Back to the Future: The Top 3 and the Bottom 3

Challenge #4, Back to the Future, was a reminder that CND is an editorial-minded brand. Throughout the years they’ve created iconic nail art looks and photo shoots to go along with these nails.

For this challenge, the finalists were tasked to create both a wearable nail art look and capture it as if it were going to be used as a CND-style ad. They were to choose one of CND’s past ad campaigns as a point of inspiration and create a futuristic interpretation of that nail art on five nail tips.

The Guest Judge for this week was manicurist, coach and podcaster, Ashley Gregory.

In alphabetical order, the Top 3 are:

Emily: Your floating tip idea was deemed “brilliant”! Judges felt it created an innovative, futuristic idea that is cohesive with the collection theme. Your combination of hand-painting with a structural element was much admired. Great tips on symmetry and crisp linework and the henna design demonstrated great detail. Slow down your video a bit so we can see you at work. Also, your own nails are HOT. Claps all around!

Silvia: Love your “selfie” shoot and the way you put yourself into this project. One judged liked your editorial look even more than the original! The judges feel you have proven once again that you are amazing colorist, hand painter and stylist! In your videos, remember to include narration and tips like explanation of why you chose a specific product or tool. You are encouraged to not play it safe, going forward, but to really make that creative leap!

Stephanie: You made this set authentically “you” with the Southwest details. Judges were so enthusiastic over the obvious work you put into your entry and described it as “beautiful!” and “masterful!”. Your final editorial shots were beautiful and your growth is obvious to all the judges.

And these artists are safe for this week.  Here they are in no specific order…

La Tara: The judges loved your vision of the future—QR codes! It was such fun for the judges to see you on camera and thank you for infusing your personality into the video. Keep practicing loading your striping brush with the right amount of product to keep lines crisp.

Eileen: The judges loved that you created three levels of difficulty. This look was definitely giving off Wild Earth vibes, but remember that wearable doesn’t have to be super-safe. Your video was totally giving off Bob Ross vibes and the judges are here for it! Well done on including pro tip text boxes throughout.

Jessica: Gorgeous use of crystals and judges all want that purse! One judge felt the nails looked a bit thick so remember to look at nails from all angles as the camera catches every tiny flaw. It was obvious that you are taking this competition very seriously and are really striving to do your utmost creatively. Your audio has some issues so looking at fixing that going forward.

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

Asia: Judges liked your application of your textile abilities to nail art, because you made these nails look like a fabric. One judge felt the colors were a bit muddy, not vibrant, and clean. You did a great job setting up your shoot, and judges would love to hear more voiceover or pro tips on how to achieve this. Lighting and sound were both on point. Remember to make nails—not accessories—the focus.

Jodie: The judges loved seeing your BTS videos and the beach trip you took for inspo –plus they loved the red lippee! They admired you for using a medium you’re uncomfortable with—this is a ‘challenge’ after all! It was suggested that you try painting your 3D elements before attaching them to the nail to make your life easier.

Kristen: A cool twist on pop art but maybe not right for the challenge. Your hand painting skills are so good and the look was very cohesive.  The video demo was a bit frantic and it was suggested you switch to white shop towels from the blue, which can be distracting.