Get Your Minx On

Crazy coloured nails are nothing new, but fashion patterns on fingertips are made that much easier now with Minx nail decals.

They’re like a sticky vinyl and are placed with heat by a nail technician. There’s a bit of an overhang which is clipped and filed away. Like a shellac or Axxium, they stay shiny and are pretty much chip-proof. If the ends lift at all, smooth them back down with a blast of heat from the hairdryer or in a hot shower. You should get 5-7 days wear out of them (some get longer, it just depends on how fast your nails grow).

Minx nails have a huge variety of colours, patterns and foils – the choice is almost overwhelming so make an appointment with something in mind. This weekend would be a good time to sport the Union Jack on your nails!

I went for a black and silver cheetah print combo, apparently that’s the new thing. Rather than having all nails in cheetah, mix them up with a solid colour inbetween.

Minx nails were invented by Californians Janice Jordan and Dawn Lynch-Goodwin and have quickly become popular. They’ve made custom decals for the Alexander McQueen Spring 2011 show and Thierry Mugler plus they’re super popular with pop starlets Katy Perry and Lady Gaga etc.

The best in town are undoubtably the girls at Magic Tan and Nails on Great South Road, Remuera. They are constantly busy with those-in-the-know (NZ Next Top Model presenter and 62 Model founder, Sara Tetro is a huge fan and goes every fortnight – she’s got her own custom minx nails with 62 on them).

The best thing is that unlike some gel nails, Minx won’t harm the nail-bed underneath – there’s no lift off at all when you’re removing them.

So, what are you waiting for? Now that dull old winter is creeping up on us, put a bit of colour in your life with your nails.

Minx nails cost $75.

Magic Tan and Beauty:

Tamsin xoxo