Nails: The Story of the Modern Manicure

*Press Sample*

Hey y'all!  With all the books about nail art that have been coming out, I think this one takes it to another level.  Not only does it include great pictures, but it goes in depth about the actual history of nail polish, nail art, manicures, advertisement, EVERYTHING about nails. I was even lucky enough to receive a special polish, not sold in stores, with this book....more info on that later.

The manicure as we know it has been around for less than a century, but it’s become a major presence
in the culture of fashion, with its own trends, fads, and fringe aspects. This first definitive history of the manicure looks at the myriad ways in which the adorned fingernail has served as an expression
of the individual and the times. Author Suzanne E. Shapiro traces the origins of the modern manicure
as a radical gesture in style and follows it through today’s culture of ubiquitous nail salons and edgy
experiments in nail art, showing how at every turn the manicure has reflected larger style trends as well as changing ideals of femininity. Nails draws on an incredible range of pop cultural images, from early 20th-century beauty manuals and classic Hollywood glamour shots to hip-hop music videos and fine art. It also features gorgeous nail-centric images from iconic fashion photographers including Nickolas Muray, Richard Avedon, and Helmut Newton. A series of contemporary photo essays rounds out the volume with an international survey of the most vital pockets of manicure culture today, from hipster nails in London to outré nail art in Tokyo. Unique, accessible, and authoritative, Nails brilliantly connects the painted nail to the history of women’s fashion and the evolution of beauty.

I didn't want to take too many pictures of the inside, because I'd be giving a LOT away....but how can you NOT want a book discussing nail polish along side music.  Plus, a pretty rocking pic of Lou Reed wearing black nail polish. :D

 It starts out discussing the 19th century, then moves through each decade(or two) up until the present.  From nail shapes, to popular colors, to adornments, to new techniques.  This book is super informative and includes a TON of pictures.

 This is Switchboard Starlet.  The author, Suzanne E. Shapiro collaborated with OPI to make this rare, not sold in stores, polish for the book.  This is a BEAUTIFUL watermelon jelly  and it matches the book perfectly.

I think EVERY nail lover needs this book.  It's artistic enough to have out on the coffee table and, I feel, a conversation piece.

Nails: The Story of the Modern Manicure is available at most major book stores and Amazon.