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A French manicure is one of the most timeless nail looks. Though its popularity waxes and wanes, the classic design, which mimics the look of a natural nail with a sheer pink or nude base and a white tip, never truly goes out of style. But more recently, it’s been reinvented. The reverse French manicure turns the concept of the French tip on its head, featuring a white border at the base of the nail rather than the tip. It forms what some have called a “cuticle cuff.” Celebrities like Blake Lively and Keke Palmer have been spotted wearing the trend. Because the design is thin and dainty, it allows you to introduce a pop of color into a manicure that’s still versatile and easy to style. And it’s a format that can be used all year round. Add a warm brown or a rich red for fall, an icy blue or silver come winter, or a bright citrus hue for spring and summer.
The Classic
A classic French will never go out of style, but this reverse variation offers a playful twist. Coat the nails in a sheer pink polish and then line the cuticles with a thin white border.
Tuxedo French
For extra definition, add a double black-and-white border. Together, they create a tuxedo-inspired look.
Aqua
Add a subtle pop of color with a cerulean micro French tip and a sea foam reverse French tip. The nude base and thin tips keep this look understated but playful.
Rainbow
For a reverse French look that really stands out, choose a different color for each nail and a French tip that contrasts the base. The end result is quirky and mod.
Icicle
In this wintery look, a white reverse French tip is dragged downward to create an icicle effect. Done over a base of cat-eye grey with snowflake details, this manicure is fit for a snow queen.
Lemon Yellow
For something on the lighter side, try a nude base with a bright yellow border. This look is the perfect way to usher in spring.
Silver Glitter
A thin glitter tip adds a dose of sparkle and is perfect for those who aren't ready to commit to a full glitter nail.
Purple
A double reverse French tip in shades of purple adds a hint of playfulness to this otherwise minimalist mani.
Glitter
A glittery French tip plus a matching half moon caps off this Barbie-inspired manicure.
Pink and brown
This bubblegum pink base is complemented by both traditional and reverse French tips in alternating shades of brown and gold. The chocolate-raspberry inspired look would be perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Mettallic Border
Switch things up with a milky lavender base and a silver reverse French tip.
Metallic Blue
A sparkling blue half moon shape stands out against a nude nail.
Green
Green is a fun choice for a double reverse French tip, especially when the colors are pulled toward the nude base for a tie dye teeth-like effect. It's giving Venus fly trap.
Sunny
A double dose of orange makes for a sunny, citrus-infused reverse French manicure.
Lavender Haze
A light lavender border adds a springy touch to an otherwise neutral nail.