Unleash Your Wild Side: 20+ Gorgeous Leopard Print Nail Designs & How to DIY Them!

Leopard French Tips: A Modern Twist

This is probably my favorite way to wear leopard print right now! Applying the pattern just to the tips, like a French manicure, feels modern and sophisticated. We see this in many variations here. You can have a classic nude base with leopard tips, use a vibrant color like hot pink for the base, or even use leopard print to outline a colored French tip. Adding a thin line of glitter or gold where the print meets the base color, or some rhinestones near the cuticle, elevates the look even further.

• How I Achieve Leopard Tips:
  1. Apply the base coat and the desired base color (nude, pink, etc.) to the entire nail. Let it dry completely.
  2. Define the tip line. You can use French tip guide stickers for a sharp line, or freehand it if you have a steady hand. I find it easier to paint the entire tip area with the inner spot color first (e.g., light brown).
  3. Once the tip base color is dry, use the dotting tool and black polish technique described above (step 3 of classic leopard) only on the colored tip area.
  4. (Optional) For extra flair, use a thin striper brush ☍ and gold or silver glitter liner ☍ to trace along the smile line where the leopard tip meets the nail bed.
  5. Finish with a glossy top coat ☍ .