails by filing them and removing any remaining shine. Apply the base coat and cure in the lamp. Then, we will spread a layer of magnetic polish and, before curing, we will approach the magnet with soft movements to direct the reflection of the light and create the effect we want. Depending on the distance and the direction in which it is approached, it will allow us to create different effects and shapes: hearts, stripes, squares, etc. Once the desired effect is achieved, cure again and seal with the top coat. Extra tip: if you are looking for a more intense finish, apply a second coat of magnetic polish.
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To achieve professional-looking velvet nails, keep in mind that in the most intense tones like reds, greens, or blues amplify the depth, while in soft colours like grey, beige or powdered pink, the texture becomes more discreet, but just as elegant. The range of possibilities is numerous, and allows the velvet effect to be applied in many other ways, from a subtle version, only on the tip of the classic French manicure, to more daring designs with abstract nail arts, gradients or metallic chrome details that provide a futuristic air. It can even be combined with matte or pearlescent polishes to achieve contrasts full of dimension. The key, in short, is to play with movement so that each nail becomes a jewel in its own right.
The result will be a luminous and elegant manicure capable of elevating any look without resorting to length. Because yes, short nails can also turn heads, and here’s the proof.
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A version of this article was originally published on Vogue Spain.
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