Vintage Couture: The Top 3 and the Bottom 3

Challenge 2 sponsored by Akzentz asked our Top 11 to dress up nails in a vintage style. The final design was to be inspired by a vintage fashion piece or period. The Top 11 then had to complete a step-by-step tutorial detailing how the nails were made. This week’s guest judge was Jessica Briarmoon of Akzentz.

In alphabetical order, the top 3 are:

Dana: The judges praised the cleanliness of your design and the selection of gels used. Your step-by-step tutorial was beyond excellent with clear, concise, and teachable techniques. Well done!

Jenna: The judges are a fan of nøgle negle! They loved your innovation with this technique, but wish you had used variation in color. The added touch of your profile in the cameo was a cool detail that fit the theme of the challenge.

Sammi: Your detail work on these nails was nothing short of incredible. The judges appreciated how you incorporated so many products into the overall design. Phenomenal work!

The following techs can breathe again. They are in the middle of this week’s pack and are safe. Congratulations to:

Ashton: Your inspiration was clear, but the judges would like to learn more of your technique in your tutorial. Overall, a “fair” and ladylike set of nails, just like Audrey Hepburn herself.

Halley: The judges thought this was a clever approach to the challenge. Your nails have beautiful color, composition, and precision. The tutorial was a bit confusing and intimidating, so clean it up a bit.

Hemi: Your technique, color story, and inspiration were well received and clear. The judges would have liked to have seen more variety with these tips, but what you showed us was excellent work!

Katie: Your techniques for individual pieces such as the newspaper print, pearl, and chain were genius. When placed all together, though, the design looked a bit muddled.

Valerie: The judges adored your design and sequins. They would like to see/hear more of your teaching in your tutorial.

Unfortunately, there always has to be a bottom group. The bottom 3, in alphabetical order, are:

Kostadina: You’ve proved you can sculpt and handpaint with incredible detail; however, this design was a too literal for some of the judges. Your step-by-step was also crowded with too many pictures.

Liza: These nails are beautiful and very wearable. The judges could clearly see the art deco inspiration. However, with an artist of your talent, the judges expected to see the nails “jazzed” up a bit more.

Trish: Clean composition this week. The judges wish the nails had been more glamorous to really emphasize the Monroe reference. Suggestion: Make the nail tips in your step-by-step photos the same scale/size so it’s easier to follow. You are always so professional and passionate, and the judges recognize that in your work!