Water-Colored Nails

Transparent yet vibrant, water-based pigments are a preferred choice for many painters and theater makeup artists. But the luminous translucence of aquarelle (as it’s known in France) can also be the inspiration for a manicure—without actually using the paint! Fortunately, nail lacquer allows the freedom to interpret the diaphanous effect of watercolor onto your fingertips. See how our community members transform their nails into gossamer masterpieces—no H20 required.

Sarah E.

Sarah has a pastel masterpiece on her hands! She used various dropping and swirling techniques atop a white base to achieve this verdant, wet-washed effect. We can’t stop staring at the botanical mix of celadon, teal, and French blue.

Stacie F.

Inspired by Cath Kidston fabric, Stacie painted a pretty flora and fauna scene using washed tints of red-orange, periwinkle, and fern green atop a dark base. We love her use of shading in the petals.

Michelle C.

Michelle dotted on ethereal daubs of magenta, lavender, and white over a glossy onyx base to mimic the effect of watery bubbles suspended in paint. Her use of scale and translucency accurately depicts the light and multidimensional effect watercolor creates.