Brydie Leishman, known online as @brydiedoesnails, has cultivated over 105,000 Instagram followers through her distinctive 3D nail art creations. Her journey began at 16 after a visit to London's WAH Nails sparked an obsession with detailed nail design.
Leishman's early experimentation with 3D elements, starting with a daisy and then a bee placed on the free edge of a nail, proved a turning point for her online presence. This innovative approach, which she initially hesitated to share, significantly boosted her social media growth.
Her work features intricate characters and detailed motifs, with a Peter Rabbit design for Easter 2025, complete with a heart balloon, being a personal favourite. Beyond her signature 3D style, Leishman also excels at flat, nostalgic designs like Winnie the Pooh and Snoopy.
A key element of Leishman's success is her professional photography, informed by her degree in the subject. She consistently uses natural light, often near a window, to capture her work, ensuring a cohesive visual brand. This attention to detail extends to her press-on nail line, @paintedbybrydie, and collaborations with brands like Jellycat.
While Leishman's focus on intricate, character-driven nail art has clearly resonated with a large audience, the financial viability of specialising in such niche, time-intensive designs remains an open question for many salon owners. The ability to translate viral social media appeal into consistent, profitable salon services requires careful consideration.
