INTERNATIONAL NAIL SPY

Four Croatian nail pros share industry insights & trends with

ALEX FOX

VALENTINA DRETVIĆ

Nail salon owner & New Generation Nail Congress organiser www.newgenerationnailcongress.com

@orihalk_nails

The Croatian nail industry was relatively small just a few years ago. During the pandemic, when salons were closed, many clients learned how to do nails online – and a lot went on to become working professionals. The industry is now more buoyant, with much wider access to education. We are still a relatively small market compared to larger European countries, but we have passion, creativity and a desire to learn. I believe that education and community can further enhance the industry.

The most favoured nail shape in Croatia is almond, as it is both elegant and easy to maintain. The most popular nail colour is red, yet over the last few months, I’ve noticed a trend towards natural looks – often using only a base and top coat. This ties in with the fact that gel and L&P acrylic extensions are not as common in Croatia as they are in other countries, and very long nails are relatively rare. The French manicure is popular, but many women simply choose short, practical styles due to their lifestyles. Nail art, unfortunately, is still quite uncommon, as most Croatian clients prefer clean and wearable styles rather than elaborate designs. However, I believe this is slowly changing.

I organise the New Generation Nail Congress in Croatia. The phrase, ‘the nail tech’s home’, has been coined to describe it, and is a great reflection of its purpose. The event is an opportunity to meet like-minded professionals who want to learn, improve their skills, connect, exchange experiences and discover brands and products. At the Congress, nail techs can learn everything they need to improve their work – from proper nail preparation and product application to structure and advanced techniques.

ZRINKA VUKSAN BOLANČA

Award-winning nail artist, educator, judge & brand owner

@zrinkathemanicurist

I’ve been in the nail industry for 16 years, and fell in love with its variety of styles and opportunities. Born and raised in Croatia, I moved to Vancouver in Canada seven years ago.

I’ve had the privilege of watching the Croatian nail industry evolve from abroad, which has given me a unique perspective. One thing that has been consistent is Croatia’s appreciation for timeless, refined work. Classic and faded French tips, flawlessly applied solid colours and precise Russian manicures have maintained their popularity.

The Croatian nail industry has stood somewhere between the strong Hungarian competition scene and the exceptional technical standards of Poland, constantly striving to raise its own level of craftsmanship. Today, with incredible access to education and inspiration through social media, I genuinely believe Croatia has the potential to push standards further.

After a few years competing, with success in pink & white and poster categories, I discovered a passion for being behind the curtain. I am a technical judge for global competitions, host classes via Zrinka B Nail Academia, own nail brand: Zer.0 by Zrinka, and produce nail looks for editorial shoots, commercials, music videos and TV.

In 2026, the New Generation Nail Congress was officially the biggest nail event in the Balkans, and was covered by Croatian national television, bringing the event to a wider audience. In 2027, it will take place on 20 February in Zagreb.

Concept & styling: Layla Desjardin Photography: Gustavo Chams Nails: Zrinka Vuksan Bolanča

LAURA ŠLAJHERT

Maximalist nail artist

@shlaki.doesnails

After studying Biotechnology in Rijeka, Croatia, and completing a master’s degree in Vaccinology in Spain, Belgium and France, I decided to move back to my hometown of Zagreb and work remotely. This gives me time to carry out four to five nail appointments per week, and continually improve my nail art skills. I’m currently filling a nail design book with 216 styles and filming it. I discovered the idea on TikTok and thought it was a fantastic way to motivate myself to try new looks.

What do you love about nails? I started creating nail art using nail polish when I was 12 years old. I even had a YouTube channel, where I shared my nail tutorials. When I went to high school, I drifted away from the hobby. Years later, I rediscovered nail art and have been learning new designs almost every day since.

Where do you seek inspiration? In the world around me. When I’m walking around Zagreb and see a detail that inspires me, I take a photo so I can transform it into nail art later. I also find inspiration on Pinterest and Instagram, but rarely recreate a design exactly as I’ve seen it.

What is your requested nail art? This year has been all about 3D nail art and isolated chrome, which happen to be my favourite styles. Many of my clients enjoy having a different design on every nail.

Name a Croatian nail artist that everyone should follow... It’s very hard to choose one, but a few that I find inspiring are @karla_nail_rituals, @beautybee.zg, @licensnails and @nirvananailbar.

What is your favourite Croatian nail brand? I enjoy using Cici Nails products and love the brand’s colour range. I also completed gel training with a Cici Nails educator.

What is a big nail trend in Croatia? I’ve noticed that people who usually prefer clean, minimalist nails are becoming more adventurous and experimenting with funky nail art – and I’m loving it!

KATARINA ĆURČIJA

Educator & brand ambassador for Juliana Nails

@studio__lei

I always knew that I wanted to work in the nail industry. I recognised that it offers unlimited opportunities for growth, and I love being able to express myself and my creativity through nail designs. The inspiration for most of my work comes straight from my mind, and my style is always vibrant and full of colour.

How would you describe the Croatian nail industry? I believe the sector still has a lot of room for growth. However, it follows global trends very well and keeps up with the international market.

What has been a popular nail trend lately? Milky nail styles are a hit. Natural looks in milky pink and white shades have excited clients this year. The French manicure has also made a huge comeback over the last two years.

What are your clients requesting? Natural and well-groomed looks for nails and cuticles.

Name a Croatian nail artist that everyone should follow... Zrinka Vuksan Bolanča. Although she no longer works in Croatia, we are incredibly proud of her. She is living her dream and is an inspiration.

What is your education regimen? I have been continuously educating myself for years, and hold over 50 certificates from various world-renowned trainers. I am now an educator myself, but still invest in regular learning experiences.

BRAND SPOTLIGHT

Collagen Nails is a gel polish brand developed by Croatian engineers, educators and industry experts in collaboration with

German chemists. Its professional products promise exceptional quality, high-performance results and EU safety compliance. Since 2021, Collagen Nails has represented Croatia on the global stage.

www.collagen-nails.com