There's something so aesthetically pleasing about the colour mint green, especially mint green nails! Nowadays you can find pretty much any shade of mint variation to adorn your nails with so today I wanted to share with you my top ten favourites if you're ever in need of that perfect mint shade...
As Wedding season is already in full swing, I wanted to talk all things Wedding Nails... So if you are a Bride, Bridesmaid, part of the bridal party or even a guest at a Wedding, hopefully I've got you covered with some nail care tips and tricks, and also some colour options for not only your nails, but your toes too.
4-6 MONTHS BEFORE - Nailcare
The first step in nail prep is nailcare. This is something you should be doing around 4-6 months before to ensure they are in tip top condition, but I do think personally this is good to do in general.
TREATMENT
Whether you decide on normal nail polish, gel or acrylics, start treating the nails before hand with a good treatment base coat. One of my all time favourites is O.P.I Nail Envy Original*, however I've also been partial to the new Essie Treat, Love & Color* base coats as they add a hint of colour while treating the nail at the same time.
O.P.I also have their own version too called Strength in Colour*, if you can't bare a naked nail.
Crystal nail files are also a good call as they help prevent damage to the nail whilst filing. One of my holy grails is the Leighton Denny Crystal Nail File*.
Next let's talk about cuticles... This for me is the one thing I feel people do forget about, but it shouldn't be as it plays an important part in the overall appearance of your nails.
I recommend starting with something like the Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover* to help make the task easier and pain free. Also keep a cuticle pusher in your manicure kit so that you get into the habit of pushing them back on a weekly basis.
You could also add into your routine something like the O.P.I Avoplex Exfoliating Cuticle Treatment, as this helps keep the cuticle in a good condition overall. I rub this in at night to moisturise the cuticles.
MOISTURISE
Lastly don't forget to moisturise not only your hands but your cuticles too. For everyday use I adore theSoap & Glory Hand Food*. But if your hands are prone to dryness then why not try something like theElizabeth Arden Intensive Hand Treatment* that's perfect for night-time. You can also use this paired with some cotton gloves for the ultimate hand treat.
For on the go hand care I like the O.P.I Mini Avojuices to pop in your bag, car or gym bag. And for the cuticles I'm obsessed with this 95% organic cuticle oil from Dadi Oil*.
1-2 MONTHS BEFORE - Nail Colour, Design and Trial Run
This is a great time to start thinking whether you want to do your nails yourself or maybe go to a salon and have a gel manicure or acrylics. Either way start collecting pictures of nail inspiration so that you have an overall idea of what you want to go for whether that be a classic french, nude or something that compliments your overall colour scheme. Pinterest is a great place to start...
Once you've decided on what colour/style your going to go for on your nails and toes, then it's definitely worth doing a few trial runs before hand so you can see how they are going to look overall, matched with your wedding dress or your colour scheme. COLOUR
Finally I wanted to share a few colour options if you decide to do your nails yourself. Pinks - Try this classic nude pink from Essie or step out in this years hottest shade, blush pink.
You could also add a dash of sparkle or nail art too, I talk about a few options as well as what I choose for my Wedding Day in the video linked above.
Last year I reviewed the online professional brand The Edge Nails. The Edge stock a wide variety of professional products including their newest launch Annika Nail Colour. The collection is made up of 30 stunning shades that have more of a luxurious feel about them and if you're in search of a new, on-trend and affordable nail brand, then Annika is defiantly worth a peek at.
Annika Nail Colour retail's for a reasonable priced £4.20 each for 11ml of polish. As I mentioned above there are 30 shades to choose from, with a colour for everyone. I have three shades to share with you that are the perfect staples to update your Autumn nail wardrobe with.
Bella Ballerina - This is a delicate pale pink that's such a pretty everyday shade. It also works well as a French Manicure pink too.
Shadow Grey - Shadow Grey is a stunning taupe with a grey undertone. For me, this is an understated, modern shade that looks forever chic on any size and shaped nail.
Deep Velvet - This shade is by far my favourite as it's a gorgeous jewel-toned deep red, that's perfectly on trend for Autumn and the party season.
The packaging is simple yet classy, with the shades doing all the talking. Plus each bottle also has a perfectly sized handle and short, thin brush, that helps make the application process a breeze.
Both Bella Ballerina and Shadow Grey are opaque in two coats and Red Velvet is opaque in one, but I do recommend two just so you can appreciate the vibrancy of this shade. Furthermore, these dry really quickly if you haven't got time for a top coat. (although a top coat is an essential in my books if you want to get the best from your polish).
Overall Annika is a great online nail brand that's affordable, fun and current, it's also a great starter brand for anyone who's interested in getting into nails whether it be for pleasure or as a career. In addition, Annika is also kindly offering new customers 20% off their first order by using the code WELCOMEOFFER at checkout.
*These were sent to me, but as always all opinions are my own.
