How Nails Sparked My Self-Expression
Much like jewelry, nails elevate an outfit, reflect personal style, and tell a story. For me, nails were the first accessory I fell in love with—the first thing that felt like an extension of who I was and who I wanted to be. Growing up vibrant nails were everywhere, from seemingly plain sets to intricate designs. They weren’t just beauty trends; they were statements, a way of showing up authentically. And for me, the women in my family were my biggest inspiration when it came to self-expression through nails.
The nail salon was a sacred space, where creativity flourished, stories were exchanged, and community thrived. My mom and I spent so much time there together—she’d get her matching acrylic set and pedicure while I sat, waiting for the day I’d get my own. Though occasionally getting a mani-pedi with regular polish, I looked forward to our time at the salon together. My Aunt’s wedding nails were another unforgettable moment: a bubblegum pink base with bold white French tips and red designs. They were long, glamorous, and unapologetically her. I knew that one day, I’d wear nails like that, too. I finally got my first set for my 13th birthday—a short purple French tip. I’ll never forget how I felt walking out of the salon that day—like I had unlocked a new layer of self-expression. That moment cemented French tips as my signature style, making an appearance at every special event or whenever I wanted to treat myself.
Nails have always been a reflection of my personality—bold, creative, and versatile. I live for long or extra-long sets that make me feel polished and powerful, even when I’m makeup-free and wearing sweats. There’s something about the click of long nails on a keyboard or the way they catch the light when I gesture during a conversation that adds a little extra confidence to my day. Occasionally, I’ll switch it up with a “short” set (which, for me, is really just medium-length), but no matter what, it has to be a French tip. I love the balance of a neutral base with a clean design—it just works for me. My favorite powder for the perfect nail is Valentino Classic Nude though Prettiest Pink is a close second.
Here are some of my favorite sets from last year.
But nails are more than just a personal style choice—they’re also a way to connect and create community. Nail salons, especially in Black and Brown neighborhoods, are places where stories are shared, laughter echoes, and creative ideas come to life. I prefer going to independent nail techs rather than larger salons because the experience feels more personal. It’s like a creative collaboration—we share stories, build connections, and work together to create something unique. There’s an unspoken understanding that nails, like art, tell a story.
Nails have become so ingrained in my life that I don’t even think twice about them anymore—they’re part of who I am. People often ask, "How can you do anything with nails that long?" or say, "I could never!" But for me, it’s just second nature. Whether I’m typing away at my full-time job, packing Eana orders, or opening a soda can, I’ve learned to make it work. Long nails don’t slow me down; they’re just another way I show up fully as myself. To be honest, without my nails I feel bare!
Nails are an integral part of Eana's image as well—after all, they’re a reflection of who I am and how I express myself. If you’ve ever scrolled through our product photos, you’ll probably notice my nails or my best friend Taylor’s nails modeling the jewelry. Whether it’s a bold set or a classic French tip, nails add that extra touch of personality and creativity that complements each piece. Since nails have always been such a big part of my self-expression, it was important to weave them into Eana’s overall aesthetic. To me, the way a ring catches the light on a perfectly polished hand or how statement earrings pair with a stunning manicure is all part of the story. Nails aren’t just an accessory—they’re a part of the complete look, and they remind me that style is all in the details.
The nails and faces behind Eana
Nail art is a way to honor ourselves and embrace creativity—a practice that continues to thrive and show no signs of stopping. For me, nails are more than just a beauty choice; they’re a reminder of my roots, my creativity, and my resilience. They were the first accessory that taught me how to express myself and continue to remind me that self-expression has no limits. Just like jewelry, they evolve with my mood and reflect where I am in life—a small but powerful way to tell my story without saying a word.
So, what about you? Do you prefer long acrylics or short, simple sets? Let’s talk about how nails spark your self-expression, too.
