18 Wintery Velvet Nail Ideas for a Plushy Manicure (2024)

FAQs

Are velvet nails dip or gel? ›

Velvet nails are usually done with a special magnetized polish, but it can also be done with a dip - a powder substance that the nail is dipped into and then sealed with a top coat.

"Velvet nails are also known as cat-eye nails because the cool subtle linear effects created by the magnet resemble looking into a cat's eye," explains Olive & June vice president Olivia Van Iderstine. To create the velvet nails look, you need two things: magnetic polish and a magnet.

Velvet nails can withstand water, soap, moisturiser, shampoo and conditioner. Thankfully I didn't need to change my routine in order to accommodate them. Velvet nails will look slightly darker when wet but will return to normal when dry.

They're typically painted in a similar color to the base, creating an almost mirror-like effect of staring into a cat's eye. It's similar to the velvet nail trend, in a way, as they both feature a metallic finish with texture, but the diagonal line is what you're really looking for in a cat-eye nail look.

Korean nails can be simply categorised as cute, whether it's syrup nails that replicate a semi-sheer jelly look, aurora nails that change colour depending on the light, or blush nails that create soft colour gradients.

So, if you're using your hands a lot, dip powder should be your go-to, as it's also more scratch-resistant than gel. In terms of looks, Smith says gel polish manicures have a natural look, while dip powder has a thicker application. Additionally, she says gel offers more shine and flexibility.

Bottom line: Both gel and dip manicures have the potential to damage your nail, but this can be avoided (or at least minimized) by following correct and patient removal and after-care protocols. One of the biggest downfalls of dip powder manicures is that, when handled without care, they can be easily contaminated.

There's no right or wrong choice when deciding between a gel polish or dip powder manicure. One manicure isn't better for your nails than the other, and choosing between the two comes down to personal preference. Both options will provide you with a long-lasting, glossy manicure.

They have a texture to them that looks exactly like the fabric — so much so that you can almost imagine how soft they feel. Some have a slight shimmer to them, while others are matte. They work on acrylic and natural nails alike and come in a range of colors. In other words, this manicure is the epitome of versatility.

'Red velvet nails are inspired by the rich and luxurious appearance of red velvet cake,' says Holly Wolff, a nail technician at Neville Hair & Beauty. 'They typically feature a deep, velvety red colour with a smooth, plush texture that resembles the look and feel of actual velvet fabric.

What are mermaid nails? ›

'To me, mermaid nails are glittery with pearls or iridescent chrome, basically under the sea inspired,' says Stephanie. 'Whether it's all out seashells and scales or understated chrome over a simple shade they can suit everyone's style. They are super fun and very eye catching.

Velvet is considered a dry-clean-only textile, whether it's upholstery on a chair or the fabric of a fancy dress. “Because the surface pile is composed of cut fibers, wet washing, especially by machine, will cause the pile to loosen and shed.

If you have crush-resistant velvet, also known as panne velvet, then getting it wet won't do much damage. The fabric will likely lose its shape and become misshapen, but it will retain its color. However, if you have pile velvet, getting it wet will cause the fibres to swell and the colors to bleed.

Begin with a clear base coat. Then, working finger by finger, apply a coat of magnetic polish (some people like to apply two coats before using the magnet for better color coverage). Reach for your magnet, and move the glitter particles into the center of the nail. Let it dry, then apply a topcoat.

Apply glitters, hold the magnet over uncured gel, and watch the nail art magic happen! 1-2 Effect. Create gorgeous magnet effect or wear as standard glitter for a soft shimmery look.

Velvet nails, characterized by their mesmerizing dimensional gleam and soft, tactile finish, have surged in popularity, becoming a must-try trend for those seeking an on-trend nail art look.