By Stephanie Audette
These days it would be impossible to go even a few hours without encountering some sort of Olympic coverage. Via Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest . . . and even more old-fashioned media such as television, the games and the athletes who compete in them are just about all anyone can talk about. So what are people tweeting about now? Olympic nail art.
Athletes from all over the world are adorning their digits with their country’s colors. These artistic displays of national pride have gained plenty of media attention, practically overshadowing all of the amazing athletic feats (gymnastics, anyone?). The Olympics are almost over, but why not take a cue from the world’s most athletically gifted set and show your pride for the US of A all year round by sporting some colorful, patriotic designs?
For the inside scoop on the nail trend, Style Parlor talked to Markus Deshler, nail director for Juut Salonspa. “The Twin Cities hasn’t really caught onto the nail art trend. I don’t know if the Midwest is being conservative, but it’s tricky to get people to step out of the box,” Deschler says. “It’s the hottest trend in fashion right now.”
So let’s talk about techniques. How can a mere mortal achieve that perfect mani without shelling out $55 for a salon visit? “Companies are going the way of polish strips,” says Deshler. While OPI and Dashing Diva are both popular brands with their own lines of polish strips, Deshler swears by the Sally Hansen version, available at Target. He used the drugstore brand’s ‘Glitz Blitz’ (gold) and ‘Raise a Glass’ (bronze) nail polish strips to represent the Olympic medals. When it comes to nail art, Deshler’s philosophy is that “anything goes.”
Olympic nails by Markus Deshler
Some insider DIY tips…
- Remember if you use nail decals, make sure you clean your nail first with rubbing alcohol. This often overlooked step will remove any excess oil, and you will get better and longer wear time.
- For a glam look, pick up some gold leafing at craft store Michaels. First apply a base color of polish, then lay pieces of the gold leaf on top. Seal with a top coat. Simple and easy!
- Orly makes a kit called Instant Artist. The paints are water-based paints, which means when you use them over dry nail polish. Bonus: if you make a mistake, just wipe it off with water and start again!
Looking to take your nails to the next level? Deshler specializes in Minx nails, a flexible film that is heated onto the nail. According to the website, most nail stylists will prep the nails and apply a full set for around $60. Expensive, yes, but if they last the promised full two weeks (and much longer on toes), then it could be worth the splurge. In a special Olympic Collection by Minx, each country’s flag is represented. Check out the current top two nations in terms of medals below!
China from the Minx Olympic Collection.
American flag nail design from the Minx Olympic Collection.
