The French manicure renaissance is fully underway, and instead of sticking to the classic neutral base and white tips, the name of the game these days is all about playing with color, texture, and innovative designs. Now, French manicures are seeing yet another update, this time in the form of finishes. The dual-finish French manicure showcases a contrasting base and tip, whether that’s matte and gloss, matte and metallic, or shimmer and gloss. Some are monochrome while others play with various color combos, but all add a new depth to the classic mani silhouette. The options are truly endless, but to give you a taste, ahead you’ll find 12 dual-finish French manicures that instantly grabbed our attention.
01of 12All-Black Everything
@IRAMSHELTON
The beauty of dual-finish French tips is that they add instant intrigue to a nail look, and the texture contrast allows you to explore monochrome options. Here, you can see how matte and glossy black polishes pair together for a timelessly chic moment.
02of 12Maximum Shimmer
@PEACHINAILS
While many dual-finish French manicures employ glossy and matte polish, you also can use shimmer to embrace the trend in a manner appropriate for the chrome age—this iridescent tangerine mani proves it.
03of 12Luscious Burgundy
@IRAMSHELTON
These burgundy nails give off a rich appeal that seems decadent and moody. The texture play only adds to the sensual, luxurious feel.
04of 12Rainbow Velvet
@BRUSHEDBYB_
In case you needed another example of how satin and shimmer finishes can pair together, it’s somewhere over the rainbow. This dual-finish French mani showcases the multicolor French tip trend while simultaneously embracing the trendy velvet effect. The result is both cheerful and stunning.
05of 12Glossy Green
@AMYLE.NAILS
If you prefer the bare base of a classic French mani but want to hop on the dual-finish trend, you can go extra shiny with the tips, and maybe even play with the design. The striped shades of green and subtle faux stiletto effect here are truly stunning.
06of 12Midnight Gray-Blue
@AMYLE.NAILS
Gray may typically be considered one of the more drab colors on the spectrum, but as part of a dual-finish French manicure, it’s about as fashion-forward as it gets. Here, the exact shade used is OPI’s Nail Lacquer ($12) in the shade Less Is Norse, and we love the blue undertones.
07of 12Glitter Double French
@BRUSHEDBYB_
Who said dual-finish French manicures have to result in a half-and-half effect? This design pairs its glossy neutral base with a glitter double French tip for an almost pop art effect that’s sure to turn heads.
08of 12Glossy Cranberry Tips
@AMYLE.NAILS
While a dual-finish monochrome French manicure makes quite the statement, you can always opt for a classic neutral base and colorful tip while still sticking to the multi-finish appeal. Here, you can see how glossy cranberry tips have even more main character energy against a matte base. For those curious, the exact color used is the Essie Nail Polish ($7) in the shade Off the Record, from the brand’s Limited Edition Fall 2021 Collection.
09of 12Metallic Baby French
@THENAILBOXXCHI
Looking to add some extra pop to your 𝑏𝑎𝑏𝑦 French mani? A dual-finish design is the ultimate way to do it. This one combines a glossy neutral base with chrome metallic tips, plus a couple bonus accents.
10of 12Rosy Blush
@AMYLE.NAILS
Looking for a lighter, more neutral dual-finish French mani? We love this blush take by nail artist Amy Le.
11of 12Totally Tortoiseshell
@LOLO.NAILEDIT
Many dual-finish French manicures relegate the shiny section to the tips—but some play with exactly the opposite. This one allows its tortoiseshell base to quite literally shine with a subtle accompaniment of matte white tips.
12of 12Rose Gold Tips
@AMYLE.NAILS
Love the look of monochrome rosy blush dual-finish French tips, but want to spice it up for the weekend or a special occasion? Transform your tips with a swatch of metallic rose gold polish.
