Bespoke nails have become an art form in their own right. Generic, off-the-shelf nail designs are a thing of the past as devotees seek customised nail art that reflects their unique personality, interests and aesthetic. This luxurious beauty experience combines artistry, precision and personalised service to create one-of-a-kind designs that reflect the individual style of each client.

Nail art is a highly specialised craft that requires a deep understanding of design principles, nail-design techniques and colour theory. Top nail artists undergo rigorous training and continually update their skills to stay ahead of the groove. Since bespoke nail art is constantly evolving, new techniques and materials emerge all the time. From minimalist chic to elaborate three-dimensional sculptures, nail art themes are as diverse as they are creative.

Some of the hottest trends in bespoke nail designs include geometric patterns, floral motifs, glitter, minimalism and abstract art. The latest advances in 3D printing technology allow nail artists to create intricate, layered designs that were previously impossible to achieve. Gel extensions are another popular technique in which layers of gel build up to create intricate, detailed designs. However, the traditional method of hand-painted nails – whereby designs are directly painted onto the nail using specialised brushes and paints – is still sought after by many.

The new technique of dip powder nails is a cross between hard and soft gel, and involves dipping your nails into a pot of coloured powder to get a slick, glossy finish. Unlike gel polish, which requires ultraviolet radiation to harden, the dip method takes about two minutes to set and dry without the need to bake your hands underneath a UV light.

Another recent innovation is holographic nail polish, with the best containing pigments that refract the light to give a full holographic effect, and thus add an extra dimension of depth and visual interest to the nails. There appears to be no limit to what can be created on the miniature canvases awaiting at the tips of our fingers.

In Hong Kong, personalised nails have become a status symbol, with clients willing to invest time and money in creating truly show-stopping designs. Whether you’re a fashionista, a celebrity, or simply someone who loves nail art, bespoke nail design offers a world of endless creativity and self-expression. So why not treat yourself to a bespoke nail design experience and discover a whole new world of colour at your fingertips? Here are some of the city’s best nail salons known for their professionalism and creativity.

Eightyeight

Founded a decade ago by Central Saint Martins graduate Stephanie Shek, who clocked up experience at two of the city’s upmarket nail salons, Eightyeight instils luxe into nail art. The spacious premises in Wellington Street, Central blends modernity and whimsy with styling straight out of European palaces. Opulent canopy chairs sit grandly amid a stunning black-and-white décor interspersed with colourful plushies and photography books. Coffee, music and phone-charging stations add to the pampering as clients choose from a wide range of exquisite nail designs or confer on a unique personal expression.

Whether the minimal beauty of a classic reverse French manicure or the bold bling of Swarovski-studded talons, anything goes here. Trained and talented artists advise on styles that suit hand size and finger length, then work diligently with a thin, pointed brush to capture each fine, delicate detail. If you want to look and feel like a celebrity, this is the place to get your nail-art done. @eightyeighthk

Canary

A chic haven for Japanese-style nail and eyelash services in Wyndham Street, Central, Canary is a hit among locals with its soothing jazz music and lush vibes. The salon’s Zen-like atmosphere is a fitting showcase for the best Japanese techniques and technicians in nail design. As you would expect, the bespoke process typically begins with a one-on-one consultation, where the client shares their design ideas, preferences and lifestyle considerations, and the nail artist provides guidance on its feasibility and expert advice on colour, shape and style.

Canary offers plenty of creative Japanese manicure designs as well as more conservative looks. Soak-off gel nails with gorgeous patterns are a speciality, and detailed, intricate designs are created with consideration to the appearance of each individual’s hands and feet. Delicate and utterly charming, their floral motifs are a timeless favourite with bespoke customers. From realistic depictions of blooms to stylised, abstract interpretations, they add a touch of elegance to any nail look. canary.com.hk

Ooh La La

Bringing specialised Russian manicures to Hong Kong, Ooh La La uses unique tools to trim and shape cuticles and nails, leaving them perfectly smooth and precise for the application of beautiful nail art. Clients are spoilt for choice amid a lineup of 3,000 gel colours from high-quality brands whose products not only have a gentle touch but also provide long-lasting results.

Nail health and hygiene are high priorities for the salon’s nail technicians, too. Tools are sanitised in high-temperature ovens and UV machines according to strict protocols, and clients are thoroughly briefed on after-care.

The ambience of Ooh La La’s two salons, located in Wan Chai and Central, fosters comfort and relaxation with soft music and calming scents. Sleek décor and cosy interiors will calm your senses while artists work their magic based on your stated theme. Fancy a sprinkle of glitter or matte powder for a textured 3D effect? No problem; it’s all in hand. oohlalanailscc.com

Pikapika Nail Parlour

Located in the heart of the Causeway Bay shopping hub, this nail parlour is as chic as it sounds. Pikapika equates to shiny in Japanese, thus the salon is best known for its glitter-themed nails, ranging from a subtle shimmer to bold sparkles. And while the end product is stunning, the journey can be indulgent, with a number of healthy, organic treatments to perk up fingers and toes, including a green tea nail soak to soften the cuticles and a moisturing, nourishing rice barn nail soak. Established in 2004, this charming place will create cute or sophisticated nails – your choice – in the possible presence of a friendly cat or three. pikapikanails.com