FLYING HIGH WITH OANA FLUTUR

Explore the inspiring story & expert insights of a champion nail artist

What is it about nails that interests you?

I love to immerse in all things nails, from designs to working techniques, natural nail conditions, scientific studies, new materials, events and competitions. When I talk about nails, I just can’t stop! People tell me that they watch me transform when I speak about the industry. My passion stems from deep inside and I love the beauty, innovation and creativity that this sector affords, as well as the opportunities it presents to travel, make friends and gain knowledge from many people and places.

Share your journey into nails…

I have always had a way of knowing exactly how to take care of my nails. Growing up in a rather poor family, I learned to manage on my own with whatever materials I could find. I couldn’t afford to visit a beauty salon, but still wanted to fit in with others who styled their hair and wore make-up. I assumed that everyone knew how to take care of their nails as I did, and I didn’t realise at the time that I had a special talent for manicures.

My manicure session, with natural products, took around four hours and I enjoyed this weekly throughout my childhood. Everyone in the neighbourhood knew me as ‘the girl with the long nails’. In my last year of IT college, I became pregnant with my first son, leading me to look for a job that would allow me to work from home. During my search, I discovered a video about artificial nails and L&P acrylic techniques and was immediately hooked. I began to learn everything I could about nails, and after two years of self-study and practicing on friends, I treated my first client. More than 18 years have passed since then.

How did you build your reputation?

Throughout my career, I have worked very hard – often without breaks, to master my role. Over 30,000 hands have experienced my techniques, and this led me to compete then mentor other nail stylists. I am a trainer and international judge, and attribute my reputation to my passion for the industry, sharing valuable information and choosing to work on many professional projects.

Describe an average day in your life…

On weekdays, I welcome my first client at 8am. My morning routine is quick and efficient and I juggle client appointments with household chores. I work until 8pm, then I head to the gym. After this, I prepare dinner, handle housekeeping duties and spend the late evening answering messages, writing posts or helping my students. I go to sleep around 1.30am.

If I have a class at the weekend, I begin at 9am and it can run late into the night. If I am free, I catch up on sleep, spend time with family or enjoy a movie. If I am judging a competition, I wake at 5am or 6am to prepare. I spend the day focused on the competition, ensuring rules are followed.

What is your favourite nail look to create?

I love everything that challenges me, whether an intricate design, extreme nail shape or transformation of difficult, natural nails into something beautiful. My favourite shades are natural beige or natural pink, as they suit everyone, regardless of skin tone or hand appearance.

What are your kit bag essentials?

My hands are my most essential tools, alongside professional scissors, a pusher, thin brush, perfect file and good forms. I work with all nail systems, except the dip system.

What’s been your training experience?

I’ve trained with many esteemed educators over the years, including Marco Bonvicini, David Fowler, Irina Prijilevscaia and Doug Schoon. Everyone I have learned from has helped me to discove who I’ve wanted to become, how I’ve wanted to work and whether to become a trainer. Everything has been a lesson, which I’m grateful for. I’m still learning, but now it’s from the colleagues I collaborate with across the industry.

Who do you admire in the nail industry and why?

I admire the industry titans who have been building their careers for over 30 years and have good morals, a love for nails and respect for their colleagues. I also admire those who fight to educate with correct information and dedication.

What excites you about life in general?

Real people, true love, friendship, travel, discovery, almost all animals and nails.

What are your career highlights?

Winning the World Champion Nail Pro Cup USA 2020, authoring the Haute Couture Nail Art collection, judging international competitions, training hundreds of students and holding 70 national and international competition titles.

What has been key to your success?

Hard work. For instance, before the USA competition, I trained intensively for two months, working from 9am to 3am daily. The exhaustion paid off as I won.

Where do you find inspiration for your nail art designs?

  From colleagues, fashion, nature, competitions and my imagination.

How do you wear your own nails?

  Like many nail techs, I barely have time to work on my own nails. When I do, I keep them simple and natural.

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

Painting, psychology or interior design. I love getting lost in design.

Which principles do you live by?

  Justice, fairness, respect and normality.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be and why?

I would limit the internet for those who use it for misinformation and aggressive promotion. The industry is being devalued by bad practices and non-values.

Why did you enter nail industry competitions?

  Inspired by industry icons like Tom Holcomb, I aimed to reach high standards and be among the best. Competing has helped me understand my real value, overcome limits, gain a global perspective and inspire others.

Why do you believe in Nailympia?

Nailympia stands for fairness, quality and real value. The dedication and hard work behind the scenes, especially from competition director, Alex Fox, make it a credible and inspiring competition. Judging for Nailympia allows me to stay in touch with the latest trends and learn new techniques.

What are your future career goals?

  I am working on my own brand, focusing on high-quality products that help make a technician’s work life easier. I hope to launch soon with products that bring positive energy and excellent results, and wish to conquer the world with my ‘nailystic’ style.

What is the biggest nail trend you’re seeing right now?

Artificial intelligence is challenging us in nail art, and the trend of unnatural nail shapes is problematic. Standards should focus on health and natural beauty.

What advice would you like to share with other nail artists?

Find the passion that brought you to this path and hold onto it. If you can’t find it, change your course – but always stay focused on nails.

Oanaflutur.ro

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 @oanaflutur.ro_nailart

 @oanafluturnailartisttraine15