miss ladyfinger presents...

MANICURE MUSE: Louis Vuitton AW’12 As expected, Marc...

Mon, 28 May 2012 21:45:14 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Louis Vuitton AW’12

As expected, Marc Jacobs pulled out all the bells and whistles for Louis Vuitton’s Fall ‘12 collection. The show started with a vintage locomotive train car that actually pulled into the Cour Carrée du Lourve. Models stepped off with accompanying porters carrying the signature LV luggage. One of my favorite looks from the show was this eye-catching oversized coat. The color combination and the new play on paisley gave the collection an uplifting note to the buttoned-up ladylike looks… not to mention— it sparkles!

To emulate this look, I used Orange Creamsicle by Avon and I Don’t Bite by OPI.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Start with a full orange nail

2. Using a fine nail art brush, paint two rows of shapes with the tips going in the same direction

3. Apply 1-2 shapes in between your two rows with the tips facing the other direction

4. Using a dotter (or a bobby pin) fill the empty spaces between the shapes with a small dot

5. Top it off with top coat

(Photo: Elle.com)

MANICURE MUSE: Rodarte AW’12 Somehow the Mulleavy sisters...

Thu, 24 May 2012 22:28:31 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Rodarte AW’12

Somehow the Mulleavy sisters seem to master quiet glamour with Rodartes’ collections season after season. It’s haunting in the most exquisite way and this season is no different. Once again they channel the great outdoors and take us to the Australian outback with a romantic utilitarian vibe. There are fisherman sweaters and outerwear that will make your heart melt. This striking coat, in particular, will definitely be a highly coveted item for fall. If you can’t wait until then (I certainly can’t), then might I suggest the Ladyfinger to match?

To emulate this look, I used Fear or Desire by Essie, Sally Hansen black nail art pen, Color Club Duo in black and Cotton by American Apparel.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail orange

2. Draw thin black horizontal lines using a black nail art pen

3. Paint a white triangle at the top of your nail with the point at the center

4. Outline the edges of the triangle with a black nail art brush

5. Top it off with top coat

BRIDAL SERIES: Marchesa SP’13 Happy Bridal Season ladies!...

Mon, 21 May 2012 22:07:11 -0400

BRIDAL SERIES: Marchesa SP’13

Happy Bridal Season ladies! Every girl dreams of their big day, but it’s always seemed so far away… until a slew of engagements show up on your mini-feed to remind you that it’s closer than you think. It’s time to start planning every last detail, most importantly—in world of Miss Ladyfinger— The Manicure. I have had a lot of requests recently on what I’d suggest for a soon-to-be-bride who wants to stand out even more. Inspired by this breath-taking Marchesa gown from the SP’13 Bridal collection, you can keep the color traditional while still adding a touch of sophisticated flare. Marchesa proves that a dress doesn’t have to be ordinary with its cobweb-like detailing and crystal encrusted sleeves. It’s about time someone stepped in and changed up the French manicure.

To emulate this look, I used I Will! and Satin Sheets by L’Oreal, and Tuck Me In by Ginger+Liz.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Tape the top portion of your nail

2. Paint the rest of the nail stark white

3. Add a layer of shimmery ivory on top

4. Once dry, remove the tape quickly

5. Using a dotter tool, dot three tiny rows of silver dots

6. With a nail art brush, connect the dots creating a diamond shape

7. Top it off with top coat and enjoy your big day!

A big congratulations to all who are recently engaged. <3

(Photo: WeddingInspirasi.com)

MANICURE MUSE: Chanel Cruise ‘13 Let them have...

Thu, 17 May 2012 22:02:43 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Chanel Cruise ‘13

Let them have ladyfingers! On Monday, King Karl took reign over Versailles to present Chanel’s 2013 Cruise collection. His re-imagined Marie Antoinette was the ultimate mash-up of “Ghetto Royale” (which actually played as the soundtrack to the show) mixing opulence with rocker chic. Formal eighteenth century silhouettes like pantaloons, stacks of ruffles, and circle skirts translate to modern day with denim and punky flat forms. The best part? Similar to their historical counterparts, models sported candy-colored wigs and signature Chanel logos for beauty marks.

To emulate this look, I used I Will! by L’Oreal, and Neon Pink and Red Color Club duo.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail white

2. Using a red nail art brush or pen, draw swirls to create a “W” half way up your nail

3. Fill in the bottom portion leaving some white space

4. Once dry layer pink swirls on top

5. Top it off with top coat

MANICURE MUSE: Nanette Lepore AW’12 You may recall the...

Mon, 14 May 2012 21:59:00 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Nanette Lepore AW’12

You may recall the Nanette nail I did inspired by the Spring ‘12 collection. Nanette Lepore makes it easy to translate her youthful looks into nail art, because the colors are always so bright and rich. This season was no different with vibrant hues of tomato, pumpkins, cobalts, chartreuses and dark burgundies. Trust me when I say they look even better in person.

To emulate, I used Urban Purple by Rimmel London, Beach by Revlon, Carnaby Street by Nails Inc and Neon Pink by Color Club.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail burgundy

2. Using a metallic lime green, paint a thick stripe on top of your freshly wet burgundy— they should blend slightly

3. Quickly after, paint a thinner yellow stripe on top of the lime green metallic

4. With a hot pink nail art pen, draw swirls emulating the print

5. Top it off with top coat

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY Hope all the momma’s got pampered...

Sun, 13 May 2012 23:54:41 -0400

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

Hope all the momma’s got pampered today! Mine got purple-silver ombre ladyfingers.

Love to the ladies.

xx,

MLF

MANICURE MUSE: BCBG Max Azria AW’12 For the past few...

Thu, 10 May 2012 22:54:00 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: BCBG Max Azria AW’12

For the past few seasons, it has been clear that BCBG Max Azria hasn’t been able to shake their love for color-blocking (not that I’m complaining). For Fall ‘12, they nod to the Bauhaus movement for inspiration. Even if you didn’t pay attention in Design History: 101, you’d still be able to figure out that it’s all about simplified forms and functionality as seen with the slew of color-blocked dresses in lean silhouettes. It’s the touch of added luxury that makes this season a standout. Fur was strategically patchworked into unexpected places like shoulder tops and down sleeves. This is one of my favorite looks from the show. Both the vest and the dress are each eye candy on their own, but together are total power players.

To emulate this look, I used Greyt Expectations and I Will! by L’Oreal, Trout Pout by Butter and Black by Color Club.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail taupe

2. Divide your nail in half (you can use tape if you need a guide) and paint the bottom half pink

3. Once dry, paint a white stripe on either side of your nail

4. Using a nail art brush, paint a line of black along the edge of the white

5. Paint the bottom white portions black with an even thick horizontal line

6. With a very fine paint brush, paint small taupe rectangles on each side of the top part of the white stripe (optional)

7. Top it off with top coat

Miss Ladyfinger x Nylon May ‘12 Check out MLF in the May...

Tue, 08 May 2012 22:16:40 -0400

Miss Ladyfinger x Nylon May ‘12

Check out MLF in the May issue of Nylon. So excited to be part of one of my favorite magazines!

MANICURE MUSE: Carey Mulligan at the Met Gala...

Mon, 07 May 2012 22:07:56 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Carey Mulligan at the Met Gala ‘12

Glimmering in Prada, the new Mrs. Mumford was the first to arrive at the Met Gala tonight… and, boy, did she leave an impression. Since being showered in sequins, Carey kept the rest simple and chic with satin pumps and minimal jewelry. Tonight’s event honors the new “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations” exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute. The exhibit runs from May 10- August 19, 2012 and is a guaranteed must see.

To emulate this look, I used Gold Coin by Revlon, Tuck Me In by Ginger+Liz, and Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous by OPI.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Using a generous amount of polish, paint a thick layer of gold at the top of your nail

2. With your silver, paint the center portion of your nail grabbing the gold polish as you paint downwards

3. Repeat using a dark pewter grabbing onto your silver

4. Top it off with top coat

(Photo: Getty)

MANICURE MUSE: Altuzarra AW’12 No need to board a plane to...

Thu, 03 May 2012 22:02:30 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Altuzarra AW’12

No need to board a plane to take a trip to North Africa. Let Joseph Altuzarra take you there with his dizzying trip of a Fall ‘12 collection. One of my favorites this season is Altuzarra’s collection that fuzed Moroccan carpet patterns and ethnic pom poms/coin embellishment (who needs jewelry when you can wear it?) with military-inspired jackets and French-style skirts. The stand-out was the outerwear featuring cropped sailor pea coats, shearling lined toggle coats, velvet blazers, and this black and white ikat beauty donned with a massive fur white collar.

To emulate this look, I used I Will by L’Oreal, Vinyl by Orly, and black and white by Color Club Duo.

MANICURE MUSE: Acne AW’12 If uttering the words...

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:05:16 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Acne AW’12

If uttering the words “supersize me” is ever encouraged without judgement, it would be for Acne’s Fall ‘12 collection. Distorted silhouettes and proportion play were the key elements to the collection that featured oversized jean jackets, sweatshirts, parkas and trouser pants. These printed cameo trousers do make a statement with room for digestion, which is important if you’re a foodie like me.

To emulate this look, I used Dusty Miller by Priti NYC, Beige by H&M and Got My Groove Back by Ginger+Liz.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail sea foam green

2. Draw irregular shapes using beige

3. Once dry continue to paint gold irregular shapes slightly overlapping the beige

4. Top it off with top coat

MANICURE MUSE: Iceberg AW’12 There’s something to...

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 22:02:08 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Iceberg AW’12

There’s something to be said about cool rocker girls. You know, the ones that can look disheveled and yet totally chic all at the same time. Somehow they make it look effortless, a talent that I have yet to master. Iceberg’s Fall collection gives me hope, however. The collection channels Marianne Faithfull with an army of rocker-chic looks featuring super skinny leather pants, fur-lined parkas and nubby sweaters. Here Hanne encompasses the feel.

To emulate, I used Baker Street by Nails Inc, black and white by Color Club Duo, Got My Groove Back by Ginger+Liz and Sally Hansen’s black nail art pen.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Start with a full blue nail

2. Paint a black stripe down the center of your nail

3. Using your nail art pen, draw in black diamonds to emulate the pattern

4. Paint very thin white lines within your black stripe to create texture

5. Using a dotter tool (or bobby pin), apply four gold dots down either side of your black stripe

6. Top it off with top coat

GIVEAWAY: MISS LADYFINGER TURNS ONE! A year ago today I decided...

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:02:00 -0400

GIVEAWAY: MISS LADYFINGER TURNS ONE!

A year ago today I decided to start a nail blog. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that it would take me on this incredible ride. I feel so humbled and I have you to thank. You guys rock. With that said, I am hosting a giveaway in honor of Miss Ladyfinger’s birthday.

For a chance to win Nails Inc. Neon’s and Nude mini collection, reblog a birthday wish to Miss Ladyfinger. The winner will be announced on May 1st.

Thank you, ladies!

WAH Nails x Miss Ladyfinger The London-based ladies of WAH Nails...

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 22:01:11 -0400

WAH Nails x Miss Ladyfinger

The London-based ladies of WAH Nails were in town this week celebrating the launch of Sharmadean Reid’s nail art book (aka the bible of nail art). Not only did I get to celebrate with them, Miss Ladyfinger got WAH’ed at their pop-up salon in the West Village.

MANICURE MUSE: Sportmax AW’12 It seems that designers all...

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:08:24 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Sportmax AW’12

It seems that designers all over the world are looking East for inspiration. Much like the Proenza Schouler AW’12 collection here in New York, Sportmax also showcased martial arts and Asian influences by way of short sleeved jackets and quilted belts in Milan. This is one of my favorite looks from the collection. The boxy shift dress works double duty with curvy paneling keeping the look feminine. The best part, however, is the double-tiered structured cap-sleeves.

To emulate this look, I used Devonshire Row, Holland Park and Chelsea by Nails Inc.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint your full nail black

2. Paint a lighter purple-colored symmetrical rounded shape within the black part of your nail

3. Follow the inside of the shape by painting a smaller one with a darker colored purple

4. Using a nail art pen, draw hashed lines to create the quilting effect

5. Top it off with top coat

The ladies from London-based nail art mecca, WAH Nails, have...

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:06:00 -0400

The ladies from London-based nail art mecca, WAH Nails, have made their way to the Big Apple to launch their new book. Last night, I got to celebrate with them…

To see and hear more about it click here.

(Photo: Kanon Organic Vodka)

MANICURE MUSE: Diane von Furstenberg AW’12 Last July I had...

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 22:02:45 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Diane von Furstenberg AW’12

Last July I had the opportunity to attend the New York Times event, Times Talk, hosted by Diane von Furstenberg, Prabal Gurung and Norma Kamali [to read more about it click here]. Sitting among fashion leaders was an amazing opportunity, but listening to Diane speak about fashion and business was beyond inspirational.

For Fall ‘12, her collection featured seducing dresses, bold color and a dash of surrealism. Among my favorite looks is this bold-printed comma? apostrophe? overcoat and matching skirt. Needless to say, this lady is my ultimate muse… and you can quote me on that.

To emulate this look, I used Mitzi by Zoya and Vinyl by Orly.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Paint one nail of your choice lime green and the rest black

2. Using a dotter tool (or a bobby pin), create dots using the opposite color

3. Paint a little tail along the dots using the corresponding color

4. Top it off with top coat

(Photo: elle.com)

MANICURE MUSE: Celine AW’12 Celine’s Fall collection...

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 22:02:00 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Celine AW’12

Celine’s Fall collection is much like her highly coveted shopper tote: sculptural, elegant and stripped to the basic elements of design. Strong geometric elements with rounded shoulder lines, ankle cropped pants and soft leather detailing spoke in unison with the stark setting of the show. My favorite piece is this round-shouldered chic geometric overcoat.

To emulate, I used Cadogan Square by Nails Inc and Red, Royal Blue, Black and White Nail Art Duos by Color Club.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Start with a full nude nail

2. Divide your nail in half with a black nail art brush

3. Paint a thin red line towards the top of your nail reaching the black line

4. Repeat by painting a blue line beneath the red

5. Fill in the black square on the bottom left portion of your nail

6. Paint a white thin triangle with the point reaching the center of the nail

7. Outline the other side of your white triangle with your black

8. Fill in the portion next to the white triangle with black filling in the top right portion of your nail

9. Top it off with top coat!

MANICURE MUSE: Prada AW’12 After a Spring collection to...

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 21:36:51 -0400

MANICURE MUSE: Prada AW’12

After a Spring collection to remember, Prada was one of my highly anticipated shows and Miuccia never disappoints. However, if you wanted an explanation for the fabulous clashing prints, floor length vests, or 3D embroideries, you’ll have to lean back and simply enjoy the ride. When asked about her take on the collection, Miuccia explained “everyone has a theory about their collections these days, but I’m sick of theories. This collection is about the pleasure of fashion.” Amen.

(Also noteworthy: Pat McGrath’s kohl-coated eyes and contrasting extensions. Yes, please.)

To recreate my favorite look from the collection, I used Sew Psyched by Essie and Black/White nail art brushed by Color Club’s Duo collection.

To get these ladyfingers:

1. Start with a full green nail

2. Using a thin nail art brush, draw 3 black diagonal lines

3. Repeat crossing over the other direction

4. Draw straight lines across, bisecting where the two diagonals meet

5. Fill in the top triangles with black

6. Using a white nail art brush, draw smaller diamonds within the existing ones

7. Top it off with top coat

Miss Ladyfinger has hit newsstands! Check out the two-page...

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:00:18 -0400

Miss Ladyfinger has hit newsstands!

Check out the two-page feature in the May issue of Flare Magazine…