How To Pick Your Wedding Manicure Look, According To A Celebrity Manicurist

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Photo: Phil Anema of Christian Oth Studio

Wedding dress? Check. Elegant updo? Tested and approved. Makeup? Your mood board says it all. But what about your nails? Although your wedding day manicure will likely take a backseat when deciding your beauty looks, it's definitely one that should not be overlooked. Think about all of the things that you'll be doing with your fingers on your wedding day — throwing your bouquet, holding your partner's hands, wearing your new wedding band — the list goes on. Your nails need to look as good as ever, but don't sweat it if you haven't given your polish too much thought yet. BRIDES spoke with Essie celebrity nail artist, Michelle Saunders, to find out what you should consider when deciding on a wedding nail look. Here's what she had to say.

1. Always Get A Trial Run
Just like you would for your makeup and hair, you should definitely consider a trial run for your nail look. This will give you the opportunity to test out different colors, lengths, and shapes. Saunders suggests scheduling your first trial appointment at least two months before the big day.

2. Take Inspiration From The Season
You don't have to match your floral theme or paint your nails mauve for fall, but the time of year and the flowers that are in season could help you find inspiration when it comes to choosing a color. "Depending on the season or color scheme, a bride could either keep it classic with a neutral and sheer or go all out with a deep crimson or opaque greige," says Saunders. If you're undecided, go with a tried and true shade. "It's always safe to go with a semi-sheer pink like Essie's 'Ballet Slippers' or slight-opaque creme."

3. Consider Gel Over Regular Nail Polish
The last thing you want to do the day before your wedding is worry about ruining your manicure. If you're up for it, consider a gel to prevent any smudges or chips from happening. What's more, it'll last you at least two weeks after your wedding day. "Gel is a good option especially if there is an extended honeymoon after the wedding," says Saunders.

4. Keep It Simple With The Nail Art
Nail art is all the rage right now, but it doesn't always translate into a timeless wedding day look. That doesn't mean you should skip it if you're into fun designs and a little sparkle, however. "If you are a nail art fan, keep it simple on your wedding day by using a gold or silver metallic (to mimic jewelry) as an accent. I recommend using Essie's 'Good as Gold' or 'No Place Like Chrome.'"


5. Don't Forget Your Toes
Depending on your shoes or dress length, your toes might not even make an appearance on your wedding day. You should still definitely get them painted though. As for color? Saunders believes pedicures are the best place to wear your something blue

6. Keep An Emergency Kit With You
Should anything disastrous happen to your manicure on the day of your wedding, it would be wise to arm yourself with a handy emergency kit. In it, keep a nail file, a cuticle clipper, hand cream, and of course, the nail polish of your wedding manicure. Essie's new Gel Couture line is a great option for brides because you can reapply the polish without having to use a UV lamp in the event you have a mani emergency.