STYLING WITH SABRINA

Tell us about your nail industry journey… As a child of the ‘80s, I would notice nail styles in films, such as Earth Girls Are Easy and Tootsie, and try to emulate what I saw. Nail grooming was something I always loved and did well on myself, and I had a flair for art, having gone on to study fine art and graphic design. However, I didn’t ever think I would have a career as a manicurist and pursued make-up artistry.

Around 20 years ago, I worked at Bliss Spa London at the front of house, and would watch the manicurists with awe. I undertook training at the premises, before undertaking level 1, 2 and 3 nail qualifications at my local community college. I went on to manage several Nails INC. nail bars, offering manicures and pedicures, and created a number of designs at home, which I posted on my Facebook business page and Instagram profile. Make-up artists and photographers started to contact me and I landed an agent.

What do you love about the nail industry? It’s constantly evolving, particularly in terms of education, so it keeps the mind active. I also love the transformative aspect of a nail service. It’s so satisfying.

Describe an average day in your life… My days vary. I’m part of the ‘5am club’: I get up and go to the gym before work most days, or potter around until my son leaves for school. I may then head to work on a photo shoot around 7.30am and finish at 6pm or later. Awards and film seasons bring a slightly later start, as I’ll travel to various London hotels to tend to clients before an event. These jobs usually have later finishes, but once I’m home, I will cook dinner and help my son with homework.

How have you built your reputation?

I like to think that I’m a positive character on set. I’m attentive, responsive and hard-working and am told that I am a speedy manicurist. I put that down to many years of practice! I’m authentic, and people seem to like that.

Where do you find inspiration for your nail art designs?

On my daily drives through London, I may spot cool graffiti, or find inspiration during gallery visits or on nature walks. Life is art and art is life! I think a lot of my style comes from my mother’s fine art and auntie’s graphic and illustrative designs. I’m happy creating both chic, clean nail styles and bright, graphic looks. My favourite colour is green, although I do like to use orange and glossy black hues in my designs, too.

What are your kit bag essentials? Lime green nitrile gloves, accompanied by Labology 3 Super Antibacterial Cleansing Water, PersoNAILity Cuticle Pusher and Nippers and a white block buffer. A manicure never feels complete without a gentle buff of the nail. I complete a nail treatment with the Mii Care & Caress Hand Serum, which is popular with all of my clients. The brand’s Naturally Modest nail shade is my favourite nude to use on set, as it suits every skin tone.

“I’m happy creating both chic, clean nail styles and bright, graphic looks.”

What are your career highlights? Doing a full set of L&P acrylic enhancements for actress, Glenn Close, for an upcoming movie. I am a huge fan and she was such a warm and genuine client. Recently, I was invited to be a small part of the team on the Bob Marley One Love movie, working at press junkets and with Lashana Lynch, who plays Rita Marley, for the premiere. I also enjoyed a wonderful trip to Sorrento last year for the Sergio Rossi SS24 showcase, and had a wonderful time with a great team.

What is your career goal?

To launch my own product line.

How do you keep your own nails?

I tend to keep my nails short, with a pop of colour. I prefer to wear nail polish over gel, as I like to change my nail colour often. I currently have L&P acrylic enhancements in a ‘70s-style long, round and oval shape with a bright tangerine finish.

Who do you admire in the nail industry and why?

Imarni Ashman of Imarni Nails. Her delivery on every nail design is top tier. I could watch her videos for days, as they’re really therapeutic.

How are you embracing change in the nail industry?

Sustainability is something that I’ve taken more seriously over the years. I think about what I could do differently and what I could be using more effectively in my kit to help the environment, even if it is something small.

If you weren’t doing nails, what would you be doing?

I would either be an artist painting large canvasses or a drummer. My two first loves!

/NailedbySG

@nailedbysg

@nailedbysg