What I wanted vs What I got 💅🏼

2024/10/17 Edited to

... Read morePlanning your 35th birthday celebration? Your nails deserve to be just as fabulous as you are! When I was thinking about my own 35th birthday nails, I knew I wanted something special that would not only look amazing but also last through all the festivities. My tea party theme led me to these gorgeous green glitter-tipped acrylics with intricate 3D floral designs, complete with tiny red berries and delicate light pink flowers, just like the ones you see. But beyond my specific choice, there are so many ways to make your 35th birthday manicure uniquely yours. If you're looking for '35th birthday nail ideas,' consider what kind of celebration you're having. Is it a chic dinner, a fun brunch, or perhaps something whimsical like a tea party? For a sophisticated vibe, you might opt for classic French tips with a modern twist – maybe a subtle glitter accent or a single pearl on each ring finger, echoing the elegance of the 'what I wanted' design I found, which featured gold beads and pearls. Alternatively, for a bold statement, a full set of deep emerald green or sapphire blue acrylics could be stunning, perhaps with some gold foil accents for that extra sparkle. For those who love a bit of sparkle, green glitter tips, like the ones I ended up with, are always a fantastic choice. They add a playful yet elegant touch without being overwhelming. And don't shy away from 3D elements! My nails featured delicate 3D flowers and green leaves, which added so much dimension and charm. When discussing designs with your nail technician, bringing reference photos – like my 'what I wanted' and 'what I got' examples – is incredibly helpful. Make sure to specify details like the elegant almond shape, clear base, and the specific colors of the flowers and leaves you desire, whether it's red and pink flowers or red berries. Longevity is key for birthday nails, especially when you want them to look perfect for days, or even weeks, after your big day. My acrylics, which featured a clear base and green glitter tips, held up incredibly well for over 20 days! The 3D floral designs remained intact, and there was absolutely no crystal fallout, which was amazing. To ensure your own birthday nails last, discuss options like acrylics or hard gel with your 'nail shop.' These tend to be more durable than regular gel polish. Also, ask about top coats designed for extended wear. After getting them done, a good quality cuticle oil can help keep your nails and cuticles hydrated, preventing lifting or chipping. When choosing a 'nail shop' for your special birthday manicure, look for one that specializes in detailed nail art, especially if you're dreaming of 3D designs or intricate patterns. Check their portfolio for examples of work similar to what you’re envisioning. A skilled technician can replicate complex designs, ensure precise application of elements like gold beads and pearls, and guide you on the best materials for durability. Don't be afraid to ask questions about how long the designs typically last and what aftercare they recommend. My own experience showed that even after 20 days, aside from natural growth and a slight purple hue from my hair dye (a common but minor issue!), the design was still flawless. Your 35th birthday nails should make you feel fabulous from the moment they're done until you're ready for your next set!

287 comments

Autumn Fort's images
Autumn Fort

Personally, I like the dark green shade on the inspo pic a little more than the color used on yours, but OMG everything else looks so much better on your set! So cute!!

See more(1)
ASMRChiGirl11:11's images
ASMRChiGirl11:11

As a nail technician, it’s important for you all to remember that that is an inspiration picture. The end result is not going to be exactly the same because everyone do not have the same materials, or skill set. So please do not expect for it to look exactly like the picture! The only way it will look exactly like the pictures if you go to the exact same artist that created the set originally. Nail technicians are artist sometimes it’s boring to create somebody else’s design and not allow yourself to be creative. I think the artist did the best that they could with what they had in the set turned out beautifully

See more(1)

See more comments

Related posts

What i wanted vs what i got
Inspo picture is from Pinterest. I changed from regular gel purple to cat eye gel purple and the green in the heart to blue I Love them. my 4 year old son picked my Valentines nails out.💅💅@nailInspo
Jess

Jess

1090 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
#ombre nails #mondayvibes
Mimisams6

Mimisams6

524 likes

A close-up of long, coffin-shaped acrylic nails featuring a vibrant blue tip, clear base, and intricate designs with silver glitter lines, white swirls, and small rhinestones, showcasing a desired nail art style.
What I wanted vs What I got
Absolutely love how my nail girl is pretty spot on with what I ask for ! #nails #nailinspo #acrylicnails
snowbunny_727

snowbunny_727

5835 likes

A hand displays long, square-shaped nails with a nude base and diagonal French tips in light pink and dark brown. The image is labeled 'NAIL INSPO' with small pink hearts.
A hand wears long, square-shaped nails featuring a nude base with diagonal French tips in bright pink and blue. A silver ring with a square diamond is on the ring finger.
A close-up of a hand with long, square-shaped nails. The nails have a nude base with diagonal French tips in bright pink and blue. A black beaded bracelet is visible on the wrist.
What I wanted Vs what I got!
My nail tech/shop never fails me!!! I wanted a lighter pink but it matched the base of the nail so we changed it to this pink and she choose the wrong blues but I still fw it ! #whatigotvswhatiwanted #nails #pinkaesthetic #blueaesthetic #fyp
Kiera Pierce

Kiera Pierce

2770 likes

WHAT I WANTED VS WHAT I GOT!!
what I wanted vs what I got ! my girl did not miss! #nailsforbaddies #charlottenails #mediumnails Charlotte 📝🤎😍⭐️Overall rating: /10:10
Tierra

Tierra

1495 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Looking back they’re ugly but I had these when I got engaged so they’re still special to me! #NailArt #Nail #naildesign #nailtech
Madeline Mertin

Madeline Mertin

7456 likes

A hand displays long, square-tipped acrylic nails with Spongebob-themed art. The nails are pink and teal with white starfish patterns, and one nail features Plankton holding a pink heart. The text "What I wanted...." is overlaid.
A hand shows long, clear/nude acrylic nails, appearing to be in the process of getting nail art. Two nail polish bottles, one pink and one teal, are visible in the background. The text "The process..." is overlaid.
A hand showcases long, square-tipped acrylic nails with Spongebob-themed designs. The nails are pink and teal with white starfish patterns, and one nail features Plankton's face with a heart. The text "Worth it?" is overlaid.
What I wanted vs What I got
OBSESSED!! #lemon8diarychallenge #for the nails😊 #pretty💅🏽 #spongebob #planktonmemes #Lemon8Diary #lemon #NailArt #pink #green
Nail Girl 💅

Nail Girl 💅

3231 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Not exactly what I wanted. Wish the cow skull was different but this was her first time doing it so I think she did good. I love that they did the matted black. #cow printed nails #cownails #cowprintnails #westernnails
Victoria

Victoria

828 likes

what i wanted vs. what i got
i gen think they are the cutest beachy vibe #ocean nails #beachnails #acrylicnails #nails edit: yall are so mean in the comments oh my lord..honestly yes i can see how they arent as good as the inspo but for the price i paid im pretty content w what i got..also the lighting i took the pi
jai 🎀

jai 🎀

2093 likes

What I wanted vs What I got!
It’s been a long time since I’ve gotten my nails done and I finally got the time and money to do it! I’ve always done the square nails but I wanted to try something new and get the coffin shape. I’m also not a fan of super long nails so this is as long as I’ve ever had them. But I absolutely lo
Lyssa

Lyssa

1329 likes

What I wanted vs. What I got
My sister did these!!! SHE IS ONLY 15!!!!!! #swipefor💅🏻 #Nail #nailideas #easter
hannahmcbrayer

hannahmcbrayer

329 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Mimi

Mimi

2245 likes

What I wanted vs what I got.
My nail tech never misses
Latoya Bullard

Latoya Bullard

424 likes

What I Wanted vs. What I Got
My girl Karla did her big thing with this set! #NailArt #rednailtheory #leopardnails #almondnaildesigns
Adeea Rogers

Adeea Rogers

461 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Did them myself ! #nails #3d #inspo #springnails #ps do not mind my nails i get
Peyton💅🏼

Peyton💅🏼

1256 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
I have the most amazing nail tag she always executes! 💕💕 #swipefor💅🏻 #nailinspo #these nails are everything
Asyhia

Asyhia

567 likes

A hand displays pink and white French tip nails. The ring and pinky fingers are adorned with gold glitter or rhinestones, representing the 'wanted' nail style.
A hand showcases light pink 'duck nails' with white tips and a white flower design. The ring and pinky fingers are heavily embellished with gold glitter/rhinestones, representing the 'got' nail style.
A hand with light pink and white 'duck nails,' featuring gold glitter/rhinestones and a white flower, rests on a car steering wheel. The car's dashboard shows '0 MPH,' representing the 'got' nail style.
What I wanted vs what I got
I absolutely love these nails! Would you believe me if I told you a 16 year old did these? Y’all she is 🔥🔥🔥 check out her fb page at Nailsby.lele #nails #nailsinspo #nailsideas #ducknails
Lindsey217

Lindsey217

1035 likes

what I wanted vs what I got…
what crumbs!? I see NONE! microlinks install + color with @Sydneyaleese 😍 #clthairstylist #microlinks #charlottehairstylist #redhair #fallhair
thelifeofamaya

thelifeofamaya

1319 likes

What I Wanted Vs What I Got
I decided to go with something else other than the ones I previously chose. I am in love. #fallnails Update: Wow I can’t believe how much attention this got. Thanks guys. Update 2: This seriously blew up. My goodness. Thanks so much everyone. Update 3: Omg, so much attention. You guys ar
Rachel Schenck

Rachel Schenck

789 likes

What I wanted vs what i got
🍋🍋Hello everyone this is my first post !! So excited 🎉🍋🍋 #new nails🖤 #got my nails done 💅 #nailsoflemon8 #prettyinpink🎀
Sirensinsseer

Sirensinsseer

734 likes

A pink circular birthday cake with '28' in the center, surrounded by a vibrant wreath of colorful dried and artificial flowers. The cake has piped frosting details and sits on a marble-patterned cake board, illustrating 'What I Got'.
An inspiration image showing a two-tiered pink circular cake adorned with delicate pink, white, and grey floral decorations. The top tier features the text 'fairy princess' in script.
An inspiration image of a two-tiered heart-shaped white cake decorated with various pink and red flowers, including roses and daisies, and pink ribbons. The top tier has 'twenty nine' written on it.
What i wanted vs what i got!
I had won a giveaway on instagram just in time for my birthday!!! I was super excited and i really loved my birthday cake 🌸 This was a 6inch cake so i leaned more towards the circle shaped cake instead even though the heart shaped cake looks just as good! ( @ bakedxbellaa on IG) she really left eve
Aracely 🌸

Aracely 🌸

1482 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
I really do like these. I just wish the nails weren't all the same, and the stars weren't all in the same spot.
🌻🌻Christi🌻🌻

🌻🌻Christi🌻🌻

1471 likes

What I Wanted vs What I Got
I had to get my nails short for work My nail tech did what she could with what she had #whatiwantedvswhatigot #whatiaskedforvswhatigot #nailinspo #summernails #nailinspiration
Cheris (Sher-rese)

Cheris (Sher-rese)

559 likes

What I wanted Vs. What I got
#nails #nailinspo #valentinesdaynails #birthdaynailinspo
Dace W

Dace W

2135 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Summer nails #cherry #summernails #summernails2025
Liv Tucker

Liv Tucker

768 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
I absolutely love my nails. I decided to change the stiletto to square because it fits my nail beds better. #nailinspo💅🏾 #Lemon8Diary #blackgirllemon8 #nailedit💅🏾
🎀Nanny Lea🎀

🎀Nanny Lea🎀

450 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
#pressonnails #nailinspo #customnails Indiana
Brooke

Brooke

825 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
So I like what I got but it’s not what I wanted. The nail tech did have the rhinestones for my pinky so she recommended to do cute flowers instead, at first I was a bit iffy to get it but I said I was going to trust the process also the base color for the blue is not the same but oh well neverthele
Shaneila

Shaneila

723 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
#whatiwantedvswhatigot #fallnails🍁🍂 #beautiful nails swipe 👉🏻 #abstractnaildesign #💅ideas 📝Fashion Style:
Jasmine Symone

Jasmine Symone

1077 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
Never want to be exactly like the picture but close..🤷🏾‍♀️ #got my nails done 💅 #shortnails💅 #mcdonoughgeorgia
Taye

Taye

769 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
When you ask for fierce feline eyes🐱 but end up with... abstract daisies? 😈 #NailArtFails #ExpectationVsReality #NailStruggles #nails   #NailArt #nailinspo #yellow
Vugstyle

Vugstyle

3231 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
Love love love this set. My nail tech ate!! Translucent green with shadow for the win!! #translucentnails #greenandblacknails #nailinspo #nailsideas #shadownails
Kimizzle08

Kimizzle08

1333 likes

What I Wanted Vs What I Got
These girly girl nails are to die for. #nailsforthegirls #girlygirlnails
Rachel Schenck

Rachel Schenck

978 likes

What i wanted vs what i got
#lemon8diarychallenge does anyone have any opinions on this I say it’s about the same Purchased from: Starbucks ⭐️Overall rating: 9/10:
Val🐬🫧✨

Val🐬🫧✨

2376 likes

What I Wanted Vs What I Got
I’m so in love. #christmasnails
Rachel Schenck

Rachel Schenck

359 likes

What I wanted vs.what I got
#whatiwanted #these nails are everything #nailstoocute #nailsthatlast #nailinspo #love these nails #LoveYourself #pink #pinknails
Bianca Castillo

Bianca Castillo

1224 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
I changed some things up but love what I got. My nail tech always knocks it out of the park with my designs and how short my nails are. #nailsthatlast #sunflowernails #shortnailsquad
Victoria

Victoria

469 likes

What I Wanted Vs What I Got
I’m so in love. #these nails are everything #fallnails🍁🍂
Rachel Schenck

Rachel Schenck

522 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Went to the salon for my birthday nails… I’d say my nail tech “nailed” it 😅
@Shaunagrace

@Shaunagrace

693 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
I think my nail tech got it perfectly! I added my own spin on it of course but she ate down and always does 🫶🏾🫶🏾 #nails #NailArt #springnails #pinterest #AskLemon8
Nicole

Nicole

2034 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
#Nail #NailArt #foryoupage #explore
Toni

Toni

1000 likes

A close-up of a hand with dark burgundy nails. One nail features a matte finish with a glossy black leaf design, while the others are glossy. This image represents the desired nail style for a fall wedding.
What I Wanted Vs What I Got
These are to match my dress for a wedding I am going to. #burgundynails #fallweddingnails Edit: I love my nails.
Rachel Schenck

Rachel Schenck

431 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
My Valentine Nails 💕💕 Please excuse my ashy fingers - I had just left the nail salon . I think they did a very good job … What do you think ? Valentine nails inspo💅
Mary Coates

Mary Coates

537 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
Yes I know my hands aren’t moisturized but it’s the nails not the hands #wintery type of nails 💓 #nails #shareyourthoughts #opinionsneeded
Tori

Tori

585 likes

What I wanted vs. What I got
What I asked for vs. what I got 💅 … and honestly, I’m not mad at it 👀✨ #naillnspo #wintery type of nails 💓 #nailideasforwinter
Flawless Beauty By Nay

Flawless Beauty By Nay

448 likes

What I wanted Vs. What I got
I got these done at the salon. I wished the pinky had the bloom effect but I like it. #nailinspo #nails #nailideas
K

K

1487 likes

What I Wanted VS What I Got!
I wanted more of the marble design on my nails; a more full look & on a good portion of my nails, however they still came out cute. 7/10💌 #valentinesdaynails #pink #nails #design #whatiwantedvwhatigot😉🥰
Precious 🪞💕🦢

Precious 🪞💕🦢

782 likes

A collage showing 'WHAT I WANTED VS WHAT I GOT'. The 'wanted' section features Beauty and the Beast stained glass art and a painting of Belle with an enchanted rose. The 'got' section shows artificial nails with red rose and green leaf designs, resembling stained glass.
A close-up of ten artificial almond-shaped nails, each intricately designed with red roses and green leaves, mimicking a stained-glass effect.
A person's hands displaying almond-shaped nails with red rose and green leaf designs, resembling stained glass, against a white furry background.
What I wanted vs What I got
I found these and they reminded me of Beauty & The Beast. I love them. #nailinspo #beautyandthebeast #rosenails #valentinesnails #valentinesday
Kimizzle08

Kimizzle08

528 likes

What I wanted…VS What I Got
#lemon8diarychallenge #nailinspo2024💅 #NailArt #Lemon8 #lemon8challenge #Lemon8Diary #pretty
Jessica Lauren

Jessica Lauren

310 likes

What I wanted VS what I got!
Tried the new tipex beetles nails on amazon and I loveee them !! #amazonnails #nailinspo #gelx #cherry
maddie 🎀

maddie 🎀

695 likes

A hand displays almond-shaped nails with pastel pink, green, and white designs. Patterns include an alien head, cow print, flowers, and abstract shapes, serving as inspiration for a nail art look.
Another view of the inspirational almond-shaped nails, featuring pastel pink, green, and white. Designs include an alien head, cow print, flowers, and abstract patterns, showcasing the desired nail art.
A pair of hands shows the 'what I got' matte almond-shaped nails. Designs include alien heads, cow print, and flowers in pastel pink, green, and white, with some smudging visible.
What I Wanted vs What I Got
The inspired pictures were so smooth and beautiful. My nail tech struggled with the alien eyes. Redoing them three times. I’ve also never done matte. And as soon as she put that on all the black started smudging. Overall I’d give this a 6/10. Paid $70 plus 20% tip for total of $84. I’m obsessed wit
Kimizzle08

Kimizzle08

1038 likes

What I wanted vs what I got
#nails
Destiny West

Destiny West

450 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
Spring nails 💅🏽 I LOVE my nails 🥹 you guys just don’t understand! He did such an amazing job! Made sure he wasn’t hurting me and made sure I loved the shape, the way it was filed,etc. I had gotten my toes done as well but you guys done need to see thattttt🥴 ⭐️Overall rating: 10/10 If you’re
Carlie🌼

Carlie🌼

538 likes

What I wanted vs What I got
I don’t like matte topcoats for me personally, but I’m in love. I love dressing up a classic like black nails. #nailinspo #stilettos
Des🍉

Des🍉

1528 likes

A close-up of a hand showcasing long, pointed nails with a vibrant galaxy design. The nails feature swirling patterns of teal, pink, and purple, accented with white speckles and star shapes, against a dark background. The text 'what I wanted...' is overlaid.
what I wanted...vs what i got
really happy with the way they turned out... I changed the colors slightly but love them Henry at L.A Nail Salon did an amazing job!!!
Potluckchick420 💸😈🦖💸😈🦖

Potluckchick420 💸😈🦖💸😈🦖

579 likes

A hand displays long, dark shimmery green almond-shaped nails with sharp, intricate gold lightning designs, set against a blurred green background, representing the desired nail style.
A hand showcases long, glittery green almond-shaped nails with less defined, spread-out gold lightning designs, representing the received nail style.
A close-up of a hand with glittery green almond-shaped nails featuring gold lightning-like patterns, showing the 'What I got' result.
What I wanted vs What I got
These were so hard to photograph. I had to find good lighting to do them justice. These are EVERYTHING I wanted. I wanted a Fourth Wing vibe to prepare for Onyx Storm. These did not disappoint. #nailinspo #nails #fourthwing #lightningnails #onyxstorm
Kimizzle08

Kimizzle08

727 likes

A close-up of light pink coffin-shaped nails featuring elegant white and gold marble-like swirl designs, showcasing the desired nail art inspiration.
A hand with light pink coffin-shaped nails, adorned with white and gold abstract flame-like designs, resting on a car's steering wheel, representing the achieved nail art.
A hand with light pink coffin-shaped nails, featuring white and gold abstract designs, gripping a car's steering wheel, displaying the new manicure.
What I wanted VS. What I got.
I absolutely love my nail tech at happy nails on Killian Road in Columbia, South Carolina. it doesn’t matter what design I show him he can re-create it.. Happy Nails & Spa
Fannie Williams

Fannie Williams

432 likes

See more