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  • Best Colours for French Manicure: Timeless to Trendy Shades Every Salon Should Offer

The French manicure has long been a symbol of elegance and simplicity. Traditionally known for its nude base and crisp white tips, this classic style has evolved to embrace a wide range of hues—from subtle pinks to bold, modern twists.

As a professional nail technician, offering a versatile selection of French manicure colours ensures you can cater to diverse client preferences and stay ahead of trends. Here's a curated guide to essential shades, all available from Salon First.


1. Classic French: Nude Base & Crisp White Tip

The traditional French manicure features a neutral base paired with bright white tips, offering a clean and sophisticated look suitable for all occasions.

Recommended Products:

  • Base: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Negligee – A sheer, pale pink that provides a natural-looking base.

  • Tip: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Studio White – A pure white shade perfect for creating crisp tips.


2. Pink-Toned Elegance: Blush & Soft White

For clients seeking a warmer, more romantic look, blush pink bases with soft white tips add a touch of femininity—ideal for bridal or special occasions.

Recommended Products:

  • Base: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Aurora – A delicate pink hue that complements various skin tones.

  • Tip: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Cream Puff – A soft white shade that pairs beautifully with pink bases.


3. Milky French: The Trendy Neutral

The milky French manicure is a modern twist, featuring a translucent, milky white base that offers a minimalist and chic appearance.

Recommended Product:

  • CND Plexigel Colour Builder - Porcelain – Provides a semi-opaque, milky white finish perfect for this style.


4. French Fade / Baby Boomer: Gradient Perfection

The baby boomer manicure blends the base and tip colours seamlessly to create a soft ombré effect—both contemporary and elegant.

Recommended Products:

  • Base: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Negligee – Offers a subtle pink base ideal for blending.

  • Tip: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Studio White – Complements the base for a smooth gradient.


5. Colour Pop French: Bold Tips, Neutral Base

For clients wanting to make a statement, colourful French tips with a neutral base create a fun and modern look.

Recommended Products:

  • Base: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Negligee – A versatile base that pairs well with vibrant tips.

  • Tips:

    • CND Shellac Gel Polish - All The Rage – A vivid violet-raspberry shade for a bold pop of colour.

    • IBD Just Gel Polish - Just LA-nding – A bright blue hue for a playful twist.


6. Matte French: Textural Twist

Adding a matte finish to a French manicure creates a modern, velvety texture that appeals to clients seeking something different.

Recommended Product:

  • CND Matte Top Coat
    IBD - Just Gel - Mattify Top Coat


7. Seasonal French Shades

Tailoring French manicure colours to the seasons keeps your offerings fresh and relevant.

  • Spring: IBD Just Gel Polish - Sundance – A muted peach shade perfect for the season.

  • Summer: CND Shellac Gel Polish - Aurora – A bright pink hue that captures summer's vibrancy.

  • Autumn: CND Shellac Gel Polish - All The Rage – A deep, rich colour reflecting autumn tones.

  • Winter: IBD Just Gel Polish - Just LA-nding – A cool blue shade reminiscent of winter skies.

Offering a diverse range of French manicure colours allows you to cater to various client preferences, from timeless classics to modern trends. By sourcing high-quality products from Salon First, you ensure professional results that keep your clients coming back.

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CND SHELLAC Gel Polish - Cream Puff 7 ML
$29.66
$32.95
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$46.76
$51.95
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CND SHELLAC Gel Polish - All The Rage 7 ML
$29.66
$32.95
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IBD - JUST GEL Polish - Just LA-nding (LS) 14 ML
$17.96
$19.95
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IBD - JUST GEL Mattify Top Coat 14 ML
$21.56
$23.95
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CND SHELLAC Matte Top Coat 7 ML
$29.66
$32.95
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IBD - JUST GEL Polish - Sundance 15 ML
$17.96
$19.95
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