Perfectly Polished

photograph by david butler

Modern

Turn the traditional wedding manicure on its head with a reverse French in funky hues. “Recently, metallic nails and texture have been popular,” says G2o spa and nail director Christine Haddad. “The muted pink (OPI ‘I Love Applause’) gives a modern edge to a class look, and the silver (OPI ‘Push and Shove’) creates a standout contrast.”

$37, G20 Spa + Salon.

Artsy

For the bride-to-be with a creative flair, Wet Paint Nail Spa owner Michelle Phoenix suggests a manicure showcasing shimmering Recollections microbeads. The looks starts with one coat of white (Nubar “French White Tip”) and one coat of pearly white (Zoya “Ginessa”) before the pearls are applied.

$45 (for beads on all nails), Wet Paint Nail Spa.

Classic

Delicate lace is timeless, for gowns and nails alike. Nancy Le, lead nail technician at Bliss, offers a signature bridal manicure that calls for nude polish (OPI “My Very First Knockwurst”) under lace fabric, which is applied with tweezers and nail glue and secured with a clear topcoat.

Starting at $35, Bliss Spa Boston.

Romantic

Featuring sheer white polish (Essie “Allure”) accented by silver and gold glitter, Bella Santé’s “snowflake” manicure embraces the whimsy of a winter wedding. “There is just enough sparkle to stand out, but not so much that it becomes the focal point of the look,” says Wellesley spa director Caroline Bradford.

$40, Bella Santé Day Spa.

HOT TIPS

Flawless fingers take time. Start prepping now with these dos and don’ts from local nail experts.

Dos

Do schedule a nail appointment several months prior to the wedding, and get on a regular manicure schedule
—Christine Haddad, G20 Spa + Salon

Do keep the nail bed hydrated by using cuticle oil (such as CND Solar Oil) daily.
— C.H.

Do let your nails grow as the big day approaches, even if you usually keep them short. Your technician will find the best shape for the look you want.
— C.H.

Do ask your technician for a bottle of touchup polish to repair any nicks after you leave the salon.
— Michelle Phoenix, Wet Paint Nail Spa

Do apply a thin layer of topcoat two days after your manicure to prevent chipping
— Nancy Le, Bliss Spa Boston

Don’ts

Don’t pick things up with your nails. Make a conscious effort to use finger tips instead
— N.L.

Don’t be scared off by bling or glitter. It’s possible to add a little festivity to your nails without going overboard.
— M.P.

Don’t feel obligated to get a classic French or clear manicure. It’s your day; do whatever you like.
— M.P.

Getting married? Start and end your wedding planning journey with Boston Weddings' guide to the best wedding vendors in the city.