Chic grown-up nail art has taken over the beauty world this year, so our New York editor Carly went straight to some of the trend’s main sources: the ladies at Paintbox in SoHo. Here at this sleek, modern salon, you can choose from a seasonal lookbook of unique designs or request a custom look.

“I always say, ‘A woman is never fully dressed without her nails polished,’ Paintbox manicurist Christina Quercia says. “Nail art is amazing and so on-trend, and one of the great things about it is that you can really customize a look to fit each person’s personality and lifestyle.”

Read on to see how we created “The Glitter Guide Manicure,” and to find a few tips on trying nail art at home! And the next time you’re in New York, make sure to try a Paintbox manicure for yourself!

THE LOOK

We began by choosing a gel manicure in a shade of “Glitter Guide” blue, a pastel hue that’s perfect for spring. A fun faux pearl added to the base of each nail made for simple yet standout look.

HOW TO CREATE AT HOME

If you want to try this look at home, keep in mind that a gel manicure is your best bet for keeping added pearls or gems securely in place. Start by applying two coats of your favorite pastel shade to clean, trim nails. Using a clear top coat as “glue,” apply the tiny gem of your choice to the base of each nail. After everything is dry, apply two more coats of clear polish.

TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS

Whether you choose to replicate our manicure or devise your own creation, take a look at the tips that the lovely ladies at Paintbox shared:

“For a more grown-up version of a fun glitter mani, steer clear of irregularly shaped glitters or ones in bright rainbow colors,” Paintbox’s Creative Director Julie Kandalec says. “Medium to fine glitter polishes and fine shimmer top coats in colors naturally found in the earth (think: warm gold, rich copper and icy pewter) are much more elegant for adults.”

“Try toned-down art, but with a fun pop of color,” suggests manicurist Christina Quercia. “But most of all, have fun! That’s what beauty is all about, right?!”