In Nails: The Story of the Modern Manicure, writer Suzanne E. Shapiro explores why we paint our nails, exploring the trends, art, and traditions that have gone into the long history of women adorning their hands. By showing how we decorate our hands, in both fashion shots and vintage photography, the book sheds a light on what women tell the world through their nails. Here are some of our favorite photos from the definitive look at nail culture.
Adroniki Christodoulou
Nail Queen contestants at the Tokyo Nail Expo
Nail art by Naomi Yasuda, as captured by mobile device
Period nail-product advertisement
Nail art and photography by Madeline Poole, Nailing Hollywood Productions for Steve Madden
Kandinsky nail art by Naomi Yasuda
Adroniki Christodoulou
Nail Queen contestants at the Tokyo Nail Expo
Nail art by Tacarra Sutton (Spifster)
Period nail-product advertisement
Courtesy CND
Nail design by CND for Nicole Miller’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection, New York Fashion Week
Lauren Michelle Pires
Nail art by WAH London