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Autumn/Winter 2014 trend report - Nails

From half moon manicures to deep autumnal colours, we spoke to industry experts Bryony McMillan and Rachel Gribble to round up the key nail trends, products and techniques you need to know this Autumn/Winter.

Gellux Starstruck nail design

Bryony McMillan, Lena White/OPI Educator

What nail trends will we see coming through for AW14?

It’s very much about deep purples, reds and browns. We will see a lot of nail art with these colours – block/checked patterns.

What are OPI’s key products for AW14?

Avoplex Nail & Cuticle Oil is a must-have all year round but especially important in the colder months when our skin is lacking moisture. Avoplex Oil is great to use on the nails to encourage healthy nail growth but also to keep the skin and nails flexible to prevent flaking/peeling. The great thing about the oil is that it is so versatile – tell your clients they can use it on their knees, elbows and heels and add it to their daily body moisturiser for added hydration.

What techniques should nail techs be brushing up on for AW14?

Techs should always challenge themselves to take their skills further – look up different styles of nail art than what you are used to and practice on palettes to really perfect the designs. This way you can keep your clients interested in nail art and you can show off your skills to potential new clients!

What three key words or phrases sum up this seasons nail trends?

- Warm
- Chic
- Nordic

Gellux Starstruck nail design

Rachel Gribble, Salon System Educator and Nail Technician

What are the three key nail trends you will be taking away from AW14?

- Two toned nails
- Half-moon manicures
- Subtle nail art, often on a signature nail

What colours should nail techs be adding to their kits for AW14?

Glitters are a must; my favourites are the new Gellux Meteorite and Gellux Shooting Star from the new Gellux Starstruck autumn/winter collection by Salon System. Nude tones are also on-trend this season; I’m a big fan of Gellux Bare Necessity and Gellux Wild Mink. And don’t forget your autumn/winter classics such as dark reds, deep blues and blacks for a vampy look!

What techniques should nail techs be brushing up on for AW14?

The half-moon detail can be tricky, and the key is to get a clean neat finish, so lots of practice is required.

Where do you look for trend inspiration?

Everywhere! Nail, beauty and fashion magazines are great, as is the internet which is abundant with ideas, for example, social media channels such as You Tube, Pinterest and Instagram offer some fantastic how-to guides and designs.

AW14 will see a return to a short almond shaped nail. The days of long stilettos are coming to an end, and we will see a much more classy understated shape coming through.

Gellux Starstruck nail design

Beauty note:

Dark hues aren’t just popular for nails this season, rich plum lips are one of the hottest trends for autumn/winter. Tones can vary between purples and browns to more red and blue shades - again choosing the right tone for your client’s skin tone is key to perfecting the look.

If some clients find this look too bold, then go for an in-between. Ask them for their favourite red lipstick, and apply it, but instead of using a matching lip liner, use dark brown or purple eyeliner to line the lips. Finish by blending the liner into the red lipstick for an instant autumnal update on a classic shade.
Beauty Therapist & Makeup artist Lisa Marie Lesi



First published in the Capital Hair & Beauty magazine.