A good nail set has the power to change your mood, your fit and your day – that’s why, at Hypebae, we consider nail techs to be super heroes. Many of the top nail artists have fashion and art backgrounds and the majority are self-taught with incredible fortitude in learning such a tedious and intricate art through trial and error. So, this International Women’s Day we’re giving flowers to our favorite nail artists from around the world.
Continue reading to learn about the nails technicians from Accra, New York City, Paris, Hong Kong, Toronto and Los Angeles who are pioneering the ever-evolving world of nail artistry.
Accra
This salon prioritizes your nails’ health above all else with vegan, non-toxic and eco-friendly products and classic, minimalist designs.
Helena Taygh’s salon does it all: hand painted nail art, pedicures, barbering, piercing, tattoos and cosmetic training. While other salons in her area play it safe with traditional styles, Taygh pushes boundaries with daring art and expert application.
Whatever design you find on your Instagram discovery page can be executed by Priscilla, but her signature styles sparkle with bling and gold fit for a queen.
Hong Kong
As a veteran of the fashion and film industries in Hong Kong, Mei Mei focuses on editorial work where her sets level up every photoshoot with nails as a focal point rather than an afterthought. She prioritizes texture, craftsmanship and out-of-the-box designs in her work.
The work of this artist is so surreal and nearly every set features 3D gel work that transforms what first appears to be an abstract design on a single digit into a unified theme across both hands.
Though the work expresses a lot of variety, this artist has the best inspo for punk, gothic, leather and overtly girly aesthetics. From ribbons to 3D eyeballs, her range is unmatched.
New York City
Conveniently located in the Lower East Side and with lead stylist, Serena Didem, at the helm, this collective features eight multi-faceted creatives who each produce expert-level work. 10piecenails was conceptualized and founded by Laura and Latesha Jackson in 2021 and it is one of the rare boutique nail studios of its caliber to accept walk-ins seven days a week upon availability.
Bronx’s very own, Marisel, was originally an electrician by trade. Despite making a great living for herself, she wasn’t fulfilled and began doing nails during Covid-19; eventually learning that she can paint nails without an art background. Her nails are for the girls who want to make a statement. She understands that nails ARE the accessory.
Mei is the celebrity nail tech for your fave’s fave. There is no theme that she can’t bring to life, which is why she has been contracted by top brands around the world.
Los Angeles
Unconventional tips meet 3D art for many of Sojin’s sets, which often look like sculpture work and blown glass rather than gel nails. She simultaneously obtained her beauty school certificate and scuba diving license, which inspired her nail art’s unique aesthetic of seashells, nudibranchs and the natural world.
Perhaps best known for her ability to include texture and depth in the detailing of her elaborate nail art, this Pasadena based artist is well worth the travel up the 110. Her unorthodox design choices and clean execution set her apart.
The L.A. girlies have to turn on their notifications each month to snag a coveted time slot with Marielle Loreto as she builds an authentic community around her. Despite being a newer nail artist on the scene, her out-of-this-world abstract designs are as recognizable as they are unique.
Paris
Based out of a Paris beauty salon where you can get tooth gems and an over-the-top set in the very best way, Nails by Padena adds depth with chrome and cat eye finishes while working alongside owner, Lili Creuk, who also boasts impeccable custom art abilities.
Okay…we’re asking for a geographical exception for this artist out of Strasbourg rather than Paris. Alexandra exclusively uses the Apres Nails system (the OG of Gel-X) and she incorporates a full spectrum of color in a single set, interwoven with exceptional builder gel and clay work. Our favorite sets of hers feature translucent jelly colors and psychedelic chromes.
Like many of our favorite artists, Josephine painstakingly learned this craft while in lockdown during the pandemic. She chose the brand name, Carrousel, because the French word has many meanings expressing movement with a series of imagery. From fairy designs to snakes and rhinestones to chrome with 3D exterior, Jo can accommodate any style preference.
Toronto
Rebecca’s work is inspired by fashion, pop culture and the creativity of her clients to complete sets that exceed their wildest expectations. One of her favorite services is the “mystery mani” where clients have no idea what they are getting until it is done. For the more decisive clients, she has the added perk of sending digital blueprints of her designs before completing the set.
Beauty by Aphrodite
This artist prioritizes nail health and growth above all else, which all nail art fanatics can appreciate. Alex works out of a private studio in Toronto where clients can get impressive tattoo work done as well.
A powerhouse collective of expert nail artists who also provide training. The owner, Kingston Nguyen, describes the salon and their elaborate sets as “More than just a place for nails; it’s a canvas where creativity meets craftsmanship.”
