When someone tells you, “I’ll never not have my nails done,” believe them. The time, investment, and deliberation over each set of nails might be hard to understand for those not manicure-obsessed, but devotees will be the first to tell you: It’s absolutely worth it, and it’s about more than just nails.
“If I’m getting a coma, I’m still getting my nails done once a week. And that’s in my will,” Khloé Kardashian once confessed on The Kardashians. Turns out, that wasn’t celebrity vanity talking: When it comes to nails, lots of people agree that it actually is that serious. We asked seven manicure diehards to tell us about their nail rituals, how they prioritize their manis, and what a fresh set means to them. (And just like Kardashian, we learned that nothing—including a global pandemic—will stop them from finding a way to wear the nails they love every single day.)
For some, manicures are a deeply personal practice. From biweekly salon gels to elaborate at-home setups, people rely on their manicures as both self-care nonnegotiables and identity markers. Great nails help channel confidence, professionalism, and creative expression. And despite rising costs, salon inconveniences, and less-than-gentle chemicals and techniques, the always-polished crowd makes a compelling case.
But don’t just take it from us. Ahead, meet seven true manicure enthusiasts from across the country and see the nail art that keeps them coming back for more.
Marisa, 40 (Brooklyn)
I consider having my nails done to be an extension of my daily style. I generally don’t do a full beat every day, and I don’t have time in the morning to focus on my hair, so having my nails done elevates my vibe automatically. I usually opt for nail art that reflects my mood or upcoming events in my life.
Before the pandemic I was getting gel extensions and fills every four weeks at an incredible nail art salon in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Then the spot blew up on social media, which raised prices and made it impossible to get an appointment. During COVID lockdowns, nail tutorials got really popular on TikTok, so I decided to buy the supplies and give it a shot. I started with a really cheap kit from Amazon, which included the UV curing light, the nail tips, etc. After a lot of trial and error, I’ve become quite skilled at both gel manicures on my natural nails and making my own press-ons.
By Grace McCarty
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