Ready to add more “mmph” to your unique look, all the way down to your fingertips?
There are two kinds of people when it comes to nails. Those who enjoy investing time, money, and care into their nails and those who just want a quick, easy DIY solution.
As a swiftly-moving Type 3 woman, nails will either be at the top or bottom of your to-do list. Your practical and determined nature will usually take one of those two preferences when it comes to nails.
Maybe you’re like Type 3 Expert Sarah who prefers quick DIY options at home. Or maybe you’re like Carol, who has regular nail appointments and always has beautiful nails.
No matter which one you are, here are ways to make sure your nails are true to Type!
3 Ways to spice up your nails, in Type 3 style:
1. Pick your method:
Topcoat
Plain old-fashioned nail polish and a nail file!
Pros: It’s an affordable and easy way to make your nails beautiful right at home, and you can change it up more frequently. It’s satisfying to do it yourself—and do it quickly, right up your alley! A bonus is it won’t cause damage to your nails.
Cons: It doesn’t last long. It seems like only a few days after you paint your nails, they get chipped. And if you aren’t careful, it can be messy. You also can’t really change the appearance of your nail shape significantly with just a nail file and some polish, but you can with acrylic or gel. Which is the next method we are talking about.
Acrylic or Gel
Here there are so many options to express your Type 3 nature.
Pros: You can change the shape of your natural nails and make them more true to Type. There are also really cool patterns and colors that you can add to the tips of your nails depending on your nail tech. Acrylic and gel are durable and last a lot longer than the topcoat.
Cons: More of an investment. Can damage your nail bed over time and takes time to adjust to them. I got a gift card for acrylics a few years ago. I got them on and immediately regretted it. I hated how my fingers felt heavier and I couldn’t pick up little things or type on my computer the way I used to – but that is just me. Some women, like Carol swear by them!
Lifestyle member Donna shares: “I go for natural color gel manicures to be on the practical side – no drying time and with the natural color I can stretch them to 3-4 weeks!”
Nail stickers or strips
If you’re not a nail girl because nails have always been too high-maintenance for you, these could change your mind!
These are quickly becoming popular because they’re so fast and easy! No drying time, no UV light, no mess. Just pick your favorite color or design, press on, and file off the excess.
Type 3 Rachel shares: “I can do my nails in the school pick-up line. I can do them at home & immediately go fold laundry. I can head straight to the gym. The list of things you can do immediately after finishing your nails is unlimited because they are DRY from start to finish.“
You can easily find nail strips in your local store or from an independent seller. Here’s some creative online options to get you going:
What’s your favorite way to bring out your Type 3 sassy self with your nails?
2. Choose your nail shape
Square:
This shape is good for Type 3’s because of the angles created at each corner. It’s best on those of you with narrow nail beds and not as flattering on those with wide nail beds.
Squoval:
If you don’t like the angles to be very sharp, this is a great option. This looks like a square and an oval got married. It is a great, softened option to a traditional square. A squoval is the most universal shape for Type 3 women. Carol goes for this shape in her acrylic nails and it looks great on her.
We love Jane’s example of a Type 3 Squoval!
Almond:
This shape creates a soft point in the center tip of the nail. The Almond lengthens and slenderizes fingers. When I file my fingernails, I go for an almond shape.
3. Nail down your color.
Same rules apply here as for your wardrobe!
Shades will always look best on you, even for your nails. But don’t feel like your nails have to be just brown and mustard. Branch out and try some of those other rich shades.
Adrienne’s gorgeous nails are an excellent example of this:
If you’re uncertain if a color works, hold your Style Guide up to it and check and see if it resonates with it.
Type 3 Expert Sarah shares her preferences for color, “I love a little bit of glitter every now and then. To accomplish this, try and find a polish with some gold or bronze glitter. It’s a great topcoat to any color and can add a bit of sparkly texture.“
She also picked out some examples of Type 3 nail polish:
Do you have a favorite nail polish? Share with your Type 3 sisters!
Post pictures of your sexy nails and any links to your favorite nail polishes!
Nails can be a fun way to personalize your style and become an accessory. But don’t stop there! Get even more accessories for your Type in the DYT Online Store!
P.S. There’s more than one way to use nail polish. Find out how you can use it to refashion jewelry!
