Since I decided to cosplay a swimsuit version of Michiru Kaioh/Sailor Neptune for a photoshoot, I wanted the most suitable nails for this character. I looked at various nail catalogs online, but no design fit the one I had in mind so I decided to create my own. Fortunately, most nail salons in Tokyo are able to create original nail designs using stencils, hand-drawn art, studs, and various gradients of polish.
I booked an appointment at Nail Salon Glory through Hot Pepper, and these were the amazing results I got:
My nails were absolutely gorgeous! Since I have short nails, I requested the scalp nail course that will extend your tip to a custom length. The nail artist used a combination of beige and turquoise glitter polish to create a gradient that looks like an ocean. After painting a shiny coat over it, she added sea shells and pearl studs, as well as hand-drew the insignia on Neptune’s mirror that I requested. I was almost speechless when our session ended because I was so impressed!
Most fancy nail courses start at 10,000 yen ($93), but they are worth the price for the amount of detail and effort that is put in. There are various coupons that can be used to lower the price, like the ones featured on HotPepper.
Scalp nails last for typically 3 weeks and are perfect for every occasion. Not only did I use them for my photoshoot, but they also matched the color of the ocean when I was swimming in Thailand. I’m sure I’ll be back in the future once I think of more anime-based designs!