After months of being ‘locked down’ and not being able to go to see fabulous nail technicians it’s got me thinking my favourite salons and where I’m going to book first. I absolutely love getting my nails done but these nail bars always go that extra mile to make their clients feel leaving like they have really had a real treat. I’ve complied a list of four Nail bars which are guaranteed to be worth the visit whether your after somewhere to natter (social distanced of course) with friends or somewhere which will transport your mind to a sense of tranquillity or even if it’s to get a great insta worthy picture !
Naild it has taken the nail industry by storm since first opening there doors in south west london in 2014. Fast forward six years later and they now have five stores across London in Marylebone , Belgravia , Oxford Circus , Battersea and Clapham. Naild it started a trend of adding a touch of glamour to your regular nail bars which I’ve since seen inspired lots of other business across london. You cant help but take pictures of the chic floral interiors. There newer stores even have london phone boxes filled with flowers and bathtubs now who wouldn’t want to add pictures of that to their grid whilst getting your nails done?!
They also offer speedy services for those of us who need to fit these in between meetings and lunch breaks , take there in and out feet in 20mins and slap dash and go in 20mins. If your really looking to impress your followers why not add on the Rose petals for an extra £5 which basically is just rose petals in your hand or foot bath, but makes for a great shot! Naild it is definitely a salon which shouldn’t be missed they have colours for days to choose from with additional glitters and pigments to really stand out from the crowd.
Townhouse – best for cuticle work and the famous “nailfie”
Townhouse located a short walk from Oxford Circus station is a independent luxury nail salon, with some really clever little designs. Take there nailfie photo booth for you to snap your amazing new manicures under the best lighting. Strike a pose and share your manicure on Europes first and only Nailfie booth.
Their simple industrial style nail bar is secretly hidden with cutting edge salon technology fitted with charging points at the perfect sports for you to still be able to read messages whilst having your manicure , simply place your phone on the marked areas and like magic is starts to charge your phone. Townhouse manicures is all in the prep work , by far this is the best nail salon for cuticle work and a thorough manicure keeping my Gels in place for over 3 weeks. With over 45 colours to choose from whats not to love? If all the above doesn’t sell it to you then how about pre ordering yourself a glass of prosseco or if your having a girly afternoon why not treat yourself to a whole bottle of veuve clicquot champagne ?!
The Cowshed – best for luxury pedicures
Cowshed spas in my opinion are a little slice of heaven , and there luxury pedicures do not disappoint. As most of us spent mothers day away from our mums, why not take the chance now to spoil yourself and your mum to a lovely pamper day. My favourite location ( and I have tried 90% of all london cowsheds) is Clarendon cross, Nestled in the heart of Holland Park.
Inspired by the original cowshed spa at Babington house Somerset the spa is coupled with a cosy farmhouse style kitchen cafe, where you can treat yourself before or after your treatments to a selection of home made cakes , sandwiches and soups. Then make yourself comfy in there armchair style pedicure chairs with a soft comfy pillow your feel right at home , tune into your favourite tv show on your personal television set with headphones to not disturb other spa guest who might prefer having a snooze whilst enjoying the best pedicure ever!! Yes I said it EVER!!
The Ultimate cowshed pedicure is not to be missed , having all the lovely attributes of a regular pedicure but with added luxury of a hydrating mask for your feet wrapped in a hot towel , whilst thats soaking in your be treated to a relaxing scalp and shoulder massage to relieve tension, your have a choice of two essential scented oils and don’t panic these wont make your hair greasy as they are dry oils so sit back and lap up 75minuets of pure bliss. Cowshed do not use gel colours so if you usually have gel on your toes this wont be for you but they have a lovely selection of nails inc varnishes and these usually last just as well on your toes.
DRY BY – best for nail art and catching up with friends
Dry by not only offer nail services but also they have a capsule collection of five blow dry styles to choose from. Conveniently located next to spin studio Psycle on Mortimer street, perfect for those post workout emergencies ,so no longer can you have the excuse of after work plans to stop you getting your spin session in, with Dry by being your one stop shop for nails and hair.
Located in the basement is the nail bar, with wide long benches for manicures and with a section for pedicures designed to socialise its a great layout concept if your with friends, all pedicure chairs face towards each other so great for a coffee and a good old gossip.
Although all the above are good enough reasons to visit here its the nail art which will keep you coming back for more making you repeat customers for Dry by. Now I’m not talking crazy in your face nail art, although if that tickles your fancy I’m sure they can do pretty much anything you want, But its there chic understated nail art which makes them stand out from the rest where it looks almost like jewellery for your nails. If you don’t believe me check out there Instagram for inspiration , one thing I will say is that this doesn’t come cheap but you get what you pay for and my goodness do you get some serious #nailgoals here.
