In DuJour’s weekly Body Language column, our editors focus in on a singular body part. This week, it’s all about nails.
1. THE TIP: NAIL HEALTH AND HYDRATION
From celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann:
“Hydrating daily is key! One of the biggest problems women have is that their nails, cuticles and hands are extremely dry. Think of your nails and hands like your face: It wouldn’t occur to most women to wash their face and not apply a moisturizer, but they wash their hands over and over and don’t apply hand lotion.
“Keep a hand lotion that hydrates and protects your skin at every sink in your home, at your office desk and in your purse. Weekly cuticle treatment is also essential. Apply an exfoliating cuticle treatment, like Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Remover (pictured left), massaging into the cuticles and pushing back gently. Remember: A cuticle oil isn’t a cuticle exfoliator. (Imagine using moisturizer to try to exfoliate your face—it’s just not going to take off the dead skin.)”
2. THE INSPIRATION: MISS LADYFINGER
The chic nail blogger draws inspiration from the red carpet and runway and translates it into eye-catching nail art.
3. THE TREND: SOFT COLORS
“In 2014, you’re going to see a lot of soft and sophisticated colors. Women will start embracing more classic nail art looks such as the half moon, subtle gradients or a playful colored French tip.” –Celebrity manicurist Stephanie Stone
4. THE TOOL: CZECH AND SPEAK MANICURE SET
It takes a real man to spend $650 on a manicure set, and this one—which comes in a sleek leather-bound case—is worth every penny. Buy it here.
5. THE SHAPE: SHORT
“The length of the nail itself is coming down. Stiletto nails—long, and coming to a more severe tip—were very big this year, but we’ll see a shift. I think nails will stay more feminine with the almond shape, but just above the end of the fingertips. Square shaped nails are still out for the time being!” –Deborah Lippmann
MORE:
Body Language: All About Brows
Spas that Provide At-Home Manicure Housecalls
Meet Lisa Logan, Beyonce’s Manicurist