Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2014

Dear AMA,

“I love gel nails and get them done when I can, but I find it hard to figure out what the biggest trends are for the seasons since most of the Japanese magazines are just advertising—opposed to editorial about what to look for. Can you tell me what the big nail trends for spring 2014 are?”

—Nailista

Dear Nailista,

We passed your query on to Lena Kasai, manager and head nail artist at JoliNails Nail Salon and Spa. Here’s what she had to say…

This year, spring nail trends are a bit different abroad than they are in Japan. Here in Tokyo, smoky pastels and florals are popular styles for the season. If you wonder what “smoky pastel” is, it’s the vibrant look of light pastels  toned down with a slightly grayish shade, which changes kawaii, or cute, looking nails into a more sophisticated, cool and adult style.

Floral patterns are popular in general at this time of year, but for 2014 bigger and more dramatic flowers are taking the lead.

Outside of Japan, the main colors are orchid or lavender purple, creamy caramel or nude and coral red. As for design, studs and matte topcoats are spicing up fingertips here, there and everywhere.

If you’re looking for inspiration in general, magazines such as Nail Up and Nail Max are great starting points for decorated and cute nails, while Nail Venus has more edgy designs. Fashion glossies such as Fudge, will occasionally publish special edition nail booklets as well. In the end, whatever suits your style and preference is the best. Feel free to bring along magazines as reference when you see your nail artist and she can help advise you on what might suit you.

JoliNails Nail Salon and Spa is an English speaking nail and esthetic salon in Tokyo with childcare. 3-10-9 Shirogane, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-6721-9669 or 080-3599-9669. Book online at www.joliarts-salon.com