Though you would not guess it by glancing at my fingers, manicured nails fascinate me. I’m not talking about your regular French tips or average flower stencil. No, my obsession falls under the category of bling nails. Nails with attitude: florescent air brushed talons adorned with anything from tiny Swarovski crystals to glow-in-the-dark paint. Bling nails range anywhere from short squared cuticles to two-inch long, acrylic, curved claws.
While the shapes vary, the designs feature elaborate techniques and intricate patterns. One practice known as ‘water coloring’ is an ancient Vietnamese practice where the nail polish is suspended in water, as the fingernail get dipped in, the polish creates a marble affect. The difficult process produces a stunning result: a fabulously tie-died nail. Stenciling and airbrushing make up the most common designs of bling nails. These miniscule airbrushes produce everything from realistic graffiti scenes to zebra stripes and Hawaiian sunsets across your thumb and pinky finger.
If you find yourself craving some colorful claws, downtown Syracuse offers a few salons that’ll do you right. Lovely Nails (324 Salina Street), a cozy little shop, offers an assortment of colors, and designs start at $8. For $22, you get a full set of acrylics and your choice of design. Walk a block south, and you will find Oriental Nail and Hair Salon (348 Salina Street). Oriental offers a larger selection with florescent colors and cool decals. Hand designs start at $10, but can cost up to $35. By the looks of the packed nail counters, Oriental Nail and Hair Salon was popping; I suggest making an appointment.
If you want to spruce up your look consider getting some bling tips. They offer the attitude of tattoos without the permanence. A friend of mine in high school got her nails done every two weeks to match her various day-glo Nikes. While some nails err on the side of tacky, the overall art form gives off fun and funky vibes to your fingers. Snaps!
