The 98th Academy Awards on March 15 showcased celebrity manicures that prominently featured specific brands and emerging trends. Marsai Martin's nails, created by Eri Ishizu, sported brown French tips with 3D swirls, using Aprés Nail's Gel Couleur in Spiced Apple Cider. EJAE's winning song was echoed in gilded chrome French tips by Zola Ganzorigt using OPI products.
Jessie Buckley's understated, 'barely there' nude manicure by Queenie Nguyen utilised Chanel products, allowing her colour-blocked dress to dominate. Wunmi Mosaku's burgundy nails by Sarah Chue employed Aprés Nail Gel Couleur in Blood Moon, complementing her green gown. Audrey Nuna's 3D golden orb nails by Marielle Co were a direct nod to her winning song.
Ariana Greenblatt's pearlescent chrome nails by Zola Ganzorigt, using OPI's Chrome Effects Powder in Tin Man Can, matched her silk dress. Ji-young Yoo's baby blue nails by Sarah Chue featured Madam Glam Soak-Off Gel Polish in Morning Sky. Heidi Klum’s 'Rich Girl Red Carpet' nude nails by Tom Bachik used Aprés Nail Gel Couleur in Forgotten Film.
Kate Hudson’s ‘liquid diamond’ frosted fingertips by Brittney Boyce incorporated Essie products, mirroring her gown. May Hong’s ombré black, grey, and nude nails by Eri Ishizu offered a take on the barcode trend with a cat eye effect. The prevalence of Aprés Nail, OPI, Chanel, Madam Glam, and Essie indicates strong partnerships between celebrities, artists, and product brands.
This focus on branded looks and distinct trends, like 3D accents and specific finishes such as chrome and frost, highlights the growing importance of nails as a coordinated fashion statement. It suggests a market where salon professionals can elevate their services by mastering brand-specific techniques and offering on-trend embellishments that complement client attire and personal style.
