Nail Art How-To: Christmas Cheer

Accessories don't just mean bags, shoes, and jewels, we're talking about your nails, too! Here nail artist Alicia Torello shows us how to achieve this gorgeous christmas cheer manicure. With this on your tips, you'll definitely be bringing the holiday cheer!

Nail art
(Image credit: Marie Claire)

nail art

(Image credit: Marie Claire)

1. Apply Your First Coat. Before beginning, file your nails to the desired shape and apply a base coat. Apply one coat of gold polish (we used Topshop's Heart of Gold). Normally metallic colors are strong enough that you will only need one coat.

2. Apply Green Polish. Once the gold polish has dryed completely, begin painting the green polish (we used Zoya's Hunter), about 1/8 inch from the bottom of the nail. Paint upwards, beginning in the center.

3. Add the Finishing Touches. Once the first coat of green polish has dried, apply a second coat. Then, using tweezers, apply small red diamantes to the gold polish. Use nail glue to secure them.

4. Finish with a Top Coat. Apply a top coat. This will help keep the diamantes in place.