Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shares her instant press-on manicure tips

Press-on nails are suddenly a thing again.

January 22, 2019, 3:27 PM

Between teaching social media lessons to House Democrats and stepping into government shutdown feuds, Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the youngest person to presently serve in Congress, still finds a way to keep her manicure on point.

Oscasio-Cortez recently posted on her Instagram story a photo along with the caption, "Today was so nuts I am having a glass of wine and giving myself a press-on manicure (THEY ARE NOT CORNY ANYMORE!) on the Amtrak at almost 1am. YOLO."

Shortly after posting the first photo, the 29-year-old congresswoman uploaded another video where she applied the press-on nails with the caption, "Listen y’all, because I’m about to put you on. I wish someone told me about these sooner. LOOK AT HOW GOOD THESE ARE! They’re not even done yet! This is halfway through. The trick is to wait a bit, then file them down to your natural/desired shape."

The finished look of Oscasio-Cortez's nails were clean, nude and matte. She also gave a pro tip that we all can use: "Carry a little nail glue in your purse and keep the spares. If one breaks or falls off, you can fix it on the spot."

While gel manicures are still going strong, Oscasio-Cortez makes a strong case for bringing press-on nails back into your manicure routine as a less damaging alternative that's quick and easy to do.

Here are a few modern press-on nail brands that are nothing like the stiff French manicure picks of yesterday.

ImPress

imPress Press-On Manicure 3.0, $7.99, available at drugstores.
Kiss Products

As Ocasio-Cortez pointed out, imPress is a really amazing go-to option for press-on nails. The brand has a huge variety of colors, designs and finishes at affordable prices you can find right at your local drugstore.

Static Nails

Static Nails Nude Peach Pop-on Reusable Manicure Set, $14, available at nordstrom.com.
Nordstrom

If you are looking for press-on nails that are equal parts sophisticated and chic, this is a great brand to tap. The line offers a number of different nude painted options to complement every skin tone in addition to other cool sets that include accent nails.

Forever 21

Forever 21 Clear Press-On Nails, $4.90, available at forever21.com
Forever 21

Who knew a brand that many of us frequent for trendy pieces without a high-price tag carried a line of fashion-forward press-on nails? From iridescent finishes to marble-like designs, there are some pretty picks you'll want to wear over and over again.

Elegant Touch

PHOTO: Elegant Touch Queen of the Night False Nails - Phone Line, $16, available at asos.com
Elegant Touch Queen of the Night False Nails - Phone Line, $16, available at asos.com.
Asos.com

If you are looking to go glam when it comes to your nails without having to commit, Elegant Touch has options that you will love. There are oval-shaped picks and even jewel-toned finishes that are all available for less than $20.