It’s official, nude nails (aka foundation nails), are hot in 2012. Flesh-tone nails were prevalent on the runways of Fall 2012 Fashion Week, but made an even stronger appearance on the runways of Spring 2012. It’s a very easy-to-wear tread, often seen on Kate Middleton, but, as much as I am a fan of this chic nail trend, I have my hesitations. Why? Because the right way to wear this new craze is to choose a color that most resembles your natural skin tone, which, in turn, makes you look like you have plastic doll hands. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love Barbie, but I’ve never been a fan of her nails. Something about her corpse-like missing fingernails has always tormented me to the point that I started stealing my mom’s red nail polish to give every doll I owned the manicure they desperately needed. So, the best way to upgrade this trend is to do what Barbie would do (if she had nails) – add some sparkle.

Here’s what I used to get the look:
Konad Image Plate M57
Konad Double Sided Stamp Set
Sephora by OPI Base Coat
Sally Hansen Diamond Strength Nail Polish: Duchesse Lace*
Essie Nail polish in Licorice
Sally Hansen Hard as Nails, Clear
Small rhinestones

*This color has been discontinued. You can use OPI Did You ‘Ear About Van Gogh? as an alternative, or your favorite shade of nude nail polish.

Directions
Step 1: Begin by using a base coat to smooth out and protect nails.
Step 2: Apply 1-2 layers of nude nail polish and wait for nails to completely dry.
Step 3: With black nail polish, use the Konad Double Sided Stamp Set to imprint the basket weave design located on Konad’s Image Plate M57. The instructions on how to do this come with the kit and are very easy to follow. Basically, you put nail polish directly over the design, and use the scraper to rub of excess nail polish. Then, you roll the stamp over the design, and gently roll the stamp onto your nail. Trust me; it’s a lot easier than it sounds!
Step 4: After the black nail design dries, apply a top coat, which will also serve as your “glue” for the rhinestones. Quickly add the rhinestones individually on each nail.
Step 5: Finish with a coating of nail hardener for a long lasting manicure.

Nude nails are great because they go well with almost every outfit, and you don’t have to go see a professional manicurist if you want to update the look from bland to glam. All you need is a little bit of creativity and the right tools, and your nails will look amazing.