"Outside of a brief obsession with colorful French tips, I can’t remember the last time I went to my nail salon to request a French manicure. As classic as the style is, it’s always felt a little more formal than I prefer for my nails to be outside of weddings and special events. But a modern update is making me completely rethink my opinions on the manicure I usually associate with my mom and grandma. Enter: the micro French.
+ how I did Scotland in a week without losing my mind in the planning process
Because of my short nail beds (and relatively short nails), my French manicures usually end up looking something like 90 percent French tip, 10 percent nail. Thanks to an ultra-thin line, the micro French eliminates that problem, giving a more subtle effect and the illusion of a longer nail bed. I’m personally running to the salon to book a micro French manicure, and these are the inspiration pictures I’m showing my nail artist.
What is a micro French manicure?
A micro French manicure is exactly what it sounds like: a French manicure, but with as thin a line of polish at the tip of the nail as possible. Of course, not all micro French manicures are the same level of “micro.” You can have a micro French mani with a barely detectable line of polish, or one with just a z skinnier French than normal. Either way, this style is especially great for those of us who love the look of a French manicure, but also want to have one that doesn’t overpower shorter nails.
How to do a micro French manicure
If you’re planning to ask for a micro French manicure at the salon, make sure you pick a base of your favorite “your nails but better” color and follow it up with the tip color of your choosing. You can request a micro French mani by name, or simply request a super-thin French manicure.
If you want to DIY it, start with the base coat of your choosing before moving on to the French tip. With the micro French design specifically, it helps to have a super-tiny brush on hand to carefully create the ultra-thin line along the tip of your nail. You can use another small brush with a bit of polish remover to clean up any mistakes.
Micro French manicure ideas
Need some inspo for your next micro French manicure? Keep scrolling for 15 inspiration pictures to take to your next nail appointment.
1. Bright Pink Micro French Nails
2. Black Micro French Nails
3. Green Micro French Nails
4. Brown Micro French Nails
5. White Micro French Nails
6. Ombré Micro French Nails
7. Black & White Micro French Nails
8. Multicolored Micro French Nails
9. Lemon Yellow Micro French Nails
10. Pink Micro French Nails
11. Pastel Micro French Nails
12. Neon Green Micro French Nails
13. Gold Micro French Nails
14. Silver Micro French Nails
15. Cobalt Blue Micro French Nails
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.