The French manicure is a classic nail style and both black and white French tip nails feature a pale pink base with a thin line of white or black nail paint at the tips, offering a clean, polished appearance.
white French tip nails. Image Source: klossbeauty.in
Origin of white French tip nails
The classic white-tip manicure, contrary to its name, did not originate in France. Instead, its roots can be traced back to Hollywood. In 1975, Jeff Pink, CEO of Orly International and an American beauty supplier working in Hollywood, developed this iconic nail style for the movie studios.
At that time, it was common practice to match actresses’ nail polish with each new outfit, a process that was both time-consuming and labor-intensive for the crew. That is why Jeff Pink was asked to think of something that would complement different looks. He designed a practical, timeless and understated look featuring a nude base with white tips. Sensing a smart business opportunity, Pink began selling the flesh-colored polish and opaque white lacquer together, naming the kit “The Natural Look Nail Kit.”
“The directors would complain about how long it would take to change the nail colors on the actresses to match their wardrobes for different scenes,” Pink tells Who What Wear. “They asked me to make a color that would go with everything. I thought of using white polish on the tips of the nails. I used it on the tips of nails, then put a flesh-toned polish over it.”
The simplicity and versatility of the white French tip nails quickly won over film directors, as the subtle look complemented wardrobe changes and minimised the visibility of nail regrowth. Pink introduced this elegant style to Paris during fashion week, and upon his return to the U.S., he began referring to it as the “French Manicure.”
White French tip nails gained widespread popularity after Cher and Barbra Streisand showcased it, separately, on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Over the years, Pink’s French manicure kits became a sensation, and today, it is a classic in nail fashion, often spotted on Beyoncé, Reese Witherspoon, and Victoria Beckham.
The French manicure has always been characterised by a thin white strip at the tip of sheer pale pink nails but the modern version plays with shape to make a statement. Per Vogue: ‘The French manicure is having a renaissance… the most recent case in point is Bella Hadid, who is currently holidaying in Greece. “She’s sporting a very Nineties airbrush-style chevron French tip on a tapered square nail,” says celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey.’
Bella Hadid sporting white French tip nails. Image Source: Instagram account of Bella Hadid
Black French tip nails
The French manicure has always been celebrated for its classic elegance and timeless appeal. Today, its traditional format of pale pink base and white tips continues to be a classic nail style although it has inspired modern iterations. One of the most striking variations is the black French tip nails, which offers a chic update to the classic look. This edgy style keeps the French manicure fresh and modern.
Pop singer Rihanna’s black tip French nails created a sensation. Per Vogue: “As she coated her lashes with the black mascara, you could see her French tips. Her long nails were filed into a squoval shape and coated with a nude polish that resembled her natural nails, a key element of any French manicure. Her curvy, inky black tips covered about half of the squoval shape…”
Opting for black French tip nails introduces a bold contrast to the traditional French manicure, creating a dramatic effect. This iteration provides a contemporary take on the classic design, making it ideal for those who want to add a touch of individuality to their manicure. What’s more, black tips can seamlessly transition from day to night.
For a unique touch, you can go ahead and experiment with different designs such as adding tiny embellishment or matte top coat to give a sleek, modern finish to black and white french tip nails.
How to achieve the perfect black and white French tip nails
Achieving the perfect black and white French tip nails requires a bit of skill, but with the right techniques and tools, you can easily master it at home. Start by caring for your nails. Gently remove cuticles, shape the nails, and buff them with a file to create a smooth surface.
If your nails are too short to showcase the black and white French tip nails, consider using nail extensions. Then, choose a nude or pink base polish. This will create a clean canvas for the black and white french tip nails. Let it dry completely. To achieve the perfect tip, use white or black nail polish or a specialized French manicure polish. Apply the polish carefully to the tips of your nails.
Once you’re satisfied with your design, apply a clear top coat to seal the manicure and add shine. The key to a perfect French manicure is practice and patience. With these steps, you’ll be able to achieve a salon-quality look right at home.
What occasions is black and white French tip nails suitable for?
The French manicure is a classic that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility. Its understated elegance makes it perfect for every mood, outfit and occasion, whether you’re looking for a polished everyday look or extravagant nail art for date night. For special occasions, black and white French tip nails remain an excellent choice. Its subtle style complements any outfit, allowing you to enjoy a well-groomed appearance without constant touch-ups. Opt for a French manicure and you’ll have a flawless look that lasts for weeks.
Jasmeen Dugal is Associate Editor at FashionABC, contributing her insights on fashion, technology, and sustainability. She brings with herself more than two decades of editorial experience, working for national newspapers and luxury magazines in India.
Jasmeen Dugal has worked with exchange4media as a senior writer contributing articles on the country’s advertising and marketing movements, and then with Condenast India as Net Editor where she helmed Vogue India’s official website in terms of design, layout and daily content. Besides this, she is also an entrepreneur running her own luxury portal, Explosivefashion, which highlights the latest in luxury fashion and hospitality.
