It wasn’t so long ago when manicured nails were considered an option and not a necessity. Lately, nails have taken centre stage and have become an essential part to any outfit. Your nails can either jazz up or tone down an outfit. For example, the same suit takes on a sexier tone when the nails are a bright red. While clear polish presents a woman set on work only. Glitter adds some spice to date night, while a fun design shows off some personality.
Manicured nails have also become a crucial part of an outfit when attending major events. Whether it be music awards, fashion shows, beauty pageants or weddings; nails need to be on fleek.
This week we catch up with a talented nail technician to discuss her journey and how to rock the latest trends.
Josephine Phillemon, popularly known as Kiwi is the owner of Kiwi-Glam District. A home-based nail bar located in Windhoek West.
Kiwi let us in on how she got started.
“I’ve always done my own nails, hair and make-up. In 2016, I took the initiative and went to London for a year to attend a nail training course to upgrade my skills.”
Speaking on what she learnt, she added, “I specifically loved the training session on acrylics. In my opinion, it looked prettier than gel and lasted longer. So I focused my technics on acrylics.”
When asked about her vision for the Namibian nail industry, she said. “My vision is to put acrylics on the map in Namibia. Currently, the industry is dominated by gel applications. There is nothing wrong with gel, it just that there are better alternatives.”
“Although, I am always busy, my focus is to introduce acrylics to local nail technicians. I recently held my first training session and it was a success. Going forward, I would like to perhaps start a training academy that focuses on acrylics.”
Continuing our chat, Kiwi advises ladies to take care of themselves and invest in their looks. “A lady should always have her nails and hair done. She looks more put together and classy. Manicured nails just look better. When you are holding your glass of wine or cellphone, it just looks more feminine.”
Before letting her get back to her busy schedule, we asked Kiwi to share her top trends for this winter.
MonoBeauty: What are the top trends for nail shapes this winter?
Kiwi: Long almond or short rounded shapes are the most popular this winter. Current nail trends are all about a combination of almond, rounded or oval shapes. The almond or oval shape adds length while keeping things less angular. If you prefer shorter nails, opt for rounded nails.
MB: And the colour palette? What can we expect this winter?
K: Nudes or classic nails are popular this year. Although darker shades are usually reserved for winter, this season, simplicity is making a huge comeback. Nudes and flesh coloured tones are all the rage. Nothing extravagant, nothing too long, nothing too colourful. Just simple nudes. You can go from deep browns to pale purples, to emerald greens depending on your skin tone. If you want to spice up your nude look, you can always choose a chrome or mirror effect on a nude pallet. Adding high shine to brighten up your monotonous look.
MB: And décor or accessories, should we be looking out for anything?
K: Gold or silver foil décor is something new that I have been trying on my clients and they love it. Foil was a big trend in earlier in the year, but it’s continuing to see growing interest into the winter season. The gold or silver accents that shine through with this trend look spectacular and give any day or night look a dazzling appeal.
MB: What should we be on the lookout for going forward? Any new trends on the horizon?
K:Horizontal or vertical stripes were a big feature on the fashion scene this year. So, we expect it to translate to nail trends as well. Stripes are simple but can have major effect. It is all about the boldness of the line you choose to incorporate into your nail design.
MB: Lastly, tell us about your all-time favorite look?
K: I love red nails, they are timeless and always look good. If you are ever unsure what colour to choose, always go with red.
Follow Kiwi Glam District on Instagram
*Photos by Kiwi Glam District
Source: http://www.fashionisers.com
Follow me on Instagram for regular tips.
To pose beauty questions email twincarenamibia@gmail.com
