French illusion manicure: what it is and how to do it

French Illusion nails are a manicure technique that has gained popularity in recent years. This technique consists of creating a base line on the nail that gives the illusion that the nails are longer and slimmer. The technique is based on the traditional French manicure, but with a more modern and creative twist.
In this new OneHOWTO article, we will explain everything about manicures in detail. French Illusion: what it is and how to do it step by step, so you can experiment with different styles and create your own custom design. In addition, we will show you some examples of styles that you can create with this technique so that you can be inspired and create your own unique and creative manicure. Read on to find out more about French Illusion style nails!
What is the French Illusion manicure?
The French Illusion manicure is a style of manicure that is similar to the traditional French manicurebut with a creative twist. Instead of the classic white line found at the tip of the nail in a French manicure, the French Illusion manicure presents a line at the base of the nail.
This nail base line can be of different colors, designs or patterns, allowing for more customization and creativity compared to the traditional French manicure. The idea behind this technique is to create the optical illusion that the nail is longer of what it really is.
The French Illusion manicure can be performed both with nail polish traditional nails as with most advanced nail art techniquessuch as the use of gel, acrylic either dipping powder. It is a popular choice for special events, weddings, and dressy occasions.
We recommend that you also learn about Glazed Nails: what they are and how to do them.

How to Do the French Illusion Manicure
The French Illusion manicure is a stylish and creative nail technique that can be easily performed at home or in a beauty salon. Next, we will explain step by step how to do it:
- Preparation: Before starting your manicure, make sure your nails are clean and dry. Remove any old polish and clean your nails with nail polish remover and a nail brush. Then gently push back the cuticles with an orange stick.
- Nail Shape: Decide what nail shape you would like to have. If you want a classic French Illusion manicure, you can go for a square or almond shape. Use a nail file to shape the nails, making sure they are all the same length and shape.
- Nail base: Apply a coat of clear nail polish to all of your nails. This will serve as the base of your manicure and will help it last longer.
- Baseline: Once the base coat is dry, draw a line at the base of the nail instead of the tip. This line can be of different colors or designs, depending on your preference. To draw the line, you can use a nail guide or do it freehand with a fine brush.
- Top layer: After you have drawn the base line, let the polish dry completely and apply a coat of clear polish to protect your design and shine your nails.
Fresh Illusion with a glossy base
For this look, use a base line in metallic tones like gold, silver, or copper. To do so, first apply a coat clear nail polish all over your nails as a base. Then, using a fine brush, draw a line at the base of the nail in the metallic shade of your choice. If you want to add more shine to your manicure, you can apply glitter over the base line before applying the top coat of transparent nail polish.

Image: @lotti.salon
Patterned base manicure
If you want to add a pattern to the baseline, you can do so using a fine brush or using a nail guide to create geometric shapes or zigzag lines. To do this, first apply a coat of clear nail polish to all of your nails as a base. Then, use the fine brush or the nail guide to draw the desired pattern at the base of the nail. Once you’re done, apply a coat of clear nail polish to protect your design.
Vibrant Color Baseline Manicure
To create a line of foundation in vibrant shades, such as pink, blue, green, or yellow, Start as usual by applying a coat of clear nail polish to all of your nails as a base. Then use a fine brush to draw a line on the nail base in vibrant color that you have chosen Make sure the line is thick enough to be noticeable. Once you’re done, apply a clear coat nail polish to protect your design and shine your nails.
If you want to innovate even more, we recommend that you read Nails with stones: designs and how to stick them.
Fresh Illusion manicure in dark tones
To create a baseline in dark shades like black, brown, or burgundyagain you must start by applying a clear coat nail polish on all your nails as a base. Then use a fine brush to draw a line at the base of the nail in the dark shade you have chosen.

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