Unlike standard gel polish, Dazzle Dry doesn't require a UV lamp to cure the manicure.

Instead, Dazzle Dry considers itself a reinvented lacquer, advertising that it has the benefits of long-lasting gel without the harsh chemicals or damaging removal.

The system consists of four steps, including nail prep, base coat, polish, and top coat.

Eager to try the nail system for myself, I headed to Lena Rose Beauty in Chicago for a professional version of the manicure.

After greeting my usual nail tech, Teresa "Tere" Rodriguez, I took a seat. I opted for a navy blue shade and a sparkly purple color.

After Rodriguez removed my Brazilian manicure, they worked on my cuticles and applied the Dazzle Dry nail prep primer.

They followed up with two layers of the clear base coat, which is supposed to help the polish last longer.

Next, Rodriguez applied two layers of the deep blue shade I chose and one coat of the tiny purple sparkles. After waiting a few moments to ensure my nails were dry, they finished with the top layer to give it a shiny look.

Rodriguez then flipped a five-minute hourglass to time my drying process, and I was surprised to find that my manicure dried in the expected timeframe without the help of sprays or a cool fan.

Once my nails were dry, Rodriguez used in-house body oil for a soothing hand massage. To wrap up the relaxing process, they enveloped my hands in a hot towel and applied cuticle oil to each nail.

The manicure took less than an hour and cost $55, including tax and tip.

I was delighted by how well my nails fared after two weeks. The nail growth was evident, as were a few expected chips, but I thought the Dazzle Dry polish held up more nicely than regular polish typically does.

At the end of the day, I was very happy with my Dazzle Dry manicure. The only downside was that I didn't think the polish looked like a gel manicure, even after the addition of the shiny top coat.

That said, after seeing how easy the manicure was to execute, I'd definitely invest in an at-home mini Dazzle Dry starter kit ($42) to save some money on future trips to the salon.

However, I think a professional Dazzle Dry manicure every few months would be worth the splurge for the careful cuticle cleanup and relaxing hand massage.

Le Mini Macaron's $38 at-home gel kit was incredibly user-friendly.

The kit included nail-prep tools, a 3-in-1 polish, and a macaron-shaped LED lamp, making the process very straightforward.

Although the kit was affordable and made gel manicures more accessible, it only lasted a few days after I applied the polish.

When I attempted to touch up the manicure, the uneven polish layers made my nails look lumpy.

I went to my usual nail tech, Teresa "Tere" Rodriguez, for a structured gel manicure.

This technique uses an extra layer of soft or hard gel before the polish is applied, creating a stronger foundation for your nails.

I opted for gold chrome and gems scattered across every nail, which cost $110 and took about two hours to complete.

I thought the manicure was a good option for prioritizing my nail health. It lasted the expected four weeks (sans a few gems), I didn't have to worry too much about breakage, and my nails weren't as flimsy as I thought they'd be when I had the set removed.

I went to Tokyo Nails in West Loop, Chicago, for a Japanese gel overlay on short natural nails with a simple design.

The salon owners, sisters Nomin and Nomundari Uuganbayar, source their 100% gel polish directly from Japan.

After four weeks of no chipping, my $160 Japanese gel manicure fulfilled its promise of longevity, and my nails weren't as damaged as I expected after removal.

Overall, I preferred this option over a structured gel manicure due to the 100% gel polish.

I went to Maria Bonita Salon & Spa in New York City for a Brazilian manicure, which includes applying generous coats of regular polish all over the nail bed and surrounding skin before removing the excess.

During the service, my nail tech offered advice for keeping my nails healthy in the coming months. The careful cuticle work juxtaposed the messy regular-polish application, which had beautiful results after she cleaned my skin with a wooden cuticle stick and a small puff of cotton soaked in polish remover.

My manicure didn't last very long (it started chipping within the week), but it reminded me of my appreciation for regular polish and my interest in prioritizing cuticle care and overall nail health. Plus, it only cost $35 (not including tip).

It was also great knowing I could do the technique on myself for a full-coverage manicure.

Tokyo Nails offers pre-made, professional press-on nails for a flat rate of $50, regardless of design. The sets come in extra-small, small, and medium sizes, but large sizes can be custom-made.

I paid $90 for a silver set, which included the press-ons, previous manicure removal, tax, and tip.

Although my appointment went over the allotted 35-minute time because of my manicure removal, the application process was fast.

My nails lasted about a week with minimal setbacks. One thumbnail came off six days after application, but I was able to fix it with gel glue provided by my nail tech in an at-home repair kit.

However, my other thumbnail fell off a few days later and didn't respond to the glue. Still, I thoroughly loved this manicure for its stunning design options, surprising longevity, and easy application process.

Even though the salon (Nail Club Paris) used a technique similar to what I've experienced in the US, getting a French manicure in Paris was a memorable experience.

My $160 tortoiseshell French manicure, which was done using Aprés gel extensions, was finished so quickly that I genuinely didn't expect it to last as long as it did (over four weeks).

I ranked this manicure so highly because of its unexpected longevity and the nail tech's impressive craftsmanship. I also appreciated how on-trend these French tips were and how beautiful they looked weeks later.

My $300 Russian manicure with hard-gel extensions from Say-It Nails in New York City claimed the top spot.

Russian manicures are done dry and emphasize the importance of cuticle care, removing the excess skin to create more surface area for polish application. Nail techs also prioritize correcting each nails' apex (it's thickest part) to keep them strong.

I still think about the meticulous cuticle care and the satisfying 'pops' of my hard-gel extensions coming out of their plastic molds.

I had this set on for a month, but fully believe it could've lasted weeks longer without chips or lifting (which is one of my biggest pet peeves).

Although my nails needed a little breather after removing this set, the nail care during this manicure — and longevity afterward — had me itching to make another appointment.

The first thing I noticed after opening the can of StarKist tuna ($2.30) was that a very fishy aroma filled the kitchen. Though this one had a strong smell, I was surprised by how bland it tasted.

The texture was dense, but the fish seemed dry even though it had been sitting in water in the can.

According to the can, the Trader Joe's tuna ($2) I picked up was unsalted, and I could certainly tell when I took a bite.

The taste was fishier than the StarKist version, but offered more moisture, which added to the overall experience.

Though this was certainly better in taste and moisture compared to StarKist, I probably wouldn't buy it again.

When I opened the can of Bumble Bee tuna ($2.49), I couldn't help but notice it resembled generic cat food. However, I'm glad I didn't base my opinion on appearance alone.

To my surprise, this option offered the most flavor and moisture of the four I tried. Unlike some of the others, it didn't have a flat fish note.

I was excited to try the Good & Gather version, which is Target's house brand. When I attempted to scoop the Good & Gather tuna ($2.30), though, I noticed it was kind of hard.

It did have some pink pieces, which gave me hope for the taste, but ultimately, I was disappointed when I took a bite.

The little flavor present was most akin to the StarKist tuna. I also didn't love the texture and found it had low moisture retention.

Before tasting all four cans of tuna, I didn't expect the taste to vary much between brands. However, Bumble Bee's white Albacore tuna proved me wrong.

The Bumble Bee option offered great flavor, texture, and moisture. It was even better when I added it to spaghetti alla carrettiera for dinner that night.

Though I could appreciate the Trader Joe's tuna, especially after adding salt to bring out its fishiness, I found its flavor fell flat in comparison to Bumble Bee's version.

I'll definitely look for Bumble Bee next time I visit the grocery store.

Although gender-neutral fashion might be intimidating for some Gen Xers who didn't grow up familiar with it, the "fisherman" aesthetic is a great place to start.

The fairly androgynous trend uses a lot of earthy tones and offers a fun, simple play on "coastal prep" styles, said Welch. It blends maritime details, like utility jackets and netting, with nautical nods, like navy stripes and fisherman sandals.

It's been rising in popularity for spring, but it can also be adapted for just about any season.

In the warmer months, look for lightweight fabrics like linen, mesh, and gingham, Welch said. For colder seasons, chunky cable-knit sweaters and raincoats will do.

For many years, skinny jeans lived in the spotlight as an overall fashion trend and popular style worn by Gen Xers.

Now, wide-legged pants and jeans are in play and on trend, said Sally Mackinnon, personal stylist and founder of Styled by Sally.

She said many Gen Xers may have been led to believe that wide-legged pants would make them look shorter or bigger and that skinny jeans were the most flattering style, but it's time to let that notion go.

"We all get a little bit stuck in what we think looks good. Change is often a bit intimidating," she told BI. Plus, wide-legged silhouettes can look fashionable and comfortable.

Two-piece athleisure sets offer a casual yet polished look that all generations can partake in — especially Gen X, said Stephanie Lees, a stylist who focuses on working with Gen X women.

Matching sets can make casual, comfortable outfits feel more elevated.

Lees also said many of these stretchier, comfort-forward styles may be especially appreciated by Gen Xers struggling to dress their body amid menopause-related weight gain.

Consider tucking in your tops when you're playing with new silhouettes, like skirts or high-waisted trousers, said Mackinnon.

Some may be hesitant to try this trend if they're insecure about their body shape or haven't tried it before, but the stylist said a tuck is worth experimenting with.

Doing so can shape one's body and change the proportions of an outfit, whether it's through a French tuck or a full tuck.

Trends are cyclic, but they don't always return in the same way. This means that the item you wore when it was in style years ago may not hold up, even if the trend it fits comes back around.

For example, if flare jeans are making a comeback, they're not necessarily the pants you knew decades ago and may still own. A modern, stylish version may offer a different waist height or be more wide-legged.

"Sometimes, when something comes back in style and it hasn't been out of style for that long, people go back to the old version of that style instead of updating it to the new version," said Lees.

When trends come back around, the stylist said, try to find modern and more comfortable versions of them to ensure your look feels fashionable, fresh, and updated.

There's nothing wrong with using a cross-body bag or fanny pack to carry all your necessities, but consider its placement on your frame the next time you reach for it.

The hands-free accessory was once worn very low on the body, but Mackinnon suggests wearing these bags higher on your hip or across your chest to make it an "integral part of your outfit."

"You always want to draw the eye upwards," she said. "Drawing it upwards helps to balance proportions."

Many Gen Xers have prioritized purchasing clothes for office jobs over the years, thus accumulating a "work wardrobe" that they may incorporate into their personal style, said Welch.

However, they shouldn't feel like they have to be in business-casual looks all the time or can't have fun with their off-duty looks.

Fortunately, Welch said, she's seeing more Gen Xers stray away from a work-centric closet, especially those transitioning into a different stage of life, like retirement.

She said this generation should be open to reinventing their style and reaching for more fun and interesting pieces as they build their wardrobe.

Say goodbye to the fitted, cropped denim jacket, said Mackinnon. These jackets can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, look like they don't properly fit.

Instead, try a more oversized denim jacket with a longer and boxier feel. The stylist said the relaxed and loose silhouette is fairly timeless, chic, and way more comfortable.

The first stew I tried was Progresso's beef pot roast with country vegetables.

The vegetables and meat were soft, the potatoes had a bit of bite for texture, and the broth was very enjoyable when doctored up with salt and green onions.

I struggled to finish this one, as it was very hearty and had a lot of broth to work through. Still, it was a solid dinner option.

Campbell's chunky beef soup with country vegetables included meat, potatoes, peas, and carrots. I thought these ingredients overpowered the broth, which had a strong tomato taste.

Overall, this one was a bit bland and wasn't as hearty as the other options. After adding salt and noodles, the stew went from just OK to good. However, it still wouldn't be my first pick.

Unlike the other stews I bought, Rao's slow-simmered Tuscan-style beef soup came in a glass jar instead of a can. However, I decided to include it in this taste test because it was still a preprepared stew.

When I warmed this one up, I was immediately disappointed by the strong tomato smell and expected it to taste like Campbell's version.

However, I was pleasantly surprised that I could barely taste tomato in the broth. I was also shocked the jar had 11 grams of protein because of how much more broth there was compared to veggies and meat.

Unlike the other stews, Rao's version had mushrooms, which was a nice addition. The only downfall was that this soup was made up of small pieces of beef, carrots, celery, and potatoes, which easily got lost in the broth.

Overall, I enjoyed the garlic and onion taste, giving it a home-cooked flavor. I almost forgot it came out of a jar.

The broth in the Dinty Moore beef stew was much thicker than the others I tried. When I initially poured the soup into a pot, it looked like it was mostly vegetables and meat. As it heated up, however, the balance between solids and liquids leveled out.

The broth had a tomato undertone, but it wasn't overwhelming like Campbell's was. It also didn't need any additional salt, which was surprising.

The meat was very soft, and there were a lot of carrots and potatoes. I thoroughly liked the taste of this stew and thought it was perfectly filling.

Before this taste test, I expected to enjoy Campbell's beef stew the most because I was familiar with its products. However, I couldn't shake my distaste for the tomato-heavy flavor.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed Rao's stew, but it definitely needed noodles or a side of bread to compensate for its small pieces of meat and vegetables.

The Progresso option was good, but overall, the Dinty Moore stew was my favorite for its strong flavor and hearty broth.

Ultimately, depending on how filling I'd want my meal to be, I'd reach for Dinty Moore and Rao's again.

I went to Tokyo Nails in Chicago for a Japanese gel overlay on short natural nails with a simple design add-on.

The appointment cost me $160 and took about two and a half hours.

The nail tech removed my previous manicure, prepped my nails and cuticles, and applied a gel base coat, color polish, and topcoat — all sourced from Japan — before doing my requested design.

A couple of months later, I went to New York and found Say-It Nails in Midtown Manhattan. I made an appointment for a hard-gel-extension Russian manicure with complex nail art.

The manicure took three hours and cost $300. It included cutting cuticle skin, creating hard-gel extensions focused on building the apex of my nail, shaping the extensions, and then applying a gel coat, color polish, and my requested designs.

Although the Russian manicure took the longest, I was most amazed by the entirely dry process — no water was used — and extreme yet painless cuticle cutting.

Most recently, I went to Chicago-based licensed nail technician Teresa "Tere" Rodriguez for a structured manicure.

This is what I usually get on a monthly basis — and what I've typically been able to find across the country — so I counted it as my American manicure.

It cost $110 and took about two hours, including cuticle and nail prep, thin and thick gel polish, color coats, and nail art.

I'd heard that both Japanese and structured manicures tend to prioritize nail health, even after removal. After trying them both, I think that's true.

Four weeks later, my Japanese manicure was still nearly perfect, with no chips. My nails had clearly grown out, but that's pretty standard.

It also had the easiest and fastest professional removal process of the three. Plus, my nails felt and looked stronger afterward.

Similarly, my structured manicure looked pretty great after four weeks. I lost a few of the added gemstones, and my nails had grown out, but that's about all that changed.

The gemstones made the professional removal process a little longer, but afterward, my nails were stronger than I anticipated. They looked a little thin at first, but they actually weren't flimsy.

To prioritize nail growth, I recommend Japanese gel, but structured manicures may be a better option for a lower-maintenance (and cheaper) alternative that still protects nail health.

After four weeks, my Russian manicure also looked a bit grown out. However, because of the close cuticle cutting and prep, I think it was less noticeable than the other two.

In fact, I could've left them on for five weeks before needing a touch-up.

That said, the Russian manicure was the most challenging one to remove. It took the nail tech about an hour, and my nails looked pretty weak afterward. However, I also think my nails were a little brittle going into the manicure.

Regardless, I definitely needed to let them breathe for at least a week before getting another gel set so as not to risk the health of my natural nails.

Although I enjoyed my American manicure, it placed last in this comparison.

I liked my flashy design, the lower price, and that my nail health seemed to stay intact, but the set didn't hold up to the Japanese and Russian experiences.

Japanese gel takes second place specifically for its nail-health benefits. Although it was a bit pricier, the innovative Japanese polish impressed me, and the set lasted a long time.

Overall, I'm surprised by how much I fell in love with the Russian manicure. As scary as the drastic cuticle cutting looked, I found the three-hour process satisfying to watch and adored the final result.

The manicure didn't exactly prioritize nail health, but its longevity and durability made me feel instructable in nearly every physical task I took on throughout that month.

If I could guiltlessly spend $300 on a Russian manicure every month, I would, no questions asked.

My expectations for the Sonic tots were already low because I don't love the fast-food chain. However, even when I put my bias aside, they still disappointed me.

I baked the tots at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 minutes. When I pulled them out of the oven, they looked crispy and brown. 

Unfortunately, the crispiness was all these tots had to offer.

Although the outer texture was good, the tater tots didn't have much flavor. I thought the soft interior kind of just tasted like plain, undercooked potato. 

Ore-Ida created the original Tater Tot and owns the trademark, so I expected the brand to set the standard for the rest of the potato-based snacks.

I cooked them in the oven at 425 degrees for 25 minutes until golden brown.

If you love the thin, crispy fries at the bottom of a takeout bag, these tots are probably for you. They had the crispiest texture of all the brands I tested.

However, even though they were supposedly seasoned according to the package, I didn't think these had much flavor. Compared to some of the others, they left something to be desired. 

I had high expectations for Cascadian Farm's organic spud puppies because I usually enjoy the brand's frozen products.

Out of the bag, these tots were a darker shade of brown than Sonic or Ore-Ida. The color only deepened when I baked them at 450 degrees for 18 minutes.

They almost felt and tasted like a lighter version of tater tots — they definitely weren't as greasy as some of the other brands I tried.

The spud puppies were decently crispy, but unfortunately, I found the flavor a little underwhelming.

McCain offers a quicker-cooking bag of frozen tots. I baked them at 425 degrees for 12 minutes.

They were less crispy than some of the others, but I still enjoyed the texture.

Despite what the packaging said, the taters didn't appear to be heavily seasoned. When I tried them, though, I tasted a hint of onion.

The flavor almost reminded me more of a latke. Unfortunately, this is a tater-tot comparison, not a latke review; otherwise, I would've ranked these higher.

Signature Select's tots were round and flat instead of barrel-shaped like the other brands. I baked them at 425 degrees for 12 minutes.

They didn't disappoint in the crispiness department, but they were a little plainer than I'd like. Still, the tasty, overall potato flavor made them stand out from the competition.

I think these rounds were the closest option to the cafeteria tots I remember so fondly.

Alexia Foods' seasoned tater tots actually have flavors listed on the packaging — roasted garlic, cracked black pepper, sour cream, and chives — so I was hopeful.

I baked them in the oven at 425 degrees for 18 minutes. These puffs were crispy, herby, and had a good russet-potato flavor.

Without question, Alexia Foods ranked first on my list. The light garlic and pepper flavors set them apart from the other options.

My typical structured gel manicures take two or more hours to complete, so it was kind of nice to see my appointment at Maria Benito was only scheduled to take one hour.

When I arrived for my 10 a.m. appointment, the salon had just opened, so it was pretty empty inside.

I checked in on an iPad at the front desk before a nail tech approached me and asked if I spoke Portuguese. After letting her know I didn't, she offered me water and coffee and told me to choose my nail-polish color.

The nail tech, Le Lopes, started the manicure by filing my nails. I then soaked them in a small bowl of water before she moved on to cuticle care.

Lopes was incredibly precise while cutting my cuticles, which felt reminiscent of the Russian manicure I got in Midtown just months prior.

Lopes and I made light conversation during the manicure, which eventually led to discussing my nail health. I knew this was coming — I got a bad set removal the week before that drilled my nails to bits.

I internally cringed when I showed her the state of my nails.

Lopes smiled kindly and said that because they seemed to lack keratin, I should only use regular polish (instead of gel) for the next three months so they could grow out.

She also consoled me a little by telling me that my natural nail shape was beautiful, so I didn't even need the extensions I usually seek out.

The tech applied a layer of nail hardener to solidify my nail plate for a better canvas before going on with the manicure.

After the nail prep, Lopes layered two coats of red Essie polish without concern for the boundaries of my nails.

She seemed to embrace the messiness and even joked about how American women are often surprised by the technique.

Although I knew what to expect, I was still delighted by the chaotic application process. The polish covering my skin almost felt freeing — it didn't need to be perfect right away.

Lopes topped the color off with a clear coat using the same loose style.

To clean up the extra polish on my fingers, Lopes used a wooden cuticle stick topped with a small puff of cotton covered in polish remover.

She carefully dragged the stick across my skin, dismissing any evidence that this manicure was once a bit of a mess.

After perfecting the polish, Lopes had me place my hands under a cooling fan for 10 minutes so it could properly dry.

My manicure was done at exactly 11 a.m., and I went to the front desk to pay. The service came out to $35, but I added a 20% tip.

That's a significant departure from my standard sets, which usually cost at least $100.

Between the welcoming environment, nail-health tips, and great application technique, I found the manicure well worth the price.

I also loved the final result. It reminded me how fun and easy regular nail polish can be to work with and inspired me to break back into my collection of drugstore polishes.

In terms of longevity, a Brazilian manicure never really stood a chance against gel varieties that are cured to the nail for long-lasting results.

Unsurprisingly, my nail polish started chipping within the week. By the 10th day, I decided to remove it entirely because of the significant wear and tear.

However, value-wise, the appointment was also much shorter and cheaper than my usual sets. Plus, skipping the damage that comes with applying and removing gel extensions was probably better for my nails.

I was just visiting New York, so I can't book myself in for biweekly visits at Maria Bonita. However, I'm excited to try the Brazilian technique myself at home while my nails gain back their strength.

I'm not too experienced with applying gel polish, so the Le Mini Macaron at-home kit took me about an hour.

I started with cuticle and nail prep before applying two coats of polish and curing each individual nail under the UV lamp.

I'm used to lengthy nail appointments, so I wasn't surprised or bothered by the amount of time this took — especially since I could do it from the comfort of my home.

My structured manicure took a total of two hours and involved cuticle and nail prep, three coats of gel polish, and nail art. It didn't feel that long, but I also had to travel 20 to 30 minutes to my nail tech and back.

Similar to the at-home manicure, the first coat of polish was a thin layer followed by a thicker one. However, in this case, the layers built up the apex of my natural nail to hopefully avoid long-term breakage.

Gel can sometimes be tricky to work with and even cause allergic reactions if applied improperly, so I was able to relax much more during the professional manicure.

My at-home kit came with nail stickers, but I chose to stick with a uniform light blue on every nail.

Although it was simple, the polish still had that authentic, shiny gel look. I liked how it had a fresh salon-quality feel, too.

For my structured manicure, I went for a gaudy look with gold chrome powder and colorful gemstones.

This added to the length of the appointment and took creative collaboration between me and my nail tech during the appointment, but I loved it.

The flashy mani was definitely more up my alley, but I could see both manicures being great fits for different occasions.

The one major downside of my at-home manicure was its longevity.

The kit says that the polish can last up to 14 days, but I used it ahead of a trip to Mexico and noticed chips early in my travels. In the end, I noticed imperfections appearing within five days.

Luckily, the kit's mini lamp is small enough for travel and allowed me to do immediate touch-ups on chips. Some of my cover-ups came out bumpy from the uneven layering, but it wasn't an all-around awful look.

Structured manicures are supposed to last three to four weeks, and mine made it the full four while staying mostly intact.

Although there was obvious nail growth and a handful of gems fell off, the polish didn't chip at all.

Le Mini Macaron's at-home kit came with gel-removal packets for each nail.

I thoroughly loved the user-friendly design of the removal process. I just inserted each nail into a packet, wrapped it tightly around my finger, and waited as the liquid broke down the polish.

Although there were some bits left over that I had to file off, it was refreshing not to have to go to a salon to properly remove gel polish.

After, I thought my nails looked a little thinner and felt more malleable than before.

I knew I'd have to go to a salon to remove my structured manicure, especially due to the 3D gel and gemstones. The removal took about 45 minutes and cost $15 — raising the total cost of the experience to $125.

When my manicure was removed, I noticed the tips of my nails looked thin. However, the majority of them seemed stronger and healthier than after I used the at-home kit.

Le Mini Macaron's at-home gel kit was super user-friendly. The directions were clear and easy to follow, making an expensive experience more accessible.

Plus, you can use the kit again and again, making it an even better value for future manicures.

However, overall, I prefer a professional structured manicure for its longevity and nail-health benefits.

Paying nearly three times more for the professional application, builder gel, nail art, and removal was worth it to me.

Stylist Kim Appelt told BI that prioritizing comfort is back in style, making it a great time to invest in a pair of Uggs.

Over the past few years, different iterations of the famously comfy shoes, such as Tasman slippers and mini platform boots, have become more popular.

This year, the stylist predicts the classic, tall brown boot will be trending.

Ballet flats are versatile and comfortable, and they're not going out of style anytime soon.

"Ballet flats are like God's gift to Earth," Ceila "CQ" Quarles, a designer at CQ Studios who's styled musicians and rappers, told BI. "It's a shoe that you can fit in your purse. You can't go wrong with it — it's like being barefoot."

Their ease of wear nicely fits into the current comfortability trends, and they're suitable for both street and office wear.

Sandra Okerulu, a celebrity stylist, said booties will never go out of style.

The short boots that end near the ankles can be worn for multiple occasions, making them a practical choice for your closet. They're also more inclusive for calves of all sizes than taller boots, which is a plus.

The stylist specifically recommends looking into pairs from Donald Pliner.

Whether you love or hate them, Tabis have been in the spotlight for over a year — and CQ said the split-toe shoes popularized by brands like Maison Margiela are still going strong.

"I myself own a pair that I run into the ground," she said. "I'm planning on getting at least two more for 2025."

They come in multiple styles, including flats, heels, and boots, and CQ told BI it's not too late to hop on the trend.

With big-name celebrities like Beyoncé leaning into country aesthetics, it's no surprise that cowboy boots have made a comeback. So far, it seems like the trend is sticking around this year.

"We just tapped into it because we know that it's trendy," Okerulu said. "It's fashionable, it's cute."

If you want something on trend that doesn't scream country, Appelt suggests looking into Isabel Marant's cowboy-style boots.

Both Okerulu and CQ agreed that loafers are going to be well-favored this year, largely due to trending dark-academia and preppy aesthetics.

Okerulu specifically highlighted Franco Sarto loafers, saying the brand does interesting things with textures, colors, and designs.

Okerulu said mules are going to be the perfect going-out shoe in 2025.

"Mules with a chunky heel, a slim heel, whatever you desire — those never go out of trend," she told BI.

Popular brands like Sam Edelman, Nine West, and Schutz have stylish selections of mules available if you need to refresh your collection.

CQ sees platforms — on everything from sneakers to boots — as a universally popular look for 2025.

She told BI that adding platforms to any outfit makes it "immediately hotter."

The stylist has also noticed more people sporting the elevated shoes with evening wear and in casual, everyday settings.

Although Crocs certainly made a comeback in recent years, Okerulu said you may want to hold off on buying another pair.

The stylist said she thinks the rubber shoes should only be used for practical purposes, like if you have a job where you're on your feet for a long time and need a comfortable shoe.

However, CQ said, platform Crocs are an exception as they still fit into this year's high-sole trends.

Even though loafers will be trending in 2025, Appelt said it's time to say goodbye to one style in particular: Prada's chunky loafer.

"I just feel like they had their day," she told BI.

The shoe's recognizable design and prominent logo go against the trends toward quiet luxury. People just don't want to be as obvious with their high-end clothing.

Shark boots, known for their oversized silhouette that falls down to the heel of the shoe, probably aren't a practical addition to your 2025 wardrobe.

Okerulu said they're more of a "one-time thing" due to their uncomfortable fit and over-the-top flair. They're just not versatile enough to stick around.

Minimalist styles, like booties, seem to be taking their place this year.

Personal and celebrity stylist Kim Appelt sees gum-bottom sneakers — which feature grippy, neutral-colored soles — as a "monstrous trend" at the moment.

The pop of tan can be found on Adidas gazelles and Hogan beige-suede sneakers, to name a few.

Appelt said adding this touch of neutral goes along with the general fashion trends toward browns and natural colors.

Adidas sambas have been a popular choice across aesthetics for years, and that doesn't seem to be slowing down in 2025.

Ceila "CQ" Quarles, the designer of CQ Studios who's styled multiple musicians and rappers, said the sneakers have a timeless look and a "killer silhouette."

"It's a throw-on shoe you can put on whenever, wherever," she told BI. "It's a little basic, but you can't go wrong with it."

Celebrity stylist Sandra Okerulu said running shoes aren't just for the sporty crowd.

The trend really grew around the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and offered people a comfortable, more supportive footwear choice.

"You need flexibility," she told BI. "That's why this switch happened; because we're thinking longevity."

With athletic footwear becoming mainstream, fashion brands like Betsey Johnson and Steve Madden are even making fun options that can be worn with both street clothes and gym attire.

With comfort taking the front seat this year, CQ suggests looking into On's Cloudtilt sneakers.

With endorsements from and collaborations with celebrities like Zendaya, the shoe has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. The stylist thinks it has the power to keep trending through 2025, especially because the shoes are designed to be comfortable.

"Comfortable shoes are typically timeless," CQ told BI.

Appelt said Onitsuka Tiger's classic sneakers will likely trickle into the top trends this coming year.

The Japanese brand has several styles to choose from, all featuring its signature abstract checkerboard-like stripes in fun colors.

The professional stylist recently bought multiple pairs herself on a trip to Tokyo and sees the chic shoe making its way to the US in droves in 2025.

With dad-style shoes coming back in fashion, Asics continues to be in the spotlight.

It's been producing comfortable shoes for decades, but beyond brand loyalty, its modern lines have made it more of a fashion staple.

"People are obsessed with being cozy all the time," CQ said, noting the more fashion-forward Asics Sportstyle collection may be especially popular throughout 2025.

In recent years, it wasn't uncommon to spot cowhide, snakeskin, or zebra stripes on shoes, but Okerulu said that fad is dwindling.

Although animal print cycles in and out of fashion all the time, it's less practical on shoes, which should ideally be versatile enough to work with outfits across your wardrobe.

Both Appelt and CQ said they're seeing the Converse craze start to die after the brand's resurgence in 2020. This is especially true for its ultra-trendy Run Star Motion platforms.

Appelt clarified that the brand itself, which has been around since the early 1900s, has longevity and will eventually circle back into style.

"It's the platform we can leave behind," she told BI.

Many have a love-hate relationship with sneaker wedges, and Okerulu still doesn't think the shoe has enough buzz to really come back in style.

"People try to inch back on it, and I don't think that's going to work," she said. "Consumers are looking for something that's more realistic."

The style kind of defeats the purpose of a good, sturdy sneaker. You certainly can't take it from the gym to the office.

CQ said people seem to be switching out their Nike Dunks for more elevated shoes — especially after the brand made the shoe less of a collector's item by producing droves in a myriad of colors.

"They're just not hitting like they used to," she said. "It used to be people lining up around the block for them. That is not the case anymore."

After months of experimental manicures, I went back to my usual licensed nail tech, Teresa "Tere" Rodriguez, a Chicago-based artist who specializes in gel extensions and structured manicures.

I get manicures once a month, which can really put a gamble on my nail health. I adore long, heavily decorated nails, but those tend to be more damaging — especially when I break one.

Whenever I'm looking for a break from extensions, I opt for structured manicures to (hopefully) better protect my nail health.

Plus, I like that they typically last three to four weeks as opposed to the standard two to three.

Based on Rodriguez's website options, I booked a "Tier 3 Extra Intermediate" appointment for 6:30 p.m. That level included charms, textures, and nail art.

Rodriguez started the appointment by prepping my nails and conducting cuticle care like any standard manicure.

Once the nails were prepped, Rodriguez followed up by applying a slip layer, which is a thin layer of builder gel. They then added a thicker layer of soft builder gel, which created a solid apex.

After the builder came a base layer of black gel polish.

I sent Rodriguez inspiration images for my manicure a week before my appointment. The main theme was gold glamor with lots of gemstones.

Since I'm only working with the size of my actual nail beds (as opposed to longer extensions), I had to be picky about the size, shape, and color I wanted the gemstones to be.

Rodriguez got to work adding 3D effects and rubbing gold chrome on top of the black gel on each nail. They then hand-placed a gemstone on nearly every open spot and secured them by curing the gel under the lamp.

Before curing each nail, the tech made sure I was happy with the design, which I really appreciated.

With prep work, builder gel, curing, and designing, I knew I was in for the long haul.

Rodriguez and I usually chat to pass the time during the appointment, but they also offer silent appointment options, where clients can listen to a podcast or watch a show instead of talking.

I like to be involved in the design process of each nail, which can be time-consuming, so I wasn't surprised when my phone read 8:30 p.m. as Rodriguez applied cuticle oil to my finished nails.

Overall, I enjoyed how low-maintenance this set was. Although I feel more confident with long nails, I took comfort in the fact that I didn't have to worry much about breakage.

After four weeks, my manicure was still holding up — with the exception of a few wayward gemstones, which can be chalked up to my hands-on lifestyle. Because of the gold base, the missing gems didn't put much of a dent in the overall aesthetic.

Luckily, I didn't think the grow-out was too bad, which ultimately saved me money because I could skip a mid-month appointment. However, I was really interested in the health of my nails under the gel.

When I got the set removed, my nails looked a little thin but not as flimsy as I anticipated.

I wouldn't use a structured gel manicure as a way to grow out my natural nails, but I think it's great for low-maintenance upkeep.

Personal and celebrity stylist Kim Appelt predicts a general trend toward convenience, comfort, and ease in 2025.

In other words, jewelry that goes with everything — like stacked gold pieces — offers an effortless way to accessorize.

The stylist emphasized the subjectivity of this trend, saying, "your body and your environment" dictate which pieces are best suited to you.

If you think you're wearing enough rings, consider adding another.

"Everyone has a million rings on, like rings on every single finger," Ceila "CG" Quarles, who's styled multiple musicians and worked at RSVP Gallery, said.

When following the trend, the stylist suggested leaning toward solid precious metals rather than stones for a more industrial feel.

Fashion is cyclical, and '90s ware has been back in style for a few years now. Sandra Okerulu, a celebrity stylist with over 10 years of experience, said it's also time to start experimenting with jewelry trends from the decade.

Whether that means investing in customized nameplate pieces or an initial ring surrounded by encrusted gems, bling is at the forefront of the retro trend.

As "quiet" status symbols become more prevalent in the fashion world, Appelt said minimalism will be big in 2025.

"I see classic, I see luxury, I see dainty," she told BI.

With more inspiration from the '90s, the professional stylist recommends focusing on classic pieces — like a pair of studs or a simple gold chain — for a minimalistic look that exudes luxury.

You may have been told that you should never mix gold and silver jewelry, but CQ said that's an antiquated school of thought. What was once considered a fashion faux pas now adds a perfect touch to a stylish look.

"People are not afraid to mix metals anymore," she said. "Having stacked silver and gold? That's hot."

Layering silver and gold pieces can help personalize a look while also making it more modern.

Appelt said pearls will still be hot in 2025.

Although the jewelry trend has been around for decades, celebrities like Harry Styles have bolstered it and turned pearl necklaces into genderless accessories.

In addition to chokers and other necklaces, Appelt suggested incorporating pearl earring studs into your jewelry box.

There will likely always be a time and place for hoop earrings.

Okerulu said a more modest hoop will complement the overarching trends of simplicity and quiet luxury in 2025.

"Modesty in what you're wearing is definitely in," she said.

CQ said watches are popular right now, especially among younger crowds looking for more mature looks.

She credits the shift to social media, telling BI that she's noticed that the pressure to curate an image for yourself on different platforms may have "expedited a lot of people's youth."

Just as blazers and other business-casual clothing have come back in style, adding a watch to an outfit helps exude a more tailored and professional look.

Although 2025 style seems to be taking a lot of inspiration from the '90s, we can leave some looks in the past.

Appelt said the big, gold earrings — à la Princess Diana — that have been popular the past few years are on their way out.

The shift matches the general trend toward luxurious minimalism.

Okerulu said she's seeing more people ditch heavy necklace layering. To follow the quiet-luxury trend, opt for a statement piece instead.

Stacking rings and bracelets will still be in, but Okerulu encourages people to choose one or the other to keep things simple.

The rise of modesty and quiet luxury has also led to many being less interested in buying accessories with visible designer labels and logos.

In general, Okerulu told BI, that people aren't being as obvious with their luxury jewelry.

Instead of flashy logos or easily recognizable designs, the stylist recommends looking for simple, high-quality pieces that will last forever.

Shabnam Tavakol, the founder of the New York City-based independent fragrance studio Kismet Olfactive, said recent perfume trends have been all about soft fragrances that mix with your body's natural odors.

However, we're now entering a maximalism era reminiscent of the 1970s and '80s.

"It's much like fashion, where everything goes in this cyclical pattern," she told BI.

The perfumer said bold florals make great full-bodied fragrances. She also recommended heavier perfumes like Le Labo's Santal 33 and Alien by Thierry Mugler.

Emma Vincent, an in-house perfumer at Lush, said gourmand scents will still be favored in 2025. These fragrances, which smell like edible things, remain popular largely due to their comforting and familiar qualities.

Vanilla is probably the most popular gourmand. However, as the trend continues to grow, the perfumer expects people to experiment with different scent profiles and complexities, including coffee, musk, and cereal undertones.

Kelsey Hodgson, a salesperson who's worked in the perfume industry for nearly nine years, said rice is a big scent right now. They've seen an increasing number of brands trying to add the note to their fragrance lineup.

"People are still looking for gourmands in general, but rice blends that space of milky and bready," they told BI. "It sits close to the skin."

In particular, Hodgson recommends L'Eau Papier by Diptyque and White Rice by d'Annam.

Between everything getting more expensive and the rise of influencer-run social media, dupe culture isn't slowing down.

The less-expensive duplicates of higher-end products are a more affordable and accessible option for those seeking luxury on a budget.

"The dupes that come out are so much better than they were before," Vincent said.

Florals tend to trend in the spring, but Hodgson expects lavender to be particularly popular in 2025.

"People are leaving rose behind and trying to modernize a more old-school version of lavender," they said.

They recommend Lavande 31 by Le Labo for that old-fashioned floral scent.

Warmer seasons typically bring lighter fragrances, so citrus scents usually boom in the summer.

"When it's humid outside, you don't want a scent that's going to be too oppressive," Hodgson told BI. In particular, they think notes of yuzu and grapefruit will be making a big comeback in 2025.

They recommend citrus aromas from Phlur, which offers unisex scents like Apricot Privée and Tangerine Boy, as well as J-Scent's Yuzu perfume.

Although it's not necessarily a new trend, layering scents offers an opportunity to create nonuniform and complementary scent profiles.

From your hair primer to body wash, building a full-body, complex fragrance palette is in for 2025.

"Once people start experimenting in that way, they're more likely to do more research and find things that are a little bit more out there," Hodgson said.

Rianna Basurto, the director of marketing and brand development at Bellacures nail salon, said neutrals and earthy tones will be a popular color palette in 2025.

Think sandy beiges, soft greens, and even terracotta.

"People are shifting their style," she told BI. "While they want it to be bold, they also want it to be a refined minimalism. They don't want to do too much. They want it to be chic. Something that can go with everything but also makes a statement."

If you're looking for something to make your mani pop, Basutro suggested incorporating metallic design elements.

Although color preferences may shift with the seasons, she told BI that metallics will be an overarching trend for 2025. The shiny shades offer an elevated look to jazz up neutral palettes and minimalistic nail designs.

Similar to the Barbie-pink craze in 2023, pink and green are still riding a wave of popularity due to the release of the "Wicked" film.

Julie Kandalec, a celebrity manicurist and educator who has worked with stars like Jessica Chastain and Camila Cabello, said she expects this trend to continue into the New Year.

Experiment with green chrome or pink-green metallics before the trend dies down.

Although some may lean into the neutral trend in 2025, bright and bold colors will still have a place on your nails.

Lauren Ortega, an independent nail artist based in New York, said she expects to see a lot of blues, greens, reds, oranges, magenta, and fuchsia.

"It's either you go bold, or you go very subtle," she told BI.

As more brands create longer-lasting press-ons with diverse designs, Kandalec suggests giving them a try.

"Press-ons are trending because people love that instant gratification and changing their nails a lot," the nail artist said.

Brands like Kiss often launch seasonal designs, offering different shades and designs that can be switched out every few weeks.

If you're not into applying them yourself, some nail salons even offer professional press-on services that are faster and typically cheaper than a full gel manicure.

Basurto sees cat-eye nails becoming even more popular in the New Year, especially as the glass-nail look with pink and gray tones continues to trend.

Cat-eye polish utilizes a magnet to move small pieces of metal and create a shimmering effect.

"The fact that you can do it with different colors makes it universal throughout the year," she said.

Kandalec also said that cat eye is relatively DIY-friendly. She recommends having fun with the gradient by making shapes like hearts or pumpkins with the magnetic polish.

All three of the nail experts expect short, rounded square (squoval) and medium-to-long almond nail shapes to trend in 2025.

The short squoval offers practicality, while a longer almond or oval shape is elegant and timeless.

"Almond is always going to be around because it's such a classic," Kandalec told BI. "People take their nails shorter because it looks good to have a dark color on a shorter nail."

It's OK to get a little wild with animal print, like leopard, zebra, or tortoiseshell.

The trend has been popular throughout the fashion and beauty worlds for a while, and Ortega told BI that she expects it to continue dominating until next summer.

Whether you decide to keep it simple with a neutral-toned base or explore with cat eye, animal prints will be trending well into the New Year.

Basurto has seen a shift from big and bold nails to more minimal looks for everyday manis.

Although intricate sets with a different design on each nail were popular in 2024, the simpler look has more staying power — and there's a better chance it will match your whole ensemble.

"A lot of people are shifting toward something that is timeless," she said. "They want something that is beautiful over time, not something that just goes along with the trends."

One example of this is the playful and classy micro-French design with a metallic tip.

Rather than adding chunky charms to your manicure, Ortega said choosing either a fun color, shape, or texture will be the trend for 2025.

"For the last year or two, it's been a lot of everything at once," she told BI. In the New Year, she predicts to see more simple nail designs.

"You want your nails to go with everything the same way your black coat would," Ortega said.

Stiletto-shaped nails (long nails with a sharp, pointed tip) can look very cool when done properly.

Unfortunately, Kandalec said, they're complicated to get right. A poorly shaped stiletto can throw the nail structure off and give the set a wonky look.

The long, dramatic shape also goes against the current trend toward shorter, simpler nails.

My $38 kit included a macaron-shaped LED lamp with a USB cord, a blue shade of three-in-one gel polish, a cuticle stick, a nail file, and 10 gel-remover wraps.

I easily spend hundreds of dollars a month to do my nails, so this bundle felt like a steal.

Before diving in, I asked Kao for her best tips.

To start, she recommended I file my nail surfaces and wipe them to remove dust or oils to ensure my nails are properly prepped.

Le Mini Macaron sells special alcohol-based nail cleanser prep pads that can help with this, but they don't come with the kit. The wipe-looking product I got is actually a gel-polish remover for taking the manicure off.

Instead, I swiped an acetone-free polish remover down each nail, which is supposed to help the gel polish adhere better.

Next, I was ready to apply my polish.

Kao also said the polish bottle should be rolled, not shaken, before use to avoid making any air bubbles in its thick texture, so I tried to keep that in mind throughout the process.

I quickly realized my hands were not made for performing professional manicures — that much was evident after my first attempt at applying the polish.

I got it on my fingers a few times and was a little worried, but Kao said I just had to make sure I cleaned any polish off my skin before curing. So, I did.

After a few tries, I also got my application method down.

The instructions explicitly said that the first layer of polish should be very thin. I applied a light coat on one nail before putting it under the LED lamp and repeated that process 10 times.

The lamp in my kit only had one button, which activates the light for 30 seconds to cure the polish. It conveniently shut off automatically when it was finished.

She recommends running a cuticle stick along the edge of your nails before turning on the light. Then, be sure to cure the gel completely — about 30 seconds under the little LED lamp.

I knew my nails were weaker and more sensitive because I felt a light burning sensation when I cured the gel, which some refer to as a heat spike.

This heat sensitivity is usually indicative of damage to the nail plate and can compromise a manicure's longevity.

After all that work, it barely looked like I had any polish on my nails.

I get gel manicures often enough to know that the first coat never looks like the final product, so I wasn't worried.

I followed that same process with a thicker second layer of polish. The barely-there blue became a beautiful pop of color with a glossy finish.

The three-in-one polish doesn't require a top coat, and I didn't buy one, so once each nail was painted and cured, my manicure was done. The entire process took me about an hour.

My application wasn't perfect, but I was happy with the results.

I was also surprised at how relaxed I felt during the manicure. This kit was perfect for a novice like me — I felt my confidence grow throughout the process.

The Le Mini Macaron website said the gel polish can last up to two weeks. Unfortunately, by the time I was halfway through a five-day trip abroad, I noticed a few significant chips.

I made an effort to be a little more gentle with this manicure, but I guess some combination of my nail damage and newbie skills cut the longevity short.

Despite a few chips, my manicure looked pretty good.

The small kit is also quite travel-friendly. The light could be plugged into a computer or portable charger for applying touch-ups as needed.

However, my touch-up attempts looked bumpy or raised when I was trying to fix a small chip by adding more polish. I found it easier to remove the polish from my nail entirely and go through the application process anew.

Putting my already damaged nails through that much didn't feel sustainable for me. I'd rather pay more for a professional manicure I know will last three to four weeks.

That said, this kit could be great for beginners or those looking to experiment with new nail techniques.

I'm also interested in attempting an at-home gel pedicure since the lamp has a detachable top. Since I don't care as much about chipped toenails, that might be my money-saving hack.

My $38 kit included a macaron-shaped LED lamp with a USB cord, a blue shade of three-in-one gel polish, a cuticle stick, a nail file, and 10 gel-remover wraps.

I easily spend hundreds of dollars a month to do my nails, so this bundle felt like a steal.

Before diving in, I asked Kao for her best tips.

To start, she recommended I file my nail surfaces and wipe them to remove dust or oils to ensure my nails are properly prepped.

Le Mini Macaron sells special alcohol-based nail cleanser prep pads that can help with this, but they don't come with the kit. The wipe-looking product I got is actually a gel-polish remover for taking the manicure off.

Instead, I swiped an acetone-free polish remover down each nail, which is supposed to help the gel polish adhere better.

Next, I was ready to apply my polish.

Kao also said the polish bottle should be rolled, not shaken, before use to avoid making any air bubbles in its thick texture, so I tried to keep that in mind throughout the process.

I quickly realized my hands were not made for performing professional manicures — that much was evident after my first attempt at applying the polish.

I got it on my fingers a few times and was a little worried, but Kao said I just had to make sure I cleaned any polish off my skin before curing. So, I did.

After a few tries, I also got my application method down.

The instructions explicitly said that the first layer of polish should be very thin. I applied a light coat on one nail before putting it under the LED lamp and repeated that process 10 times.

The lamp in my kit only had one button, which activates the light for 30 seconds to cure the polish. It conveniently shut off automatically when it was finished.

She recommends running a cuticle stick along the edge of your nails before turning on the light. Then, be sure to cure the gel completely — about 30 seconds under the little LED lamp.

I knew my nails were weaker and more sensitive because I felt a light burning sensation when I cured the gel, which some refer to as a heat spike.

This heat sensitivity is usually indicative of damage to the nail plate and can compromise a manicure's longevity.

After all that work, it barely looked like I had any polish on my nails.

I get gel manicures often enough to know that the first coat never looks like the final product, so I wasn't worried.

I followed that same process with a thicker second layer of polish. The barely-there blue became a beautiful pop of color with a glossy finish.

The three-in-one polish doesn't require a top coat, and I didn't buy one, so once each nail was painted and cured, my manicure was done. The entire process took me about an hour.

My application wasn't perfect, but I was happy with the results.

I was also surprised at how relaxed I felt during the manicure. This kit was perfect for a novice like me — I felt my confidence grow throughout the process.

The Le Mini Macaron website said the gel polish can last up to two weeks. Unfortunately, by the time I was halfway through a five-day trip abroad, I noticed a few significant chips.

I made an effort to be a little more gentle with this manicure, but I guess some combination of my nail damage and newbie skills cut the longevity short.

Despite a few chips, my manicure looked pretty good.

The small kit is also quite travel-friendly. The light could be plugged into a computer or portable charger for applying touch-ups as needed.

However, my touch-up attempts looked bumpy or raised when I was trying to fix a small chip by adding more polish. I found it easier to remove the polish from my nail entirely and go through the application process anew.

Putting my already damaged nails through that much didn't feel sustainable for me. I'd rather pay more for a professional manicure I know will last three to four weeks.

That said, this kit could be great for beginners or those looking to experiment with new nail techniques.

I'm also interested in attempting an at-home gel pedicure since the lamp has a detachable top. Since I don't care as much about chipped toenails, that might be my money-saving hack.