Chandelier Chic: Top 2 and Bottom 2

Challenge #7, Chandelier Chic, asked the finalists to take bright, sparkling inspiration from chandeliers and create their interpretation working with CND’s Plexigel.

The Guest Judge for this week was manicurist and nail expert, Tracey Lee.

In no specific order, the Top 2 are:

Jessica:  Your rock n’ roll inspiration shined through. One judge says, “I love how you never go literal for your challenges.” Your cubes look like ice, ice, baby! You used a great variety of techniques to show Plexigel’s versatility.  Your video scored high marks: “Your video demo checks every box from clean backdrop, clear direction, and flawless  photography. One hesitation from judges is that the matte effect might have interfered with the shine and clarity—but the LED lights helped demonstrate it.

Silvia: Ornamental, elegant, and luxurious describes these nails.  “We knew you were an excellent hand painter, but now we get to see your 3-D work. I did not believe my eyes when I saw this set! ” exclaimed one judge.  Another said, “The scale and drama were both superior design choices.” Some judges thought it was a bit of a missed opportunity that you didn’t make your own flourishes from scratch. Your video integrates excellent use of fast forward and freeze frame for key steps and teachable moments. Great tips on stiletto creation!

And this artist is safe for this week: 

Stephanie:  Once again, you embraced color and being different and the consensus is that it paid off. “These nails are extremely beautiful when worn.” One judge commented: “I really would have loved if you had sculpted these nails in lieu of using pre shaped full coverage tips to really showcase the crystal clarity of Plexigel.” Perfect video elements– so easy to view and learn from. “Great job on the video clarity, the crisp white background really made your design pop.”

Unfortunately, there always has to be a bottom group. In no specific order, they are:

Emily: In what one judge called the hardest challenge of the season, you did lovely work. “The Plexigel on fishing line was GENIUS!” says one judge.  They added shine, sparkle and a bit of magic to the set. Another judge loved your thumbs and the droplets hanging between the tips. The overall design was called “charming and timeless.”  Your pro tips and teaching were great, while one judge suggested you not tell them what they can already see. “There are moments when you are explaining what you are doing rather than why you are doing it.” Well done, Emily!

Jodie:  Your design is like a beautiful necklace. “The movement of it in the photo is very lovely and the flaking looks great,” says one judge. This is a very cohesive set. Another judge wondered if the short length best supported the 3-D art that was created. Regarding your videos, watch your audio levels and framing of the video for crisper refinement. A specific comment included: “Select less shots and then slow them down so that they can really be appreciated and viewed well. No need to show you doing the same thing on all nails.”