Red, pink, navy, chrome, glittery, bejeweled, bedecked—unique. Nail art is an often trivialized form of self-expression yet proves incredibly relevant at Shorecrest. Nail art and fake nails offer individual students the opportunity to distinguish and present themselves according to their own taste or common trends, comparable to clothing or accessory choice.

     Junior Josilynn Hart said, “I fluctuate between getting really gorgeous, sparkly, eccentric nails to more clean looking or neutral colors depending on how I am feeling. I feel like my nails represent my style based on how I want to be perceived.”

     Many students relate to Hart’s opinion on how her nails represent herself. Most tend to get the nails they want based on their current mood, which can easily help elevate clothing choices. The temporary nature of nails is key—every few weeks someone can let their nails dictate a different aesthetic, permitting flexibility that isn’t there with hair or clothes, long-lasting investments.

     While there are many benefits to such artfully done nails, some people face challenges with acrylics, as they can be difficult to manage and live with. Freshman Hayden Bean said, “There’s a lot of things I can’t do with them [nails], like I can’t latch on my own necklaces, open cans, or put earrings in.” 

 Another struggle with maintaining nails is the prices, as they depend on the length of the nail itself and the difficulty of the design. Freshman Mika Spalding said, “I get pretty natural colored nails which cost $80-90.” Depending on the salon and the style of nails, prices may be set quite high.

     While professional costs for nail art are high, that doesn’t deter many. Many students prefer doing their nails themselves, whether with an entire kit or simply press-ons, it’s cost-effective and much easier to control the length and design.  Hart said, “I do my nails myself. I have Gel-X kits and nail shapes and stuff. I don’t do any designs because I’m not that skilled, but I can shape it pretty nicely and have a ton of nail polish.”

     Nail art requires skill beyond many’s abilities, so while a simple color can be done at home, intricate designs often necessitate the extra cost and time of going to a nail salon.     

     Nails can have a powerful effect. They can elicit confidence and contribute to outfits, complimenting certain styles or colors. Hart said, “ I think little things like getting your nails done or wearing dainty jewelry every single day are just small things that really embrace my femininity and make me feel beautiful.”