Technology, innovation and sheer ingenuity have made it so that the sky’s the limit when it comes to your nails. These days, it’s clear to see that no matter the concern, there proves a solution out there that allow you to adorn your digits in whatever way you please. Fragile, weakened nails can opt for press-on variants, for instance, which don’t require filing or any form of chemical processing. Gel-type treatments are mainstays for those seeking a long-lasting paint job, while acrylic extensions provide a dose of glamour for folks too impatient to grow their nails out. As it is, achieving the manicure of your dreams is very much possible—especially so if you’re armed with the expertise and aesthetical eye of several established nail artists.
Lucky for you, there are plenty to choose from in 2022. Much like the make-up artists of today, nail creatives have been garnering clout and a fan base of their own, with many harbouring a specialised set of skills with regard to specific nail shapes or styles. Celebrity-favourite nail artists, for example, would tend to be adept at stiletto-resembling iterations à la Cardi B, while those who have branched out into developing their own nail polish labels are more attuned towards colour and design. No matter your preference, we promise that there is someone out there whose works you probably resonate with.
And so, to help you with that, Vogue Singapore has curated a list of emerging and established nail artists to follow on Instagram—ranging from local talents to overseas luminaries that are a goldmine of inspiration. Peruse them all, below.
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@nailsbymei
Understated and practical, this is not. The NYC-based artist is recognised for being a disruptor on the beauty scene, where she regularly utilises charms, 3D renderings and moulds to create fantastical nail looks that harbour a Japanese-inspired flair. Should you be looking for your talons to be transformed into (literal) works of art, we say look no further than Nails By Mei for guidance.
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@nail_unistella
The go-to artist of K-pop celebs in the vein of Blackpink’s Lisa and BTOB’s Peniel, Nail Unistella brims with avant-garde nail look ideas rich in class and edge. Creations comprise artistic scratches, jewel-encrusted configurations, as well as unique textures that draw the eye.
3 / 6
@friskynails
Delicate, miniscule detailing is no challenge for this local nail-tech. From pastel coloured ripples to hyper-realistic art, Frisky Nails does them all—and in varying lengths, too, with her portfolio comprising both natural nails as well as sharp-tipped extensions. What’s more, she has also dabbled in Singaporean-specific designs in the vein of whimsical CNY talons that have Chinese characters etched on it as well as mahjong tiles.
4 / 6
@jinsoon
It’s likely that you’ve seen Jinsoon Nail Lacquers at your manicurist of choice. The vegan-friendly, long-lasting polish is the brainchild of Korean artist, Jin Soon Choi—regarded as a maestro amongst nail buffs with her penchant for simplistic yet elegant designs. This has made Jinsoon a top pick for fashion designers, who frequently tap in on her expertise during Fashion Week. 2022 alone saw her works making it onto the runways for Peter Do, Brandon Maxwell and Proenza Schouler.
5 / 6
@yessanails
Here’s one nail artist who isn’t afraid of colour—or making a bold statement. You’d find that Singaporean-based creative Yessa Nails employs her sharp wit alongside a mastery of detailed illustrations in her designs, with memes and Y2K-inspired themes making frequent appearances. Slime green shades and neon yellow are hues are in constant rotation, too.
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@ginaedwards_
Laura Harrier, Vera Wang and Gigi Hadid are fans of Gina Edwards’s work, which range from old-school Hollywood glamour styles to futuristic chrome-finish creations. Versatility is Edwards’s strong suit—making it perfect for those who don’t have too clear an idea of what they’re looking for.
