We're Calling It: This Flattering Nail Trend Will Be Everywhere This Winter

Prep the nails: No mani is complete without proper nail prep. To ensure an elevated finish, prioritize shaping and filing the nails, cleaning the nail plate, and moisturizing the cuticles. See here for our full, step-by-step instructions, if you’d like to go into more detail. Lay your base: “Always start with a strong base coat,” says Glass. You could go the classic French mani route with a sheer shade of white or pale pink, or choose any other polish that strikes your fancy.  Choose your color: Again, there are plenty of ways to get creative here. “My favorite micro French manicure is a sheer white base with a black tip,” says Choi, with JINsoon Dew and JINsoon Absolute Black. “It's a strong contrast without being overbearing, because the micro French line is so thin and the base is such a subtle shade.” Or if you’d like a pop of color, try a candy apple shade, like Glosslab’s OG Deep Red—perfect for the holidays. “The variations are endless by experimenting with different tip or base colors,” Choi adds.Draw your line: Next, apply a thin strip of color at the tip of your nails. You can use either a striping brush (here’s a set from Amazon) or the actual nail polish brush to create your thin line. It might be helpful to paint a slightly curved line at the end of the nail tips first before filling in the rest, says Choi. You may also have to layer on a couple coats to make sure the color stands out. Finish with a top coat: Finally, use a top coat to seal in the French tip and secure a patent leather finish. Feel free to touch up with top coat every few days (a helpful pro tip to make the lacquer last longer).