For brides-to-be looking for inspiration for their bridal manicure, Vogue offers a guide to nailing wedding nails. Georgia Rae, the manicurist behind Sofia Richie’s bridal manicure, recommends having a trial run ahead of the wedding to experiment with different colors and shade combinations. She advises considering skin tone, the presence of a self-tan, and the color of the dress when choosing the right hue. Rae often discusses dresses with her clients and holds nail colors against the dress to find the perfect complement.
When it comes to choosing the right shade for your skin tone, Rae suggests trying the color around the same time as a tan if you plan to have one for the wedding. For darker skin tones, peachy tones are recommended, while for paler skin, starting with a sheer white base and layering a light pink on top can create a fresh, natural look. Rae’s overall advice is not to overthink it, aiming for natural nails that are enhanced and refreshed with a glossy finish.
In terms of timing, Rae typically books clients for their bridal manicure one to three days before the wedding to ensure the nails look fresh. Choosing a color that won’t show regrowth easily, such as sheer shades, and regularly oiling the nails can help maintain the manicure’s appearance. Additionally, a hand scrub on the day of the wedding can ensure that nails and hands look fresh and polished. Rae emphasizes the importance of painting the polish as close to the cuticle as possible for a clean and professional finish.
For brides struggling to decide on a starting point for their bridal manicure, Rae suggests beginning with a creamy white base color. This can be layered underneath a pink shade for a bridal feel without being too stark or traditional. Rae also works with clients to find a color that complements the bride’s dress, rather than perfectly matching it. The goal is to create a cohesive and elegant look that enhances the overall bridal ensemble.
Overall, the key to a successful bridal manicure is careful preparation, including a trial run to experiment with colors, consideration of skin tone and dress color, and booking the manicure close to the wedding day. By following these tips and working with a skilled manicurist, brides can achieve beautiful, lasting nails that complement their wedding day look. With proper care and maintenance, the bridal manicure can remain fresh and polished throughout the celebration.
