ALL THAT ZAZZ

By Mary N. DiZazzo

A French Toast

Ciao bella,

Who doesn’t love a French manicure? So many people have claimed its fame. The French claiming it originated in 18th century Paris and was popular in the 1920s and ‘30s. Then a nail icon claimed it was he in 1976 that introduced the “Natural Look” making its debut on a Paris runway—then naming it the French manicure.

Anyway, it’s a style of polishing the nails or making the nails look clean and simple for a natural look.

You can wear this style from the beach to your wedding dress, etc.

It has a romantic look considering its simplicity.

You never have to think about it matching your lipstick, or even for that matter the color of your outfit.

The French manicure is lasting and when well-painted impressive. As conservative as it looks it also makes a classy and elegant statement. There was a time when manicures used to be a luxury and French manicures said, “I get my nails done.”

A legendary Los Angeles buffer uses white zinc “nail ink” under the tip as an alternative to a painted smile line.

There are many versions of French manicures—In my experience I have painted off-white tips coated just with clear. I have painted a white tip with subtle over coats such as pink, lavender, gold and silver.

A French manicure is still ooo-la-la!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

P.S. And for any of your cosmetic challenges stop by A Matter of Face in Boston's Historic North End at 425 Hanover Street. For more info visit www.amatterofface.com or call Paula at (617) 742-BLUSH.

Have you missed any of Mary's columns in the Post-Gazette? Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns on her website www.mary4nails.com. She is a third-generation cosmetologist and owner of Mary for Nails, etc. natural nailcare salon, and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183.