Attention to Detail

by EMMA SCIANTARELLI

FROM ISSUE # 153 (September 2008) | IN THIS ISSUE
	REFER TO FRIEND		PRINT THIS ARTICLE

If you like pretty little things you can have some of the world's tiniest masterpieces at your fingertips… literally.  Believe it or not, nail art has been around for nearly two decades, but the trend has only recently become popular in Nepal. Artists use ultra-thin brushes or an airbrush to paint anything from winter landscapes to tribal art on your nails. Whether you want to wish people Happy Holidays or give the impression that you are a rose amongst thorns, the endless variety of motifs makes nail art an expressive outlet. Most people opt to apply acrylic nails first to add length and strength, but if your nails are already tough as, er… nails, then the artwork can be done without the fakes. So choose a design and express yourself without saying a word. 

Extra Effects
Just a Touch. Sometimes there actually is too much of a good thing. If the design you are after is very intricate, doing up all your nails may be a bit too much. Depending on the design, it may look better to paint four of your fingers one solid, complimenting colour, and leave the design just for your ring fingers. This will draw more attention to the design without looking overwhelming or as if you are trying too hard. Style is all about knowing when enough is enough. 

Gems and Charms
Add a little twinkle to your already eye-catching nails by gluing on you favourite gem or piercing the tip of one of your nails with a tiny silver or gold hoop.

Stripes
Make dazzling straight lines by setting strands of gold and silver thread in wet polish. It will give your nails a fun fibrous look.

Texture
Press a small piece of lint-free cloth against your semi-wet polish to create a smudged texture.

Where to go  
Nail Art - Kathmandu Mall Entrance
Beauty Club - Putalisadak, Kathmandu; Mahendra Pool, Pokhara

Ready, Set, Go
If you'd rather stay in, just buy a pack of ready-to-wear pre-printed nails or stick on some funky decals to your own nails.

Go Punk
Fellas, if you think nail art is only for the ladies, guess again. Just catch a glimpse of the paws on any famous rocker- checks, stripes, and skull nail art can be hardcore.  Just be sure to keep the patterns in dark hues to maintain the tough guy persona. Black, greys, blues and white prints can transform even the most sojho guy into a seriously edgy individual.