Taraji P Henson’s Gem-Encrusted French Manicure Is Very Y2K

Whenever Taraji P Henson arrives on a red carpet, we can bet that she’s wearing an ornate manicure topped with gemstones. And, if we did happen to bet on her debuting new, gem-encrusted nails at the Tony Awards, we’d hit the jackpot. The actress put her twist on the fancy French manicure trend—and it involved lots of sparkle.

On June 17, Henson posted a behind-the-scenes look at her Tony Awards glam on Instagram with a photoshoot that took place in the car before she got to the ceremony. The vibe of her outfit for the night? Shimmer. “A little glitter from my Glam Fam,” Henson wrote in the caption. For the event, Henson wore a metallic gold and silver dress that she paired with her bedazzled French manicure, which may be her glitteriest yet.

Temeka Jackson crafted the actor’s long stiletto nails, and as the fancy French manicure name suggests, it was a French manicure but with an extra je ne se quoi. Her nails had a pink base and the tips were covered in silver shimmer. Each nail was then encrusted with different-sized gemstones throughout for a touch of extra glitter. French nails with gemstones will always remind us of the Y2K era, and Henson’s added sparkles felt maximalist, fancy, and authentic to her style.

The 53-year-old was dressed in a strapless Oscar de la Renta gown, courtesy of stylists Wayman and Micah, that looked as though it was covered in shimmery dragon scales. She paired it with equally as glowing diamond jewelry, and a shimmery silver top-handle purse.

She wore her signature flippy bob parted to one side for Old Hollywood energy, crafted by hairstylist Tym Wallace. On the front piece of her hair, she had a wash of auburn highlights that stood out from her deep brunette. Her makeup was bronzy and highlighted—working with Saisha Beecham, she wore a bronzy eyeshadow with fluttery black lashes and a nude-brown lip look.

A fancy French manicure is the quintessential nail design for the actor who loves an ornate style with lots of bling. If Henson’s manicure sparked any inspiration, level up your next French manicure with a touch of sparkle.