Eun Kyung Park, founder of Unistella salon (opens in new tab), has been the mastermind behind many a next-level nail art (opens in new tab) look (we're still in awe of glass nails (opens in new tab), btw)—but her latest innovation, which we're calling "wire nails," may be the most game-changing of all.
Using gold wire, Park creates sculptural 3D designs including stiletto tips, cuticle accents, and even abstract-art-inspired human faces on the nail beds. Both beautiful and practical (clear nail polish = no chips), there are definite "this is the manicure of the future" vibes happening here.
When we reached out to Park to learn more about her cutting-edge technique, she told us that it's actually a nod to the art of the neon sign.
"When you make neon signs, you have to bend the wires to make certain lettering," she explains. "It's one long wire that's bent to create and connect the letters. I thought this was really cool and since nails are an accessory, I wanted it to be used for expression. Like rings."
Park sought out the thinnest wire she could find, and now, in order to create the looks, she manipulates it into shapes using tweezers. She then places the already-made wire and deco studs on clear gel nail polish, lets it cure under UV light, then swipes on a top gel coat for long-lasting wear.
If you're ready to go DIY on this chic minimalist look, Park has one key piece of advice: "Keep in mind that since it's a wire, you have to make sure the sharp end has a nice finish so it doesn't get caught in clothes," she says.
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