Design guide · Original illustrated references

Cat-eye nails: velvet, magnetic accents and short designs

A cat-eye manicure is defined by a reflection that moves as the hand meets the light. Decide how strong you want that reflection to be before choosing a colour. These original AI illustrations compare two magnetic design concepts with a solid-colour alternative; a still image cannot show the full movement of a real finish.

AI design illustration; colour and finish are approximate.

References to compare

These AI concepts show visual differences. They are not salon results or evidence that a specific product produces the same finish.

AI illustration
Burgundy velvet
A soft reflection over a dark wine base
Appointment note: Short oval shape, matching colour on all nails, soft magnetic glow
AI illustration
Plum with a solid accent
Compare a magnetic finish with one plain nail
Appointment note: Almond shape, plum reflection and one matching solid accent
AI illustration
Solid blue alternative
Colour emphasis without a moving highlight
Appointment note: Short squoval, even blue coverage and gloss

A narrow cat-eye line or a soft velvet glow?

A concentrated band gives the design a clear focal point. A softer velvet appearance spreads the reflection across a larger part of the nail. Ask your nail professional to show a sample in daylight and under indoor lighting. Compare the same base colour in both finishes; changing the base and reflection together makes it harder to identify what you prefer. A short rounded nail can carry either look without needing an extension.

Choose the base before adding decoration

Burgundy, plum and deep blue give a dark base against which a light reflection is easy to compare. A lighter base creates a different contrast. Choose one direction, then decide whether every nail should have the magnetic effect or one nail should be an accent. Keep the shape and length consistent across the reference. If you want a single magnetic accent, ask for the other nails in a matching solid shade rather than assuming two different products will match exactly.

How to judge a reference photograph

A bright stripe in one photograph may look wider, softer or less visible when your hand moves. Save a short video of the finish where possible, and show the professional which part you like: colour, reflection, length or all three. Screen colours and our AI concepts are approximate. The solid blue example below is a contrast reference, not a demonstration of magnetic polish. Use it to decide whether you prefer a flat colour or a moving highlight.

Supplies depend on the actual system

A magnetic design may need a compatible magnetic product and tool. The appearance alone does not tell you whether the product is conventional polish or a lamp-cured system. If it requires curing, use the lamp and procedure specified by its manufacturer. Do not buy a lamp only because its advertised wattage is higher. Our kit and lamp guides help you compare the system and package; they do not prescribe a magnetic application technique.

Your appointment checklist

Bring a moving reference as well as a still image.
Choose a base colour and reflection strength separately.
Agree the length and shape before deciding on accents.
Ask which product system and removal method the professional uses.

Planning to shop?

Choose the actual product system before buying supplies. The guides explain compatibility, contents and local shopping; an illustration does not identify a tested product.

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