Our Favorite Micro-French Manicure Ideas to Copy This Spring
March 17, 2023
French manicures have had quite the resurgence over the past few years — and have gotten a modern makeover with new shapes, lines and even colored chrome dimensions, too. The latest trending take on the timeless nail art look is the micro-French manicure — a more elegant, pared-down version of the classic tip. Here, we’re breaking down what exactly the micro-French manicure looks like, plus six looks to copy next time you want to switch up your usual nail routine.
What Is the Micro-French Manicure?
As its name suggests, the micro-French manicure simply refers to a thinner or micro line across the tip of the nail, unlike a traditional French manicure which has a thicker line. Like a regular French mani, the micro-French technique can be done with any combination of nail polish colors — the classic duo being white for the tips and a pink or nude for the base of the nails. To get the look, we recommend using a very thin angled brush, like this Oblique Head French Tip Nail Brush, to help nail (pun intended) the line in one mess-free stroke.
The Best Micro-French Manicure Ideas to Try Now
Ahead, we’re sharing our favorite micro-French manicure looks to inspire you to try the look ASAP.
Micro Black Tips
This black micro-tipped mani is a must-try if you want an edgier, eye-catching take on the look. The base color is a light pink-nude like Essie Lighten the Mood, while the tip is a jet black — Essie Licorice will do just the trick.Micro Chrome Tips
For a micro-tipped look that does a little more, try this French manicure that also has a chrome finish. We love the light green, blue, purple, and golden mismatched lines that catch the light so elegantly.
Micro French Dots
Add another layer of dimension and style to your micro-French mani with this look that consists of hot pink lines and multi-sized black dots. The shade combo gives off the perfect amount of contrast, and the addition of the dots gives this mani a whole lot more personality. If hot pink tips are your thing, we recommend trying the look with the Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Wilder Than I Seam.Micro Short Nails
This ice-pink look, complete with rainbow nail art, proves that the micro-French is ideal for shorter nails and can be dressed up with decals or hand-drawn designs in a snap.
Micro Multicolored French
Go bold with this multicolored nail art look that features a different bright color on each nail tip. To copy the look, we recommend using the INLP Poolside Collection, which has everything from a neon green to a bright peachy pink.Classic Micro
You simply can’t go wrong with a classic micro-French mani. It’s super elegant and can be worn any time of year. For a classic finish, try the Essie Ballet French Manicure Kit. It comes with the brand’s famous Ballet Slippers shade, a light pink polish, for the base, and Blanc, a stark white, for the tips.Read more
