Forget everything you know about the manicure

Those with a penchant for decorated nails also have far greater access to inspiration. In addition to the more than 91 million #nailart posts on Instagram, and the aforementioned celebrities, there is an Instagram account devoted to Dua Lipa’s nails, the artist who paints Dua Lipa’s nails (Mei Kawajiri) in addition to Lizzo’s go-to nail artist (Eri Ishizu). And let’s not forget Serena Williams, who had one nail painted with a koala with a red bow while playing at last year’s Australian Open.

For Williams, sporting a koala on her nail was a means to draw attention to Australia’s bushfires, which had threatened much of our wildlife. (She later donated US$43,000 to relief efforts.)

She’s not the only nail art fan who’s found it can add a surprising amount of meaning to their lives.

“It’s a talking point, and it does kind of release a bit of tension by bringing a bit of lightness to sometimes more serious roles or discussions,” says LaRouge, referring to clients who work in universities and in counselling roles who have noticed such positive side-effects of their statement nails.

Aimee, a Sydney-based non-clinical nurse, who has asked that her last name not be included for privacy reasons, has experienced a similar phenomenon. “It has definitely brought positivity into my life, brightens my mood and leaves me feeling more confident.”

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Before the latest lockdown in Sydney, Aimee had new designs painted on her nails every four to five weeks at a salon, with everything from characters from Lady and the Tramp to penguins. When she can’t get to the salon, she buys salon quality stickers and wraps from Personail. (Other options: Flowerbed Nails and Oje Australia.)

While the thought of cartoon characters on your nails may leave you scratching your head, Bagan says subtler iterations are possible and achievable at home. She recommends starting with minimal and abstract art, like matching a nude coloured base with pops of colour on the tips. And many designs, says LaRouge, work particularly well on short nails. “Say you’re doing a pink and red giant love heart, these things will work on any nail shape and size.”

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