Few things make San Antonio women happier than a fresh set – on their fingertips that is. We love to express ourselves with the latest shapes and shades, changing it up as often as our mood shifts. But for those of us less daring, we want to know what’s next in nail care before pulling the trigger. Two local nail artists sat down with us to paint the future for us – and what a fabulous future it is.

Sonya Perez, owner of Color Me Polish on Broadway, says she’s seeing natural nails becoming a trend. “As a CND Master Painter and artist I’m seeing dessert colors like subdued yellows, oranges, sienna reds and pastel colors. With the Royal Wedding frenzy, Essie’s “Ballet Slippers” shade of pale pink is sure to resurface, reportedly the Queen’s manicure choice since 1989.

Perez says shapes, as well, have taken a turn from almond and the more ominous coffin to more natural choices like square and round. In terms of trends just on the horizon, she says bling is on the way. “I do see Swarovski crystals being more prominent in everything from fashion to nails,” Perez says. “We just saw Blake Lively at the Met Gala decked-out in jewels from her dress to her nails. Manicures with Swarovski are basically jewelry for your nails! As a Swarovski® Certified Nail Artist we can go from blinged out to a elegant accent for a more delicate manicure.”

Owner of North by Northwest Salon on Huebner Road, Veronica Medina says white will continue to big a big hit for summer. “It really pops on tanned skin”, she says. And if you’re a bit more daring she recommends florescent shades for true vacation vibes. “Nail art is also huge right now; everybody wants it,” says Medina. “Glitter, chrome, holo, foils, florals: the possibilities are endless!”

If you’ve always stuck to a more mainstream manicure, Medina says to choose the right nail technician when you’re ready to go out on a limb. “A good nail tech will listen to you first but also push you to try new things,” she says. “They should be honest with you and encourage you to speak up about what you like and what you don’t like. Nail design is usually a collaborative effort, so finding a nail tech you can trust will give you the confidence to try more bold and adventurous looks!”

By Aquila Mendez-Valdez