Costume Nails: Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

This Halloween season, why let your body have all the fun dressing up in costume? I say costume your nails, too!

These nails were inspired by Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. I'm sure you're all familiar, but I'm gonna go ahead and explain it anyway... the blue gingham was inspired by her dress, and the red glitter nails were inspired by the all-important ruby slippers.

I used Wet N Wild Color Icon Rockin' Rubies for the red glitter. I believe that I used three coats? But I know what you're thinking. You're thinking that I should have used China Glaze Ruby Pumps. This is the prime opportunity, yeah? Well unfortunately I don't own it. Cue sad trombone.

The gingham was painted on freehand using OPI What's With the Cattitude for the lighter color and China Glaze Sky High-top for the darker intersection areas. My white of choice for the base was OPI Alpine Snow.

For some reason, I always have trouble doing horizontal stripes on my nails. Something about the curve of my nail or the stiffness of my brush makes it really difficult for me. They never seem to go on straight and usually get thicker at one end than at the other.

HOWEVER, this time I tried to take it really slow and they turned out pretty good from the get go. I only had to do a little bit of correcting!

I think this manicure would be a great way for a beginner to practice their striping skills. The end effect is simple and cute, and most lacquer addicts could probably replace these colors with items they already had in their stash.

There's no place like home!