Polished & Unbothered:  The Expression of Nail Art 

Written By Olivia Agostino

Photographer: Emma Detwiler 

Creative Director: Olivia Agostino  

Models: Zetta Megenhardt, Cate Hettinger, Gem Conway, Gabby Cohen 

 

ZETTA MEGENHARDT 

Two images of a model with long, sculpted black, white, and silver nail art. The photo on the left, mimics a Venus fly trap with the model miniaturized inside of the enlarged hands.

“I love silver and chrome; I NEED fun nails.”  “Pointy! I need some claws!”

Zetta’s personal aesthetic is “just walked out of a thrift store,” playful, funky, and a little chaotic. She likes her nails to be an extension of herself. A part of her that is not so permanent and can be changed whenever she pleases. 

CATE HETTINGER 

“Two images of a model with deep red nails. On the left photo, the model holds a small camera showing a portrait of the model’s self through the screen. On the right photo, the model’s pointer finger is covering the center of the eye

“I always want my nails to match my outfits!” “I will get my nails done until I am an old lady!” 

Cate always has her nails done. They are the additional touch to her outfits that just complete the look. “At this point they are an accessory that I keep up with.” Cate would describe her personal aesthetic as sophisticated, put-together, yet playful.  

GEM CONWAY 

One image of a model in black lace sleeves displaying long, dark, pointed nails and many silver rings, while laying down. The second shot shows the model’s hand reaching for chains above their head while the other hand is holding the chains out.

“My nails are a deterrent for the wrong type of people and invite the right type of people.”

“If my nails could talk, they would bark at people.” 

Gem’s personal style is inspired by the Victorian Time Period, Vampires, and fantastical elements. She merges her nails to her dark, gothic aesthetics. Pairing her costume-style outfits with silver tone jewelry topping off an outfit with her long stiletto nails.   

GABBY COHEN 

“Three images of a model with a magenta and white flower and zebra patterned nails holding an iced coffee and a smartphone. The iced coffee and iPhone are both enlarged. The background of the photo on the left features pink doodled flowers.

“The ladies at the nail salon know me.” “I like having fun nails and interesting nails!” 

Gabby gets her nails done regularly, finding her inspiration from Pinterest and whatever seems trendy, new, and different. Each set unlike the last exuberating her girly, bubbly, fun, and fresh aesthetic. “I love giving the nail ladies a challenge each session and then telling them how many people loved their work.” 

Olivia Agostino
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