NAIL BITES

VIRTUAL NAIL TRIALS

OPI has launched what it describes as “the world’s first” digital nail trials unit for shoppers.

The innovative facility gives consumers the opportunity to virtually try various lacquer shades on their own ingers prior to making a purchase. The freestanding units feature built-in augmented reality technology and were created by retail design agency Play.

Since rollout began, the OPI digital nail trial has been installed in more than 400 global travel retail locations, such as airports.

Mark Howell, creative director at Play, said: “Until now, there have been barriers for shoppers who want to physically try nail lacquer shades prior to purchase in contrast to lipstick, foundation and eyeshadows, which are readily available for in-store trial.”

Divine intervention

Cheshire nail vlogger Natasha Lee has created her own product range centred on nail art, named Divine by Natasha Lee. Tools include a capsule brush set, silicone and dotting tools, a professional cuticle hoof and precision curette tool, and a gem picker. There is also a line of fine nail art glitters, giving fans the opportunity to recreate Lee’s famous YouTube designs.

5 minutes with

Samantha Birkett-Leigh , CND international education ambassador and global team member, and owner of Bliss Nail Studio in Cumbria

My first taste of the nail industry was aged 14 when I took part in a two-week work-experience programme through my school. I fell in love with the industry and as soon as I left school I enrolled in a beauty course as there were no nail-only courses available at the time.

I’ve been extremely lucky to have had quite a few career highlights over the years but the ones that stand out are opening my salon and training academy, winning the “Best Overall” award in San Diego at the CND Bootcamp, winning 10 national nail competitions, being part of CND’s Fashion Week team and making it as part of CND’s global team.

I absolutely love working with L&P. I never tire of seeing the transformations you can achieve with it, from beautifully sculpted nails to fabulous, intricate, mind-blowing 3D nail art. The versatility of the system lets me constantly push myself to develop new ideas.

I appreciate all types and styles of art, whether it’s nail related or not. I just love to watch and be involved with people who are passionate about their craft.

It might sound crazy, but I’m not a huge forward planner. I’m a big believer in everything happening for a reason and at the right time. Do what you love and what you are passionate about and the path will lead you to where you are meant to be.

@sammyblcnd